CORNERSTONE COVENANT PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH | JUNE 2015
Mo Ranch Mother’s Day Family Retreat 2015
ABOUT CORNERS CORNERSTONE CONTRIBUTORS SENIOR PASTOR THOMAS DANIEL
Cornerstone is the bimonthly publication of Covenant Presbyterian Church. Cornerstone provides in-depth articles on the events that take place on and off campus, and the people who make them happen.
CLERK OF SESSION CLARK WEATHERBY BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR DUANE DUBE EDITOR STEPHANIE SCHULTZ DESIGN AND LAYOUT
Content includes the pastor’s letter, Session news, member and staff spotlights, and a calendar of upcoming events. Find more information on the events online and in Covenant Matters. Download the paper version of Cornerstone online at covenant.org/cornerstone. We will update the Cornerstone blog as we receive content at covenant.org/blog.
HILARY PITTMAN
We need you! CONTRIBUTING WRITERS CHERRYLYNN BURRIS, MARY ALICE CARNES, JEN GENOVISI PHOTOGRAPHY TIFFANY CHAPMAN, GWEN SAWYER COVINGTON, MARY ALICE CARNES, JEN GENOVISI, STACEY GROOMS, CHERIE JENKINS, MICHELLE MICHEL, HILARY PITTMAN, STEPHANIE SCHULTZ, AMY SKAGGS, MAGGIE TATE COVER PHOTO MAGGIE TATE SPECIAL THANKS TO PAUL MOWRY, BRIAN SPARKS
ii
To make Cornerstone better, we need your help! The content will be more interesting and more fun with more writers. If you have something you want to write about or want us to write, let us know. While we can’t promise that every submitted article will appear in the printed version of Cornerstone, we will publish all appropriate stories on the blog. We also need photos of events. If you have suggestions for Cornerstone, email us at publications@covenant.org or stop by the office in Covenant Hall.
STONE 2
PASTOR LETTER
12
Be bold and live like Jesus 3
GIVING EXTRAVAGANTLY
Youth tell stories of their growing faith 14
Lessons in generosity passed to generations 5
LOVE LETTER TO THE CITY
A FIRM FOUNDATION
15
15
¿HABLAS INGLÉS?
16
PRETEENS ON A MISSION
Club 56 joyfully expresses thanks to God
CLERK’S CORNER
New elders roll onto Session, start strong
Manos, Covenant partner to meet ESL demands 10
CELEBRATING MOMS
Mo Ranch weekend is all about fellowship
Building relationships with new friends in Belize 9
PICTURE PERFECT PICNIC
Seeing the ‘best of Covenant’
Mayor offers ideas about helping in Austin 6
GLIMPSES OF GOD
FINANCE REPORT
For the period ended April 30, 2015 17
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Summer at Covenant Presbyterian Church
TABLE OF CONTENTS 1
PASTOR LETTER “What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but do not have works? Can faith save you? If a brother or sister is naked and lacks daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and eat your fill,’ and yet you do not supply their bodily needs, what is the good of that? So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead”James 2:14-17 This summer at Covenant, we will take on a great challenge, and we invite each one of you to join in and accept it. The challenge will be to invest ourselves in the Book of James. At first this may not sound formidable, but I warn you, it just might change your life forever.
He was a man of action. Jesus spent years walking from town to town, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, serving those in need and proclaiming the Good News of the Kingdom of God to all who were ready to respond. His actions put him in conflict with the Jewish religious leaders of his day as well as with the Roman Empire. This potential conflict did not cause Jesus to relent in his ministry. Rather it took him to the cross, and his act of sacrifice is the hope by which we are called to live today. Jesus’ life was one of bold action. It was a life that transformed the world.
IO
T FAI
H
N
James is writing to remind us that the example of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection ought to be a springboard for our own actions. They ought to James was not just one of Jesus’ 12 disciples, but challenge each one of us to seek ways to live out our was also his brother. James grew up with Jesus, and faith on a daily basis. Every day we have opportuniwas familiar with his core teachings and beliefs. ties to live like Jesus—to seek out the lonely, hurting Indeed, as James observed firsthand, Jesus’ faith and ignored in order to serve them. It may require was not limited to theories, conversations and ideas. our time and energy. It is also where we can discover why we were created. It is where we discover purpose and deep joy.
