March invites us to pause during Women’s History Month and reflect not only on influence—but on impact. Scripture introduces us to women who did not lead from a distance. They led from within the work.

Deborah judged Israel—but she also went into battle (Judges 4–5).
Ruth gleaned in the fields before she ever saw redemption unfold (Ruth 2).
Esther risked her life for her people (Esther 4:14).
Mary said “yes” before she understood the cost (Luke 1:38).

These women were not elevated because they avoided the work. They were honored because they embraced it.

True biblical leadership is not loud, detached, or self-promoting. It is rooted in humility. It labors. It serves. It builds alongside others.

Deborah’s authority flowed from wisdom. She sat under the palm tree, listening, discerning, and seeking God before speaking to others.

“Wisdom is cultivated in humility, not spotlight.”

Spiritual maturity grows in quiet places—around open Bibles, in thoughtful conversations, and in hearts that are willing to learn before they instruct. God forms leaders who study, listen, and submit to Him first.

Strength in Scripture is never prideful. Esther fasted. Mary surrendered. Ruth bowed in gratitude.

“True strength kneels before it stands.”

Before boldness comes surrender. Before courage comes prayer. Before movement comes humility. The women of Scripture remind us that spiritual authority begins on our knees.

Ruth did not supervise the fields—she gleaned in them. Deborah did not remain behind—she went. Mary did not resist the call—she embraced it.

“God does not elevate us above the work; He invites us into it.”

In God’s Kingdom, leadership is not about standing apart from service. It is about stepping into it. He calls us to build, to mentor, to pray, to organize, to encourage, to labor faithfully.

This is humble strength.

Not self-promotion.
Not status.
Not position without participation.

But hands willing to serve.
Hearts willing to surrender.
Lives willing to build alongside others.

This March at Orchard Knob, we celebrate women—and men—who reflect this model of Kingdom leadership. Those who serve quietly. Those who show up consistently. Those who pray, plan, lift, teach, comfort, build, and encourage.

Because greatness in God’s Kingdom is measured differently.

It is measured in service.
It is measured in humility.
It is measured in willingness.

May we be people who are willing to go.

January marks more than the start of a new calendar year—it’s a sacred opportunity to step into what God is doing next. Throughout Scripture, God consistently calls His people—women, men, and even children—to move forward in faith before the outcome is fully visible. The new thing often begins with obedience, courage, and trust.

In January, we’re reminded that faith isn’t passive. It requires action. Whether it’s a decision to fast, commit to God’s Word daily, strengthen our homes, or grow in spiritual leadership, faith shows up when we move forward even when the path isn’t fully clear.

Scripture gives us powerful examples of women who stepped into new seasons with faith. Esther risked her position and her life to fulfill God’s purpose, while Mary accepted a calling that would forever change her story—and the world.

Their obedience reminds us that stepping out in faith often means trusting God beyond comfort or certainty. This January, women are invited to reflect on where God may be calling them to say “yes”—even when the outcome isn’t guaranteed.

Highlighted January Focus:

• Prayer, intentional reflection, and spiritual alignment
• Beginning the year grounded in God’s Word and prayer

Men throughout the Bible were called to lead boldly in unfamiliar territory. Joshua stepped into leadership after Moses, trusting God to guide him forward. Nehemiah acted on burden, vision, and faith—rebuilding what others thought was lost.

January challenges men to step into leadership with intention, courage, and accountability. Growth doesn’t happen by accident—it happens when faith meets action.

Highlighted January Focus:

• Manhood Study 2026 – “The Kickoff”
• Exploring what it means to be the man the moment demands

Faith is not limited by age. David stepped onto the battlefield with trust in God when others saw only obstacles. Samuel, as a child, listened and responded when God called his name.
January is a reminder that faith is learned early—and lived daily. Children are watching how we trust God, take steps forward, and remain consistent in His Word.

Highlighted January Focus:

• Building consistency and confidence in God’s Word together

As a church family, January is about alignment—aligning our hearts, our homes, and our habits with what God is doing. Through fasting, studying, praying, and reading Scripture daily, we step into the year not by sight, but by faith.
This is our season to walk forward—together.

Featured January Events

• 21-Day Daniel Fast (Jan 5–25) – A corporate commitment to prayer and consecration
• Word Walk Bible Reading Plan – Guided daily Scripture throughout the year
• Manhood Study 2026 – Monthly brotherhood study begins with “The Kickoff”
• Marriage Ministry Prayer Board Breakfast (Jan 17) – A focused time of prayer, reflection, and vision-setting for married and engaged couples

December is a season filled with memory, meaning, and movement—but Advent calls us to remember why we celebrate. At the center of this season is not tradition or routine, but the story of Christ—God stepping into the world to bring hope, joy, and redemption.

“Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”
— Luke 2:11

The birth of Jesus reminds us that joy does not come from perfect circumstances. It comes from God’s presence. Advent joy is steady, sustaining, and rooted in promise.

“The joy of the Lord is your strength.” — Nehemiah 8:10
“In Your presence there is fullness of joy.” — Psalm 16:11

Celebrating the Story of Christ Through Our Youth
One of the most powerful ways we tell the story of Christ is by passing it to the next generation. This month, we invite our church family and community to experience the Christmas story through the voices and gifts of our youth.
On Wednesday, December 17 at 6:30 PM, join us for our Christmas Youth Presentation: Emmanuel – A Modern Nativity for Today, featuring the 412 Youth Academy and the Drama Ministry.

This presentation brings the timeless message of Christ’s birth into today’s world—reminding us that Emmanuel still means “God with us.”
Please note: There will be no Bible Study this evening. Dinner will be served promptly at 5:30 PM in the Fellowship Hall, followed by the presentation.

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.” — Isaiah 9:2

Spreading Joy Beyond the Sanctuary
Advent joy is not meant to stay inside the church walls. It moves outward in love, compassion, and service.

As part of our December outreach, we are collecting Thinking of You or Holiday Cards for those on our Prayer List. These cards are a simple but meaningful way to remind others that they are seen, loved, and prayed for during this season.
Cards may be dropped off in the Administration Area between now and Sunday, December 21. Please include the recipient’s name on each card. All cards will be mailed collectively. For more information, contact the church office.

“Encourage one another and build each other up.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:11

Serving with Purpose in the Year Ahead
As we prepare our hearts for the new year, we are also preparing to serve. Orchard Knob continues its partnership with the Chatt Foundation, where our church family serves lunch multiple times throughout the year.
We are seeking additional volunteers for 2026 who are interested in serving just a few days a year. Our service schedule includes:

• The Thursday before the 4th Sunday
• The 4th Sunday of each month
• 5th Sundays when applicable

If you are interested, please contact Sister Laverne McMutuary at 574-520-8510.

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” — Colossians 3:23

Ending the Year in Worship: New Year’s Eve Service
We will close the year together in worship on Wednesday, December 31 at 12:00 Noon EST with a special New Year’s Eve Worship Service.
This service is a sacred pause—a time to reflect on God’s faithfulness, release what no longer serves us, and step into the new year anchored in faith and hope.

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing.”
— Isaiah 43:18–19

Come ready to praise, pray, and begin the new year surrounded by faith and fellowship.
A December Invitation
This Advent season, let us remember the miracle of Christ’s birth, reflect His joy through service, and move into the new year with confidence in God’s promises.

Joy has come. Christ is with us. And the story continues—through us.

Loss is never easy—but no one should walk through it alone. The Grief Support Ministry at Orchard Knob Missionary Baptist Church serves as a steady hand and a comforting presence for those navigating life after loss. With hearts rooted in compassion, this ministry provides prayer, guidance, and ongoing care to families as they walk through the valley of grief.

At the heart of their mission is love—love that listens, comforts, and stays. Through GriefShare, a 13-week Christ-centered program, participants find a safe place to process pain, share stories, and discover hope together. The ministry also leads Homegoing Service Coordination, ensuring each funeral or memorial service at Orchard Knob is handled with grace, order, and spiritual care.

But their ministry doesn’t end when the service concludes. For at least one year after the loss, members continue to check in, pray, and walk beside families through milestones and moments that often bring renewed sorrow. This ongoing care is what makes Grief Support more than a ministry—it’s a ministry of presence.

Led by Sis. M. Joyce Gee and a dedicated team of appointed ambassadors, the Grief Support Ministry reflects the heart of OKMBC’s mission: to serve God’s people with love, compassion, and excellence. Their faithfulness reminds us that through Christ, even in loss, we can find light, love, and healing.

? “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” – Matthew 5:4
? Learn more or find support at orchardknob.org/grief-support

This month, we’re reminded that gratitude isn’t reserved for when life is easy—it’s the steady heartbeat that keeps our faith alive when times are hard. The Apostle Paul wrote some of his most powerful words about contentment from a prison cell, reminding us that true thankfulness isn’t based on comfort, but on confidence in God’s faithfulness.

Likewise, in Luke 17, ten lepers cried out to Jesus for healing—and all were made clean. But only one returned to say “thank you.” That act of gratitude set him apart. Jesus told him, “Your faith has made you whole.” His healing wasn’t just physical—it was complete. Gratitude became the bridge between what he received and who he became.

