Advent Activities including
Journey to Bethlehem Life Guide, Pg. 12
December - February 2017 Advent / Christmastide
Table of
Contents
CONTRIBUTORS SENIOR PASTOR Thomas Daniel CLERK OF SESSION Melanie Williamson
{ FROM THE LEAD }
BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR Duane Dube
2
Pastor's Letter
3
Session and Financial Update
{ FEATURES }
EDITOR Stephanie Schultz DESIGN AND LAYOUT Noël Kalmus CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Ann Brown, Page Harris, Deborah Robertson, Kathryn Sedberry, Jan Skaggs, Scott Ream, M.D., Jon Wasson
4
No One Like the Lord
8
Trusting God
9
Hurricane Helpers
{ LIFE } 11 IF:Gathering
PHOTOGRAPHY Kim Brent, Noël Kalmus, Stephanie Schultz
12
Life Guide
16
Stay Active
{ COMMUNITY }
SPECIAL THANKS TO Paul Mowry, Brian Sparks
17
Daily Miracles
19
New Members
21
Already Amazing
23
God Makes You Stretch
{ EVENTS } 25 Calendar
pg. 17
{ FROM THE LEAD}
A
s we head into December, you have probably already heard Christmas songs on the radio. One you are guaranteed to hear over and over starts with the words, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” Many of us agree with that sentiment and certainly that can be true of our life together here at Covenant. During the weeks of Advent, we experience some of our most beloved traditions in worship and in additional programs for the whole family. Beginning with “Journey to Bethlehem” on Wednesday, Dec. 6, through our five Christmas Eve services, we are praying for the living God to invade our hearts and minds to fill us with lasting hope and peace. The scripture passages that will guide our Advent journey come from the prophet Isaiah and remind us of the promise of the Savior who was born and who will come again. In the new year, we will start a new teaching series titled “Love is...” The intent of this series is to take the message of Christmas — that God dwells among us — and move forward into how we are to dwell in relationship with one another. The verses that will drive this series are from I Corinthians 13 where the Apostle Paul makes it clear that at the center of all relationships (not just marriage) is “love.”
“Love is patient; love is kind; love is not envious or boastful or arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices in the truth. It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things” (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). While this series will include all relationships (friendship, parenting, etc.), one unique opportunity will be for couples to participate in a marriage workshop led by Todd and Beverly Sandel on Saturday, Jan. 27. Todd and Beverly, who live in Atlanta, have traveled and worked throughout the country to help marriages thrive. Our time with the Sandels promises to be significant for our congregation. Covenant will offer several ways for you to grow and serve in the new year. In January, we will release a new Community Life Guide that will outline “onramps” into the life of the Covenant family. Please pray about and discern what steps God may be encouraging you to take as we move into 2018. Throughout these special days, I am praying that God will be powerfully present with us all. I look forward with hope and expectation to the journey ahead! Joyfully,
Thomas Daniel Senior Pastor
pg. 16
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
2
While Session took the month of July off from its regularly scheduled meeting, the appointment of Christy Milam as Director of Children and Family Ministry necessitated a special e-vote to hire a new director for the Covenant Preschool. After a swift but thorough search, the search committee recommended Session approve Laura Hargrave for the position. Laura started in late July to get up to speed before the preschool year started. Thanks to Clark Weatherby for serving as acting clerk for the August Session meeting while I was out of town. The Session enjoyed an extended time of prayer, devotion and small groups. Jon Wasson encouraged each member to create a rule of life around the themes of solitude, community and service. As we all know, Hurricane Harvey made landfall in Texas on Aug. 25 with tremendous devastation. Due to concerns about hurricane-related safety as well as a power outage, all campus activities were cancelled that Sunday. The Session approved a recommendation by Thomas Daniel that the Aug. 27 offering be collected and dedicated entirely to disaster relief. Covenant was able to make that decision due to its year-to-date health in 2017 giving and expenditures. The congregation responded generously, giving over $60,000 that the Mission Committee has begun to disburse. At the September meeting, the Session listened to a presentation by the Technology and Communications Committee on possible options for installing a video screen solution in the Sanctuary, a task that has confounded prior task forces, committees and consultants for over a decade. After the presentation and a time for questions, the committee was asked to engage with the Administration and Worship Committees, collect some additional information and report back with a final recommendation at the October meeting. The committee returned with a recommendation to pursue an option that includes two large
`
`
screens in the chancel by the organ pipes that will be hidden when not in use, coupled with laser projectors. The screens are acoustically neutral and designed not to be affected by ambient light. After a thorough discussion of pros and cons, the recommendation was approved.
Also in October, Session approved an agreement to invite Deidox Films to occupy some unused office space in Covenant Hall in return for professional video production work on Covenant projects. These would be short features such as the one Deidox Films created on the Turquoise Table project initiated by Covenant’s Kristen Schell. This arrangement will be instructive as we move forward in determining a creative reuse for Eaton Hall. Looking ahead, the Session will be prayerfully considering the budget for 2018 and encourages all Covenant members to give with extravagant generosity to the work of God’s kingdom in this place and time.
By Melanie Williamson Clerk of Session
FINANCIAL UPDATE General Fund (YTD) Offering Receipts: $2,668,723 Budgeted Offering: $2,657,489 Difference: -$11,234 Actual Expenses: $2,522,508 Budgeted Expenses: $2,857,688 Difference: -$200,199 Building Fund Total Loan Balance: $1,550,523 Principal Reduction YTD: $1,515,203
`
`
SESSION UPDATE
{ FEATURES} { FEATURES}
“The Lord found me
sitting in prison in 1987. I was a hardcore drug addict and alcoholic.” The story of Texas Reach Out Ministries begins with its founder, David Peña. “When I was young I thought I was indestructible,” David said. “In prison, I got in a fight. When you fight, the guards come and beat you down and strip you and drag you into the hole.
After he was released from prison, David, a middle school dropout, got his GED, went to Austin Community College and Texas State, graduated with degrees in psychology and counseling, and started working at Austin Recovery. Through that job, he went back into the prison to talk to groups of men about recovery and life after prison without alcohol and drugs.