T
I N AC Summer Series
This summer, you will have the chance to consider what “Faith in Action” can look like. It will be a bold investigation and at the end of it, you may find yourself reconsidering your own sense of call. We look forward to this journey and are grateful to take it with each and every one of you! JOYFULLY,
THOMAS DANIEL SENIOR PASTOR
2
GIVING EXTRAVAGANTLY BY CHERRYLYNN BURRIS
I have a passion for giving. From a young age, my parents taught me about being a good steward of God’s gifts. I remember many discussions, but mostly I remember that they taught by example. By doing their best to be faithful stewards of their gifts, they were the embodiment of extravagant generosity. Being the lucky recipient of such an education, I feel it is my responsibility and joy to teach my own kids to be extravagantly generous with all of the gifts God has given them. Borrowing heavily from my parents’ example, I put together this list of things I want my kids to know about what it means to be an extravagant giver. Burris Family
1. We all have amazing gifts. All of these gifts are from God and they are to be
used to serve God’s purpose. Our talents, our time, our money, our body, our stuff – these are God’s gifts to us, and they are generally on loan to be used when God needs them. We are to be good stewards of these gifts – figure out what they are and be aware of them, take responsibility for them, faithfully cultivate them and be mindful of their uses. Our gifts are to be used to serve God’s purpose and not only to please ourselves.
Every good and perfect gift is from above. — James 1:16
2. God created a special job for each of us. Find that job and do it. Dad
always talked about the Body of Christ. Our body needs all of its parts to function optimally – not just the heart or brain, but also the kidney, the fingernail and cartilage. Similarly, each of us must do different jobs as parts of the body of Christ to make God’s plan manifest on earth. A big challenge of this life is to find the job that uses these special gifts, do it and encourage others to do the same. We must do our job faithfully and keep an eye open to see how we are participating in and working together with the bigger body to serve God’s grand plan.
Now here is what I am trying to say: All of you together are the one body of Christ, and each one of you is a separate and necessary part of it. — 1 Corinthians 12:27
3
3. We live in a community. Jesus tells us many times in the Bible that we are to be in community with others. After loving God, our next greatest commandment is to love our neighbor.
Therefore, seek out respectful relationships in your community. This will make our lives fuller and more meaningful, and will lead to more challenging and enjoyable experiences. Engage fully and faithfully in love and don’t neglect any responsibilities to this community. Show up, be involved, speak truth, be encouraging and use the gifts God has given to make each other better.
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another. — Hebrews 10:24-25 Look also to the wider community. Don’t turn a blind eye to despair. Fight injustice and use your gifts to serve others generously as Jesus did. Additionally, find ways to support those who are already doing this work. They need prayer, money and people to continue in their mission. Loving our neighCaravan Bible Study Group bors through service using God-given gifts makes us God’s hands and feet on earth. We may be the only glimpse of Jesus people see today, or maybe in this lifetime, so in all things act with love, respect and hope.
Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another. — John 13:34-35
4. Be generous with money. It is our duty to give back God’s money to do God’s
work; there is great joy in being generous with it. Discovering the difference your money can make to others and how it can help you partner with other people doing God’s work can be a pleasure. It is also a discipline that leads to generosity with our time and talents.
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. — Matthew 6:21
5. Pray. Pray for the revelation of your gifts and God’s plan for them. Pray for guidance and wisdom
to know how to best use those gifts. Pray for the courage to use them, and the grace to act unselfishly and to God’s purpose and not your own. Pray for opportunities to be extravagantly generous with these gifts. Pray for others to do the same. Listen to God’s response. Then trust that when we all use our gifts generously for God’s glory, we are truly doing God’s work on earth and we will see a glimpse of heaven.
Many, Lord my God, are the wonders you have done, the things you planned for us. None can compare with you; were I to speak and tell of your deeds, they would be too many to declare. — Psalm 40:5 4
LOVE LETTER TO THE CITY When Austin Mayor Steve Adler visited Covenant in late April, Senior Pastor Thomas Daniel and members invited him to answer the question: How can Covenant best serve the city?” “There is no loss of opportunity to help in this city,” Adler said. “You can pick the cause or place. “I see your question almost as a mirror reflection,” Adler continued. “If I told you what you should do, it would be entirely different than if you came and said ‘this is what we can offer because this is where our passion lies.’ My experience is that people are most committed to work on the things that matter most to them.” Adler gave some examples of where Austin has needs: • The Capital Area Food Bank of Texas: “We have food deserts in Austin – communities that are not close to healthy food options. They pay too much for food that is not good, resulting in poor nutrition and obesity,” Adler said. The Food Bank’s fundraiser was rained out, creating a $100K shortfall.
