The Connection August 8, 2011

AUGUST.8.2011

Christ Church has a God inspired dream that every person in worship will be connected to a Sunday School class, HomeGroup, or Bible Study.

Inside this issue you will find stories, testimonies and information that will hopefully motivate us to be part of the commitment to live out this vision. Our church staff, lay leaders and many disciples in our congregation would love an opportunity to personally help you find the best environment for you to be nourished and grow in the Word of God. How can we help you? people helping people find fullness in Christ worship • connect • grow • serve

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

Have you noticed a drought?

BY KAREN LAMOTTA

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF OUTREACH

So, I ask you, have you noticed a drought? Oh, I know everyone in the area is aware of the high temperatures and lack of rain, but I am talking about something different. I am thinking about a personal drought, a spiritual dryness. Has busyness and life’s demands left you feeling parched or empty? Is your faith foundation securely supported? Could you use some refreshment and nourishment? Are you thirsty?

The approaching start of school is a great time for all of us to be intentionally more committed to growing in our knowledge and understanding of God’s Word. I hope you will deeply “water your soul.” I encourage you to not only faithfully attend weekly worship but also to find a Sunday School class, HomeGroup or Bible study where you can dig deeply into the Bible. From my

own experiences, I trust that as you more intentionally commit to worship, prayer and Bible study, the closer you will feel to God and the more securely you can rest in the assurance of His love and grace, and the more deeply nourished you will be by His Word. I suspect that you will begin to feel the end of a drought.

If you are one who already has a great discipline of Bible study, congratulations. I commend you and encourage you to keep it up. I also encourage you to discover ways to help others get there. Will you facilitate a Bible study, teach a children’s Sunday School class, or start a new HomeGroup? How can you help? If not you, who will?

May you be showered with God’s blessings in ways that you have not yet imagined.

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Last Saturday I was awakened in the early morning by the pleasant sound of rain. As I listened with gratitude to the refreshing rhythm, I pondered about how much my yard would benefit. While watering just does not get the job done, a simple shower can bring renewed life to my parched plants. Last summer the realities of the drought hit us even harder as we became aware that our thirsty oak trees had consumed so much of the moisture from deep within the ground that the foundation of our house was compromised and resulted in some costly damage. I thought I had been paying attention; I thought I was watering deeply enough but obviously not enough for a secure foundation. It occurs to me that there are a lot of similarities between caring for our yards and the foundation of our homes and caring for the foundations of our faith.

All that my Master is

BY LYNN TAYLOR

JESUS

Dawson Trotman, founder of The Navigators, had an incredible passion for discipleship, so much so that it’s rumored he often picked up hitchhikers primarily for the chance to witness to them. (Perhaps this was where the term “captive audience” originated!) One day and as he had done many times before, Trotman spotted a young man wandering along the highway in search of a ride and invited him into his vehicle, where he promptly handed him a gospel tract. The young man glanced at the tract, then said, “Haven’t I seen you somewhere before?” Trotman studied his passenger’s face more closely and realized they had indeed crossed paths on the same road about a year earlier. At that first meeting, Trotman had witnessed to the young man, led him to Christ, then went along his way, confident that another soul had entered the kingdom. But during this second encounter, Trotman was disheartened to note that the young man was exhibiting few signs of spiritual growth. Alarmed by this truth, Dawson Trotman began seeking out some of his earlier “converts” and likewise found in them little evidence of growth or maturity.

Evangelizing was clearly only Step 1 in the making of a disciple, so Trotman resolved to mentor and encourage those to whom he witnessed in hopes that they might become committed followers of Jesus Christ.

Perhaps your first reaction to DISCIPLE Bible Study is similar to mine when I first considered taking the course. What, 34 weeks, really? “I am a very busy and important person and I do not have time for that!”

But, I have learned in my faith journey, that when I prioritize my time correctly and commit faithfully to study the Bible, the rest of my schedule falls in place just fine. DISCIPLE Bible Study was a life changing event for me and so many others at Christ Church, so I encourage you to allow yourself the freedom to grow in community with other believers. Several hours a week is a small price for knowledge. You won’t know until you go.