“I think about how far God has brought me from that place and that mentality. From being a heathen to now, where He provides the ministry and the churches come, and brothers and sisters and the family of God come along, and it’s amazing.” Before David went to prison, he had been spiraling for about 10 years, said his wife, Margarita (Margie) Peña. Margie had found the Lord and moved away from the social life she and David had shared. But David kept up his life of alcohol and drugs. “I was so angry,” Margie said of those years. “I wanted David to stop doing what he was doing. God had to tell me to move out of the way. “That’s when I told David, ‘I’m giving you to God.’” That didn’t curb David’s habits, and before long, David ended up in prison — where eventually, he found God.
“I was what the world would call successful. I was driving a Corvette, going to work and supervising about 350 people. I got Employee of the Year and a raise,” David said. “But my thoughts weren’t with the Lord every day. I was more concerned with my job and performance. One day, I was driving and flipping through the radio looking for a rock-androll station. I scrolled to a praise channel and heard ‘Jesus could do it.’ I got really emotional and pulled the car over and started crying and repenting. ‘What is happening to me? I was closer to You when all I had was the clothes I was wearing.’” Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
4
{ FEATURES} From then on, David kept seeing the Lord. “The Lord gave me a literal vision. Some people might think I’m crazy, but no one can take your testimony away.” David felt called to help people transitioning from prison. After convincing Margie that the couple needed to downsize and buy another house, things starting falling into place. A few days later, David was at a gas station. “I started pumping gas. I could see and hear God, telling me to show the Gospel to someone. I prayed for boldness and wisdom. I started talking about the Lord to a guy at the station. He said ‘good for you’ and went to pump. Then he said, ‘You know anybody that wants to buy a house?’ That was the first house we bought — The Joshua house.” It took three months for David and Margie to renovate that house, and every time David worried about finances or time, God would provide. “One night, I went out to my truck. I said, ‘Lord, I’m exhausted. Am I doing the right things?’
Shortly thereafter, a group of four churches got involved. “Covenant was the first mission committee I spoke to,” David said. “I didn’t like to ask for help, but I felt like God was calling me.’”
to their home. Immediate needs of food, clothing and shelter are provided, as well as help with obtaining an ID card, a medical card, a bus card and eventually employment.
Today, Texas Reach Out Ministry (TROM) has eight homes. Five are for men, three for women and each has a different biblical name. Potential clients must apply to live in a TROM house. The application is a screening tool and includes a psychological test, drug use questions, work and family histories, and two pages about the applicant’s relationship with Christ.
“To be released on parole, a prisoner needs a place to go,” explained Scott Moore, Covenant liaison to TROM. “Some can’t go home because they are not wanted; some can’t go home because home would be a speedy ticket to parole violations and a trip back to the pen.
Once they are accepted, Texas Reach Out receives those transitioning from prison with no money and no fees, and helps them find jobs. TROM clients, upon prison release, are picked up at the bus station and brought
“The Lord spoke to me. He told me the houses are coming, and the men and women are coming. Name this first house Joshua. You are crossing into the Promised Land.”
TEXAS REACH OUT MINISTRY IS BORN The Peñas started providing transitional housing to ex-prisoners in 2000, purchasing that first house with their own money. 5
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
“All clients are required to work,” Scott continued. “They receive training and assistance to find a job. They attend church, Bible studies and recovery-themed events on a regular basis, and are required to be drug and alcohol free. TROM’s goal is to provide discipline and mentoring to all residents.”
{ FEATURES}
Skip sometimes brings guests when he meets with TROM clients. “I pick up guys who have graduated and take them to the Bible study on Tuesday nights. It’s good for the other guys to see this; to see that you can overcome with Christ.” Covenant member and Lamplighters leader Jan Skaggs teaches a monthly women’s Bible study. “Margie sent Lamplighters a note asking for someone to lead a Bible study once a month,” Jan said. Jan took the request to a Lamplighters meeting and told the women, “If your heart is pounding right now, you might be called to do this. “The minute I said it, my heart started pounding! I thought, I have to do this,” Jan recalled. TROM clients pay $100 a week to stay in the homes, and for phone and utilities. They get weekly drug tests; those using are asked to leave. “The services provided to TROM residents vary depending on their needs. Some have lived in TROM housing for years, are fairly stable and need little supervision. Others who are fresh out of the pen need more attention,” Scott explained. “Frankly, no small number wash out because of drugs, alcohol, the opposite sex or unwillingness to follow rules.”
COVENANT MEMBERS FEEL CALLED Several Covenant members help the ministry in different ways — providing home maintenance, mentoring, leading Bible studies, reviewing applications and more. Covenant member Skip Crowe has been helping for more than a decade. “I’ve known some guys from the program for more than 12 years,” Skip said. “It’s not a service. It’s more of a spiritual lift for me. When you help somebody else, it’s amazing what it does to you. You really can see God do work on these people.”
Later that day, Page Harris called Jan, reporting that her heart, too, was pounding. “Page and I went to that first meeting with fear and trembling,” Jan said. “We were literally stepping out in faith to do that. What a blessing it has been! “The women are just the dearest people. After meeting them, I read scripture differently. I hear God’s word differently. You grow to love them, keep praying for them and cheering them on. The Gospel makes such a difference in their lives. It’s dramatic. They have humility and honesty. We get more out of it than they do. It feels selfish.” (Covenant member Anne Wheeler later joined Page and Jan to lead the study.) Heather, a TROM client, dropped into TROM offices while I was talking to the Peñas. Heather was transitioning out of Casa Maria. She was vivacious, optimistic and spilling over with joy. “I lived in Casa Maria with five other women. It was great.” When asked how five women in one house get along, Heather said, “We have our differences, but I think that coming together and doing Bible study helps us to stay connected. Without it, we would fall apart.” Heather had news. She was engaged to be married. “He’s a good man,” she said. “I think that he was placed in my life. He was given to me by God.”