WHY DID THE MAYOR VISIT? Mayor Steve Adler was at Covenant as a result of January discussions, prompted by the visit from religious scholar Darrell Guder. Guder challenged Covenant members to serve the city, relaying that communities of faith do not exist for themselves, instead they exist as a congregation for the community. In many ways, the church exists for those outside their own walls, Guder said. The discussion with Guder led to more discussions, and the late JJ Baskin got motivated. He felt strongly that Covenant members should act on the charge, and four hours after talking about it with Covenant Senior Pastor Thomas Daniel, Thomas received an email with a list of Wednesday nights that Mayor Steve Adler was available to come to Covenant. During the April meeting with the mayor, Thomas said, “I believe that JJ is looking down and smiling tonight!” Adler said the city cannot move forward without communities like Covenant stepping in. “There are not enough resources available to city government to deal with the challenges we face. We need different people with different voices to join with those at the table.”
• Mobile Loaves and Fishes and the Food Bank: “These organizations need volunteers,” Adler said. “The gift of time is the most valuable gift one can give.“ • Challenges in Education: “The schools in East Austin look very different than schools in west Austin.”
• Faith organizations in other parts of Austin. “I was in a church last Sunday that is ministering and supporting people in prison because many people in their community are serving time,” Adler said. “You could partner with another church and adopt their agenda.”
5
Adler said that Austin’s challenges are the byproduct of the city’s successes. “Not only are we the fastest growing city, but we are a mind-boggling 30 percentage points ahead of number two. “We have perhaps the most dynamic economy of any place in the world. We bring in more jobs than anyone else. Yet, 60 percent of our population does not make a living wage. We are rated the most economically segregated city in the country,” Adler said, adding that Austin in the
only growing city losing African American population.
Read more about Mayor Adler’s visit and find the podcast of this discussion at covenant.org/adler.
“I know the problems the city faces, I know the players and the challenges that may arise. I know the communities that are lost. What we need to do is to engage in conversation.” Thomas Daniel, Mayor Steve Adler and Joy Baskin
A FIRM FOUNDATION “Literally, this was the best trip I’ve ever taken people on,” said Associate Director for Youth Ministry Whitney Bell. “You could see life changes really happening—not only for our team, but for the people from Belize.” Added Youth Director Nathan Richards, “It was cool to recognize that our greatest needs are the same: We all want and need a place to know God more.” The two were talking about the youth and family Spring Break mission trip to Belize. Thirty Covenant members began a partnership with Ebenezer Church, a church built on the “Burial Grounds” that was literally sinking into the ground. The team was charged with laying a new
foundation for the church, but came back with so much more. Laura Marra, who joined the team with her husband, Nick, and two cousins—Natalya and Deanna —said, “We all knew that putting down a foundation was one of our trip goals,. What we didn’t know was how meaningful the relationships we made with our Belize partners would be.” Jen Genovisi traveled to Belize with her husband, Steve, and her son, Noah. She wrote the following about her experience in Belize: Where did I see God in Belize? Everywhere. In everyone. In every single moment.
6
In first meeting my prayer partner, Elizabeth, hugging her and feeling so deeply connected already after simply praying for each other for a month before our arrival in Belize, knowing little about each other but our names and ages.
up years before, and of their long, patient wait for the chance to begin the process of constructing a new, solid, dry, safe structure. We heard about their delight when we decided to partner with them. We heard that we were the answer to their prayers.