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

BENITA SEBESTA SUNDAY RECEPTIONIST

DISCIPLE 1 CLASS STARTING SEPTEMBER 18 •6:00 PM

DISCIPLE Bible Study is a life-changing program which encourages participants to nourish their faith and live as disciples of Jesus Christ. Disciple I is the first class in the DISCIPLE Bible Study series, and a prerequisite for further Disciple studies.

Being part of this small group Bible study will: •Help you understand what you read in the Bible •Help you read 70% of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, in 34 weeks •Help you grow closer to God •Help you develop new friendships with others in your group This class requires a commitment to attend the weekly, 2 ½ hour group sessions along with daily study of approximately 40 minutes. Registration is available at www.cumcsl.org/studies, and the class is $40. Contact Jeanne Damon at Jeanne@cumcsl.org or 281.690.4756 for more information.

I joined Christ Church in 1992 with my 2 small children.

I threw myself into serving to set an example for my children and to show them you are called by God to step up when needed. Then, and now, I knew many people around me who were involved in adult Sunday School classes, Bible studies, or HomeGroups, but I never seemed to push myself to get involved in them. I didn’t feel I was missing much anyway. I grew up in a Christian family who instilled in me Bible stories about grace and salvation. I was confident in what I knew about the Bible.

Not long ago an opportunity presented itself to join a DISCIPLE class, a 34-week study in which you read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. It was a commitment I told myself I finally wanted to make. I was humbled by what I knew compared to what I didn’t know. Well, really it wasn’t so much of what I didn’t know but coming to understand the big picture God is presenting to us when you read it from beginning to end. I had never done that before; I had only read parts here and there.

It was such an eye opener for me and impacted me in ways I never thought possible. I cry when asked to talk about my experience because I am so overwhelmed by this message God has for each of us about love, mercy, forgiveness, grace, salvation, etc. I don’t just want to believe in Christ; I want to live with Christ, and studying the Bible allowed that to happen. I want to be a spiritually-filled Christian, one who grows in faith by studying His Word. I crave more and can’t wait to begin another DISCIPLE class.

I thought I was doing everything right as a churchgoer, but now I can say I know I am on the right path because I have come full circle. Worship is praising and thanking God and giving Him all the glory. Serving is helping others for the good of all His people. Growing is studying God’s Word and letting it fill you with the Holy Spirit. If you haven’t made a commitment to dig into God’s Word yet, I encourage you to be a part of DISCIPLE Bible Study and see if it doesn’t make a difference in your life!

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Much like that hitchhiker, I once wandered along life’s proverbial highway, possessing little or no understanding of all Jesus Christ had done for me. That is, until God mercifully placed in my path a “Dawson Trotman” who shared with me the gospel message, thus providing me with a brief introduction to the One I’m called to imitate. To become an imitator of Christ, however, would require more than a simple introduction; I would need to get to know Him better. And God first gave me that opportunity via a DISCIPLE Bible study several years ago. In that blessed setting, I was surrounded and encouraged by others also desiring to grow in resemblance to Christ. During that year, I immersed myself in Scripture and began fostering those spiritual disciplines that would afford me the chance not only to better know and understand my Savior, but also to become more like Him. For “a student learns what his teacher knows, but a disciple becomes what his Master is.” Countless studies and many small group gatherings later, I remain a work in progress. Still, my greatest hope is that, somewhere, my own “Dawson Trotman” is smiling as he watches me…striving to become all that my Master is.

I thought I was doing everything right as a churchgoer.

I attended worship each week, and I was serving in a number of capacities at church. I felt good about my life as a Christian here at Christ Church, but I knew I needed to be doing more.

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

Are they growing?

BY INGRED LATHROP

DIRECTOR OF CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

Open your Bible to Deuteronomy 6:5-9 and you will find a pretty clear picture of the goal and the way to get there. “Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your heart. IMPRESS them on your children.” It is a love thing. God gave you these precious children, and He wants their hearts.

We want to control their behavior, but God wants to capture their hearts. He wants their LOVE, and He wants you to impress His Love on their hearts.