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
6
{ FEATURES}
As Margie gave Heather a big hug, David said, “Margie loves these ladies like they are her children.” Jan agreed, “The women say they don’t know what would have happened to them if Margie had not been at that bus stop and this home hadn’t been waiting.” The accolades for the Peñas continue. Scott Moore recalled, “I was very moved when I heard one of the men tell David that it means the world to them in their recoveries to have someone like David who really knows what they are going through and who believes in them.” Jan added, “Margie and David live in their faith every moment of every day. They are totally sold out for Christ. They live in the trenches.” David, who two years ago had a liver transplant, often sees the Lord’s incredible hand in his life. “The Lord still surprises me with his provision. Four months ago, I made a deal with a man to buy a truck. I told him I was going to have lunch and then go to the bank and get a check to buy the truck. Margie and I were sitting at lunch when a man who has supported the ministry called. After some small talk, he asked if I needed a truck. He gave me his 2013 truck with only 75,000 miles on it. “There’s no one like the Lord!” David said. The Peñas’ vision for Texas Reach Out is to have 18 houses and 120 beds to offer ex-prisoners. Covenant continues to support TROM as a mission partner, and the organization is always looking for volunteers — from office help and organizing care packages for new clients to mentors and Bible study leaders. Volunteer on the TROM website at texasreachout.org or contact Covenant liaison Scott Moore at scott@scottmoorelaw.com.
By Stephanie Schultz Director of Communications
7
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
Trusting Trusting God God Growing up in a small South Texas town, Becky
Koonce was a drill team member dating her high school sweetheart. After graduation, they married and both had good jobs. Soon, they had two boys and a nanny, and were sending the kids to private school. During this time, Becky’s parents divorced. When Becky was 28, her mother had a stroke, her dad died and she learned he wasn’t her biological father. Becky suffered severe depression and began drinking.
Becky served as a GED tutor and for four years, she did not have a single visitor. At the end of her sentence, she was accepted into TROM and promised the inmates she would write. She also planned to continue writing the people she had never met who had written to her during her prison time. Thankful that TROM shielded her from past relationships, Becky’s biggest obstacle was her pride. Wearing too-small handme-down shoes, she faced lowpaying fast-food jobs. Becky had no money and no car, and had to make child support payments. Job interviews were always followed by background checks.
Within three months, Becky was laid off, divorced and diagnosed with a tumor in her sinuses. Told she had a year to live, Becky fell heavily into drugs, using as well as making lots of money selling.
TROM helped her with her basic needs, as well as love and encouragement. Becky’s mother and someone she had served in prison with bought her a car. Her first night at TROM was a transitionout party for another resident. It was 2013.
Becky was arrested for possession of meth and served two and a half years for using. Following her release, she went out to celebrate. “When you return to using, you pick up right where you left off,” she explained. Thus, she began selling again. She was busted a third time on Christmas Eve 2010, when she was 40 years old. She was sentenced to four years in the Bridgeport Correctional Center. The only available bed was in the Christian dorm, which held classes much like TROM. “This is where my relationship with Christ developed,” Becky said. “I started really listening to God.”
{ FEATURES}
she hopes to continue her visits with her grandchildren. Her trust is in God. “My mom isn’t here now, so I call Margie. I love her!” Becky said. “The best thing has been learning how to live again, to follow rules and hearing what I need to hear in group time. Those houses saved my life!” Becky continues to write to her friends in prison and to those who wrote to her when she most needed it. Becky knows she didn’t do any of this by herself and that God has her in Austin for a purpose. “I pray that all my co-workers and others come to Jesus.” By Page Harris and Jan Skaggs
Fast-forward to 2017. Becky has worked at Goodwill for four years, earning several promotions and is now in management. She mentors women in TROM houses and earns enough to rent her own apartment. Transitioning out of TROM housing in July 2017, Becky worried about independent living. She fears being consumed by her freedom and losing sight of why she’s there. Additional financial responsibilities are worrisome and Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
8
{ FEATURES}
B
y day, Melanie Dixon works at Covenant as assistant to the music director. By night and during many hours in-between, Melanie has been volunteering with the Austin Disaster Relief Network (ADRN). Steve Bissell is Covenant’s ADRN liaison. As the point person, he’s helped get the word out about opportunities to serve those recently affected by hurricanes. Through his efforts, volunteers like Melanie have learned how they can make a difference. Melanie was one of many Covenant members and friends who participated in the Love Port Arthur Mission Day. While many people took a bus down to Port Arthur (it left at 3:30 a.m.), Melanie was one of about 25 volunteers to bring a car. “It was a commitment,” Melanie said, “because it was a four-hour drive.” Cars were needed because ADRN volunteers went door-to-door to distribute information about ADRN assistance. Residents without cars were offered rides. The volunteer drivers developed a system to ensure no one who needed a ride slipped through the cracks. Leading the way, Melanie said, was a girl, who was about 10, who configured “Zello” for the group to use. This app turns phones into walkie-talkies, and enables users to talk individually or to use public channels. Melanie served as contact for the people requesting rides. “The Love Port Arthur Mission Day was amazing; it was amazing to see busloads of people from Austin taking their whole day to help,” Melanie said. “I was thankful I figured out a way to be part of that.”
9
Photos of Love Port Arthur Mission Day by Kim Brent
Melanie has also volunteered at the ADRN warehouse and the ADRN thrift store. The week after Hurricane Harvey hit, Melanie was part of what she called a “huge operation.” More than 100 volunteers were sorting and stacking like items. Melanie was directing volunteers where to bring specific items to be shipped. Another day, she acted as an administrative assistant to the ADRN employee managing logistics of empty pallets, warehouse locations, trucks, donation locations and volunteers. “I wasn’t out in the field, but it was still kind of exciting,” Melanie said. It has also been an eventful few months for Steve Bissell.
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
Steve became Covenant’s ADRN point person the week before Hurricane Harvey devastated parts of Texas, so he has quickly been deluged with ADRN tasks and activities. In addition to keeping on top of the ADRN communications, Steve has been on two separate volunteer deployments to Kingwood where Mark Renn, a former Covenant intern, is the associate pastor at Kingwood’s First Presbyterian Church. “On our first trip, we did clean-up work for an overwhelmed older couple. We demolished cabinets and walls to get to the wet sheetrock and insulation, and then hauled it out to large growing piles on the curb to be picked up,” Steve explained.
