Pastor Jay's Blog - "We are FAMILY"

New Blog Page!! www.pastorjaymiller.com

2008-02-13T09:32:00.003-06:00

For those of you who think I just fell off the map due to NO new post on this site, it is due to the fact that I have been posting to another site. Please goto www.pastorjaymiller.com to see what has been happening in the Miller Family Lives!

Making Memories!

2007-12-13T15:05:00.001-06:00

Micah Jay

Jay Sterling

Jansen Layne

Regan Kyle

Britt Michael

This past Sunday we started a new series called, Making Memories! Be sure to visit our home page, http://www.thefamilychurch.cc/ and download the podcast of week number one of the series. Last week, the Miller Family, went take pictures for Christmas 2007! Wow! What an experience it is to get 5 kids and 2 parents to all look and smile at the right time! Tiffany Aragona did a great job with all of us. This Saturday and Sunday, we will be presenting everyone at our weekend services a special oppurtunity for this Christmas. Don't miss out - See you there!

Dedication and Hard Work Pays Off!

2007-09-18T09:15:00.000-05:00

The Boyz and Their Rings!
Sterling and Regan were water boys for the Semi-Pro Team I played for Earlier this year. They were so faithful - at every game assisting and helping. We traveled to Houston and San Antonio and they were there. In the Cold and in the Heat and even in pouring rain in Houston. We were crowned Conference Champions and we got Championship Rings. Even Sterling and Regan received one. They are so pumped up. I brought it to them at school - they were pumped. Hard work always pays off. Serving others always pays off! It is what live is really all about. Making the dreams of others come to pass. Thanks Sterling and Regan for your hearts to serve. I love you both with all of my heart!

Dad got one too!

TFC North Kicks Off in a BIG Way!

2007-09-09T08:14:00.000-05:00

Band on Stage During Worship!

A Total of 268 in Attendance!

Saturday night marked the highly anticipated "First Saturday Night Service". TFC North Opelusas was rockin! Total attendance was 268! Now That's Incredible! AT 5pm, I counted about 35 people and I knew all of them. At 5:45 there were about 60 people and I knew 55 of them. By 6pm there were over 200 people and I only knew half of them. Meaning, we had around 100 people that were new to TFC. Everything was excellent. From Sound, to set up,to parking lot, to music, lights, media, preaching, ushers, everything was first class. Just about everyone said that they would be back next Saturday and bring friends along with them. We had a great alter call and 8 people responded and committed life to Christ. At one point in service, we had to bring out every chair we had. To all of you that have put in time and work to make this possible - Thank You! You are true servants of Christ. I invite you to come and be a part of one of our exciting Saturday Night Services real soon.

Final Preperations for TFC North!

2007-09-07T20:44:00.000-05:00

Sanctuary can seat up to 500!

Saturday night we will set up for 175 people.
All this week the staff and volunteers have been working every day at the North Campus in Opelusas. The last 2 days have been spent putting the stage, lights, and sound together for Saturday Night's First Service. Excitement fills the air. Tonight, the band was on stage for practice, making sure all mics and instruments were working right. Many phone calls have been received of families excited about the new campus. New bathrooms, ceiling tiles, water fountains, you name it - we have addressed it. Come on out and be a part of the History Making Service at TFC North. Saturday Night 6pm. Don't worry - The LSU game doesn't start till 8:15 pm.

TFC North - Building Lives, Families, and Futures!

Like Father Like Son - One More Time!

2007-09-05T09:30:00.000-05:00

Regan ready to take the field. After practice talk!

The Blue Team "Rubbing it up"

Fire in his eyes! Prayer as a team!
March of this year I played tackle football for a local semi-pro team. It was a great experience, one that I will never forget. What was really cool was that the 2 main water boys were my sons, Regan and Sterling. We got to experience "Dad Playing" all together on the field. Well, this year marks their first year playing tackle football. Now I get to experience their first season together with them. Sterling started practice 4 weeks ago and Regan started yesterday. They are so excited. Kind of like I was in March before our first game. Sterling has his first game of the season this Saturday in Opelusas against Westminster and Regan will have a game later this month. More details about that to come later. I love doing life together as a family. Boyz, I wish you the best this season! Go Challengers!

Regan working on technique. All 33 players fired up for practice!

Family Fun Day in Opelusas!

2007-09-02T08:33:00.000-05:00

Fun Jumps Ready for the Kids!

New TFC Sign Added to Property!

Taking a Break!

Breaks Over now!

Friendly Competition with the teens!
This past Saturday we had our first outreach to the community of Opelusas. We had hot dogs, fun jumps, water slides and tons of fun. Our goal was simply to let people know what we are about - GIVING! That is our whole purpose in starting this new campus to this area - Simply to serve them and their needs. Thanks to all the volunteer's that helped make this event successful. You are the heart and soul of TFC! One week away until our first service at the new campus. We are really excited about what is fixing to happen. Get involved, Serve, Give, and Go out. Thank you TFC for being True Disciples!

Big Jumps!

Everyone having fun together!

Going Into The Enemies Camp!

2007-08-31T06:17:00.000-05:00

Tigers warming up!

Cheerleaders pumping up the crowd!

Crazie LSU Fans!

Mike the Tiger poses with me!

Here Come those Tigers!

Eating with the enemy!

Miss. State band! Not Impressed!

The Crew!

What a tractor and trailor!

Golden Band from Tiger Land!
Thursday Night, LSU opened up its season on national TV on ESPN on the road against Miss. State. We decided to make a road trip, so 8 of us headed out to Starkville, MS. Before the game, all you could hear were cowbells shaking from Bulldog fans. After the game, you could not hear a one! What guys are willing to do for football! We drove 6 hours on Thursday morning to Mississippi, went to game that lasted till 11pm, then drove home after game. Got in Friday morning at 5:30AM. Most of the Staff Pastors have a work day at the Opelusas Campus to prepare for the Family Fun Day on Saturday. Wow. We are gonna need some energy drinks today that's for sure. Thanks guys for making memories!

A True Life Story of a True Champion!

2007-08-29T09:19:00.000-05:00

LaQuanda and KP! Both Friends of TFC!
This past Sunday night, Tessy had a G2G women's meeting at TFC. G2G stands for Generation 2 Generation. Her focus was passing on the positive things from one generation to the next. She had girls from 11 yrs old to 81 yrs old in attendance. A group of 11-13 yr old girls performed live on stage with full band. I heard it was awesome! They received a standing ovation from everyone in attendance. Someone that Tessy and I have come to know from our Opelusas involvement with our new campus is our friend, LaQuanda. Her story is one of Triumph and Determination. 13 hours in a car from New Orleans on the eve of hurricane Katrina landed her in Opelusas and she has yet to return. When talking to her you would never know what she must face everyday in her life and deal with, because of her smile and uplifting spirit that never stops. She was one of the focus points this past weekend that Tessy brought to life. May her story encourage you along your journey and may you be as determined to achieve your dreams like she has. LaQuanda, we love you and look forward to seeing how God will use your life and testimony for His Glory! She made the front page of the Daily World in Opelusas today. Here is the link to read the article in its entirety. www.dailyworld.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070829/NEWS01/708290303

Ladies, make sure to attend the next Sunday Night Event on Sept. 30th!

Jay Sterling's First Scrimmage Game!

2007-08-29T08:57:00.000-05:00

Jay Sterling snapping to quaterback!

Challengers on Offense!

Jay Sterling playing Linebacker!
Last Friday afternoon the 5th and 6th grade team of LCA took the field for the first time with an opponent. They played a one hour scrimmage against the Crusaders of Carencro Catholic School. Jay Sterling is playing 1st team offensive center and He played Middle Linebacker on Defense as well. You would have never known that this was for many of these boys their first game. They played extremely well. The first time the offense had the ball, you could see both fear and excitement in their eyes. It was priceless. They were so excited to go against another opponent other than themselves. They had a great game and outscored the Crusaders 26-o. We ran all over the field and even intercepted a pass and ran it back for a touchdown. They were so fired up after the game. Coach Barry Baldwin is doing an excellent job teaching and training these young men to know the rules and technique of the game. Sterling has been getting up 15 minutes early each morning to run sprints before his morning shower. Now that's commitment! Coach tells them to drink water and not cokes during the week, they do it! He tells them to run, They do it on their own. I think if I want to have my son do something, I will just have Coach Barry tell it to him. Seams to be working! Thanks Coach Barry, this will be a memorable year for both players and parents!

Regan Kyle's Turn!

2007-08-22T08:11:00.000-05:00

Regan Kyle getting sized up!

This past Spring was my chance to fulfill a boyhood dream of mine and play tackle football. I did so with the Local Semi-Pro team, The Lafayette Hurricanes. In August, Jay Sterling started 5th and 6th grade football and last night Regan Kyle started 4th grade football. Regan had a meeting followed by Uniform Fitting! He got fitted for his helmet, shoulder pads, and paints. He was so excited. This morning he was counting how many years that he would get to play football compared to my one year of playing. I've got 3 more (boys) that will one day get to "fit" for pads. Gonna be a great 18 more years people! Be sure to read Regans shirt!

Sterling and Regan on the sidelines with Dad!

A True Disciple!

2007-08-22T07:49:00.000-05:00

An Attorney turned Plumber!
This Past Sunday was week 3 of our Sunday series titled, Disciple. We have been learning what True Disciples do for the sake of Christ and others. In my message Sunday I mentioned that true disciples see a need and then meet the need. Jesus washed the feet of His disciples - He saw a need and meet a need. I mentioned that Jesus was not a professional foot washer but had a heart to serve people. I said that there are many thinks that I can do to serve other, however, there are some things I cannot do, like fix the drain in our bathroom for the tub. For several weeks, Tessy and I have been using wash cloths to hold down the drain deal. Last week we even used duct tape to hold it down. Sunday we all laughed at that story in my message. Well, Sunday afternoon I received a call from an attorney, David Carrier, who said, "Pastor I can come and fix that drain of yours". I said Come on over! Attorney during week, plumber on the weekends! He fixed it! Did you know that Lowe's has a whole section just for tub fixin? While he was there, I mentioned that my computer wasn't working right as well! Hey, he had a tool box and I was thinking of everything else that needed a LITTLE ATTENTION! What a Heart of a Disciple!

Disciple Series on Sundays! Don't Miss a Service.

2007-08-14T09:23:00.001-05:00

Be a part of the new Sunday Series started last week called: Disciples. We are learning that Christianity is a belief system but being a Disciple is a step up. Check out this video of the changes that are taking place at TFC! Be sure to watch both videos. Also, this Sunday we will be passing out our " Gone Fishing" bumper stickers. Be sure to pick one up!

What a weekend! What a Week Ahead!

2007-08-13T14:21:00.000-05:00

1st day of School for #'s 1,2 & 3!

Work Day in the Heat Baby!

Loading up Chairs that will fill up with people!

Furniture for New Lobby!!

Go Jen! That Famous Autograph!

Harley Break Down on I-10!

UL 2007 Lady Soccer Team!
This weekend was another work day for the Opelusas Campus. We had to move chairs and furniture, clean rooms, change ceiling tiles, cut grass, and mop floors. And we did it! Thank you to all that showed up and gave a hand. You all are special! We worked from around 8 am till 3pm in the extreme heat baby! Like 108 degrees, it was awesome. Sunday afternoon we headed over to UL Stadium for the UL Fan Day event. Jen Gardner comes to our church and is one of the coaches for the Ladies Soccer team. Go Jen! Go Lady Cajuns! Sunday evening John Mac and I headed out to Baton Rouge for Supper. He is always asking me when will I get a Harley and get rid of my Honda VTX. Well last night He had me convinced - To Keep it a little longer, as his bike broke down on I-10 on the Basin Bridge! What a great place to have trouble! No Exits, No shoulder, No Help, and NO Safety! Love ya John not gonna let you live this one down for a while. Monday morning, 1st day of class for 3 of the boys! I hope they are as excited everyday like they were today! If so, this will be a great year.

Kickoff this weekend!

2007-08-08T14:55:00.000-05:00

Marking the Field!

New Scoreboard from Pepsi Cola

Field with new School in background!

New practice fields beyond goal post!
No, I'm not talking about the Opelusas Campus! I'm actually talking about Football this time. This weekend the LCA Challengers will host the League's Jamboree on Friday. The Challengers are set to kickoff at 5:45 pm and 8:00 pm. The Coaches and players have been working really hard in this summer heat with two-a-day practices. All for this moment! They will finally get to put some licks on other players and not each other. The field is really looking good. New scoreboard, new lights, and new field paint and a whole lot more players. This year looks like it will be a real exciting time for Challenger Football. If you can, come on out for some Football this Friday night as we cheer on the Mighty Challengers. PS. Brian Hunt just may break out the pit!

New Coach, Barry Baldwin puts final touches on field!

One Weekend Closer to Kickoff!

2007-08-05T07:11:00.000-05:00

Jim, Virgil and Tommy doing what they do best!

Brian and Tommy getting a game plan!
Okay all you sports fans, You think you know what I am talking about with this title! Well, your wrong! Not Football, I'm talking about TFC North Campus! Yesterday was another work day for some carpentry work and electrical work. Great day and a lot accomplished. About 7 men hung light fixtures and hung doors and run new circuits for stage and sound. The building is really shaping up and we are getting excited about our new home. A work weekend wouldn't be right with out Bro. Boogies BBQ Pit and did we light it up baby! Thanks Boogie!This week over 12,000 invites will be going out to those in the area of the campus in Opelusas. This coming Saturday will be a city wide flyer handout announcing the start date of Sept. 8th at 6pm. Hope to see some of you this Saturday as we move chairs and other important items to TFC North!

Jim Ward getting tools ready!

Boogies Famous PIT!

Like Father Like Son and Beyond!

2007-08-01T09:53:00.001-05:00

Sterling on Rightside!

Mud and Grass - Oh Yeah!