Both Paul and the healed leper teach us that thankfulness in difficult times doesn’t just change our circumstances—it changes us. When we give thanks in uncertainty, we declare that God is still good. When we return with gratitude, we find the wholeness that only faith can bring.

Here at The Knob, we are walking in that same spirit of endurance and thanksgiving. As we celebrate 138 years of ministry, gather for Thankful Thursday services, and participate in our Care & Share Food Drive, we are living proof that gratitude grows stronger when it’s shared.
Each prayer, act of service, and moment of praise this month is a reminder that even in hard seasons, God’s love sustains us—and that true gratitude always leads to joy and wholeness.

This October, our hearts turn toward the strength, courage, and faith of women as we celebrate Sisterhood Week here at The Knob. Our theme, “Thriving Forward Together” (Philippians 3:12–16), calls us to press toward the mark—not alone, but in unity and sisterhood.

We look to the story of Esther, a young woman who rose from ordinary beginnings to play an extraordinary role in God’s plan. Though she faced fear and uncertainty, Esther stepped forward with courage to intercede for her people. Her boldness reminds us that God positions us “for such a time as this” (Esther 4:14).

Like Esther, our sisters today are called to stand strong, encourage one another, and thrive forward together. Sisterhood is more than friendship—it is faith in action, a bond that uplifts, empowers, and unites us in purpose.

Join us October 10–12, 2025, for Sisterhood Week, a time of worship, fellowship, and celebration of women walking in purpose and power. With guest choir directress Sister Neshawn Bynum Calloway (Greater Church of Chattanooga) and guest speaker Sister Rose Awotula Kehinde (Destiny Church), this weekend promises to be a powerful expression of sisterhood and faith.

Sisters, don’t forget choir rehearsals on October 2 and October 7 at 6 PM. Let’s lift our voices and hearts together as we press forward in Christ.

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In 2026, Orchard Knob will continue living out the Great Commission through GO YE THEREFORE 2026, a mission trip to Honduras from June 27 – July 6, 2026.

This journey will take us into schools, hospitals, orphanages, rehab centers, and neighborhoods—sharing the love of Christ through songs in Spanish, testimonies, prayer, and the rice and bean ministry. Each day begins with evangelism training and ends with devotionals, ensuring our hearts and voices remain rooted in God’s Word.

Preparation is key. From January through May, Elder Creech will lead in-person and online training sessions to build confidence in evangelism and provide practical tools for witnessing. Materials will be provided, and each participant will complete devotional assignments and practice opportunities before the trip.

The cost of the trip will be shared soon, covering transportation (flights + travel within Honduras), lodging, some meals, interpreters, and travel insurance.

Want to go?

Register now and be part of this transformative experience!

? Contact: Laverne McMutuary | (574) 520-8510 | mcmutuary@att.net

At Orchard Knob, music is more than melody—it’s ministry. Each week, the Music Ministry helps us gather as one voice before God, blending hymns and contemporary praise to make room for every generation to worship. Their commitment—time in rehearsal, hearts in prayer, hands on instruments—creates moments where faith becomes audible and the church is lifted.

Scripture calls us to this work: “Sing to the Lord a new song” (Psalm 96:1) and “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly… singing to God with gratitude in your hearts” (Colossians 3:16). Our team embodies that call—preparing skillfully, leading humbly, and serving joyfully.

Who’s Involved

• Mass Choir – The unified voice of our church family, lifting praise together with power and harmony.
• Male Chorus – A dedicated men’s ensemble leading worship with heartfelt conviction and energy throughout the year.
• Youth Ensemble – Open to all youth through age 18, giving the next generation a platform to worship, grow in confidence, and share their gifts.
• Praise Team & Band – Week by week, this group leads the congregation in vibrant worship, helping lift a strong and clear song of praise.
• Sisterhood Choir – Comprised of the ladies of Orchard Knob, singing each year on Sisterhood Sunday in October as a joyful expression of unity and faith.
• Brotherhood Choir – The men of the church come together for Brotherhood Sunday in February, raising their voices in worship and strength.

Thank you, Music Ministry, for leading us with passion and purpose.

May every chord and chorus keep pointing us to Christ.

Scripture: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” ~ 1 Thessalonians 5:11

As we step into September at Orchard Knob, we are reminded of the power of encouragement and unity. Life is not meant to be lived alone. God has designed us for community—places where faith is strengthened, hope is renewed, and love is shared. This month, as we celebrate our pastor’s 2nd anniversary, gather in small groups, and shine a light on the Health Ministry, we are living out what it means to “encourage one another and build each other up.”