“TALK about them when you sit at home when you walk along the road [today’s version: drive around Sugar Land in your minivan], when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.”

In other words, impress them on your children again and again. Kids need repetition. Use the context of everyday, ordinary life to teach your children about God. Every day, everywhere,

all the time, over and over again, talk to your kids about God. Use repetition! For better or worse, you are teaching them something every day. The only question is whether you’re making a conscious choice about what you are teaching them.

God created the family to be a discipleship center. The biblical model is for parents to be the primary faith shapers in the lives of their children. So, if your desire is to have children who love God and live according to His character, what is your plan? Family involvement and participation in a faith environment are foundational ingredients. Make your home a place where faith is nurtured. Some suggestions are to set a devotional time each week. There are great resources like Faith Conversations for Families by Jim Burns or Passing the Baton by Grant Edwards. Immerse your children in the Scripture; read the Bible together. Kids love to act out stories so assign parts, and act out Bible stories. Pray with and for your children. Look for God sightings. Ask your children every day, “Where have you seen God today?”

Make worship and Sunday School attendance a priority. Find ways to serve as a family. Be a part of the serving ministry which ministers to your children. These things will impact your kid’s heart for Christ. Did I mention repetition?

Research tells us that the greatest opportunity to impact the faith of a child occurs before the age of 10. It’s okay not to have all the answers or do things perfectly.

The important thing is that you get started, and Children’s Ministry is here to support your family as they grow.

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It is going to happen before your very eyes. If you have kids, they are growing. We know they are growing physically…just try on last year’s school clothes. We know they are growing in knowledge. But, are they growing spiritually? How do we know? When my kids were little, we started marking their growth on the pantry doorframe. Every time I open the pantry I am reminded of how much my children have grown. We know how much our kids are growing in knowledge thanks to report cards, TAKS testing, the SAT and so on. So, what is the goal in regards to spiritual growth?

FULL OF LIFE! Are you running on empty? Well, fill ‘er up!

Older Adult Ministries at Christ Church offers opportunities for people age 55+ to gather with others in Christian fellowship and experience God in a variety of ways.

• ENCORE! includes worship, lunch and entertaining/educational programs • Prayer Shawl Team knits/crochets prayer shawls for those in need • Volunteer Receptionists greet/answer the phone during the week • Sunday School Classes study with the Jubilee Class, Weavers, etc.

• S.A.G.E. presents monthly medical seminars • One-Room Book Club discusses book of the month • Game Day provides fun playing Bridge, Mexican Train, etc.

• Men’s Lunch meets to eat and talk monthly • Senior Ringers practice ringing chimes or handbells for worship • Gentle Yoga works on flexibility, balance, strength and breathing • 5th Wednesday Seminars presents information on issues pertinent for older adults • JOY! goes off-site on day trips for enrichment and recreation • Friday Terrace Bible Study focuses on Scripture at weekly gatherings All within our congregation and our community are welcome to participate in OAM activities.

For more information, contact Jan Randolph at jan@cumcsl.org or call 281.980.6888.

You can also visit www.cumcsl.org/oam for complete listings and monthly calendars.

In John 10:10 Jesus said “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

FREE COMMUNITY - WIDE

9/11 CON CERT TO HONOR EMERGENCY & MILITARY PERSONNEL FEATURING Nash 3

9.11.2011

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7:00 - 8:30 PM

UNITED METHODIST MOMENT

BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR

I often wonder how John Wesley would respond if asked, “Mr. Wesley, what must we do to grow in our discipleship?” I imagine that he would shift his weight in his chair, sit a little straighter and taller (a bit of a comical sight given his short stature), and reply with the utmost seriousness while peering intently over his glasses, “Why, you must become a person of the Book!”

Mr. Wesley was without a doubt a man of one Book – the Bible. We Methodists, therefore, refer to ourselves as “people of the Book”. That means we are people who rely on God’s Word to be the foundation for our faith and the source of our values as we turn to its stories for the guidance we need to make moral and ethical decisions that result in the common good.