Coach Barry giving instructions!

Great Team Effort for the Day!
In March of this year a boyhood dream of mine was fulfilled at 36 years old - I got to play Tackle Football. I played for the Lafayette Hurricanes Semi-Pro Team. Great season and great memories will never be forgotten. We were Conference Champions and will be receiving a Championship Ring in several weeks. I have always told my boys that they would do more than "Dad" did and that they would also do it at a younger age than I did. I didn't preach my first message till 16 or take a missions trip to a different Continent until 23. 4 of my kids have already been to different Continents before they were 7 yrs old. This week another milestone - Jay Sterling started tackle football at 10 not 36 like me. One day he and his brothers will all do greater things than I will have or will ever accomplish! That is my prayer anyway. I will keep you posted as to his progress. He looked very good the last 2 days, he aready cut out drinkig cokes and yesterday he even turned down a snowball! Now you know he is fired up about FOOTBALL!

Our Conference Championship Ring!

TFC in Southern Africa, Mozambique

2007-07-31T08:49:00.000-05:00

TFC joined with HPC of Baton Rouge last year to build a Care Point and Church in Mozambique, Southern Africa. Isaac and Carol Williams are the Pastors of HPC Mozambique. Here is there Blog page to see what is going on around the other side of the globe. TFC, you have a part in every child that is being touched by the love of Jesus. Thank you TFC for caring enough to be a part of what God is doing Globally. You are HIS Hands and Feet!

You goto go check out the video of this little guy getting his praise on. Click the link below and its the July 30th post!

http://www.isaacandcarol.blogspot.com/

TFC North Campus Workday!

2007-07-28T17:03:00.000-05:00

Forrest building a storage closet for equipment!

Moving furniture and getting ready for lunch!

Loading up materials from Lowe's!

Putting in new tile and washing the walls and floors!
Today was the first of several work days that have been planned for the TFC Opelusas Campus. Over 50 or so showed up at 9am to help with several different projects. Men changed out ceiling tile while a majority of the ladies mopped, cleaned, organized and swept the floors. Young people were helping as well. It was a great day and a great day to sow some seeds into the future of this new campus. Ricky Bourgeois got all of the AC units running and blowing cold. Forrest Arceneaux built a wall and made a closet to store our equipment between services. Pastor Shane ordered pizza for lunch and made everyone happy. We have one more work day scheduled, I will keep you posted as to when that day will be. For all of you that gave a hand today, Thank you so much. You are truly the heartbeat of TFC. Building Lives, Families, and Futures!

Are You Ready?

2007-07-27T09:36:00.000-05:00

IT is almost that time of year! The day that most parents long for and the day that kids don't want to see - The First Day of School! Nevertheless, Here we GO! LCA kicks off its 34th school year of its history! Pastor Dan Savoie has done an excellent job this summer on getting big and small projects accomplished! When you return to Campus you will see many visible changes. New landscaping, new play ground and basketball courts, parking lot improvements, new football scoreboard, and lights on football field. Many new improvements inside as well. From the school kitchen to new paint and small touch ups - What a busy summer it has been. It will also mark the highest enrollment in the history of LCA. Around 575 students to start the new school year. The summer staff of LCA has done an incredible job all summer long and the hard work will pay off soon. Pastor Dan has also completed the necessary requirements and has earned his Master's Degree over the Summer as well from Southwestern University in Dallas, TX. Go Pastor Dan! LCA will also begin its new 3rd - 6th grade tackle football program this fall. I know that Sterling and Regan can't wait to put on those pads! See all of you soon and enjoy your last few days of summer kids!

Australia, Dallas, and Gulf Shores!

2007-07-25T12:51:00.001-05:00

I feel like I have been around the world in 30 days! This past month has been both uplifting and inspirational! I was able to attend Hillsong Pastor's Conference in Australia on the first of July! 25 thousand screaming crazy radical Christians in one place - It was awesome! Got to see TD Jakes, Jensin Frankklin, Stephen Curtis, Brian Houston, Darlene Chech, And so many others! Stayed their for about 10 days or so. Then I had to turn around and speak at Pastor's Conference in Dallas, TX for 2 nights just 2 days from my return from Sydney. I came home for Sunday services and left for Family vacation with Tessy and all the boyz! We had a great time together. Un-disturbed mom and dad time - you know the Boyz were digging that! Now, I am back in for a while and ready to get this new campus started. Pastor Derek and Pastor Dan did a great job while I was gone. I heard that this past Sunday was awesome worship and a really strong anointing around the alter! Thanks for being sensitive Pastor Shane! Tonight we will continue our "Leading Like Jesus" series. Hope to see of you here tonight at 6:30PM. I love TFC and love being home with all of my family!

Enjoy the Pictures!

Hillsong Conference Pictures!

The Boyz cutting up on vacation!

Happy 68th Mom!

2007-07-10T20:50:00.000-05:00

Cheezzzy Camera Phone Pix

All but one (Britt) of the grandkids!
July 10th, 19 something! Like before Elvis and John Wayne! My mom celebrated her 68th birthday. We were gonna take her to eat wherever she wanted. Her request was whatever the kids wanted. Bad idea. We have 5 and they all have their opinions. Well Micah wanted to take her to McDonald's and get her a happy meal. Jansen said anywhere but Whataburger. That's were papaw takes him every time he is with them. 3 more options followed. When in doubt, Chili's is the place! We left more food on the floor than we ate. I have to tip big, we make them hire a new staff position with our crew! Anyway, Happy 68th mom, you look good next to that old man of yours! You married young I suppose! Love ya.

TFC Getting Ready to Expand!

2007-06-27T08:35:00.000-05:00

TFC North Auditorium and Main Lobby!
Get ready for TFC North Campus. That's Right! TFC North Campus in Opelousas. Yesterday, I took several of our staff pastors to see the facility. For several, it was there first time on site. We are beginning the strategies for the kickoff of "TFC North" in September 2007. The exact date will be September 8th, 2007. A Saturday Night service starting at 6PM. We met with the owner of Acadiana Prep High School, David Barham to outline a few details. He and his wife have a great vision to reach students and their families. They are also excited to see a church start from on their campus. We will have a couple of work days prior to Sept, 8th, so be willing and available as that time draws near. What's really cool is that in 1973 when this ministry began, the address was 223 Stone Ave. The Address at TFC North Campus will be 223 Prep Dr. We are excited about how God is using us to reach others with the cause of Christ. Thank you for being a part of that Family. The Gym could hold over 800 if needed, several classrooms will be used for support rooms for children's church and nursery. The Youth group will probably meet on Sunday nights at TFC North as well. God said to say to the N,S,E, and West to give up! Well, North, Give UP what belongs to God! TFC Get ready to Expand and Grow!

David Barham and his wife, Melinda.

More details to come in the Following weeks. Stay tuned to Blog Page for all the latest updates and progress. Building Lives, Families, and Futures!

New Auditorium for TFC North!

The Lord and the Rings!

2007-06-22T07:44:00.000-05:00

In today's Lafayette newspaper, The Daily Advertiser, they ran an article titled "The Lord of the Rings". It was an interview I had done with a writer about my football experiences both as player and as Pastor. You can follow the link to read the article. http://www.theadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070622/LIFESTYLE/706220328/1024

Trevis did a great job reporting and represented the situation well. He did however forget to mention the support that Tessy gives me and the Boyz every week. She adjusts her schedule and kids to be with us every week. Thank you baby for allowing me to participate and see one of my dreams fulfilled. Even though you didn't think it was the best idea, you allowed me to pursue it. I love you. To Sterling and Regan: You guys are the best! You worked so hard all season, both in the heat and the cold. Thank you for supporting me and giving a hand. Now I will live my life to watch you guys dreams be fulfilled. Thank you Family Church for supporting me as well. It is great to be your Pastor. Never Stop Dreaming!

TFC XG Summer Camp!

2007-06-21T12:55:00.000-05:00

TFC Getting their PRAISE on!
Last night I drove down to Thibodeaux to Nichols State University to see our Teenagers at Summer Camp. Over 400 kids are attending Summer Youth Camp at Nichols this year. I believe Pastor Derek brought around 60 from TFC. I made it in for Worship service and the alter call. Kids were being touched by the presence of the Lord and everyone was excited about what has been going on. Jordan Burt needs to improve his goalie skills! Got to see all of the leaders and be a part of the camp experience. They group is expected back sometime Friday afternoon. Be blessed guys and have a great experience. Thank you Pastor Derek and Rachel for your support and love you give the kids of TFC!

Looks like Pastor Josh is really having Fun!

Hurricanes in The BIG DANCE BABY!

2007-06-21T02:01:00.000-05:00

Here come the "CANES"!

The SWFA Championship Game will be played in Pearland, TX at “The RIG” Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 7PM.
Lafayette Hurricanes (12-2) vs. New Orleans Survivors (11-3)
Hurricanes and Survivors split during the regular season. This one is the one that counts!

We have had a great season. Our running back was named league MVP last week. The Lafayette Hurricanes are also ranked 23rd in the nation in Minor League Football. Not bad out of over 700 teams nationwide! This will be the last Game for #74 (Jay Miller). What a wild ride it has been! Thank you for the support all season and dreaming with me. Winner will go home with the hardware and the Championship Ring! I will be able to look back on this season and it will always be remembered as a success in my book. The RING would just be a huge blessing from the Lord. I pray that in all I do – I will honor Christ. Pray for our success next weekend in Houston. The following Day, July 1st, I leave for Australia for 10 days, so pray for my family while I am gone! Love you guys, Thanks for all you do for me!

The RIG Stadium. Pearland, TX
3775 S. Main
Pearland, Texas 77581
Pearland ISD "The Rig"

The Rig is located at the intersection of Pearland Parkway and Oiler Drive. It is also accessible from South Main (35) and Oiler Drive. It is located on the Pearland High School campus.
The stadium seats approximately 9200.

3775 S Main, Pearland, TX 77581

Are you Ready for This? Gotta see this version!

2007-06-20T15:38:00.000-05:00

Alright, earlier I posted the video that the ladies made announcing the 2007 Ladies Conference. We showed this video for 2 weeks at TFC on the big screens. After watching the video the second time, Pastor Derek and several others decided that we could make a video as well. We got together and did our own version of the same video. If you have not watched the Ladies video yet, be sure to watch theirs first before watching this one. Great job MEN!

TFC Women's Conference coming June 28-30

2007-06-19T15:40:00.000-05:00

Ladies get ready! Next week has been created with you in mind. Tessy and the girls have been planning, preparing, and praying for this weekend. Do you best to attend. Dads and husbands, do your best to assist with schedules and children so that your spouse can be here. Here is a video of our ladies getting ready for the conference. Be sure to watch video very close! Tomorrow I will post the men's version of the song! You don't want to miss that!

Happy Fathers Day!

2007-06-18T14:01:00.000-05:00

The BOYZ and Britt Playing in Water!

Happy Father's Day to all of you men out there with children. Yesterday was a great day for me. My kids get real excited about honoring their dad on this special day. They realize that I do so much for them on a daily basis, so they are excited to share their feelings toward me on this day. Jansen's gift to me was for he and I to take my Suburban to a car wash and have it all cleaned up and "I pay the man". Sterling, Jansen, Micah and Regan went to Clay Fish Bisque and had some footballs hand painted for me with "Go Canes" on them. Tessy got together and they got me a parking sign for me at the office. The Sign reads, "Commander and Chief Parking Only". Not sure if anyone at the office will think that it is for me! They may not be sure who that parking spot is for!

What a great weekend! We won our Semi-final game vs. the Houston Cardinals and now we move on to the championship game in Houston Texas. We will be playing the New Orleans Survivors! Go figure - The Hurricanes verses the Survivors! Game will be played on Saturday, June 30th at 4pm at Texas Southern University in Houston. One win away from a championship Ring.

HPC is a Special Place!

2007-06-14T13:03:00.000-05:00

Last night I was with Pastor Dino and his wonderful Staff at Healing Place Church! I was the guest speaker last night for their mid-week service.

Jay Sterling came with me and served me all day long. Got to do a little shoppingt at the Mall of LA and hang out together at the Marriot. I am pumped at what God is doing in his life even at a young age! Sterling I am proud of you. You are an Inspiration to me!

Spoke on "Never Letting Your Dreams Die". Talked a little about my Football experiences and how it has all unfolded. If you really want to reach people and inspire others then - Keep pursuing your dreams! By the way, this Saturday we will host the Cardinals at STM at 7pm for a chance to play in the Championship game on June 30th. Come on out and support the Lafayette Hurricanes. It has been fun and I've learned a lot. Best thing about it is, I have gotten to experience it with my sons Sterling and Regan. I love doing life together with friends and family! This will be your last chance to see me in helmet and pads this weekend, hanging up the cleats after this season!

Go Canes!!

Robbie, myself, and Brent - Offensive Line!

Regular Season is Over!

2007-05-29T16:25:00.000-05:00

Sterling and I eating supper Downtown Houston. Regan flexing his muscles in Hotel.
Well, the Lafayette Hurricanes have finished the regular season. Our last Game was this past Saturday in Houston, TX. We won the game and finished the season at 10-2. Sterling, Regan and I went up on Friday night and got to hang out in Downtown Houston. I love living life with my kids. The weather on Saturday was terrible for fans but for the kids and I - It was a dream. It poured down raining and the field turned to mud! I was a 36 year old living like a 6 year old! What a day! June 9th will be our first playoff game. It will be held at STM in Lafayette at 5pm. We are playing a team we beat earlier in the season but you never know what could happen in the playoffs.

Downtown Houston. Scenes from the Mud Bowl!

That's me on the end!

Check this out!