{ FEATURES}
“It was not without risk as Kate (Murphy, a Covenant member) had a mishap with broken glass requiring two stitches and a tetanus shot. She returned smiling and jumped right back into action,” Steve said. On Steve’s second trip to Kingwood, he was in a home that had moved on to the rebuilding phase. “The owner had no flood insurance and was doing all the rework himself,” Steve said. “We laid insulation and drywall in the garage, quickly learning new skills from our experienced and patient instructors, Mark Renn and (Covenant member) Gaines Bagby. After a full workday, we had the insulation installed, and all three walls and sheetrock fully placed.”
Mark also showed the volunteers a home in an underserved area outside of Kingwood in the rebuilding phase. They were waiting on donated materials — lumber, sheetrock, insulation, etc. — before they could begin. Covenant has earmarked funds from the special collection for hurricane relief to pay for 55 rolls of insulation needed to rebuild. Steve said many Covenant members have donated items. “Donations bins were full the first three or four weeks,” Steve said. “Members of the disaster team loaded them up each day and dropped them off at the ADRN warehouses.” Though he hasn’t compiled statistics, Steve said many Covenant members have volunteered time at ADRN by sorting items, driving forklifts and directing drop-off traffic. Like Melanie, several people participated on the Port Arthur trip. Hurricane clean-up takes months and sometimes years. Volunteering for this massive effort continues. Find out how you can help at covenant.org/harveyservice or ADRN.org, or contact Steve at sbissell@austin.rr.com.
Melanie Dixon shows off her ADRN volunteer shirt
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
10
{{ LIFE} COMMUNITY}
W
omen of Covenant, are you ready to learn more about living out your calling? Covenant is hosting IF:Gathering for Women on Feb. 9 and 10 in FE 200. This livestream event will give women the tools and resources to change their local context for the glory of God and the good of others. Stephanie Campbell, who is leading the team organizing the gathering at Covenant, was motivated through the conference. “I attended IF:Gathering Live for two years and felt God asking me to do something different last year. I hosted a small group of women in my home and we watched the livestream. I left the event with the message to ‘make disciples who make disciples.’” Stephanie said that message has guided her choices this year. “I realize I don’t have to do big things for God, it can also be in the small things I do daily. This has shaped the ways that I choose to serve and spend my time.”
“The teachings and the entire movement of equipping women to go out and use their gifts where God has placed them have been very influential in my call to ministry,” said Rachael McConnell, Covenant’s Associate Director for Children and Family Ministry, who has attended three IF:Gatherings. “The beauty of IF is that it is not just about the weekend, it is about the community that is birthed out of the weekend. IF is all about bringing women closer to the God that loves them and encouraging them to see how God is leading them to love and serve others.” Rachael explained the force behind the event: “We all get tired, we all wonder if what we’re doing matters. IF:Gathering 2018 will be a reminder. It will be a celebration. The work we’re doing to share the gospel is worth it.” For more information, contact Stephanie at baker_stephaniee@hotmail.com or visit ifgathering.com .
At IF:Gathering 2018, participants will look at one of Paul’s letters to Timothy, reminding him of the power and responsibility of sharing the gospel.
11
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
{ LIFE GUIDE}
COMMUNITY LIFE GUIDE
During Advent this year, build a habit that will last beyond Christmas. The shift in seasons is a good time to reflect on our lives and rethink how intentionally we are living. Most of our days are driven by habits and routines that we rarely reflect upon, but these habits and routines shape who we are and what we ultimately want. New habits take time to form — especially good habits. Anyone who has tried to set clear boundaries for his mobile device, exercise regularly or teach a young child to brush her teeth can tell you that to develop good habits, one must commit to practicing them regularly over a consistent period of time. Research indicates you can create a new habit in 20 to 30 days. What does this have to do with Advent?
Advent offers an opportunity to examine whether we are living with hope for God to act decisively in our lives and in the world around us. How do we habituate ourselves to hope? One way is to immerse ourselves in the stories of scripture in which God is not only a character, but the author who makes the entire drama possible. The stories in scripture reassure us that we live in a world where God makes promises and keeps them. We hope you’ll read and follow along with our Advent devotional. You’ll find devotionals written by Covenant members wrestling with scripture, questions to reflect on and discuss with others, and suggestions for activities to do with your family. We also hope that you’ll build a habit of spending time in scripture that will last long after Christmas. Pick up a devotional in the Narthex or read it online at covenant.org/advent2017. For more information on developing a habit of daily devotion, see page 15.
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
12
{ LIFE GUIDE}
SOLITUDE Solitude is not so much about being by oneself as it is about paying attention to one's self. The demands of our busy lives make it increasingly difficult to carve out time to pay attention to our lives in the company of the Holy Spirit. Just as Jesus sought solitude by retreating alone to pray, we too need to set aside time for spiritual examination that opens our hearts, minds and wills to the healing presence and guidance of God. Here are some ways you are invited to draw closer to God during this Advent season:
COMMUNITY No one has ever been invited to follow Jesus alone. Following Jesus involves learning to be in relationship with everyone else that Jesus invites. In community with one another, we discover opportunities to grow in our practices of faith, hope and love. We offer a variety of options for enjoying the Advent season within the Covenant community:
SERVICE Following Jesus always involves being sent with a mission to the world. The form of Christ’s mission in the world is one of service. Consider these opportunities to serve within and beyond the Covenant community this Advent season:
13
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
Advent Daily Devotional — Touching anecdotes written by Covenant members, along with deeper explanations of the four themes of Advent found in scripture - hope, peace, joy and love – engage our hearts as we prepare for Christ’s arrival. Booklets will be available on the patio Dec. 3, the first Sunday of Advent. Devotionals will also be available online at covenant.org/adventdevo.