In worshipping together, in an area much like a carport, beneath the rented home on stilts of Pastor Ibaùez where the church started gathering after the demolition of their building (and his home) across the street. When it began raining at the start of the service, some of the men scrambled to nail tarps to the building and stretched the other corners to tie onto the exposed, exterior staircase and a tall fence, to better protect the people seated in the back from getting soaked. We sat on wooden benches or in cracked plastic lawn chairs. We sang together, prayed together, celebrated the baptism of the pastor’s twin granddaughters together. Those of us from Covenant heard, for the first time, the story of the plans for the new church building being drawn
In small kindnesses. Randomly and previously selected secret pals who snuck each other a bottle of Gatorade or a popsicle on the worksite or a note of encouragement on a pillow at night. In sacrificial giving. Ladies from the neighborhood brought watermelon to the construction site midmorning. Others, up since before dawn, prepared home-cooked lunches. Communion looked a lot like rice and beans and chicken and whole grilled fish and juice squeezed from oranges, the rinds collected in enormous mesh bags as evidence of all the work that went into sustaining our energy so we could do other work for them. In new friendships, such as between James Sipowicz and teenage boys from the neighborhood who gave tours of the London Bridges area, where the swamps remain and access to the homes built there is a network of rickety boardwalks assembled from scavenged pallets. Or between our teens and the children who gathered every day, eager to help dig holes or tie rebar with us, but who we tried to redirect to play soccer instead, regarding that as a less-dangerous activity for their bare feet. In the discovery of each other’s stories. Although we come from far more affluent and privileged 7
circumstances, we got glimpses into each other’s hearts and hurts and fears and worries. Pain is not unique to poverty. Strength was demonstrated not only using muscles and power tools. We gained respect and deeper fondness for each other as we slowed down enough to listen, felt brave enough to open up, and drew closer to each other than we’d ever anticipated. In the actual effort of trying to prepare the site for the church’s new concrete foundation. In working so very hard in the hot sun and humidity, and in accomplishing so much more than we sometimes felt possible, yet so much less than we’d hoped before leaving, and knowing we had God to thank for giving us strength and stamina—and God to trust that, even from a distance, we could find a way
8
to keep helping. That we wouldn’t leave the members of Ebenezer Church in worse shape than if we hadn’t ever said, “Sure, let’s do this.” Oh, believe it. God was in this. In the willingness, the enthusiasm, the courage, the love, the work, the kindness, the generosity, the empathy, the resolve, the faith, the heartbreak, the gentleness, the friendship, the food, the hope and the promise that it’s only just begun. We are partners. We are friends. We are church. We are God’s hands and feet and also backbone and ears and smile and embrace and encouragement for each other. And it is so very, very good. SUBMITTED JEN GENOVISI
¿HABLAS INGLÉS? In Central Texas, the need for adult education outweighs the ability to meet that demand. Manos de Cristo and Covenant are working toward a solution to the growing need by offering classes at Covenant. Manos de Cristo has been a mission of Covenant Presbyterian Church since 1988. Covenant members know Manos de Cristo for its low-cost dental center, education and basic needs programs, and the annual back-toschool event. Manos de Cristo has grown tremendously since it began serving its first dental patients in 1988. Major growth areas can be seen in the new dental center, which opened in November 2013 at almost three times the capacity of the original clinic. Manos served more than 5,500 patients in the new center in 2014. The education program has existed for almost two decades, starting with a few ESL (English as a Second Language) classes and now serving more than 500 adult students per year with ESL, computer literacy, citizenship preparation, adult basic education and Spanish literacy classes.
Students come to Manos with many goals, such as gaining confidence in speaking English in their daily lives, and being able to better communicate with doctors, their children’s teachers and their employers. Covenant member Frank Sheppard wanted to find a way to use the Fellowship and Education building, a structure that bears the slogan “building beyond boundaries.” Frank knew that the space was meant to be for the community, not just the church. Frank worked with Covenant to reserve space for the Manos classes, which were expanded to the Covenant campus in 2013. Highlights of the Covenant – Manos de Cristo partnership: • Since 2013, 50 students have been served by teachers at Covenant. • Covenant has offered several English classes in the
Citizenship Student evenings and much-needed childcare for our adult learners/parents in class. • Covenant launched a citizenship preparation class on campus in fall 2014 for eligible legal permanent residents seeking to become naturalized citizens. Manos de Cristo is blessed to be a recipient of the Freeman Bequest. Our partnership with Covenant has been greatly enhanced with this grant, which secures the Manos education and childcare staffing. Increased staff enables an increase of educational services offered at
9
Manos de Cristo and Covenant Presbyterian Church. Our goal is to recruit 10 new instructors to begin teaching or tutoring at Covenant or Manos de Cristo this fall. We would like to reach more people who are in need of educational services to make their dreams a reality. To volunteer, contact Frank Sheppard at frank-sheppard@att-net. English students at Covenant have said:
“The class is a wonderful help to me, especially when we have conversation practice. I feel very confident with the teachers because they are very patient and they really know what they are doing.” “In English class, I enjoy learning new things every day. I like class discussions because I have the opportunity to give my opinion.”