2007-05-16T08:58:00.000-05:00

How is it that I play Semi-pro Football on weekends, take hit after hit and in a church softball game this happens? Tuesday night our TFC Men's team needed a extra man so I volunteered. Last Inning and last out I hit the ball high towards left field. I thought the ball was out the park but instead it hit the wall and bounced in the field of play. I was walking and watching the ball, when I realized it was not out I started to run towards second base but I then realized I was gonna be thrown out, so I turned back toward first. I looked back toward second to see if he had thrown the ball. When I turned around, well, he had thrown it. I turned and it slammed into my left eyebrow. My boys think that it is great and cool. Regan and Sterling want one now! It will heal but will take weeks for the purple and blue to disappear. Gotta love life, Throws all kind of curve balls at you. You just keep swinging. By the way, after the ball hit me I dropped to my knees, the first baseman went gee the ball and while I'm on the ground he tags me out. Can you believe that?

I Promise Series!

2007-05-03T10:35:00.000-05:00

Just want to remind you that our new Wednesday night series has began. It is entitled, "I Promise". If you missed last night, you need to get the CD or listen online. The topic was, "When you've married the wrong person." We had a great night last night, great attendance, and great presence of God in service. See you all this weekend! Be Blessed.

What A Great Weekend!

2007-05-02T08:39:00.000-05:00

Coaches talking before Game! Oline getting ready to drive into endzone!
What an incredible weekend this past weekend! It started out Saturday night as the Lafayette Hurricanes hosted the number one team in the league, the New Orleans Survivors. They came in undefeated. We lost to them on the first game of the season but that was then and this is now! Put it this way, they are no longer undefeated. The defense rose to the occasion and shut them down. They caused 5 interceptions and 2 fumbles. The offense did enough to score twice and the outcome was 12 to 0. That puts us at 6-2 for the season with 4 games before the playoffs. Our next home game is May 12th at STM, 7pm. We will be playing the Baton Rouge Eagles for 1st place should they win this weekend. Should be real exciting! If you haven't had an opportunity to make a game -This would be a good one to come out for.

Houston Cardnials and Defense taking a break!

O-line Baby! Here come the Canes!
We also kicked off a new Sunday Series at TFC, ILIFE. A combination of theme songs that deal with everyday situations and battles we face. Had a great service and 9 received Christ as Saviour. Our new Wednesday night series kicked off as well, entitled IPROMISE. Check out the website for more info and details. Hope to see you tonight at 6:30pm, as we continue I promise - Tonight's title is "When you've married the wrong person". Love ya!

American Idol Gives Back!

2007-04-26T10:36:00.000-05:00

Melinda Dolittle is one of our favorites!

Alright, the Miller family is definitely "Idol" fans. We tivo every show each week and watch our favorites about 3 times each. We have been idol fans for 3 years now. All of our kids enjoy it and we get to sit and enjoy each other in the process. The other night Regan grabbed this toy microphone from Jansen's room and sang along with them Tuesday night. Sterling keep telling him to be QUIET. We see the contestants talk about dreams and then we as a family talk about our dreams. Lot of fun. One of the rules is that no one can watch it unless we are all there or permission is granted by the ones who cannot watch. Another rule is that if you know who got kicked off, you cannot tell everyone. Don't ruin the surprise for us!

We will NEVER forget Sanjaya - never ever!
Well Last night was "idol gives back". Millions of dollars were raised for needy kids and families in the US and Africa. My though this morning was- everyday - we ought to be giving back! Giving back love to those around us, giving back resources to those in need, etc.. Today, find ways to give back and say thanks. Today,Tessy and I will take our secretaries out to lunch for Secretaries Day. (Couldn't go yesterday). We will give back a little of what they give to us. Be Blessed!

I'm Back Baby! Please Forgive!

2007-04-25T13:33:00.000-05:00

Preaching in one of the largest churches in Cuba!

Well, for those of you that follow my blog, let me confirm that I was NOT in Cuba for 6 weeks. Came back and hit the ground running hard. Since my return to Cuba, we have bought 30 acres of property, which we will close on next week, had one of our greatest Easter Sundays ever, went on a 5 game winning streak, and moved in with my mother in law. How's that for being busy?

Stephen Auguilard, Pastor Ramos and I
For those of you who don't know, I am playing Semi-pro football for the Lafayette Hurricanes. We are 5-2 on the season with 5 games remaining. We are currently in second place and we host the only unbeaten team in the league this Saturday at Home. A win this weekend and another lose by the New Orleans team would put us in 1st place going into the playoffs. Having a lot of fun and fulfilling a dream that I have had most of my life - play tackle football! Never Stop Dreaming!

Cuban Man and several of the Cuban team.

My Cuba trip was great! We were there 8 days and we will build 2 churches in Cuba this year. You can build a church that seats around 200 for just under 10K dollars. We will have TFC Cuba in the Fall of 2007. Look forward to going back and dedicating this church in fall. I was also able to preach in one of the largest churches in Cuba. The church eats around 500 and over 1400 show up for service. They pack into the streets and pier through the windows. They are hungry for God in Cuba. We are excited about planting churches there. They are hungry! Stay posted TFC for some upcoming Missions Trips that we will be hosting. Pastor Dwayne will be heading these trips up so stay close and stay informed. Be Blessed and check back soon for more future Updates. I'm Back!

Cuban man taking break during hot work day!

Cuba Missions Trip Begins NOW!

2007-03-19T20:37:00.000-05:00

Map of Santiago, Cuba
Another journey for me begins tomorrow! I will be heading out for Cuba on Wednesday following a briefing on Tuesday night in Miami. I am one of 8 pastors that will be attending this missions trip. I will have the opportunity to see what God is up to in a Communist country. I have heard of the stories and now I will get to see it first hand. Please pray for Tessy and the 5 BOYZ that will remain at home and for maw maw. It has been a very exciting week for us at TFC! We got word that our offer for the land purchase was accepted.

Cuba Coast, 90 miles off the coast of Florida!
Today I called our attorney to start the paper work and schedule a closing date. We have 30 of the 40 acres confirmed. There is still 10 out there that we really need. Please pray that God would give us favor for the rest of it. Now, we need to pray for wisdom on how to progress with the future developments as well. All I know is that God sees more and knows more than we do - All we need to do is follow after him day by day and that vision will speak at the appointed time! I love you and thank God for the opportunity to Pastor such a great congregation in a great place, Lafayette, LA. I have been to many foreign places and many countries, but there is nothing like home when home is at TFC! I will try to call in "live" from Cuba on Sunday Morning! Be Blessed!

Hurricanes 1st win of Season!

2007-03-12T08:36:00.000-05:00

Tessy firing up the crowd and Brian Hunts Cooking Team in Action!

Thank you to all that were at the game Saturday night at STM. The cooking team did an incredible job! We were able to feed the entire team and all those who came early to tailgate with us. We were also able to feed the visiting team after the game as well. Thank you TFC for being a light and a strong witness for Jesus. We had 6 of the team members in church at the 11 AM service yesterday. One running back brought his entire family to service as well.

Sterling and Regan Ball Boys and #74 with Josiah
The Hurricanes are now 1 and 1. Our next game is this Saturday in Jackson, LA, just north of Baton Rouge near St. Francisville. Kick off is at 3PM. The next home game stretch begins April 14th, 21st, and 28th. 3 home games in a row. Be sure to check out the photos at http://www.jcouvphotos.com/ from the first home game. By the way, we beat the Texas Titans 48-0. It was a category 5 storm that hit the field this past Saturday!

Rachel Begnaud giving me some Pre-game encouragment!
Miracle Parenting Seminar is Now. We had a great weekend with Phil and Cynthia Phillips on Sunday am and pm. They will continue on Monday and Tuesday night at 7pm. Childcare provided and dinner served as well for the kids. Have a great week and I will see you Wednesday night as we continue our "Stewardship of Life" series!

Never Give Up On Your Dreams!

2007-03-06T12:04:00.000-06:00

Arrival to the Stadium! Starting running back, Antonio Logan!

As many of you know, I attended Lafayette Christian Academy throughout all of my high school years. We played flag football because we never had enough students to play tackle football. Well last year, LCA made the switch to tackle football. I would go out to the practices and watch these guys hit and play. Boy, I wish I could be out there with them! Last year, I found out about a local Semi-pro football team called the Lafayette Hurricanes. I went online found out some information and began to train for the upcoming season and get prepared for the upcoming try outs. Well, I made the team and I am a starter on the offensive line. Look out for #74 baby!

The rest of the Offensive Line ! #74 Fan Club My real fan club, the Miller Boyz!

Our first game was this past Saturday in New Orleans. Our First home game is this Saturday at St. Thomas Moore Field off Ambassador Caffery. Kick off is at 7pm and tailgating starts at 4pm. Bring a lawn chair and some sides cause I'm bringing all the meat. All are invited, we will have plenty! Here are some of the photos of our first Game. Many of the players were in our weekend services on Sunday. We had a great time together and many were touched by the message and anointing this weekend. Go Canes! See you Saturday Night, under the lights!

TFC Autograph Signing! The Fans!! The 2007 Lafayette Hurricanes!

TFC and Hurricanes! STM Field in Lafayette

Let's Pack these seats this Saturday night!

Pictures speak louder than words!

2007-03-06T08:40:00.000-06:00

I have been busy lately! Too Busy to post to Blog. Here are some pictures in random order as to what I've been up to. During Spring Break, our staff and families went to Mexico and ministered together for a few days. I came back and headed to Arizona for a missions conference with Pastor Dino Rizzo and other friends. Got to meet Wayne Goodall and Gary Sapp of Mission of Mercy, these guys are doing some great things. Met some great Pastors from Monroe, Shane and Pam Warren. Got a chance to Ride a Harley through the desert in Arizona with Pastor Dwayne. Got to meet a linebacker coach from the Green Bay Packers on the Plane and talk to Charles Barkley on the plane as well.

Saturday = Family Day with the BOYZ!

2007-02-11T06:39:00.000-06:00

Pap-paw and Regan waiting on the big one! Micah putt'n um in the bucket!

Mega Mike all smiles. Baby Britt trying to eat them right off the hook!

When the sun came up on a beautiful Saturday morning - who can stay inside the house? It was a little cool with the wind blowing but grab a beanie and "Let's Go Fishing". We took the boyz fishing, 4-wheeler riding and Goose Chasing. You've never been Goose Chasing? Have you ever heard of a "Wild Goose Chase"? You need to get out more!

Regan Kyle just chillin! Micah on his first wild Goose chase!
We have 2 adult Geese and the hatched 10 eggs 4 weeks ago - so we have all these geese running around. A friend of mine wanted the babies - so we started chasing them. You should have seen Micah and Jansen running after the birds! We caught 8 out of the 10. By the way we caught 22 fish and had a good ole fashion fish fry at Bro. Boogies house.

Monie enjoying the grandkids. Micah cleaning the catch!

Micah was the only one who helped Boogie clean the fish. Monnie and Pap-paw were in town so they joined in on the fun. Baby Britt wanted to eat the fish before we cooked them - right off the hook. We had to watch him close. TFC - I love family - be sure to love on your family often. Toys will break, flowers will fade, things will get lost and stolen, but memories with your family are PRICELESS! Take the time to make memories this week!

Big Daddy making memories. The Wild Goose Chase a big success!

Here's Looking Up!

2007-02-06T08:34:00.000-06:00

This is "Mega" Mike! A name given to him by Derek Capello that I have now claimed! He is the ranked 4th on the Miller Boyz Team and is 3 years old. I have a sunroof in my suburban and he always wants to open the roof or as he puts it, "make a hole in the car daddy". Today, I put a hole in it and let him stand up on the console and stick his head out and wave at everyone he saw. Now mothers, don't get excited, I was only driving in the church parking lot not on I-10 of course. He said to me, "Dad, I like looking up". I thought that is how we should start each day - looking Up to Jesus. That is where our strength, health, life and everything comes from. So today, Look up. Psalm 5:3 Says, " My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will LOOK UP".

Britt Michael in the house!

2007-01-24T15:51:00.000-06:00

Britt Michael - All the attention he wants!
Well, my youngest, Britt Michael, is loving living at maw maw's house. 24/7 - waiting on him hand and foot. Here is is watching his favorite worship videos with all of maw maw's attention. I asked Micah Jay the other day if he liked maw maw's house - he said - this is my house! Keep Agnes is prayer - The Miller Boyz are in the house!

Great Weekend at TFC!

2007-01-23T16:23:00.000-06:00

Miller BOYZ in the HOUSE!
What a great weekend at TFC this past weekend! We kicked off our new series"BIG" and have had some wonderful comments already. Friday night was "Kid" Night at the CAFE' - Pastor Dwayne and Stephanie and their team hosted over 80 6-10 year olds in the cafe. The Miller BOYZ were representing!

Mr. Savoie speaking at the Open House
Monday night was "OPEN HOUSE" for LCA. Around 80 people were in attendance. The LCA Staff did an excellent job of hosting and greeting the prospective parents and students. We look forward to the upcoming school year already. God is up to some really big things at TFC. Dig in, grab on, hold tight, and trust GOD - cause - - - here we go-oooo!

Final-Touches Friday!

2007-01-19T15:49:00.000-06:00

Bruce making final adjustments for Sunday!
Today was a the day of final touches for this weekends services. Lot of Kudos to the boys who got it done this week. 48 hours away from the BIG Series! Hope to see all of you this weekend. Here is one picture of what you can expect!
It is gonna be BIG!

Just another Thursday Night at TFC!

2007-01-18T19:51:00.000-06:00

Rachel Begnaud teaching new songs!

The team getting it down "tight"!
Jay Sterling had a basketball game tonight at the LCA Gym at 5:30PM. They played the only unbeaten team in the league tonight - afterwards, they are still the only unbeaten team in the league. Anyway, I walked over to the Main Auditorium after the game - I saw people, cars, lights - wanted to see what was going on. People all over doing different things - Rachel and the Music team were practicing for Sunday - Bruce, Jasin, and Andre' were installing some new lights and a new control board, others setting up the stage for the BIG event that begins this Sunday. The moment we have all been waiting for - Jan. 21st. I was overlooking the new UL Small Group Magazine that will be released this weekend.