Wesley believed the Bible was our primary source for growth – the well we could return to, over and over again, to quench our thirst for knowledge and an experience of God, to explore the depths of God’s call upon our lives, and to draw up and discern God’s will for our lives.

After rising from his chair and reciting his sermon, “The Scripture Way of Salvation”, I then imagine that he would go on to remind us that any spiritual growth accomplished in our lives comes through an inner renewal that can only be wrought by the grace and power of God. We are asked to seek that renewal and growth and, by faith, expect it to happen. In essence we must accept the call to discipleship, which, as daunting as that may sound, simply means to become a learner.

We learn in many ways. In recent years, we United Methodists have discovered that people learn in a variety of ways according to how God put them together, especially with regard to how their brains process information. Some of us are visual learners; some, auditory. Others of us are kinetic learners; we have to “do the thing” to “get it”. Still others of us learn with the aid of music and sound or math and structure. We’ve learned how important the “environment” can be and what a difference a well-prepared teacher/leader/facilitator/guide can make. We know others can help our growth along, too: family members, friends, others in the church, colleagues and co-workers. We’re open to learning from working together in task groups in the church and community, and are willing to glean good reading, excellent drama, and the finer arts for their wisdom. That openness is also key, for we say we are people of “open minds” as well as “open hearts” and “open doors”. Having an “open mind” is essential to growing in our learning and in our discipleship.

Our United Methodist Book of Discipline has a rather lengthy section on Christian Education (i.e., spiritual growth and discipleship). It calls on every congregation to base its Christian Education philosophy on biblical foundations consistent with our Doctrinal Standards.

It also requires us to develop opportunities for spiritual growth that appeal to persons of different ages, lifestyles, learning needs, and theological perspectives. We do a really good job of that at Christ Church by offering a variety of small group opportunities, so no one here need ever be without a way to grow as a learner and disciple of Jesus Christ. We believe that the church (our church and every United Methodist church) is called to “nurture” human beings into the fullness of their humanity, not because of who we are, but because they are created by God and loved through and by Jesus Christ. That, I imagine Mr. Wesley might say, is enough.

We will be publishing periodic articles on our United Methodist heritage and beliefs. If you have a topic you would like addressed, please send your requests to Karen LaMotta at KarenL@cumcsl.org.

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

Teachers and Leaders to Be Commissioned in Worship on Promotion Sunday Sunday, August 21st is Promotion Sunday. Public schools resume during that week. And public school and private school teachers will have had many inservice days by then. Our Christ Church teachers and leaders have been making their preparations, too, so we want to recognize them and commission them in every worship service that morning, including the hub service. At a certain point in worship, the pastor will invite them forward for a time of recognition and prayer. But you’re invited to begin praying for them now, as well as for those they will teach and lead.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS

This is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other so they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. A.A. meets Mondays from 7:30 - 9:30 pm in Rooms 210/211 and Wednesdays from 12:00 - 1:00 pm in Room 305.

AL-ANON

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS

Overeaters Anonymous offers a program of recovery from compulsive eating and provides a fellowship of experience, strength and hope.

OA is not just about weight loss, gain or maintenance; or obesity or diets. It addresses physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop eating compulsively. O.A. meets on Wednesdays from 6:30 - 7:30 pm in Room 305.

If your life has been affected by someone FOR MORE INFORMATION ON ALL THREE else’s drinking, there is hope. Al-Anon meets OF THESE PROGRAMS, PLEASE CONTACT on Mondays from 12:00 - 1:00 pm in FLC Room RENEE TEEL AT 281.980.6888.

305. Al-Anon is an anonymous fellowship.

“The primary task of every congregation is to reach out to welcome people where they are and to receive them as they are; to relate them to God through Jesus Christ; to nurture their growth in faith; to send them into the world to live as disciples of Jesus Christ. . . . Teaching is both a call and a privilege. It is an honor to be involved in the work of helping people learn the content of the faith and explore ways to live their faith day by day. . . . If we respond to the call to teach, we have this promise: God will be with us and will bless our ministry of teaching!”