Covenant Groups — Small, intentional groups that offer encouragement and spiritual friendship and take on all shapes and forms, and meet at various times and days of the week. Registration for new Covenant Groups will begin in early January for our Lenten study. We are currently seeking facilitators. Contact Kathryn Sedberry for more information, ksedberry@covenant.org.
Christmas Giving Tree —
Covenant members can support mission and neighborhood partners through our annual Christmas Giving Tree. Choose ornaments from the tree on the patio between services Nov. 26, and Dec. 3, 10 and 17, and in the lobby of the Fellowship and Education Building during the week. Ornaments include instructions for selecting and delivering gifts. Contact Paul Mowry at paulmowry@att.net.
{ LIFE GUIDE}
Advent Silent Retreat
Rule of Life — Different seasons of life call for different kinds of support and intention. As you reflect on the birth of Christ this Advent season, take this opportunity to create or update your personal Rule of Life. Find an explanation at covenant.org/ruleoflife.
— Make plans now to attend Covenant’s guided Silent Advent Retreat on Saturday, Dec. 9, starting at 9:30 a.m. and ending at 1 p.m. at the Cedarbrake Retreat Center in Belton. A silent retreat is an extended time in which an individual seeks to be alone with the Lord to listen, rest and be transformed by God’s spirit. There is space for up to 50 participants, ages 16 and up. Cost is $10. Contact Kay Austin at kaustin@covenant.org.
Kids’ Club and Volunteer Afternoon Out — Dec. 3, 4-7
p.m. Parents and Sunday school volunteers enjoy Christmas shopping while kids enjoy pizza and games for the afternoon.
Journey to Bethlehem and Church-Wide Carol Sing —
Wednesday, Dec. 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Experience the sights and sounds from the streets of Bethlehem as they were in the days leading up to Jesus’ birth. Enjoy singing carols together in the Sanctuary at 6:40 p.m.
GraceNotes Christmas Concert — Get in the spirit of season with the GraceNotes on Sunday, Dec. 10, 4 p.m., Sanctuary.
Children’s and Journey Youth Choirs Christmas Music — Enjoy beautiful music from Covenant kids on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 6:30 p.m., Sanctuary.
Street Youth Ministry — Provides support, witness,
Christmas Music in Worship — Sunday, Dec. 17,
9:30 and 11 a.m. Enjoy special Christmas music presented by the Sanctuary Choir during worship.
MoMs Group Christmas Brunch — Monday, Dec. 18, 9:30 a.m. Contact Katie McFarlane, kates46@msn.com.
Austin Disaster Relief Network — Covenant’s mission partner, ADRN,
discipleship and counseling to homeless youth. Volunteers needed to help at the SYM Christmas party on Dec. 15. Those without experience can be trained. Contact volunteer@ StreetYouthMinistry.org
continues to meet the emotional, spiritual and physical needs of those affected by Hurricane Harvey. Needs are ongoing and include emotional care volunteers (training provided), warehouse volunteers and administrative support. For more information and a list of upcoming training and events, visit ADRN.org or contact Steve Bissell at sbissell@ austin.rr.com.
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
14
{ LIFE GUIDE}
{ COMMUNITY}
Lectio Divina
If you’ve ever tried to read the Bible, felt overwhelmed and quit, consider trying Lectio Divina. Lectio Divina is a practice of prayerfully reading scripture. Traditionally, lectio has four steps: lectio (read), meditatio (meditate), oratio (pray), contemplatio (contemplate). The Gospels provide some of the best places in scripture to practice lectio divina. Sign up for our Daily Devotional (covenant.org/dailydevo) and use the daily Gospel passage to practice lectio divina. 1. Read: During this step, read the text out loud, slowly and thoughtfully, not rushing to get to the end, but to listen to what God might be saying through the text. 2. Meditate: The early Christians practiced meditation by repeating a word or a phrase from scripture until it formed in their hearts and minds. Read the text out loud again and consider what word or phrase sticks out to you that you can meditate on throughout the day. 3. Pray: How can you pray from what you have meditated on? Maybe the word or phrase that stuck out to you has touched pain, anger or shame, and you need to register those feelings with God through lament. Perhaps it has revealed sin and your prayer needs to be one of repentance or confession. Maybe it has evoked gratitude. Whatever the case may be, spend a few minutes praying in response to the word or phrase that you meditated on. 4. Contemplate: After reading, meditating and praying, the final step is to rest in God’s grace, allowing yourself simply to be with God. Spend a few minutes quietly praying for God’s Spirit to lead you into deeper knowledge of God and of yourself.
The Word of Scripture should never stop sounding in your ears and working in you all day long, just like the words of someone you love. And just as you do not analyze the words of someone you love, but accept them as they are said to you, accept the Word of Scripture and ponder it in your heart, as Mary did. That is all. That is meditation…Do not ask, “How shall I pass this on?” but “What does it say to me?” Then ponder this Word long in your heart until it has gone right into and taken possession of you. — Dietrich Bonhoeffer 15
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
{ LIFE}
The author, Scott Ream, a doctor for nearly 40 years and a Covenant member since 1978, provides advice about how to be fulfilled in retirement.
Retirement offers many exciting possibilities; it
also can pose a number of difficult issues. I retired two years ago, but in the nearly 40 years that I practiced, I lived through the transition with hundreds of patients.
Retirement can be difficult for individuals who have had a very scheduled work life, or those who did not have time to develop other interests because of work and family responsibilities. Suddenly we’re faced with lots of free time without an agenda to fill the void.
In my profession, I was able to see what worked for those who made the jump to a fulfilling retirement. Their success could be summarized in two words: Stay active! There are three major areas in which to try to achieve this goal.
1. STAY ACTIVE PHYSICALLY.
3. STAY ACTIVE MENTALLY.
Numerous studies show that regular physical activity is important in maintaining strength and agility, and retards the onset of cognitive decline. Staying fit increases the likelihood that you can enjoy those travels you’ve been dreaming about and to fully enjoy active grandchildren. It reduces falls and significantly diminishes stroke and heart attack risk. All you need is about 30 minutes of physical activity four to five times per week. Find something you enjoy. I cycle, mostly spinning classes, and walk. I’m always amazed by the burst of physical and mental energy I have after these activities.