Bruce working out the kinks.

Jasin and Andre' running cable for lights
I thought - all this stuff going on - a Thursday night - getting ready for Sunday morning - Wow! I love being a part of a church that is busy - busy for the Kingdom of God - Using their talents for Kingdom Stuff! This weekend will be a lot of fun - hope to see all of you here this weekend. Be sure to make plans to attend our Valentine's Banquet on Feb. 11th. Call the office for Tickets - 234-0214.

The NEW Set for BIG getting painted!

I'm just checking out the new Small Group Magazine!

TFC - Full of Missionaries on Monday Night!

2007-01-16T16:54:00.000-06:00

Charles Lambert talking about the harvest!

Last night was fantastic! We concluded the weekend with Charles Lambert, a missionary to the world for over 25 years now. We had a great service on Sunday and we invited all those who felt God was calling them to Missions work, whether full time, part time, or just one week at a time to come back on monday night. We had over 100 (missionaries) show up. We spent some time around the alter, prayed, cried for the nations, - a real special moment with God. I pray that 2007 will be a year of "going out" to the world. We are currently organizing 4 missions trips for the families of TFC to participate in this year. I pray that all of TFC will be a part of World Missions this year like never before. I look forward to seeing what God will do. I don't know about you - but I am getting ready for Something BIG!!

Old Fashion Alter Call - Praying for Souls!

Prepairing for Missions 2007

2007-01-12T12:31:00.000-06:00

Missionaries and Pastors having Lunch
On Wednesday of this week, I was part of a group of Pastors and Missionaries doing a little planning for the upcoming year. It was great to be a part of so many great men of God who have a heart to reach this world with the love of Jesus Christ. Missionaries from Brazil and various countries in Africa were present along with Pastors from Louisiana. I am so excited about what God is up to in 2007. TFC get ready for BIG things this year. All of you who have a heart to travel and see what God is doing in other parts of the world - GET READY!

Children's Cup President - Dave Ohlerking in Middle
I also got to meet the new pastor that will be going to Pastor the Mozambique Campus in Southern Africa. This is the church that we helped build this past year. His name is Issac Williams. The kick-off weekend is scheduled for April 2007 around Easter Sunday.

The New Mozambique Pastor - Issac Williams
This Weekend, Charles Lambert will be with us, sharing stories from around the world of what God is doing and how to prepare to be a part of what God is doing. Also, on Monday Night 7pm, a special one hour seminar on "Preparing for Missions" will be held in the Main Auditorium. See all of you Missionaries there. Looking forward to a great weekend of services. Be Blessed. January 21st, Something BIG is Coming!

University of Life, Small groups getting BIG!

2007-01-09T14:56:00.000-06:00

UL Small Group Leaders getting Ready to go BIG!
If you have been to a recent service at TFC, then you know that something BIG is coming on Jan. 21st. This past weekend we had a training seminar for the new Small Group Leaders for the upcoming semester. We also had a few of the past leaders in attendance as well. I got a chance to address the group on Saturday morning - I talked about the necessity of People Skills. We had a great time together and I am looking forward to seeing people be a part of the small groups here at the Family Church. Be loooking in the mail for your new catalog real soon. Go to www.thefamilychurch.cc to sign up for the new classes!

Sugar Bowl Champions 2007

2007-01-05T11:23:00.000-06:00

I had the opportunity to travel to New Orleans for the Sugar Bowl. LSU vs. Notre Dame in the Superdome this week. I looked around at all the people, the fans, the food, the hype, the money spent, the crowds, the entertainment - It was BIG! I firmly believe it is small in comparison to what I believe that God wants to do in our lives this year and at TFC. I want you to dream BIG, Give BIG, have BIG Faith, and See the BIG Picture of 2007. Remember, Something Big is Coming - Jan. 21st at The Family Church. Don't Forget Small group leaders - this weekend is our Training Weekend. Hope to see all of you!

What a great way to start a New Year.

2007-01-02T07:18:00.000-06:00

The Miller Boyz with friends!
Last night, new years day, we wanted to have a few people over for supper to play games and watch football, do some fireworks, and sit by the outside fire. What was gonna be just one other family turned into around 30 or 40 people. At one point, Tessy came out and asked me who all I invited (as more kept showing up). She wanted to make sure we had enough food! As I was watching kids pop fireworks outside, others sit by the fire, others playing games inside and watching football, the thought came to me, "What a great way to start a New Year!". Surrounded by family and friends - building relationships. That is what life is really about. That is why God has put is here on this earth - to build relationships and assist one another in life. Everything is the Garden of Eden was good - except - Adam being alone. I pray for many healthy relationships in this new year. Join a UL Small Group at TFC this coming Semester. May your 2007 be filled with building relationships and spending time with one another.

Micah Jay loving this firework stuff!

Happy New Year Family Church!

2007-01-01T08:47:00.000-06:00

TFC families bring in the new year together!

Happy New Year Everyone. I pray for a healthy and prosperous year for you and your families in 2007. I believe that God is up to something BIG! We had a tremendous time last night at TFC. We had over 400 in attendance for our New Year's Party. We had an outdoor movie screen with Hamburgers and a huge 25 minute firework display around 10 PM. Thanks to all of you that helped make this event happen. Many guest of families and visitors were in attendance. A fun night together with people you love. TFC you do things well. I am looking forward to some great things in 2007. The Biggest year ever for TFC. Come on everyone - DREAM BIG!

A night of Family, Food, Fellowship and Fireworks!!

Merry Christmas Mexico!

2006-12-27T08:42:00.000-06:00

Pastor Fred, his wife and I in their home!
Just 3 days before Christmas we made a special trip to the Mexico border to bring supplies, clothes, shoes and toys to the needy families in the Mountains of Mexico. Wallace and Sondra LaCombe, who are missionaries out of TFC, have been filling the trailer over the past several months. Bro. Boogie, Jay Sterling, The LaCombes, and I went for a quick 3 day trip to fill up the warehouse in Progresso.

The Incredible Meal together!
On Thursday night it was like heaven on earth - The cooked us homemade Tamales, BBQ steak, and homemade pico-da-gio dip! Oh my goodness! They followed that up with a family worship service and prayer for all of us that made the trip. Pastor Fred Garcia and his family are incredible people.

Worship and Prayer and Repentance for the huge meal we ate!
They have a heart for the hurting and those "without". I love being a part of what God is doing with Missions and helping those who God is using to do it. Our entire Pastoral Staff will be going on a trip to Mexico in February 2007. Along with all of our kids, we will be right at 50 people! It will be a 4 day non-stop missions trip. We will do VBS, cook meals, preach, sing and pray for people all day, every day. TFC make plans to be a part of a future missions trip in 2007. We should have 4 trips available for you to be a part of this year. I pray all of you had a Merry Christmas and We look forward to having a great 2007.

TFC's Own Special Session!

2006-12-14T14:23:00.000-06:00

Senator Vitter in the new Welcome Center of TFC!
TFC was represented well today during a brief visit by Senator David Vitter. The Senator came with an agenda - "What can I do in Washington to help your people?" His first question was what is it about TFC that attracts such a plurality of people and backgrounds. He had heard of our efforts in the past and was impressed at what he heard. I simply talked about the people that God has brought to TFC. How we make people feel at home, feel like family, and feel special. I told the Senator, if we have any successes, it is because of people who care about others. Thank you TFC for making this place special. I love you and am so glad to be called to Pastor here at TFC! I can't wait to see what is in store for TFC in the near future!

I love December - Party after Party after Party!

2006-12-14T09:25:00.000-06:00

A special Gift given to all the couples!
Wednesday night was NO exception to the rule - The rule of having something every night during this Holiday Season. Tessy and I hosted our Deacon and deaconess at Don's Seafood Downtown last night. What a great bunch of people. We talked briefly about this past year - 2006 - and what we are believing for in 2007. We are truly blessed to have such fine families a part of our lives here at The Family Church. I watch these people pray, love, give, touch, and bless others every service. This is what makes TFC a special place. Thank you deacons and families for believing in us and for fulfilling your call to the body of Christ.

Meet Mr. Anthony Joseph Sonnier
and his beautiful wife Sharlene. There is none like Tony!

Looking forward to 2007 Already!

2006-12-13T11:37:00.000-06:00

Dreaming about doing more for The Kingdom!
As I look back on the year 2006, I am amazed of what was accomplished and all that God has done. What I love the most about what people say about TFC is that they feel like family. We had a special guest this past Sunday - Ms. Olga Robinson, she was celebrating her 100 year Birthday. Wow - We figured out she has had 17 Presidents so far in her lifetime. We had a cake and served cake honoring a life of 100 years - She told me after the service how she felt like family here at TFC! That makes me smile. So many of you help create that environment around here. You care about people! Thanks TFC for making 2006 onne of the best with much more in store for 2007. Here is a small sample of what we are believing God for - We currently have 26 acres - next to us around 36 acres not being used for anything. We are looking at the possibilities of using it for the Kingdom of God. Believe with us that God will move on the hearts of the property owners to sell us the land. More details to follow as things happen. I am ready for the next wave. Have a great Holiday - Remember - One service this Sunday - 10AM only. See you there!

Christmas is in the air! YMC take to the streets!

2006-12-10T07:26:00.000-06:00

Notice Carl on his cell phone doing business!
I love this time of year - Christmas Time! Holidays, Family, Turkey, Ham, and Football! I love this cold weather we have been having with out the rain included. Parties almost every night, friends, special times, soon - kids out of school for a few weeks. I pray all of you are loving it as well. Saturday night, several Young Married Couples of TFC, got together for a RV Excursion of Christmas lights and Dinner. We had a great time, the weather was perfect, food at Cafe Roma's in River Ranch was excellent and we did see a few lights as well. I love hanging out with friends, laughing together and dreaming together. There are many opportunities to hang out together this Christmas Season with each other, please make the time to be a part of the December activities at TFC.

Here is a brief look at upcoming events for Tessy and I:
Saturday - Young Married Couples Excursion
Sunday - Oasis Christmas Dinner Concert w/Billy Gaines
Monday - MOS Beast Feast
Tuesday - TFC Staff Pastor's Christmas Dinner
Wednesday - Deacon and Deaconess Christmas party
Thursday - Jay Sterling Basketball Game
Friday - Move into my Mother in Laws home!!
Saturday - Production Final Rehersal
Sunday - Christmas Production and Special Gift to all Families
Monday - Not sure yet - Call me - we will go.
Tuesday - Leave for Mexico for 3 days.

I love what I do - You all make my life special!

TFC Still Growing!

2006-11-29T16:36:00.000-06:00

Congrats to Shane and Brandi Bellard on the birth of their brand-new baby boy. Born today @ 12:30pm at Lafayette General. 7 lbs 14 ozs, 20 and 3/4 inches. A beautiful baby boy named Joshua John Bellard. What a great God we serve - After all Shane and his family have been through this past year - What a great gift. Now they have a pair! Love ya Shane and Brandi -the both of you are an inspiration to me and to TFC!

PS - Bring him to the house anytime - We know what to do with boys!

Here we go again!

2006-11-29T15:02:00.000-06:00

Sorry for the time away from my Blog Page! November was a really busy month and alot of great things happened. On November 9th, I turned 36 years old. Jay Sterling turned 10 years old on the 24th of this month. The day after Thanksgiving. Last year his birthday fell on Thanksgiving day - That happens like every 9 years or something. I pray all of you had a great Thanksgiving with your families. Tessy and I and the boyz got to go to Hot Springs, AK to be with her family for several days. We were in Arkansas when LSU beat the Razorbacks on the Friday. I wore my Purple and Gold very proud! Looking forward to a great December and Holiday season. We have a lot of great things coming up at TFC and I pray you can make as many as possible. Today, I had lunch with Tony Sonnier and Curt Arcement of Solomon, Smith, Barney - The lafayette office had a luncheon and speaker at the City Club in River Ranch. That place is growing like crazy - Anyway, the speaker was on staff at LSU when Nick Saban and the Tigers won the National Championship in 2oo3. He had a championship ring on - he let me hold it - i put it on my finger and took a picture. Here it is. My first National Championship Ring! PS. He made me give it back - this guy has little fingers!

Same Page Meeting - Exciting and Refreshing!

2006-10-24T09:10:00.000-05:00

This past Sunday Night we had our Quaterly "Same Page Meeting". A time set aside for all leaders, staff, volunteers, and those that want to be a part of the vision of TFC to come together and hear from my heart what I feel in my spirit and what God is up to at TFC. We talked about the Foundational Scripture of TFC - 1 Cor. 1:7. We spoke of Building Lives, Families, and Futures - We talked about a new Childrens Worship Auditorium - We talked about UL Small Groups - We talked about a New Parking Lot and Hopefully this week I can reveal some BIG PLANS that are a possibility for TFC in the near future. It was real encouraging to me to see so many in attendance - You don't know what it means to Tessy and me to see you wanting to be a part of the Vision of TFC. Many of you work so hard and invest time, energy, and talents for TFC and you make me proud. You are really the life-line of TFC. I thank God often for our Staff and Workers that He has placed here at TFC. Thank you all for being a part of the Vision and being a part of what God wants to do in Acadiana. I love each of you dearly!

Married with Children Couples Group Night Out!

2006-10-20T23:47:00.000-05:00

Some of the Gang at the Grand!
Tonight was the beginning of our newly formed group - Married with Children. Couples ages 30-45 yrs old. We had around 30 that participated in the fun. We started the night at The Grand theatre to watch "one night with the king" followed by dinner at O'Charlies. Movie is worth seeing one time. Dan and Melissa's table was the loudest all night. Polly Anderson tried her best to keep them under control but she didn't do a very good job! Diondi, Trista, and Tessy ordered everything on the menu that they were out of. Fine with me - they comped the whole meal. Great night - a lot of new faces and a lot of fun. Be sure to be a part of the next outing. I think it will be at my house for a Fishing Rodeo - I will keep you posted per date and time. Tonight is YMC Group - married ages up to 30. Meet at church at 6pm. See you tonight!