“The citizenship class helps me to understand and learn different ways to remember the civics questions and history, and practice the interview.” “Thank you for your time and for helping many immigrants to become a better part of the United States!” SUBMITTED BY MARY ALICE
Citizenship students have this to say about their experiences:
CARNES, COMMUNICATION MANAGER AT MANOS DE CRISTO
PRETEENS ON A MISSION This spring, Covenant members have been challenged to dig wells—that is, to create an atmosphere of serving and giving such that people are drawn to Covenant. Covenant’s fifth and sixth graders, too, have been working to dig wells this spring. With the goal to be more connected to the church as a whole, Club 56 members have discussed the
sermons and relevant Wednesday night programming. The group has been practicing what serving looks like, and has officially adopted a mission focus. Club 56 decided the group needed a motto. After weeks of studying scripture and much thought and consideration, the group picked 2 Corinthians 9:12: “So two good things will result from this ministry of giving. The needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met and they will joyfully express their thanks to God.” Stacey Grooms, Director of Children and Preteen Ministries, said, “We spent several weeks studying the verses and chose this one based on how it fit the Club 56 mission model of
10
meeting needs, especially in our community, with the thanks going to God, rather than us.”
Five days is a lot for that age of kids to give up in their busy, fun lives.”
The kids have put feet to that model. They’ve cleared plates at Wednesday night dinners, and raised money for the mission trip to Belize. And, for the first time, the group worked to welcome IHN families who stay at the church.
To recognize their commitment to VBS, youth volunteers will get free VBS t-shirts this year. At the same time, the VBS team is looking for ways to involve members and make VBS a whole-church event.
Key volunteers will help accomplish that. Beth Feger, The Club 56 kids were recruited by Claire Curio, a snack leader, created a list of supplies needed. The senior at Anderson High School, who worked on Mount Everest VBS team will make a care mountain improving the IHN experience as part of a Girl Scout similiar the Christmas Giving Tree. The mountain project. “IHN takes over the Club 56 meeting space,” will be tagged with non-perishable items that can Stacey said. “Rather than going someplace else, our be purchased ahead of time. fifth and sixth graders found ways to get involved. “We plan to tackle little things early. People want to “This group is too young to host without their parhelp and this is an easy way,” Ashley said. ents, so Claire helped us come up with things to do for them,” Stacey continued. “We made a big Another VBS volunteer, Evangeline Herring, is asking welcome banner for their March stay and we are members of our Street Youth Ministry to do a volmaking placemats for the May visit. I visited with unteer day. She invited these young adults (many the parents and told them about our children’s of whom are artistic and creative) to Covenant on a program and then I took the kids to our Wednesday weekend day to help with decorations. night programming. The Club 56 kids joined in to help make them feel included and welcome.” “That’s the spirit and direction we are going,” Ashley said. “We are excited to make VBS a whole-church Making VBS a Whole-Church Effort effort!” One place the Club 56 kids will help out this summer is at Vacation Bible School (VBS). According to Ashley Ellison, VBS lead volunteer and temporary Covenant employee, “The youth were our hardest-working volunteers last year. Period!
It’s not too late to get involved. VBS Mount Everest runs June 17–21 from 9 a.m. to noon. Come, volunteer or just experience the joy as the camp wraps up each day at 11:40 a.m. in FE 200. Contact Ashley at ahellison@yahoo.com.