It’s important to learn and expand your mind. This helps prevent cognitive decline and depression. The church can provide a solid base for continued learning. We are fortunate in Austin to have many groups that can provide this too, from local colleges to city facilities. Part-time work or volunteer activities provide a source for “using your brain” regularly. Travel and hobbies also stimulate our minds.
2. STAY ACTIVE SOCIALLY. Isolation is a drain for many in terms of our sense of wellbeing. We need to interact with others to stimulate our interests in the world. Interacting with friends or joining groups where you meet new people will expand your world. The church can be an important part of this. Covenant has many opportunities such as small groups, mission opportunities, study groups, choir and social groups. Stay connected!
There is no one recipe that fits all. Find what suits you best, what you enjoy and what seems most meaningful. I can say that Covenant is here for you and can provide an entrance to many activities that will help you accomplish this. So start thinking and planning now on how to make your retirement an enriching experience.
Covenant members practice child’s pose at Christian Yoga
16
{ COMMUNITY}
Daily Miracles
Ann Brown has been instrumental in Covenant’s Refugee Welcome Ministry. Below, she writes about her experiences reaching out and discovering other cultures.
I
frequently talk to people at Covenant who have no idea how actively Covenant cares for the needs of our neighbors in the Austin community. One only needs to visit campus on a weekday morning to see the many people who come for support physically, emotionally and spiritually. Recently a young woman attending one of the programs remarked, “There is such a lively community here. All the people busy working on improving their lives. How does the church do that? It costs a lot of money.” I said, “Yes, but the people here are very generous. They care about loving and encouraging people because that is what Jesus calls us to do.” She thought about that and said, “But these are not even church members.” What a witness to the open arms of Jesus Christ and the wideness of God’s mercy! During July, Covenant’s refugee ministry actively provided care to five refugee families who have been residents in Austin for less than one year. • We provided transportation, accompanying women and children to 19 medical appointments. • We researched affordable housing options, and investigated resources available for food, education, jobs, health insurance and childcare. • A loving group of seven Covenant women provided round-the-clock care for an infant and new mother who had to be hospitalized. While they were at the hospital, another group was entertaining, feeding and caring for her other children at home.
17
• Others helped children attend the Manos Backto-School event and when the supplies of clothing and school supplies ran out, they shopped for the children themselves. • We took children to the “Meet your Teacher” events at the school so they would have a good transition to the new school year. • When many unexpected problems associated with getting the children ready to start school arose, our group rallied and made sure that each one was present on that first day. I am a first-hand witness to daily miracles!
When you befriend a refugee family, you really do see with a whole new set of eyes. In my day-to-day life in Austin, it has been easy to assume our country’s “safety net” of services meets the needs of the majority of our residents. But I have had my eyes opened to the poverty that pervades the “working poor” in our city. They are invisible because they go to work every day, and work a second job after hours and on weekends. They cannot afford a car or insurance. They do their best to provide food for their families, but even with federal supplemental nutrition programs, the cupboards are bare at the end of the month. Housing options are atrocious! The subsidized housing wait is more than five years. For example, we know a family of seven who lives in 658 square feet and pays $1,100 in monthly rent for an apartment with obvious violations of health and safety codes. They don’t run the air conditioner, take daily baths or turn on their lights because they can’t afford the utility bills. These circumstances are unavoidable for most hard-working families in Austin who work fulltime for low wages.
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
{ COMMUNITY} One of my coworkers was the daughter of a Methodist missionary and grew up in Thailand. She had seen a lot of poverty, but she wasn’t aware of such poverty right here in Austin until she began working with refugees. I am convinced that Covenant has the vision, professional skills and resources to help the city of Austin solve the root causes of many of these problems. I am expecting more miracles! But in the meantime, each of us is called to love our city and its people. When a person is suffering, what do they want? They want a friend who can listen and help them walk through the hard times. The refugee welcome team is a friendly face, a welcoming smile and a loving presence. We don’t fix the problems, but we try to make life a little easier. We can open a door to opportunity by introducing a friend to a prospective employer or by answering a question about how the American medical system works. We can educate about our culture, and appropriate ways to dress or interact during a job interview. We can share a meal around a common table (or floor). It is about relationship and a loving community. Most people associate the refugee ministry with providing household furnishings for arriving refugees. Yet, very few refugees really want stuff. They would much rather have friends. They are very proud and gracious people. They much prefer to provide for their own families through hard work and perseverance. They don’t want a hand out but a hand up. Covenant’s people have responded wholeheartedly to the call for sacrificial service, making an incredible impact on the lives of so many. Thanks to all in our church community who support the mission of this church with your generous gifts of time, talents and money. You are indeed encouraging others to follow Jesus and are bringing about the kingdom of God not only in far off places around the globe, but also right here in our own neighborhood. To get involved with Covenant’s Refugee Welcome Ministry, contact Lori Donley at loridonley@live.com.
By Ann Brown Covenant Member
Scenes from October’s refugee move-in day: volunteers stocked the kitchen, arranged furniture (donated by Movin’ and Groovin’) and built two bunk beds.
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
18
{ COMMUNITY}
Hello new members!
19
Grant Barrett
Kellie Barrett
Sarah Borders
Tyler Borders
Carol Douglas
John Douglas
Harry Evans
Sheryl Evans
Susie Foy
Virginia Harrell
Chuck Lipscomb
Mandi Lipscomb
Elizabeth Logan
Juli Mellard
Travis Mellard
Matt Rutherford
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
{ COMMUNITY}
Shelley Rutherford
Martha Schumacher
Blake Cunningham
Emily Cunningham
Karla Gillan
Josh Kaufmann
Laura Kaufmann
Michelle Verrill
Rachael McConnell
Freddie Proffitt
Paul Proffitt
Covenant continues to welcome new members into our community. This fall, 27 people joined our church. And we continue to expand kingdom growth! Covenant’s next new member class, Explore Membership, will run Sundays from Jan. 7 to Jan. 28, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Contact Amy Skaggs at askaggs@covenant.org to register and to get more information.