Carencro Cubs and Coach Broussard

2006-10-20T16:29:00.000-05:00

Coach Josiah Broussard
I finally made it to the last game of the season for the Carencro Cubs. They were playing Scott Middle. The Cubs are coached by our own Josiah Broussard. The Cubs are in a rebuilding stage but last night was a game to be remembered. Carencro had a 8-6 lead until the 4th quarter when the Eagles went up 12-8. The Cubs marched over 82 yards with time winding down. With 33 seconds to go in the game and the ball 8 yards to the endzone and no timeouts remaining the Cubs had to act quickly. The last play of the game came with just 7 seconds left. Carencro 4th down on the 1 yard line - do or die situation. The ball was handed off to the half back as he ran towards the goal line - he was hit behind the line but managed to stay on his feet. He was hit again on the one yd line and made one last dive towards the goal line. He extended the ball with a tackler on his back - the ball came to rest on the 4 inch line.

Coach encouraging this kid!
The whistle sounded and the game was over. So close to the 1st win of the season. Congratulations Josiah on your 1st season as a head coach. I am proud of you. When I first got to the game I saw a few of the parents - I told them that Josiah was my son - they said to me that he has been an inspiration to their sons as well as themselves. Josiah thanks for being real and sticking to the stuff and living for Jesus. The future only gets brighter my man. I love you as my own. I am honored to call you friend. It has been awesome to watch you grow up into the fine young man that you are now.

Coach Broussard firing up the team!
PS: Congratulations on the engagement - nice ring son!

This is for all the Hunters! Gotta Love it!

2006-10-18T12:50:00.000-05:00

A Blue Wilderbeast

You see these all the time on the African Hunt Shows. These guys are the ones always getting ate up by the Lions. I couldn't go hunt in Africa without getting one of these. This is a huge animal.

This is my Prize - A Gemsbok!

This one was my favorite. We stalked it for about 3 hours starting from about 3 miles away. These guys stay high in the mountains so it was quite an experience. The horns on this guy are around 42 inches. Not sure where this mount will go.

An Impala Buck
This is a real nice Impala buck. I shot this guy late in the day as you can tell by the photo. I have eaten some Impala BBQ before - real tender meat.

The Same Impala

A Blesbok
This is a Blesbok. They roam the prairie all over. I was in between the mountains when I saw this guy. What an experience!

A Red Hartabeast
This was my first buck that I shot on this last trip. Not my favorite animal but it does come from Africa. The horns make like a heart in the front. So, I shot this one for Tessy. hope she likes it in her bedroom. HA

I'm Back! So Glad to be HOME!

2006-10-14T04:38:00.000-05:00

Boogie calling in the Rhino! Getting a little to close!

One of the 11 Care Points In Swaziland for Children's Cup!

The Missionary Gang an the Royal Swazi for Breakfast. Bledsoe Jr on his 1st Missionary Journey!

Dining with the Ohlerkings, ben rodgers, charles and christine and my gang!

One of the 63 Graduates of MLM. What a great 3 yr experience!

Friday night could not come fast enough. I am always excited to get to go to Africa but when it's time to head home, Let's go! The journey home began in Swazi land on Thursday at 4am from Manzini and we got out of the airport in New Orleans Friday Night at 8PM. A grueling 2 days to say the least. Delays at almost every flight, nevertheless, we are home. Saturday will not be a day of rest as my kids each of them have a soccer game today beginning at 8:30AM. Thanks for your prayers and the support of my family while I have been gone. When I get back I always ask Tessy who "stepped it up" while I was away. The first names that she mentioned were Derek Capello and Rudy Begnaud. Thanks guys for energy and concern. DC brought the house down last Sunday and Wednesday night. Pastor Dan came strong this past Wednesday. Rudy, thanks for the behind the scene stuff you do while I am gone. When your mom and dad would leave you behind years ago, I would look after you - remember those Jr. High days? Now, 15 years later, your taking care of my family. Love ya - And to all the rest who get it done all the time for TFC - You are a blessing to my life. I can't wait to tell each of you about this latest trip. Have a blessed weekend. Go Cajuns, Go Tigers, Go Jesus. Invite someone to church this Sunday - If you will ask, they will come.

Some of the pictures included some of our highlights Here are a few memories that will stay with me always.

Caleb Bledsoe's 1st missionary journey
63 people who were there 3 yrs
Hunting in Port Elizabeth
Seeing Children's Cup in Action
Seeing the church packed on day 2 of the conference
Being a part of World Missions for Jesus
Boogie and Clint being a part of the journey
Driving on the wrong side of the road
My new World Phone in action - what's next
Seeing Aaron Broussard take part of missions in 3 African countries.
Being with my Wife and Kids - Priceless!

A Swaziland Graduation

2006-10-12T04:15:00.000-05:00

Night Scene in Swaziland!
On Wednesday, we graduated 63 Swazi leaders and Pastors. These graduates have been to all 6 conferences over the past 3 years. What an accomplishment! We had almost 200 in attendance on the second day alone. In the 3 years, we were able to train over 300 through out the 6 conferences. It is hard to believe that the 3 year journey is already completed. I am writing this blog from the Swaziland Airport waiting to board my 1st of 4 planes on my way home. It seems as it was just a short time ago (June 2004) that this journey began. Wednesday was a very emotional day as we said our good byes to the people of Swaziland. They brought gifts and cards and were very heart-broken to see our journey end. Chances are I will be back, but NO date has been set and who really knows what God is up to. I would love to take as many from TFC as possible in March 2007. There is so much work to do and time is ticking away, so we must get busy. I pray that God would birth a fresh spirit of evangelism like never before. I must say, I have found my "grace from home" period - 8 days. On that 8th day which was 2 days ago now - boy was I missing Tessy and the boyz! We will fly all day on Thursday and should arrive New Orleans on Friday afternoon. Thank you for covering me with your prayers and supporting my family. I love being a part of a great family - The TFC family. Have a great weekend and I pray to see all of you this weekend.

Update from Swaziland!

2006-10-10T08:26:00.000-05:00

We just completed day 1 of the 3 day conference. Great attendance and great spirit in the services. About 150 or so in attendance and over 75 people have been to every seminar so far. That means 6 of 6 conferences they have been in attendance. We will have a special Graduation ceremony on Wednesday and pass out Diplomas to each of them. Pastor Scott Bledsoe did a great job today. On Wednesday, the people of Swaziland will get to hear from Clint Trahan and Bro. Boogie. When I introduced them to the people and told them Boogie's name - They laughed - they loved that name - They kept repeating it. It was funny. Tonight, we will have supper with Children's Cup director - Dave Ohlerking and his wife. We are also seeing about rearranging Brous's airfare to stay in Swaziland one more month. I will know more on Wednesday. I am glad to have a missionary from TFC on the field. Let's pray for more to be sent out around the world from TFC. I pray that all of you had a great weekend. I look forward to seeing you this Sunday in one of the services. LCA's Homecoming is this Saturday night - Check with the school office and get the details. Let's be there and support the Challengers and Pastor Dan and Staff. I will try to post again on Wednesday and Will be able to post pictures on Thursday evening. The internet in Swaziland is dail up - not enough speed for attaching pictures. Love all of you and can't wait to share with you this Sunday what God is doing! Pastor Jay

Africa Update!

2006-10-08T08:54:00.000-05:00

A picture I took on Wed. pm in Craddock
Well, thanks for your patience regarding this posting in Africa - We have been in a place that internet has never been heard of yet! Anyway, We have been in Craddock, South Africa on a real African Safari. We meet with some friends of mine that I met last year on a trip to Africa - Then Boogie, Clint and I had the opportunity to see a dream come true - Hunt in the Jungles of Africa. We had a great time and got to take home a few animals. Boogie and Clint thought they had died and went to heaven! Camouflaged, Rifle, 1000's of animals, and all this in Africa. A far cry from Winnfield, LA. I am sitting now in the international wing of Johannesburg Airport awaiting our flight to Swaziland. I spoke with Scott Bledsoe and he is already on the ground. The conference begins on Monday and concludes on Thursday. We are scheduled to arrive on Friday into New Orleans.

Boogie and Clint's 1st meal in Africa - French Fries!
I heard that Pastor Derek did a fantastic job on Wednesday night and I know he will do great today. I will be calling the church at both services today. 9 am from South Africa and 11 AM from Swaziland. What a neat deal. Have a great week TFC. I love you all and pray for you and your families often. I heard from Brous just now who is in Kenya - Great things happening there. I will be with Brous on Thursday and I think he will be going back to Swaziland for 1 more month. We are working out the details now. See you soon. I miss all of you and can't wait to be back with all my family!

A trophy Gemsbok from S. Africa!

Blogging From Africa!

2006-10-03T06:53:00.000-05:00

Good morning Tessy, Boyz, and TFC from South Africa. We just got off the 21 hour flight from Washington DC and we are waiting our connection to Port Elizabeth in South Africa. We will spend 4 days in PE and then head to Swaziland for training and speaking this weekend and next week. I will do my best to send pictures, however the internet is slow and words may have to work for now. We had a great flight so far - We left Lafayette at 4:30 AM and drove to New Orleans to beging our journey. We flew out of NO on Monday 8am. We are just now landing in Africa and we still have one more 3 hour flight remaining. What a great day on Sunday, UL Orientation, Open House, Tessy's B-day, presence of God, great worship service! It has been a week of birthdays at the Miller house - Regan turned 7 on Friday, Tessy 37 on Sunday and Micah turns 3 on Tuesday. I won't be there but we did have a big b-day party for him before I left. Boogie and Clint are doing fine - they watched African Safari movies all the way here. Wednesday will be a dream come true for these guys - they will actually get to hunt in Africa. Boogie already noticed road kill from the airport as we were taxing do terminal. It's gonna be a wild time for these animals - Not sure if they (animals) ever went face to face with a cajun boy! Anyway, Pray for us and pray for our familes that were left behind at home. The Revelation series will continue this wed. night, so be there and be ready to learn and be blessed. I love you TFC and pray God's grace and Mercy upon all of you. Thanks for being a part of the journey that began 3 years ago. Can you believe its been 3 years already? I will try to keep you updated as time and internet allow!

HPC's Mark Stermer in the house today!

2006-09-28T16:52:00.000-05:00

Jimmy Jones and Mark Stermer from HPC! Go Dino!
My good friend Mark Stermer from Healing Place dropped in to see me today. Mark oversees the campus expansion team at HPC in Baton Rouge. We are looking into the possibility of expanding TFC into Opelousas in January of 2007. Today we looked at some property and the possibilities of having a TFC North Campus. Not sure about you - But That Seems EXCITING to me! God is up to some big things - Get ready - Get Involved- And Get Excited! 4 days until I leave for Africa. Have a great weekend - We have Soccer at Moore Park ALL Day on Saturday. We will be at the RV tailgating all day and watching LSU on TV. If your in the area, come on by and pull for the Miller Boyz and The Tigers!

Monday Morning Quaterback and MNF!

2006-09-26T11:18:00.000-05:00

New Dome roof of Superdome!
Monday was a great day to be alive! Most of my favorites all in the same day - Family, Food, Fellowship, Golf, Studying the Word, Friends, and Football! How awesome was that?

Pregame Meal on Bus - Boogie's Gumbo!
My day started off early with Monday Morning Quaterback - our Men's 6AM Bible Study - we are studying the "Quest for Authentic Manhood" together. This is going to be a great 9 week course this semester. Men, remember - 1 topic, 1 location, 2 great times - 6AM or 6PM. 7:30 I was back at home to have breakfast with the kids and take them to school.

Crazy Saints Fans - Sold Out Game with Michael Vick!
I then headed over to Acadian Hills golf course for a golf tournament benefiting Inner-Faith Prison Ministry. What a perfect day and weather! At 1PM, 6 of us headed out to New Orleans to attend the MNF game in the newly remolded Super Dome. Sold out, crazy crowd, great seats, loud noise the whole game - just to give you an idea. Saints 3-0! Super Bowl Bound? nah! Also, ran into my old college rommate from Baton Rouge, Dan Stowers, from 1988. Haven't seen him in 10 years or so. 70 thousand people and our tickets or 2 rows apart. Cool huh?

College Roommate - Dan Stowers - Ran into at the game!
Stayed in New Orleans for the night and drove into Lafayette for a Pastor's breakfast hosted by the staff of TFC. Had around 30 or so in attendance and a good friend, Tommy Tenny, stopped in to give us a insight to his new movie coming out in Theaters on October 13th. "One Night With The King". http://www.8x.com/onenight/ Follow this link to some really cool stuff on the movie. What a great day. Now, back to reality, taking Jansen to the dentist today @ 3pm for 2 cavities to fix. Just an average day in the life of a dad.

Tommy Tenny - Godchaser!
Tonight - DATE NIGHT!! Don't wait or watch for postings on Wednesday of Date night!

Jay Sterling's 1st duck!

2006-09-24T07:22:00.000-05:00

Jay Sterling - 1 of the 14 he holds is his!
Saturday morning started off dark and early for 2 of the Miller Boyz. Dark - it was 4 am when we woke up and headed past Port Barre for a teal hunt. We were guest of Grant Gondran ond his father, Keith Judice. By 5:45 AM, we were sitting in the blind getting mobbed by mosquitoes at every angle. By 6:15, the 1st of many blue winged teal were starting to arrive. 2 hours later we had bagged 14 total. Sterling, after missing the 1st 2 ducks that landed on the pond, hit his target on the 3rd chance. He was excited! Thanks Grand and Keith for the friendship and opportunity to spend time with your family. Erica, what a breakfast, you are special.
Keith, myself, and Grant - The Hunt was on!