Club 56 Motto: So two good things will result from this ministry of giving. The needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. — 2 Corinthians 9:12 11
GLIMPSES OF GOD “Where have you seen God at work in your lives?” asked Noah Genovisi while sharing his personal testimony with the congregation on Youth Sunday in mid-May. Noah and several kids spoke, offering insightful and inspiring messages. On that day, four kids were baptized and 32 confirmed as Covenant students led all worship services. Noah, a senior at Austin High School, offered two examples where he’s seen God at work in his life. He first told about when his grandfather was terminally ill with kidney cancer. The doctors told him to get rid of everything because he wouldn’t live much longer. While he was in hospice,
12
his grandfather’s white blood cell entire school had 400 kids and count started climbing. A couple his freshman class had about 70 days later, he told Noah’s dad, “I’d students. At Austin High School, like a hamburger.” That was 20 his class alone had 400 students. years ago. “I knew no one. I went to school as late as possible and left as quickly At the time, Noah’s mom, Jen, as I could after the bell rang.” was an investigative reporter. She went to the same church as his Noah said that the following grandfather and wanted to interyear, he started marching band view him about what it was like and met great friends. “I noticed to be in hospice care. Afterward, kids who were always alone. No she asked him if there was anyone was reaching out to them. I thing that she could do for him. thought, ‘This is why I am here.’ He said, “Meet my son.” I started inviting kids to have lunch with me. The reason I went Noah was born a few years later. through the move was so I would help other kids.” Noah was a freshman in high school when his family moved to Alana Raper, a sophomore at Austin from Tennessee where his McCallum, said she experienced
culture shock after her trip to Belize. Upon returning to Austin, she was volunteering at a daycare center and became very aware of the differences between American kids and the children she met in Belize.
schools. Parents have to pay for their kids to go to school. They also have to pay for uniforms and school supplies. For so many people, that’s really hard to do. Returning from Belize, I am thankful I go to school every day.”
“The kids in Belize were so grateful for every little thing they had. One day, there were a bunch of tires. The kids would jump up and down on the tires, race them back and forth, and stack them up, climbing inside and toppling them over. They probably spent three or four hours finding things to do with tires. They don’t have tons of plastic, manufactured toys that make sounds. They play with what they have and are more than grateful.
Alana continued that despite all the differences, “What I do have in common with the people I met is my love for Christ.”
“So many times we go through the day and get upset about things that others would be grateful for. I am grateful to be stuck in traffic on MoPac because it means I have a car and can afford gas. I’m sure my parents are thankful they have to pay taxes because it means they have jobs. I’m thankful I spend seven hours a day, five days a week in a giant concrete building because it means I go to school and get an education. In Belize, there aren’t any public
Josh Burton, a junior at Westwood High School, said Belize was a major turning point in his life. He’d started to go to church with a girlfriend his freshman year. He said the relationship ended, but his interest in religion did not.
but something was always missing. In Belize, I found that thing and it was God.” Emily Goulet, a sophomore at McCallum, felt her faith grow when she became a student leader. Emily always liked coming to church, she just had so many questions. That all changed when she became a student leader. To be a leader, Emily said she was told to spend time with God daily. “Reading and praying every day allowed me to become so close to God. It became habit. When we were planning and then leading small groups for middle schoolers, I felt like I was doing what I was meant for. My faith is now full and joyful.”
“I found my faith home at Covenant. That was something I never had before. Amid all my spiritual growth, I was struggling to find my purpose. I was jealous of the kids who knew what they wanted to do. I am good at a lot of things, Tess McCarthy, Caytie Jenkins and Tab McCarthy
13
PICTURE PERFECT PICNIC “The picnic is one of those things where you see the best of Covenant,” Thomas Daniel said after a fun day at the home of Harold and Jan Skaggs where Covenant members and friends enjoyed perfect weather, splashing in the water, frisbee and kickball, listening to music and just being together.
The Skaggs thanked all those who chipped in to make the picnic easy. Harold said, “When God chooses to grow green grass, bring clear, cool water from springs and provide a picture-perfect day for His children to gather, He doesn’t mess around! God is good all the time!”
Harold and Jan were thankful for all those who came out to the picnic, and Harold said, “What a wonderful experience of ‘church family.’ We had a blast and are still rejoicing over the baptisms, laughter, shrieks of delight, meaningful conversations and general good times.”
Jan and Harold gave special thanks to:
Jill Williams braved the chilly water with the Feger family, baptizing Jack (10), Jessie (6) and Michelle (2). The three all got immersed with smiles on their faces. Jill said they were a bit worried about how Michelle would react, but said, “She did great!” “This is the perfect place to have a baptism,” said Beth Feger, mother to the three. “Our church family is all here. What a fun day!”
14
• The planning committee with its attention to organizational detail and publicity. • The greeters at the turquoise table who welcomed so many new and long-time folk • The members of the 20s/30s group who came to set up and stayed to take down • Those who rescued canoes and retrieved swimming ropes and signs • The saints who hauled off the trash — Terry Cole and Monroe Talley — and • The Sons of the Southfork for their wonderful music!