When we think of biblical examples of encouragement, Barnabas immediately comes to mind. In fact, his name literally means “son of encouragement.”

Barnabas was the one who welcomed Saul—later known as Paul—into the early church when others were afraid to accept him (Acts 9:26–27). He traveled alongside Paul on missionary journeys, offering steady support and reminding believers of God’s faithfulness. When disagreements arose, Barnabas modeled what it looked like to remain committed to encouragement and unity, even when walking separate paths (Acts 15:36–39).

His example shows us that encouragement is more than kind words—it’s active support, advocacy, and the willingness to walk alongside others in their journey of faith.

Here at Orchard Knob, we see encouragement and unity in action:

• Pastor’s Anniversary: We celebrate not just Pastor Morton’s two years of leadership, but also the way God has used him to guide, shepherd, and uplift this congregation.
• Small Groups Bible Study: These gatherings create spaces for believers to strengthen each other through prayer, study, and accountability.
• Health Ministry Spotlight: By caring for our minds, bodies, and spirits, the Health Ministry embodies what it means to “build each other up” in practical ways.
• Mom2Mom: Personal Safety and YOU: Empowering women to be safe and confident is another example of encouragement turned into action.

Just as Barnabas lived as a “son of encouragement,” we are called to carry that same spirit into every part of our church family and community. Whether through a kind word, a prayer offered, or simply showing up in support of one another, we can each be builders of faith and unity.

This September, let’s make it our mission to keep shining together as a church that encourages, uplifts, and strengthens all who come through our doors.

✨ At The Knob, we believe encouragement is not just a Sunday practice—it’s a daily way of life. Let’s continue building one another up, just as God’s Word calls us to do.

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August is National Minority Donor Awareness Month, and the August is National Minority Donor Awareness Month, and the Health & Wellness Ministry of Orchard Knob Missionary Baptist Church is joining Tennessee Donor Services in recognizing the life-changing power of organ, eye, and tissue donation. This month, we honor the diverse donors and families who have given the ultimate gift—and raise awareness about the urgent need within multicultural communities.

Across the U.S., 60% of people waiting for an organ transplant come from multicultural backgrounds, with 28% identifying as Black. In Tennessee, that number rises to 45%. African Americans are three times more likely than white Americans to experience end-stage kidney disease—often caused by diabetes or high blood pressure—and many will need a transplant to survive.

Because transplant outcomes improve when organs are matched within the same ethnic group, increasing donor registrations in our communities is essential to saving lives.

Dr. Willie Mae Hubbard, a member of OKMBC, knows this firsthand. “My ‘gift of life’ has given me a new lease on life, and I am determined to make the most of this precious gift,” she says. “I will cherish every moment, strive to make a positive difference, and always remember the incredible generosity that made this possible.”

For Lydia Murphy, the story is one of both loss and hope. Her son Tyree passed away unexpectedly eight years ago. “My comfort comes from knowing that Tyree was given life in 1995 to become a donor hero in 2017. God allowed Tyree to be healthy enough to donate all his organs, which subsequently saved six lives,” she shares.

The decision to become a donor is deeply personal—but it’s also a profound act of love and kindness that can ripple across generations. A single “yes” can bring hope and healing to someone in need.

? Take Action:
Talk with your family about your wishes. Learn more or register your decision at BeTheGiftToday.com.to be healthy enough to donate all his organs, which subsequently saved six lives,” she shares.

The decision to become a donor is deeply personal—but it’s also a profound act of love and kindness that can ripple across generations. A single “yes” can bring hope and healing to someone in need.

? Take Action:
Talk with your family about your wishes. Learn more or register your decision at BeTheGiftToday.com.

Meet Sister McMutuary—a quiet but powerful force behind one of our church’s most impactful outreach efforts: feeding the homeless and underserved across Chattanooga. Week after week, with the help of a faithful team of volunteers, she leads an effort that extends far beyond a warm meal. For many, it’s the first taste of compassion, dignity, and prayer they’ve received in a long time.

This year, that commitment was recognized in a major way. Orchard Knob Missionary Baptist Church was named the 2025 ChattFoundation Group of the Year—a public affirmation of the quiet, faithful service you’ve made possible.

It’s a reminder that mission work isn’t just across the sea—it’s across the street.
This recognition reflects every act of kindness, every offering given, and every hand extended in love. It reflects a church that believes faith must be lived out loud. A church that knows Jesus walks not only in sanctuaries, but in shelters, sidewalks, and soup lines.

We give God all the praise.

Thank you for being a church that loves loudly and lives generously. This is what the Knob looks like in action.