Great week in Dallas w/team!

2006-09-24T06:57:00.000-05:00

The Potter's House - Bishop Jakes!
What a great 4 days in Dallas with the staff pastors from TFC. Great experience overall - the drive, the time together, the services, the great speakers, the food, the friends - all memorable experiences.

HOF and TFC at "the house"!
This past week we experienced some of the greatest speakers I have ever heard. The humor and anointing was exceptional. On Thursday night we went out in Downtown Dallas for a Steak and fun.

Downtown Dallas at West End!
We were not disappointed at "The Butcher Shop". The downtown air and lights were refreshing as well. Thanks to "Lola" (our Verbal GPS tomtom) that got us all around Dallas and wherever we wanted to go. Highlights from the trip: Shane logging in with a joke every 30 min, the breakfast burritos every morning, the speakers at the conference, Larry the cable guy, the purple jacket, boogie at the food court in the mall, downtown steak night, and the time sharing and learning together. Thanks for the memories guys!

Downdown Dallas at Night!

Ain't nobody like Bishop TD Jakes!

2006-09-21T06:26:00.000-05:00

In front of the Potter's House! The BISHOP!
Well last night all of us got to experience The Potter's House and Bishop Jakes live and in person! What an experience as over 6 thousand Pastors and leaders came together and experienced church. I have heard many preachers in my life but never like TD Jakes. He spoke for over 2 1/2 hours last night and never opened a bible or notebook.

Worship in the house w/Gary Oliver!
It was incredible - Derek Capello took over 5 pages of notes - I stopped halfway through cause it was too much! The 200 member choir and band was rocking. Gary Oliver opened the service with worship. Bishop Jakes had us on the edge. He talked about that there is power in partnerships. Luke 5, when Jesus said throw your nets down on the other side - the net began to break and John called for the other boats that were standing by to help with the load - Partnerships. Great atmosphere and great message. Saw my good friend Scott Bledsoe and his staff.

Derek in the personal space of this giraffe.
Today, we will go and eat lunch together with them. Before the evening meeting, we went to the Bass Pro Shop. The largest sports and outdoor store in the world. Boogie was in heaven! The was a Game Room of animal mounts - we had to check that out. I saw a lot of animals I see in Africa - In fact Boogie and I will hunt a few of these animals in Africa in 2 weeks or so when we head to Swaziland for our 6th of 6 leadership conferences. Today will be at all day meetings - Different speakers all day and workshops. Can't wait to see what all is in store. Be blessed!
My prayer one day is to have a Lion in our Lobby! A Kudu - I may get to shoot one like this next week

On the road again!

2006-09-20T06:55:00.000-05:00

Pastor Derek gettin us there!
Tuesday morning myself and 5 other staff pastors from TFC headed out for Dallas, TX to attend a conference at Bishop TD Jakes church. I have attended meetings in the past with Pastor Jakes but never in his church. We are excited to experience all that God has for us. The title of the conference is "Church without Limits". I pray that would be what God does for TFC, a church with NO limits! Conference starts on today, Wednesday, but we came in a day earlier to get settled in and take on a MLB game in Arlington, Texas Rangers vs. Seattle Mariners!

Taking in the action!

Don't really know any of the players and we really didn't care who one won. I just love big cities and I really enjoy attending professional sporting events. Actually, I like attending any and all sporting events. TFC we have some great guys with us. Shane Bernard is the craziest one on the team, joke after joke, laugh after laugh, Angie I don't know how you do it- Derek Capello drives fast (er) than most others, Boogie slept most of the way, but we don't care He's paying for everything, Dwayne Williams is glad be here, Dan is glad he could just get away for a few days with us. TFC, pray for our families that we left behind and that God would deposit everything He has for us. The name of the conference is "A Church with NO Limits" - TFC with NO Limits - I like that. Tuesday night we attended the game, we caught 8 homerun balls during batting practice, ate dinner in centerfield in a restaurant, walked around the beautiful "Ballpark in Arlington", hanging out with friends = Priceless. Here are a few pictures form Tuesday - We will be attending the conference starting Today. We will keep you posted of the events each day. Have a great week and we will see you this weekend!

Hanging out with God-sent people!

2006-09-16T07:01:00.000-05:00

My good friend, Dino Rizzo, Pastor of HPC in Baton Rouge
Friday was just my kind of day, just hanging out with all kind of people and all kind of friends. Friday morning I attended a church planters workshop at HPC with my Good friend Dino Rizzo and the wonderful staff of HPC. I thank God often for the people He has brought into my life that help me on my journey. We would like one day to expand our campus north to Opelousas, LA. We would call it TFC North! We have been preparing for this and have been doing some outreach things for over a year now in one of the Schools. When God says NOW is the Time, we will be ready to move forward. On the 28th of this month, I will be going to Opelousas to look at buildings and get a strategy with some church-planters and my good friend Mark Stermer from HPC. I like hanging out with a lot of people. Doing a lot of things, especially when you really like them, that makes it a whole like easier.

The Ohlerking's, directors of Childrens Cup, Brous is staying at their house!
Friday evening was capped off by a staff dinner at our house with the LCA and TFC staff. I am so grateful for all of those that have chosen to take the journey with us. Fishing, Horseshoes, 4-wheelers, dominos, tons of food, lots of friends, basketball and good ole "hanging out" is what we did all evening. Here's the cool part - NO KIDS! We got to do all those things - If kids were here - we would have been watching them do all that stuff. Don't worry, they will have their day today, as we go from soccer to football to another party in their honor. Staff I thank God every day for you, thanks for your surrendering to God's call and doing Kingdom Business with TFC and LCA. Tessy and I consider it an honor to have you over at our home and with our family.

Plenty of food, fun and friends!

The Muller Family - Well, just part of the tribe! ANDRE' WITH THE SMALLEST CATCH OFTHE DAY!

Coach John, couldn't be beat at Shoes!

Josiah, look at that form! David, 3rd time in line Joe, wouldn't get off and let others ride!

TFC in National Magazine. Outreach magazine!

2006-09-15T15:26:00.000-05:00

Sep/Oct 2006 magazine featuring article of TFC!

With our recent activities and funds sent to Mozambique this summer, a national church magazine ran a story about HIV/AIDS in Africa. They were looking for churches in America who have been directly involved with HIV in Africa. We were one of the churches mentioned in this magazine that literally goes out around the world. Thank you FAMILY CHURCH for your prayers, concerns and financial contributions to Africa and the World. Below is the link to the article: http://www.outreachmagazine.com/library/features/06septoctftrsmallworld.asp

Somehow they confused "Cajun food is good" with "Cajun is good food."
Also, Brous is on the ground in Swaziland and plans on being in Mozambique in a week or so to check out the project in Nkobe that we have partnered to build. Here is his blog page: http://www.aaronbrousbroussard.blogspot.com/

Be sure to pray for him daily and leave a comment for him to see that we are thinking of him around the world. He is our hands and feet in Swaziland at this time. I am so glad to be a part of a church that has a heart for God's people around the world.

New Blog page from AFRICA!

2006-09-14T07:23:00.000-05:00

This was our first meeting with C.Cup, making plans for Swaziland!
Here is the link to Aaron "brous" Broussard's Blog Page. He is keeping us posted as to what he is up to in Southern Africa, in the nation of Swaziland. Be sure to pray for him and leave a comment frequently to encourage him on his journey. I am proud of you Brous. Can't wait to see what happens over time.
http://aaronbrousbroussard.blogspot.com

Great Monday and Great Tuesday!

2006-09-13T08:55:00.000-05:00

Some great friends - Gene, Scott and Jay Sterling!
Monday night was our Worship/Prayer night that followed a day of fasting. What an incredible night and great turn out. I pray that God will continue the work that has begun in TFC. Just a reminder, this style of worship and prayer is ongoing every other Monday night. Check the TFC bulletin for dates.

Jay Sterling and I enjoying the wind and waves of the Gulf
After Prayer, several Pastors met me at TFC and we loaded up together and headed to Gonzales to pick up even a few more pastors. We then headed out to Burus, LA to Cajun Adventures for a guided trout fishing experience. Jay Sterling made the trip with me as well. After a long delay on I-10 East bound for 3 hours, we finally made it into the lodge in Empire/Burus, LA. We hit the water around 8AM and by 11 AM the 1st boat had their limit, which by the way is 25 per man, 100 per boat limit.

Jay Sterling's 1st Catch - the 1st of many today!
Each boat had 4 people so a boat limit of 100 was reached 1st by Team Mills, Bledsoe, & Smith. By 1PM, Team Miller, Dennis, & Miller accomplished the same goal - 100 speckled trout. What a day - The guides said that this was their best day out in quite some time. Team Mills may have reached their limit 1st but ours were much bigger. I have pictures to prove that statement!

Team Miller - Total Limit - 100 - Huge!
So good to be with other Pastors that have the same vision and can speak life into one another. I am so grateful for the men that God has allowed me to be a part of their lives. It takes time, but invest into relationships with others. Don't do life by yourself. Thanks Gene Mills for setting up this great experience!

A Called Day of Prayer and Fasting

2006-09-10T21:22:00.000-05:00

This will be a 1st for TFC - A called day of prayer and fasting. God spoke to me several months ago about such a day. As we looked at the calender, one available date was 9/11. I thought what a perfect day, noy only to remember and reflect back on one day that changed our lives but also for personal reflection as well. I have called the entire body of TFC to fast all day from food limiting our diet to juice and water. We will unite for prayer tonight at TFC at 7 pm for one hour of Prayer and Worship. I am so excited about what God will do. I think the process began Yesterday, as over 100 people flooded the alter during the 9 am service and 50 or so young people gathered at the alter during the 11Am service. What an incredible day - an incredible presence of God - an incredible day to be alive! See you Tonight ay 7PM - Come expecting.

If you think I don't have God's Favor consider this . . .

2006-09-09T12:40:00.000-05:00

Saturday's are always busy days for our family, no school so kids want to go do something, friends over, shopping, and the list goes on. However, this Saturday was the beginning of Soccer season. We have the top 3 playing this year. Yesterday we had 3 games, 1 pm Jansen, 2 pm Regan, 3 pm Sterling! Normally it's really no big deal. We like being together as a family and we usually make this day -Family Day. We follow from one game to the next, moving chairs, ice chest, and babies all over Moore Park. Yesterday I had a 2pm wedding to officiate. Which means - no games for me - and no help with kids - leaving Tessy with all the boys - with 2 babies included! How does she do all that? That is after she spent cleaning and mopping floors in the house, organizing soccer bags, drinks and diaper bags!! I know what your thinking - Where was I when all this was going on? This is my blog and I don't have to answer that! I was cleaning cars, rv's, the yard, etc.. I do my part, huh baby? Anyway, I know I normally post about my kids and events that I am a part of, but today, I can only think of how good God has been towards me by sending Tessy Lasseigne into my life and being a Mother to all these Miller Boys, which by the way, takes a special lady to begin with - ALL BOYS! You try it!!

I count my blessings each day - Tessy, thanks for saying yes 12 yrs ago! Did you really now what that yes was gonna mean?

Revealing Revelation - Sneak -Peek for some!

2006-09-08T00:55:00.000-05:00

I am so fired up about this series! I have never taught on Revelation in a series at TFC. Just studying my notes and scriptures over the past few weeks has excited me. To those that were here this past Wed. Night - you got a sneak peek! Good for you. Just kinda wet our appetite a little to create a hunger for the upcoming weeks. Don't miss any if possible!

The book of Revelation is not a book about the future. It's a book about your future. It's not just some scientific study about what might happen next. Its a very personal book. Every single one of us is mentioned in this book. Not by name. But were all mentioned. Everybody in all of human history is mentioned in this book of Revelation. Its a very personal book about our lives and about what God is going to do in our lives.

New Set for Upcoming Series - Great Job Team!
This Wednesday night we will begin our journey and discover the background, the main character, the beast, the throne, the emphasis, the purpose, and see the hope that this book provides. Journey with us chapter by chapter, scene by scene, and moment by moment as we explain and define the book of Revelation as we experience - Revealing Revelation.

Looking Forward to a Great Weekend!

2006-09-08T00:21:00.000-05:00

Check out the pre-movie commercial at the Grand Theatre all Month Long!
We'll here is what I am looking forward to this weekend! Friday morning we will put the final touches on the new set for the new series that begins this Sunday entitled, "The Day After tomorrow". We are gonna look into the middle-east happenings and relate that to our everyday world. This particular series will last 4 weeks and will be our Sunday Morning series. We also got Brous off for Africa. He called me at 11:30 AM from Washington, DC and was about to board the long 20 hour flight to Swaziland! Go Bruce, I am proud of you son. I told my kids this week that after high-school, my desire would be for them to give 1 year of their life on the mission Field! Tessy thinks she heard God say 3 months! She still has plenty of time for God to speak louder to her.

Anyway, at Noon on Friday, several of our staff Pastors will head out to Ferriday, LA to watch LCA take on a team from Mississippi. LCA goes into the contest 1-0. Pastor Shane, Pastor Dan, and our families will be making the drive and supporting the team. This will probably be the 1st ever "tail-gating party" for a LCA Game in history. We are planning to leave early to BBQ burgers before the game.

Saturday morning is week 1 of the new soccer season for the Miller Boys. The top 3 are playing this session. For the next 10 weeks or so our Saturdays are spent at Moore Park watching and cheering on the boys. Each one wants Tessy and I at every game - we do our best - but a lot of the times they have games at the same time - when this happens we usually switch at halftime.

Saturday afternoon I will officiate a wedding ceremony at TFC. I love being apart of God's design for mankind, "Marriage and Family". Then of course we got LSU on the Duce at 5:30 Saturday night.