May God richly bless all our teachers and leaders as they begin a new year at Christ Church.

Amen.

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Lets talk about it

“What Every Teacher Needs to Know About Teaching” is a booklet printed by Discipleship Resources. The following quote offers encouragement to teachers and leaders, but also calls all of us to take up the task of making disciples for Jesus Christ by being those people who help people find fullness in Christ:

GROW MARK 12:30 CLASS MONDAYS, SEPT 12 - MAY 21• 6:30 - 8:30 PM • 302/303

This class emphasizes health and wellness education and is based on Mark 12:30, which says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.”

The Program: • teaches how God calls us each to be free from strongholds in order to serve and love Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength and achieve emotional, spiritual, mental and physical health along with wellness and balance • utilizes tools from First Place 4 Health, including a daily Bible study (www.firstplace4health.com) • provides weekly meetings with a small group for motivation and accountability • provides friends for support, encouragement and prayer The class is $95. Register at www.cumcsl.org/studies by September 12, or come learn more at the orientation Monday, August 29 from 6:45 - 7:30 pm. Contact Cathe Seaton at cathe@ thirtyonebeauty.com for more information.

WOMEN’S FALL RETREAT OCTOBER 7 - 9 • CAMP TEJAS

Women, you’re invited to step away from the stresses and demands of life to be refreshed and renewed at our annual women’s retreat in beautiful Giddings, TX. Our speaker, Rev. Jessica LaGrone, Pastor of Worship at The Woodlands UMC, will present Broken and Blessed: How One Dysfunctional Family Changed the World. Find out how God can use one person to change a family and how God can use one family to change the world. Register online at www.cumcsl.org/women. Earlybird registration is $160 through the month of August and $175 thereafter ($50 deposit available; balance due by September 18).

Contact Jeanne Damon at Jeanne@cumcsl.org or 281.690.4756 for more information.

COMPANIONS IN CHRIST STARTING SEPTEMBER 18 • 5:00 PM • SCOUT SHACK

Are you seeking deeper spiritual growth? Do you sense there is “something more” spiritually for you, but you’re not quite sure what it is? Enrich your spiritual growth through Companions in Christ. Companions in Christ is a spiritual formation experience engaging you in a journey of spiritual growth and discovery. This 28-week journey utilizes daily individual readings and exercises along with a weekly small group meeting creating a setting where you can respond to God’s call to an ever-deepening communion and wholeness in Christ. This class is free, but participants are asked to visit www.cumcsl.org/studies and register.

HOUSTON LAY SCHOOL EVENT SATURDAY, AUGUST 13 • 9 AM - 3:30 PM• ST PAUL UMC

Perkins School of Theology is providing a class especially designed for lay people like you and me. This is the same school that prepared our pastors for their ministry so you know they are good. This class is a Bible study on the Gospel of Mark and will be taught by Dr. Abraham Smith who is a Professor of New Testament at Perkins School of Theology. I attended a class taught by Dr. Smith, and it was excellent. I really hope you will join me in taking this course. More information can be found at http://tinyurl.com/3dqrpj4 or by contacting me, Mark Larson at 281.261.6481.

WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY FELLOWSHIP STARTING SEPTEMBER 13 • 7 PM

If you’re ready for an in-depth Bible study, you invited to a Precept Upon Precept study on Exodus: Let My People Go. This 11-week class will be led by Laura Gratz. Register at www.cumcsl.org/ women ; the class is $25.

STARTING SEPTEMBER 8 • 9:30 AM • VOLUNTEER CENTER

Join us as we study Bad Girls of the Bible by Liz Curtis Higgs. This class will be led by Debe Fannin. Register at www.cumcsl.org/ women; the class is $25.

STARTING SEPTEMBER 12 •9:30 - 11:30 AM • 11/12

We will be studying “Live Deeply, a Study in the Parables of Jesus”

by Lenya Heitzig and Penny Rose This class will be led by Jeanette Stoltz. Register at www.cumcsl.org/women; the class is $25.