In an age where messages are seen before they’re heard, the Media Ministry plays a vital role in how we share the Gospel—with excellence, clarity, and creativity. This behind-the-scenes team is the heartbeat of communication at Orchard Knob—capturing moments, broadcasting messages, and ensuring what happens in the sanctuary reaches far beyond the church walls.

The Media Ministry at Orchard Knob MBC has a legacy of innovation and service. What began with a radio broadcast in 1963 expanded to televised worship in 1998, and now reaches across digital platforms—through livestreaming, sound engineering, video production, and social media. For over 60 years, this team has helped keep the church connected, inspired, and forward-moving.

The Media Ministry isn’t just present on Sundays—they’re at nearly every event. They support outdoor services like Church in the Park and parking lot worship, set up tech for classrooms and conferences, lead media planning sessions, and interact with our online audience in real-time. Whether it’s operating soundboards, switching scenes, taking photos, or preparing presentation slides, this team handles it all to create a seamless worship experience. It helps first-time guests know what to expect and longtime members stay connected and informed.

But more than technical skill, what drives this team is heart. A heart to serve. A desire for excellence. And a passion for making God’s Word visible and compelling. Whether mixing sound, updating slides, operating a camera, or posting online—every task builds a bridge between the message and the people who need it most.

Their work makes worship accessible to shut-ins, travelers, and those exploring faith from afar. And their ministry ensures Orchard Knob’s message is consistent, clear, and Christ-centered—on every platform we touch.

If you love creativity, enjoy working with technology, or simply want to support the church in a new way, there’s a place for you here. Training is available—and the impact is eternal.

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord—and let every platform echo that praise.

International Missions isn’t just about traveling overseas—it’s about carrying the love of Christ to the nations, wherever they are. At Orchard Knob, we believe in fulfilling the Great Commission through partnership, prayer, and presence. This ministry connects our church family to global communities in need, offering both spiritual support and tangible aid.

This summer, our missions team is traveling to Honduras, where they’ll partner with local churches to serve children, provide medical outreach, and encourage believers. These trips are more than one-time experiences—they create long-term relationships and plant seeds of hope that continue to grow long after the plane ride home.

But you don’t have to leave the country to be part of the mission. Through giving, praying, and volunteering right here at home, you can make a global impact. Whether you’re called to go, give, or intercede, there’s a role for everyone.

International Missions is where real faith meets real needs across borders. Together, we’re living out the Gospel—one act of love at a time.

At 412 Youth Ministry, we believe our young people aren't just the future of the church—they're a vital part of it right now. From our littlest learners in the nursery to high school seniors preparing to launch into adulthood, this ministry provides space for every child and teen to grow in faith, build friendships, and discover their identity in Christ.

Whether it's learning memory verses, participating in skits during worship, serving in the community, or taking part in high-energy events like Youth Week and Vacation Bible School, 412 is a place where joy, purpose, and spiritual growth go hand-in-hand. We believe in creating experiences that are not only fun, but also deeply rooted in God’s Word and relevant to the challenges our youth face today.

But this ministry isn’t just for young people—it thrives because of the dedication of caring adults who show up week after week. Volunteers serve as mentors, chaperones, small group leaders, teachers, and prayer partners. Their presence helps build consistency and community.

We’re always looking for adults who feel called to pour into the next generation. Whether you love leading lessons, planning activities, or just being a positive presence, your “yes” can help shape lives and deepen faith.

412 Youth Ministry is where we grow together. One seed at a time, one life at a time.

Meet Yoni Sanchez, a devoted mother of five and a faithful follower of Jesus Christ for over 12 years. In a small village in Honduras, Yoni's life is marked by perseverance, faith, and a deep love for her family. She consistently teaches her daughters the importance of gratitude-"Be thankful to God in the good times and in the bad times," she often says.

But recently, the bad times had begun to press in too heavily-literally. The terracotta roof on Yoni's home, supported by aging wooden beams, was placing unbearable pressure on the weakened walls of her home. As the rainy season approached, there was growing fear that the roof might collapse altogether, putting her and her daughters in danger. Despite the risk, Yoni never stopped praying-and God heard her.

When our church family learned of Yoni's situation, we knew we couldn't just stand by. Through your compassion, donations, and support, we raised the full $1,600 needed to replace her roof with a lighter, safer metal one-before the rains began.

Thanks to your generosity, Yoni and her daughters now rest under a secure roof, protected from the elements and uplifted by the love of people they may never meet in person but are united with in Christ.

This is what international missions look like: not just sending help, but sending hope. From small towns to distant countries, we are committed to being the hands and feet of Jesus wherever the need is great and the hearts are open.