Sunday Morning begins our new Series. Can't wait for the Weekend. God's up to some big things, I can feel it! Don't miss it. Oh yea, if you happen to take in a movie over the weekend, go to the Grand Theatre on Johnson St. And be early for the movie. We a running a commercial about the new series that will show in all 16 screens all month before every movie. Over 94,000 will see the invite during the month. Cool huh? Go catch it and let me know what you think, but you can't be late. Jasin and Andre' did a great job putting it together.

Monday, September 11th, a called day of fasting and praying! Be a part of this time of cleansing and infilling of the presence of God. We will cap off the day with an incredible time of seeking God through Prayer and Worship at 7pm in the big house. I am asking all families of TFC to be here for this 1 hour time together with God. What are you anticipating God doing in your life this weekend?

The Night History was made and I was there!

2006-09-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

It's Game Time, Baby!
Aug. 31st, 2006 - A night of history. This Thursday night was not just another Thursday night and it wasn't just another football game for the LCA Challengers - It was a night of FIRSTS. The First Tackle Football game in the schools history and The FIRST WIN of the season. The Challengers traveled to Plaquimine, LA to play the Chef Patriots. Just one week ago in a 15 min. Scrimmage, LCA was handed a 20-0 defeat to the same team. What a turn around!

LCA on Offense
LCA pretty much dominated the entire 1st half. In fact, LCA was the first to put points on the board. Gabe Gamboa scored the 1st rushing touchdown in LCA history with a 18 yd run around the left side. Halftime score was 6-6.

Coach Lessard and Head Coach Guidroz giving some halftime instructions to the team!
The 2nd half was dominated by the Patriots offensively and scored on the 1st possession of the 2nd half. They took a 12-6 lead late into the 4th quarter. With time winding down, The Challenger defense rose to the occasion and made a critical 4th down stop to put the ball into the hands of the offense with just under 4 min. to play in the game. A timeout was called and one of the players shouted, "Hey, in 4 min. We could make history". That is exactly what they did!

Jacob Poindexter taking cooling off!
They drove the ball 56 yds and made 3 critical 4th down conversions on what would be the game-winning drive. With just under 28 seconds remaining in the game, LCA was faced with a 4th and goal from the 9 yd. Line. An option play around the left side was called. The Quaterback's pitch to the half-back was thrown behind him to the ground. Gamboa, hustled to the ball and picked it off the ground, alluded 2 tackles and shot to the goal line for a touchdown. With 18 seconds remaining in the game the score was tied - 12-12. A timeout was called to set up the offense for the game winning extra point play attempt. I- right fake 22 dive- 47 reverse was the called play and boy was that the perfect call, as Tory Miller ran virtually un-touched around the right side giving the Challengers a 14-12 lead with only seconds remaining. The sidelines erupted with celebration and cheers - helmets were raised into the air and high fives were given by coaches and players alike. (We did get a celebration penalty - but no one cared at that moment). With a kickoff to the Patriots and possible one defensive play would be all that was needed to finish these guys off. With adrenaline pumping, Special teams raced down field, put a hit on the runner causing the ball to pop out and LCA recovered as time expired. What a way to end the 1st game of the season! All I know is that I was glad it was just Thursday, cause that gives me an extra day for my throat to heal before Sunday. Thank you for sharing in my excitement and my passion for LCA Football. Can't Wait for our 1st home Game!
Team celebrating their 1st win!

Are You Ready For Some Football?

2006-08-30T08:41:00.000-05:00

Coach Ryan Rogers, former Offensive Lineman at Grambling State U, teaching tecnique!
2006 has been a year of history making for LCA. The student enrollment is at an all time high - 504 students, the new school is TOTALLY paid off, and plans for the the 4 million dollar sports complex and new high school are already being drawn up. Don't expect to see bulldozers in a week or so, but we are moving forward in that direction. What an incredible God we serve. We are so over-rated!

Michael "Gilapogus" Muguira, 6'5", 287 pounds of raw challenger!
Now let me tell you about a "dream come through" for me. Of all the things that we have seen over the last 5 years, the one thing I have dreamed about for the longest has been- TACKLE FOOTBALL at LCA. Hey, I have been here longer than everyone now except GOD. I played more flag football in my life to last 6 lifetimes! I can remember putting on my cousins helmet when I was about 8 yrs old, he played for his elementary school in Eunice, I would imagine myself running, throwing, and knocking the teeth out of someone - Guys are so violent by nature - I love that about us - "It's not really fun till someone gets hurt bad kinda attitude". Then I would go back to LCA and had to be content with "pulling a flag?" Well, that dream of mine was never fulfilled during my school days. However, I have continued the pursuit, never letting that dream die for next generation that would follow me, and now "the 5 Miller Boys" will get to fulfill my dream by "knocking the teeth out of someone". Okay, all of you that think that is barbaric, its a figure of speech, work with me here! I don't mean all of their teeth - just like one or two! What's cool about having this many boys (5) - some team will have to face the "Miller Boys" every year for like 12 yrs. With this many male Millers, you can't get rid of us. We are to many - power in numbers baby! Deal with it! Thank you Tessy, I knew you loved me!

Team watching, learning, and listening to instructions!
This Thursday night (31st) in Plaquimine, LA, The Challengers of LCA will hit the field for their 1st game in the school's history. I'm thinking of going early and tailgating - you think I'm kidding? If possible, as many that can, let's go and make History together! Not sure who we are playing but that is irrelevant - we're just gonna hit whoever shows up. Now, I'm not saying we are gonna win, but we will look the best. The uniforms are fine! Thank you fathers that have helped with coaching and have been volunteering your time and energy!

Challenger Pride!
I was at practice yesterday afternoon - it was 105 degrees in the shade - these kids have an all this gear on, running, tackling, and sweating under those helmets - and all I could see was smiles! Almost all asked, "Pastor Jay, you gonna be there Thursday night?" I wouldn't miss it for the world. Go Challengers! I will see you Thursday night. Oh yea, Knock the teeth out of somebody - maybe I shouldn't say that?

"Crash and Burn"

2006-08-29T20:56:00.000-05:00

Micah, So close to it but never saw it!
This past weekend we loaded up the kids and a few of there friends and headed to the mall of Louisiana in Baton Rouge to eat in the food court and ride the Ferris wheel. My kids love going to the mall to eat because they have soooo many choices. Regan loves to get a HUGE ham and cheese baked Potato, Sterling always gets the Chinese food, and Jansen is faithful to Chic-fil-a, (Truet Kathy would love this kid). Micah, he really doesn't care what you get him, as long as he gets those dipp'n dots on our way out. A few weeks ago I had gotten him some and in just a few minutes I looked down and he was already finished. Later in the car, he was saying his paints were all wet. I looked at him and there was this white looking milk stuff all over the seat, his pants, and my floor. He had put all those dots in his pocket for later, that is what he told me. Tessy was washing Regans paints one time and pulled out a stiff dead frog. I love having boys - you just never know what you could find in their pockets. Anyway, Micah was really excited to ride the Ferris wheel. He talked about it the whole hour from Lafayette to BR. He just couldn't wait - excitement filled the air. After pulling up and unloading all the kids, we found Micah sound asleep! We couldn't wake him. We went in and ate and he never woke up. Now it was time to ride the Ferris wheel - 7 kids got on from our group - but NO Micah!

Surely, there must be a lesson in here somewhere! What are you thoughts? What could this represent in our lives? Not the dipp'n dots - Micah, missing the action!

The Amazing Race! And the Winner is . . . .

2006-08-27T21:06:00.000-05:00

Team Aragona/Johnson - Paul, Tiffany, Brittney, and Steve and 2 little cheerleaders!
This past Friday we had 10 couples participate in a "Amazing Race" competition and what a race it was. 13 different events, all over town, too much food, crazy night!! Young Married Couples is a group that is for married couples under the age of 30 - be sure to make the next event - check website for upcoming activities. Thanks for all of the teams that participated - your excitement made the entire event fun. We will have video footage in a few weeks - be looking for that on a Sunday coming. And the winner is. . . . Team Aragona/Johnson. They arrived at the finish line @ 10:20 PM. Not a moment to soon as Team Begnaud/Kephart arrived at 10:23 PM. 2 more teams soon followed. We still have one team un-accounted for - we are still waiting on them! Anyway, some wonderful prizes will be mailed out to the winners this week. Prizes to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers. However, in my eyes, YOU ARE ALL WINNERS! Have a great week!

Team Kephart/Begnaud: Karl, April, Tandi, Rudy and little Ashton Layne

Name that News Cast! Andre' is counting on you.

2006-08-27T20:45:00.000-05:00

Today in service, we started a new "news cast" with Andre' Arceneaux as lead anchor-man. Andre' updates us on all the upcoming events, past happenings, and up to the minute breaking TFC news. We are struggling to name the segment, so, here is your chance to submit a name. Whichever name we select will receive a gift certificate to Starbucks Coffee. Be creative and submit as many as you can think of. Here are a few suggestions already submitted: the link, the insider, tfc happenings, TFC in the news, etc . . . These are listed just to get you thinking. Thanks for the help!

The "quest" for HOPE!

2006-08-22T09:04:00.000-05:00

Dallas Cowboys scoring another Touchdown - 1 of many!

#2 Draft Pick of 2006 - Bush.

Joe Horn signing autographs!
Last night 9 of us headed to Shreveport to catch some NFL Pre-season action in person. Saints vs. Cowboys on Monday Night Football. Why do we love MNF? Brees, Reggie, Horn, no TO, Big Tuna, Bledsoe, ESPNHD, and all the rest were in one stadium on a hot, steamy, and rainy Monday night! Alright, I really just wanted to see Reggie Bush in person. Late in the game, I made my way to the sideline to get some close up shots of some of the Saints players. I even got a chance to speak with reggie Bush (of course, he didn't realize that) and shook hands with Joe Horn (not sure if that was a good thing or not). It was amazing to me how many people wanted a picture of or with Reggie Bush. Thousands calling out his name with cameras in hand! I actually took a picture of all the people taking pictures. I thought for a moment, people everywhere are constantly looking for a sign of hope. For many of these Saints fans, RB is that ray of hope. That possibility. That silver lining in the clouds. That "this might be the one" feeling. Of course, I am NO RB (I never got a signing bonus, did I Boogie?), but I thought, that's our job description, to "bring hope and encouragement" to those around us. Believe for the best and speak life into every situation, while building faith! Try it today.

Highlight moments of the trip - Blow out in Alexandria, GPS (Lola) taking us to the wrong stadium, 30 min. rain storm, $4 hot dogs, 1 hour long traffic jam, Drive-thru at Wendy's in a 40 Ft. RV, getting home @ 2:30AM, Saints getting blown-out (used to that), close up with Reggie Bush, and the drunk Carolina Panthers fan (I know he never made it home after the game). 9 close friends at a MNF game in the rain - PRICELESS!

Fans tring to get a glimpse of hope - Reggie Bush!

Ordering 9 meals at a Wendy's Drive-thru in an RV!

My Best Friend "in the house"!

2006-08-20T15:54:00.000-05:00

Scott at TFC doing an illustrated sermon!
What a great day! Worshiping God with family and friends and a great friend. It isn't very often that I get to sit next to my best friend and worship together. It seems that most Sunday's we are pretty busy - being we pastor 2 different churches in 2 different cities. Unless we are at some conference or in Africa together, these moments are few and far between. Pastor Scott called on Tuesday of this past week and was just checkin in on my recovery. He told me that he would be available to speak for me if I needed him to. I thought that I would be fine but took him up on his offer. That's what friends do - they are strong for you while you are weak. It is always great to be with Scott and for him to be a friend to TFC. 5 years ago, I was going to Memphis, TN to a young pastors conference. I had just became Sr. Pastor of TFC and my prayer that morning was - "God, direct me to someone that can become a great pastoral friend to me". Those few days I was able to meet many young pastors from all over the country, but when I met Scott Bledsoe -- I knew he was the one that God was sending to me. 5 years later we have grown to become best friends. Our relationship still continues to grow each time we are together. I love seeing my cell phone light up with his name on it. He encourages me, gives me insight, listens to me (sometimes he even agrees) and is always a prayer partner with me no matter the situation. Thank you TFC for praying for me - This week I regain my strength and driving privileges, as well as my family, who were gone this past weekend. Baby, I missed all of you guys. Comment on the following question - Who makes you smile when you see there name on your cell and why?

Sunday afternoon brunch with my best friend at "The Blue Dog Cafe"

Day 6 - " I am really lov'n this recovery stuff"

2006-08-19T06:22:00.000-05:00

Matt putting on the last of the 6 layer sauce on the ribs!
Day 6 and I am already thinking about extending the recovery time. I'm thinking like maybe 2 weeks or so. If the meals stay at the level they are at now - maybe 3 weeks - a reeeeal sloooooooow recovery. Matt and Julie Leece set the bar last night. Hosted at the home of Dan and Melissa Savoie, the feast was on! It started with this appetizer that included grilled shrimp, spinach, and mozzarella cheese on French bread. I told Dan that if he didn't stop eating that stuff, he would not be hungry for supper. He didn't care! Followed by fresh salad then the main course - BBQ beef ribs (btw - they were slow-cooked for over 5 hours - they melted in your fingers - Oh, Jesus), smothered red potatoes in onions, broccoli covered in a cheese sauce. "To Die For"! Then to finish of the night - Homemade chocolate banana splits with cream and roasted walnuts on top around the pool. Julie actually made the chocolate syrup - not that store bought squeeze stuff - like over the stove with a spoon and stirring stuff all together. What a great evening with great friends! I'm not sure who is up for today but I just can't wait. Thanks for all the emails and phone calls - it's always great to know you have people that love you and care about you - I decided a long time ago - that I do not want to do life by myself but with as many as possible - nights like tonight confirm that decision. Hope to see all of you this weekend.

A few Moments before desctruction!

Day 5 of recovery - Doing Fine!