CELEBRATING MOMS More than 100 Covenant members and friends spent Mother’s Day weekend at Mo Ranch for two days that are all about having fun! JJ Baskin helped bring the event back last year, with planning in full swing by the time he was diagnosed with cancer. Until 2007, the well-attended Mo Ranch weekend was planned by church staff. Amy Skaggs, Covenant’s visitor and new member coordinator, said, “The weekend is easy to plan
because there’s no program and no childcare. It’s really relaxed; a time to just be in fellowship with each other. Anyone can come. The women do a devotional on Saturday. During that time, the guys take the kids to do a service project. We have a worship service on Sunday. The rest of the weekend is open to do what you want.” “Mo Ranch is a great example of parents and kids doing life together,” said Senior Pastor Thomas Daniel.
CLERK’S CORNER May is the month when the Session class changes, and Clerk of Session Melanie Williamson has rolled off Session with the rest of the class of 2015. I’m Clark Weatherby, a member of the class of 2017 now serving
as Clerk. As I am in my second consecutive Session term, I had the honor of serving with the 2015 class for their entire term. Praise be to God for the gifts and time that Don Davis, Evangeline Herring, Chuck Ruesink, Melanie
Williamson and Cindy Young selflessly shared over the last three years! Extra thanks to Melanie for the work she did as Clerk through an extended interim period, a time with no
15
blessing for elders, as we get to hear how God is working in the lives of our youth. Whitney Bell, associate director for Student Ministries, reported on the mission trip the youth took to Belize.
senior pastor and shepherding our new senior pastor. She handled the job with great skill and grace, and leaves a well-functioning Session and very large shoes to fill! In our April meeting, we had the privilege of examining 23 high school students who had just completed confirmation class, and were ready to make a public declaration of faith and join Covenant. This “exam” is a
Also in April, we approved worship schedules for summer and fall. Starting June 28, we will have three services, 8:15 (communion), 9:30 (traditional) and 11 (contemporary). On Aug. 30, we resume four services with a slight modificaton: 8:15 (communion), 9:30 and 11 (traditional) and 11:10 (contemporary). The contemporary service’s later start allows more time for a single pastor to be present in all services. At our May meeting, we welcomed the class of 2018 onto Session. The new members are:
FINANCE REPORT Financial Update
For Period Ended April 30, 2015
GENERAL FUND Revenues Expenses
YTD Actual
YTD Budget
$1,099,039 986,497 112,542
1,179,969 1,087,727 92,242
BUILDING FUND Total Loan Balance Principal Reduction YTD
Matt Dow, Kelly Dwyer, Jack Kern, Regina Schlotter and Sharyn Westmoreland. We spent our monthly prayer and devotional time to hear a bit more of each elder’s story. Please be in prayer for our new members. As both a welcome to the new elders and a review for the others, and to define a common ground among three classes, we discussed how we can be most effective as a Session. We look forward to working as a team with pastors and staff on the tasks that lie ahead! While giving this year has significantly increased, we are still approximately $115,00 behind on pledges. Careful spending by our committees has kept us in the black, but as we head into summer with vacation schedules and generally lower attendance, please make sure you are current on your pledges. These funds are essential as we continue to love our neighbors as ourselves, allowing us to reduce our debt by nearly $8,000 a month while directing the same amount each month to our mission partners. GRACE AND PEACE,
$ 6,445,686 66,133
CLARK WEATHERBY
16
CALENDAR OF EVENTS Covenant worship times are shifting! On June 28, we start a summer schedule. For nine Sundays during summer, Covenant will have two traditional worship services— at 8:15 and 9:30—and a contemporary service at 11 a.m. Starting Aug. 30, Covenant will resume its winter schedule with a slight modification. We will have traditional services at 8:15, 9:30 and 11 a.m. Our contemporary service will begin at 11:10 a.m. The Worship Task force met with many people, groups and staff members over the year, and conducted a survey, concluding the delayed start time of the contemporary service offers more flexibility to the pastor. Party on the Patio will also be on Aug. 30. SENIOR ACTIVITIES DAY
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Tuesday, June 2, 10 a.m. in FE 200
June 15–19, 9 a.m. to noon, FE 200
GOSPEL NIGHT
CHURCHWIDE GATHERING OF PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN
Wednesday, June 3, 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary
June 18–22, Minneapolis, Minn. CWU WELLSPRING BIBLE STUDY
Friday, June 5 9:30 a.m. at University Presbyterian Church
MISSION TRIP—MIDDLE SCHOOL
GRADUATION DAY FOR ALL ELEMENTARY, MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
SUMMER WORSHIP SCHEDULE STARTS
Sunday, June 7, 4th and 6th graders start with new groups
June 20–26, Oklahoma City, Okla.