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
20
{ COMMUNITY}
Already Amazing W
hen Christy Milam took over as Covenant’s Director of Children and Family Ministry, she had a daunting task. Christy was without any staff members so she was single-handedly running the children’s programming every Sunday and throughout the week. Her first mission: Hire!
Some Covenant families may recognize Rachael. Two of her three children (all boys!) played Upward Basketball at Covenant for the past three years. “We were familiar with the lay of the land, we’d met the people, and knew Covenant was family-friendly and that they cared about the children.”
And hire she did. Two new faces joined the team in September. One was once a contestant on “Who Wants to be a Millionaire?” using the cash earned on the show to move to Patagonia; the other is a legacy to the nation’s largest goldfish hatchery.
Post seminary, Rachael started looking for a job. Having lived in Argentina, she and her husband, Josh, were keen to stay in the area and be near her folks, who live in Georgetown. “My experience in Argentina is why I am so passionate about family ministry. It’s hard being an immigrant because you need other people to walk through the challenges of marriage and children. We were part of a community of fellow immigrants who supported us and that was so transformational.”
Fun facts aside, Rachael McConnell, Associate Director for Children and Family Ministry, and Elizabeth Moore, Children and Family Ministry Assistant and Childcare Coordinator, are wonderfully qualified to help lead our children and families into a life of Christian values. “I’m super excited to work with people with such different and unique gifts!” Christy said. “We are squeezed into one office. Everyone who comes by comments about our lack of space, but we love the enthusiasm and energy we give to each other. We are already an amazing team.” Rachael is fresh out of Austin Seminary, interning last year with adult programs at Riverbend Church. “I loved developing programs for the entire family unit. I’m excited to reach out to families and recognize different milestones families go through — birth and adoption, baptism, confirmation — and develop liturgies to support these important milestones.” She said the “family” part of Covenant children’s ministry job was huge. “I don’t feel like children’s ministry should be siloed,” she said. “If you don’t develop relationships with the families, they may slip through the cracks and not be involved in the spiritual development of the children.” 21
That community included a woman from Brazil, friends from the Dominican Republic and Venezuela, and a Haitian language instructor Josh met. “They were our community,” Rachael said. “They fed us when we were hungry, listened to us when we didn’t speak very good Spanish, taught us Spanish and just generally helped us. It was a total God thing: He provided for us through a community of unsuspecting people in unsuspecting ways. That set us on the course of where we are now of helping people find community. It changed our lives.” Elizabeth Moore is coming into her job through a very different door. She routinely brings her four kids to Covenant Childcare. “I laugh and giggle that I bring my kids here all the time because there are so many of them. I love the childcare so I don’t want to run in here and change everything. I just want to keep making it better.” Some of the things she already appreciates about Covenant childcare are that it’s fun for the kids and comfortable for the parents.
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
{ COMMUNITY}
Christy, Elizabeth and Rachael in their office
“The caregivers always seem to love the kids and love on them. I often get sweet feedback on my kids when they are there.” As she was seeking new childcare workers, Elizabeth was looking for people excited about being with kids. “I want them to look at it like service, not like “ugh, it’s a job!” she said. Before having four kids, Elizabeth was a first-grade teacher. “I feel like this job is the perfect mix for me. I’m able to pull from my teaching and from being a mom for some of what we want to do in the nursery. “We’d like to give kids some activities to do, little projects that reflect what their moms are learning at Lamplighters or on Wednesday nights. Last night,
I was crafting so the kids in childcare would have something to do this morning. “I know the kids need structure and security, I have the ability provide that structure,” Elizabeth said. If you stretch your thinking — it’s like providing structure for tiny goldfish tadpoles. Elizabeth’s greatgrandfather started a goldfish farm 80 years ago and the family still runs it. Ozark Fisheries provides the majority of the goldfish in the United States. Visiting the hatchery in Missouri is a summer trip the Moores never miss. And at her wedding, the flower vases had goldfish swimming around in them. Wouldn’t the kids in childcare love that?
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
22
{ COMMUNITY}
Somehow the Presbyterian Women (PW) manage to keep a big secret every year. At their fall brunch, the PW announce an Honorary Lifetime Member. Covenant members and friends start nominating women for the award in late May. Over the summer, a group of past award winners reviews the nominations. They research the nominees’ Covenant involvement and check for previous nominations. After looking at and discussing all the information, the group prays about who God is calling them to pick. But that’s not all. After selecting the winner, the committee invites the winner’s family and close friends to the brunch — and the family quietly assembles in the lobby of the Fellowship and Education Building prior to the announcement. On a Thursday in early September, Alan Holman, Ward and Sherry McCarley, and Murray McCarley were in the lobby when this year’s winner, Susan Holman, was announced. “I had no idea!” Susan said, in excitement. “I’m so surprised and humbled.” Susan joined Covenant in 1985 after visiting for years. She has been a very active member. “I can’t be very specific, but she has done everything at the church!” husband Alan said. A friend concurred, “She is a tireless, devoted and amazing servant of Covenant. She is all over the place, working on committees and looking for ways to make Covenant a better place.” 23
Susan downplayed her church contributions, saying that her involvement parallels her life stage. “I found the right things to do based on the ages of my kids, how much free time I had, and what was going on in my family,” she said. One of Susan’s most significant activities was becoming involved with Lamplighters, first as a participant and later as a small group leader. “Lamplighters was the first Bible study I was involved in as an adult. It was the first time I experienced reading scripture, praying and being part of small group. I gained the ability to sit down with a Bible, read scripture and make sense of it. I also learned more personally about the power of prayer and the value of sharing in a small group setting.” In the late ’90s, Susan and Alan both lost their fathers, and Susan’s attention was diverted from the church. When she was ready to resume her church activity, lifelong friend Julie Stillwell had joined the church and asked Susan to join a PW Circle with her. “Julie and I went to the Circle. We walked into the room and this woman, Olga Waterbury, said, ‘You are an answer to our prayer. We have been praying for young women to join our Circle.’” Susan noted that she taught all levels of Sunday school from toddlers through elementary school and volunteered for years at Vacation Bible School (VBS). “Choir costumes got me involved with VBS drama, which was pretty memorable. I worked with Tressie Groten, who was inspiring and tireless.”