2006-08-18T15:48:00.000-05:00

Texas Road House - Recovery Dinner - Day 5
Day 5 - Friday, Aug. 18th

It has been 4 days since the surgery and everything seems to be going according to plan. The soreness and pain are gradually leaving and things are healing fine. I have been on light duty since Monday and I actually have been hanging loose and taking it gradually. Tessy and the boys left for Dallas on Thursday, so I have the entire place to myself. Don't feel upset for me on my wife's leaving at this critical time, I had pre-arranged meals with friends throughout the weekend. Last night around 7 pm, Diondi picked me up (I also can't drive) and took me to the Texas Road House! Steak and Baked Potato Baby! I am really starting to love this "recovery time" thing. Tonight, Matt and Julie Leece have arranged BBQ Ribs around the pool for this evening. Of course, they will be picking me up and bringing me back. (that was all part of the deal) If any of you would like to book a meal with me, please email me soon, as spots have filled up relatively fast - there may be a one Saturday meal that is still available - I recommend that you call right now and book your reservations). I have full control of the remote control of my house (until Micha gets back) - I almost had forgotten what that felt like over the last 9 years. I didn't know we had "all those channels". I thought we just had Nickelodeon and Discovery Kid and All you can eat Sponge Bob! However, I miss given up those rights for my family and kids, I wish they were with me now. Thanks for your prayers and your friendship. See you Sunday! PS. I will tell you how the ribs were tomorrow!

Back Surgery Recovery at the Miller's

2006-08-15T20:23:00.000-05:00

TFC Staff meeting at my new office for this week - My House.
On Monday morning I had outpatient surgery on my back. I have been having major issues with a lower disk for over 6 months. I tried avoiding surgery but last Thursday I had a peace about going in on Monday morning. I arrived at Lafayette General Surgical Center at 6:30 am and had a 1 1/2 hour procedure done. I was in recovery from 9:30 till 11 am. Got up at that time and had lunch and was walking around by 2pm. They doctor came in around 5pm and released me to go home. Already I can fill a big difference. I am house grounded until Friday and I have no driving privileges for 10 days. I am walking fine and feel good. A little sore from the 3 inch cut on my lower back, but overall feeling great.
Tuesday is a normal day for me to get together with the staff and go over issues and details of church related things. Since I am grounded, the staff came over today to my living room for staff meeting. Pastor's Shane and Dwayne picked up Olive Garden on their way in. We had lunch together and a 2 hour staff meeting following. We are really excited about the new upcoming series starting in Sept, "Day After Tomorrow" and "Reveling Revelation". An in-depth look and study into the book of Revelation and all the latest Middle East happenings. TFC, we have a wonderful staff. They are committed to Jesus and the families of TFC. Hope to see all of you real soon. This weekend, Pastor Scott Bledsoe will be our guest speaker. He is such a huge friend of mine and big blessing to my life. He will bring a great word to our church and you will be blessed. Thanks for your love and support!

LCA sets new attendance record!

2006-08-15T10:20:00.000-05:00

LCA Parent Orientation for the new school year!
Last night was parent orientation for the new school year for Lafayette Christian Academy. We once again set a new record for our 34 year history as a school. 502 students will hit the campus in a few days, breaking last years mark by over 70 students. This year we will use our new parking lot and drop-off pavilion that was completed over the summer months. Excitement was in the air last night, as hundreds of students and parents poured into the auditorium last night. Picking up uniforms, class assignments, meeting teachers, going over policies, signing up for various parent support groups, all kind of things happening.

My 9 year old son, Sterling, my mom and dad, and I were talking about college funding the other day. Sterling pipes in and says, "I won't need any college funding! I will be getting a athletic scholarship to U OF L to play soccer. My mom chimed in and asked Sterling if UL had a good soccer team. Sterling replied, "I don't really know, but ONE DAY THEY WILL". What a dream and desire. I immediately started encouraging him on that pursuit. The real heartbeat of LCA is simply that, "to blow into the sails of the students that God brings us". Our pray is to help your children become everything that God has called them to become and help deposit a servants heart into them. We are excited and blessed because of what God has, is, and will do through LCA. Mr. Savoie, I'm glad your the Principal! The students are fine, it's all those parents! HA

Who said Golf was not a contact Sport?

2006-08-12T09:39:00.000-05:00

Young "Tiger Woods" in training, Jay Sterling

Yesterday, it was a cool 92 degrees in Lafayette, ( who would have ever thought 92 deg. would be cool? Compared to 106 degrees the day before - hey, make the best of it!) Anyway, I wanted to play the newest golf course in our area which happens to be "The Wetlands", a new public course in my back yard. I was able to bring Jay Sterling with me to drive the cart. I wanted someone else to join us so I called Diondi Lessard. Big D likes any kind of sport, he is very competitive, if you tell him that you are playing under water chess or hop scotch and gonna keep score - he is immediately your enemy and out to destroy you. D has been a great friend and a great friend of the ministry. He came to us from HPC in Baton Rouge, so kudos to Pastor Dino for aiming him and his family in the right direction. In fact, Trista, his wife, is the one answering the phones when you call into the office these days. She is filing in for Tandi who is on maternity leave.

If you thought golf was not a contact sport, then you've never played with Big D! On the 5th hole or so, Sterling and I was on one cart and Diondi on a cart by HIMSELF (remember that D was by himself). I had out drove him of the t-box (once again) by a few yards. Sterling was driving me up to my ball and D was just behind us. All of a sudden we heard this loud "Bang" and "Boom" and the words "Oh my God". We turned back to see that Diondi had ran over himself with his own golfcart! The golf cart was in the weeds, Diondi was under the cart on the ground lying in the weeds, clubs were everywhere, Sterling and I were dying laughing, not sure if Diondi was laughing or crying. So to all you golfers out there, watch out for those carts. They will attack you at any given moment. Or, simply don't take Diondi with you when you go. Love ya Bid D! I am looking forward to this weekends services at TFC. Hope to see all of our extended family in one of the services.

Diondi 0 Golf Cart 1

I'm Lov'n the Small Group Thing!

2006-08-10T22:52:00.000-05:00

Fellow members of The Tribe - Date Night at Steamboats in Washington

Tonight was our small group night - The Tribe Date Night. We had 12 tonight attend for a cruise for dinner at Steamboat Warehouse in Washington, LA. Then we drove down I-49 at a cruz'in speed all the way to Jefferson Street Downtown for coffee at Mello Joy. I love sharing life and sharing stories with friends in this kind of atmosphere. Actually, any atmosphere is great when I'm on my bike! The cool thing is Tessy finally gets to ride with me. Since I've had my bike, she has either been pregnant or just had a baby. We still have a 4 month old that needs his mother quite often still, So, we get a baby sitter to follow us to the restarant in the suburban with baby Britt. Cool Huh? Tonight was even exciting for Britt, cause he had his new friend in the back seat with him - Ashton Layne Begnaud! Ashton is only 2 1/2 weeks old (Rudy and Tandi's Baby) but I'm pretty sure they talked and cut up all the way there and back. If you are a part of TFC, get involved in a small group that meets your needs. We have over 40 this summer and will have over 75 this coming Fall Semester. Life was meant to be lived out with others. Don't do life by yourself. God saw Adam and said, "Not Good, Adam can't do life alone! He needs a companion. He was not created to just be alone." (My paraphrase) See you next time at a UL Small Group!

A Heart of gratitude!

2006-08-10T06:22:00.000-05:00

Last night after service, I intentionally drove to the parking lot of the new school. I wanted to see the lighting improvements that were made to the outside parking area last week while I was out of town. It had just finished raining and there was a reflection and shine on the whole school. Several electricians have been working diligently to finish this last phase. It was absolutely stunning! My heart was filled with gratitude and thanksgiving toward the Lord for what He has entrusted us with. Then to top it off, it will be paid for by the end of the Year! God is so Good to us. I thanked God for the Team that He has raised to see the fulfillment of this dream and vision. Mr. Savoie, our school principal, has been so dedicated to the oversight of this project for 3 years now. Dan, thank you for your hard work and dedication, to this ministry and your personal family!

The "new" LCA parking area under a dark sky!

I began to thank the Lord for all the teachers, coaches, volunteers, assistants, teacher aides, grounds and maintenance crews, administrators and cooks, that make this place happen for over 500 students throughout the year. Earlier on, I was watching the football team practice for our first year of "TACKLE FOOTBALL". A volunteer coaching staff simply apperared to dedicate time and effort to Coach Guidroz. Thank you all who "step up to the plate" on occasions and get the job done. Over the past 16 months or so, we have been aligning LCA towards State accreditation, and soon we will have that certification. This coming week, we will make history once again by the highest enrollment in a 32 year history, nearly 500 students as of yesterday!

Our campus and facility continually increases and improves. We are already making and drawing up plans for the next multi-purpose facility. A building consisting of basketball courts, volleyball, racket ball, tennis, weight facility and so much more. A 4 million dollar facility spread out on the 22 acres in back. We must stay the course, stay focused, stay humble, and trust God each and every day. Thank you all for supporting the vision and believing in US!

Even friends sometimes let you down!

2006-08-09T08:19:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we returned home and I saw something a little odd running across the yard. It was these 2 baby skunk's! Tessy thought they were so cute, the boys wanted to keep them as pets, all I know is those "cute little things" STUNK! We were not sure what to do with them - I heard you could have them "de-glanded". We all suggested who to call - Tessy said to call here brother Trent, he raised some for a while, I said call her brother Troy, he always has these crazy pets, (Agnes, what kind of family did you raise?) Regan said, call Bro. Boogie, he will know what to do with them, "cause brother boogie knows everything about animals!" So I called him, he kinda laughed for a while until he realized I was serious and that I actually had these critters in my hand. He said that he had NO IDEA! Regan also mentioned that Bro. Boogie used them in his gumbo's before. What a reputation this man has about the wild! Sometimes even good friends let you down. Boogie knew nothing about how to handle these young skunks! Anyway, can't wait to try your next gumbo Bro. Boogie!

I love raising boys - they want to catch everything that moves and keep them as pets or put them in a jar and put them on their top shelf to stare at all day long. Sometimes I will hear Tessy say, "get those things out of the house". I used to go and inquire as to what they had - when I hear that now - I just laugh and only wonder! Oh yea, and I Love "Bro. Boogie".

Returned Home Today, Great to have Friends!

2006-08-08T23:11:00.000-05:00

We returned home this afternoon from our family vacation. What a great trip. We mad lots of memories and had lots of laughs. Tessy and the boys love the "RV" thing. From the day we left until the return - we did not eat at one restaurant whatsoever. All meals were cooked or grilled on the bus! I told Tessy, we should sell the house and move into the RV. I had not eaten that good in a long time. She didn't like the idea for some reason. Great to get away, Great to be back home. Something about coming home that makes your heart jump. When we were 10 miles out, the boys were getting really excited. When we turned in the driveway, they all screamed. Not sure why, other than we were "home". The boys were greeted by banners over their doors by good friends. (Capello Kidz - Catline, Zack, and Cooper) They were excited to know that they were missed. Somehow, we are all like that - we "want to be missed". We love to know that we are thought of and about. So, be thoughtful of those in and around your lives. At church, look around and notice who is not there or someone you now see that you haven't seen in a while and ask about them. Because, it is "great to have friends". See most of you Wed. night. Looking forward to "kids in the big house" every wed. pm in August.

Almost an "RV" story to tell today!

2006-08-06T17:53:00.000-05:00

If you've seen the movie "RV" with Robin Williams, it seams as though every day something major happens. Fortunately, for us on this trip, it has all been meaningful and very pleasant memories. Today, however, was almost a disaster. We were out on one of the most beautiful lakes I have ever seen, Beaver Lake. We had rented a Party Barge for a few hours this afternoon to swim and play on the water. The picture shown here is around 2:30 PM. Fun in the Sun! Not a care in the world - just enjoying the company of each other and enjoying our family. All of a sudden, we could see dark clouds and hear the sounds of thunder. Tessy suggested we head back to the Marina just in case the storm came in hard. So, we started heading in. We got to the Marina just as the wind and rain started to hit harder. NOT 1 MINUTE TOO SOON! Within 3-5 minutes, "all hell broke loose". The wind and rain felt like a Louisiana Hurricane. Boats started breaking loose from the dock, boards flying off, waves, winds, hard rains, boats sinking. It was incredible! Thank The Lord we were all safe inside, watching all this out of the window. The staff at the marina was going crazy running around trying to hold everything down. The main cable that holds the Marina to land broke and the dock that leads to the parking lot broke off. I thought for a moment that the Marina would be in the middle of the lake in a few short minutes. I was taking pictures and giving orders. Tessy was seated on the floor with all the kids except Sterling who was with me running all around. Once I know that all the kids were safe, it started getting really exciting! People were running around, the owner (a grandmother) was in tears, I keep saying to her "it's really not bad". That's coming from someone who saw first hand what Hurricane Katrina did. On the inside I was thinking, "you got a huge mess on your hands"! I didn't tell her that though. Once we were all loaded up and back in the car on the way back to the RV, Sterling said," Now we have a real "RV" story to tell! I was also able to shoot some video footage of the whole thing. Wait tell you see that footage! Tomorrow, we start the long road home. Arrival should be late Monday night or sometime on Tuesday. I heard that TFC was rocking today! Wish we could have been with you all. See you Wednesday night!

Just 10 min. After the above picture

A Great Big God!

2006-08-05T13:22:00.000-05:00

Main Entrance to the Play!

Last night we were able to attend the "Great Passion Play" in the Ozarks. What a neat experience. Before we entered the outside theatre, we were able to go and see the largest statue of Jesus in North America. It stood 67 ft. high and 65 ft. across. Micah kept saying "Look how big my Jesus is!" I thought for a moment, our Jesus is even bigger than that. I am glad today to serve a great big God! With all the unrest in the middle east today, and all the gods being served, I am so thankful for our Savior, Jesus Christ.

"Christ of the Ozarks" - Largest Statue of Christ in N. America