Sunday, June 28 Three services: 8:15, 9:30 and 11 Contemporary REEL MINISTRY
HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER NIGHTS
July 8 – August 5, 7 p.m. in FE 200
June 7, 14, 28 and July 5, 19, and 26 Meet at the church, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
SENIOR ACTIVITIES DAY
Tuesday, July 7, 10 a.m. in FE 200 MANOS BACK-TO-SCHOOL COLLECTION
June 7, 14, 21 and 28, 9:30 a.m. on the patio
FUN IN THE SON—HIGH SCHOOL RETREAT
July 12–17, South Padre Island, Texas MIDDLE SCHOOL SWIM PARTIES
June 10, July 1, 8 and 22, Church’s House June 17, Daniel’s House July 29, Skaggs’ House
CHRISTMAS IN JULY
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL MEETING
STUDENT MINISTRY – FLOAT THE COMAL
Thursday, June 9, 6 p.m. in FE 200
Monday, July 27 , 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sunday, July 26, 9:30 and 11 a.m. in FE 400 (Check in like normal)
17
3003 Northland Drive Austin, TX 78757
OFFICERS AND STAFF OF COVENANT PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH DEACONS
ELDERS
CLASS OF 2016
CLASS OF 2017
CLASS OF 2018
CLASS OF 2016
CLASS OF 2017
CLASS OF 2018
Mike Austin Jennifer Carsner Jane Crowe Kay Davenport Dustin Johnson Michael Knisely Bill McCaleb Andrea Moen Julie Moore Ken Moore Jennifer Palm Ryan Palm Bob Peterson Cherry Raley Jack Skaggs Allison Small Bridgette Stahlman Emily Taylor Gwyn Theodore Donna Thomas Steve Thomas Kristen Tritle Kathy Willis Shannon Windham
Pat Beckham Charlene Cole Daphne Corder Al DiCristofaro Marv Hackert Tom Hutchison Barbara Knisely Dorothy Layne Patsy Martin A.V. Ootsey Kathleen Reish Mike Rhoades Ruth Rhoades Will Schmidt Florita Sheppard Carol Sheppard Brent Stover Lee Terrell Lorrie Terrell Adele Trigg Greg Wilson Sandy Youman Wesley Young
Rhonda Brink-Green Diane Davis Sue DiCristofaro Judy Gunnels Laura Hargrave Christy Heimsath Margaret Hobgood Marsha LeGrand Lori Magruder Laura Marra Dave Maxwell Karen Maxwell Elizabeth McBride Susie McCaleb Emily McGinnis Marta Meyer Jim Palmer Alice Sessi Bill Short Richard Swallow Doug Vreeland Deon Wright Larry Zatopek
Paul Askenasy Jennifer Maham Deb Rieber John Ruwwe Frank Sheppard
Joe Denton Susan Holman Thais Kilday James Marroquin Clark Weatherby
Matt Dow Kelly Dwyer Jack Kern Regina Schlotter Sharyn Westmoreland
FOUNDATION TRUSTEES CLASS OF 2016
CLASS OF 2017
CLASS OF 2018
Larry Faulkner Tana Taylor
Dianne Erlewine Joanne McIntosh
Elizabeth Christian Everard Davenport Megan Poore
PROGRAM STAFF Thomas R. Daniel, Senior Pastor Thomas W. Brown, Director of Music Ministry Duane Dube, Director of Administration Jill Williams, Associate Pastor for Congregational Care Ministries Christy Milam, Director of Preschool John Schmidt, Organist Stephanie Schultz, Director of Communications Stacey Grooms, Director of Children and Preteen Ministry Nathan Richards, Director of Student Ministries Jerry Wise, Contemporary Music Leader Derek Nafe, Creative Arts Producer
Sunday Worship Times: Traditional Service 8:15, 9:30, and 11 a.m. Contemporary Service 11 a.m.