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
{ COMMUNITY} More recently, Susan served on Session and was assigned to Lay Ministries, which quickly became the Visitor/New Member Committee. “That was a perfect fit because I love meeting and getting to know the people behind the new faces,” Susan said. “Working on the directory was really fun because I got to know so many members through the process.” Susan’s history of involvement extends to many areas: •
She chairs the Ecumenical Action Committee for the Church Women United.
•
Susan has served the PW coordinating team as moderator, Circle coordinator, Church Women United liaison and publicity person. She’s a member of the Sarah-Elizabeth Circle, and has served as Circle leader, Bible lesson leader and is considered the “command central” for prayer requests.
•
Susan served on the Pastor Nominating Committee that called Jill Williams. She is an elder, just completing her three-year term in May. She is a Stephen Minister. She helped with the 2011 Covenant directory and has spearheaded the current pictorial directory project.
After reading that list of Susan’s service, it’s easy to agree with Alan. Susan really does seem to have done everything in the church. “One volunteer activity builds on another,” Susan said.” You volunteer to do something within your comfort zone, and then God makes you stretch a little bit and that gives you confidence for the next thing that He calls you to.”
Susan and her husband Alan
By Stephanie Schultz Director of Communications
Susan has been stretched throughout her journey, often with others walking with her. “The gift we give is not only helping, but also asking others to come along beside us. It is one of the ways we build community in a large church like Covenant. It is not the things I have done that I remember but the friends that I made along the way.”
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
24
{ EVENTS}
JANUARY
DECEMBER 3
SUN
Hanging of the Green 9:30 and 11 Traditional Worship
5
TUE
VISIONS Activities Day 10 a.m. FE 200
6
WED Advent Event, 5:30 p.m. Eaton Hall
6
WED
7
All Church Carol Sing 6:40 p.m. Sanctuary
TUE
VISIONS Activities Day 10 a.m. FE 200
7-28
SUN
Explore Membership 9:30-11 a.m. CO 208
10
WED
Dinners and Midweek Connect programming resume
11
THU
Preschool Open House
11
THU
Silent Retreat, Cedarbreak Retreat Center, Belton
13-
SAT
Walking the Mourner’s Path 10:30 a.m. Saturdays, Jan. 13 – Mar. 3
14
SUN
Congregational Meeting 12:15 p.m. FE 200
16
TUE
VISIONS Luncheon 11:45 a.m. FE 200
24
WED
Kildays Share Cambodia Journey 6:30 p.m., FE 200
THUR Armchair Travelers, 7 p.m., FE 300
9
SAT
Silent Advent Retreat, Cedarbrake Retreat Center, Belton, 9:30 a.m.
10
SUN
GraceNotes Christmas Concert 4 p.m. Sanctuary
13
WED Last Wednesday dinner of 2017
13
WED
Journey and Children’s Choirs Christmas Concert, 6:30 p.m. Sanctuary
27
SAT
Marriage Workshop, 4 p.m. FE 200
14
THUR
Preschool Christmas Chapel 9 a.m. Sanctuary
28
SUN
17
SUN
Special Service of Christmas Music 9:30 and 11 a.m. Traditional Services
Speaker in three worship services, 8:15, 9:30 and 11:05
19
TUE
VISIONS Lunch, 11:45 p.m. FE 200
SUN
Christmas Eve Services: 2, 4, 8:30, 10:30 p.m., Sanctuary 5 p.m. Contemporary Service, FE 200 No morning worship services
24
25- MONCovenant Offices Closed 29 FRI 31
25
2
SUN
New Year’s Eve Worship 9:30 Traditional, Sanctuary 11:05 Contemporary, FE 200
Christmas Eve at Covenant 2:00 p.m. Sanctuary
Traditional service with candles
4:00 p.m. S anctuary
Children & family service
5:00 p.m. FE 200
Contemporary service with candles
8:30 p.m. Sanctuary
Traditional service with choir and candles
10:30 p.m. S anctuary
Traditional service with candles, communion, and string quartet
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
{ EVENTS}
FEBRUARY 4-25
SUN
Covenant Labs
6
TUE
VISIONS Activities Day 10 a.m. FE 200
9-10
RICHLY BLESSED LIVES Kay Sockol leads our “small” group of men and women, age 21 and up. We meet weekly during the school year and monthly for fellowship during the summer.
FRI-SAT IF Gathering for Women
9
THU
Officer Training at 7 p.m. Thursdays, Feb. 9 – Mar. 9
11
SUN
Jazz Sunday
14
WED
Ash Wednesday Worship at noon and 6:30 p.m. (Light lunch following noon service, dinner preceding evening service)
16-18
FRISUN
Love Austin In-town Youth Retreat
18
SUN
Lenten Series Starts
20
TUE
VISIONS Lunch, 11:45 a.m. FE 200
2225
THURSUN
24
SAT
Men’s Ski Trip Covenant’s Got Talent 7 p.m. FE 200
Since we began in January 2016, we have supported one another in a variety of ways and through various life “markers.” We celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, family events and other life achievements. We pray for one another, especially in times of struggle or concern, and we pray for many others. We study together, sharing our thoughts and life applications on scripture, devotionals and other Christian books. We laugh a lot and we make memories together. One fun event was last December’s dinner party and the delightful surprise when Covenant’s Journey Choir came to sing carols. Group member Allisa White said, “We had the honor of hearing many wonderful Yule season songs from the youth choir. Their talent and enthusiasm was as festive as the colorful clothing they wore and the home’s atmosphere and decor.” Indeed, our lives are richly blessed! New Covenant Groups are forming soon. Sign up starts Jan. 8, at covenant.org/covenantgroups. By Deborah Robertson Covenant Member
Cornerstone | December — February | Advent / Christmastide
26
3003 Northland Drive Austin, TX 78757