STARTING SEPTEMBER 13 • 7 PM

Ladies, join us for the fun and humorous study Me and My Big Mouth by Joyce Meyer. This 6-week class will be led by Mindy King in her home near Highlands Elementary. Register at www.cumcsl. org/women; the class is $20.

FRAPPE WITH PHILIPPIANS: WOMEN’S SUMMER BIBLE STUDY AUGUST 16 • VOLUNTEER CENTER

Join us Tuesday, August 16 for our final class. We’ll enjoy coffee, fellowship and a closer look at this joyful epistle. Even if you haven’t been able to make any of the other sessions, you’re still welcome to join us for this one.

SECOND HALF OF MARRIAGE STUDY STARTING OCTOBER 9• SUNDAYS• 6:00 PM

“Facing the 8 Challenges of Empty Nest Years” is a 4-week study.

The authors reveal marital challenges every long term marriage faces in those empty nest years. The study will take place at the home of Ace and Cathy Alexander. Register at www.cumcsl. org/studies or contact Jeanne Damon at Jeanne@cumcsl.org or 281.690.4756 for more information.

CHRIST CHURCH SCHOOL REGISTRATION

Christ Church School has limited openings in the Toddler I and Toddler II classes, Bridge Class and the Kindergarten Class for the 2011-2012 school year. For more information, please contact Beth or Becky at 281.980.2582, Monday through Friday.

MIDDLE SCHOOL FLIPSIDE • SUNDAYS • 5 - 7:15 PM • GYM

All middle school youth (6th – 8th grade) are invited to join us in the Family Life Center Gym every Sunday night from 5:00 - 7:15 pm. We will begin with games, then move to a small group time and end with worship.

HIGH SCHOOL THE LOFT • SUNDAYS • 6:15 - 8:30 PM • FLC

This is a great place for high school youth to hang out and relax together in Christian fellowship, Sundays from 6:15 - 8:30 pm in the Family Life Center.

THE ENCOUNTER • WEDNESDAYS • 7 - 8:30 PM • CHAPEL

High school students are invited to this weekly Bible study, Wednesday evenings from 7 - 8:30 pm in the Chapel.

FACEBOOK.COM/CUMCSL

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

TWITTER.COM/CUMCSL

Alpha is a course which explores the validity and relevance of the Christian faith for our lives today. It is a practical introduction to the basics of Christianity and offers a relaxed, comfortable place to ask questions. Alpha will meet Thursdays from 6:30 8:30 pm, and each session includes a delicious dinner. Childcare is available. Register at www.cumcsl.org/studies or contact Jeanne Damon at Jeanne@cumcsl.org or 281.690.4756 for more information.

DISCIPLE 1 CLASS STARTING SEPTEMBER 18 •6:00 PM

DISCIPLE Bible Study is a life-changing program which encourages participants to nourish their faith and live as disciples of Jesus Christ. Disciple I is the first class in the DISCIPLE Bible Study series, and a prerequisite for further Disciple studies.

Being part of this small group Bible study will: •Help you understand what you read in the Bible •Help you read 70% of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, in 34 weeks •Help you grow closer to God •Help you develop new friendships with others in your group This class requires a commitment to attend the weekly, 2 ½ hour group sessions along with daily study of approximately 40 minutes. Registration is available at www.cumcsl.org/studies, and the class is $40. Contact Jeanne Damon at Jeanne@cumcsl. org or 281.690.4756 for more information.

CHILDRENS MINISTRY PROMOTION SUNDAY - AUGUST 21

On August 21 all of our children 18 months - 5th grade will be promoted to their new classes for the 2011-2012 Sunday School year. Christ Church has a God-inspired dream that every person in worship be connected to a Sunday School class, HomeGroup or Bible Study so that we can all further our faith and grow in knowledge and understanding of God. In Children’s Ministry, that would mean each child would be in Sunday School on Sunday mornings. Our Children’s Ministry leadership team has developed great curriculum with specific goals and objectives for each age and grade level which build a foundation for a life of faith. We pray that your family will make regular attendance a part of your weekly commitment.

If you would like to be a part of this exciting ministry by serving in a classroom, please contact Ingred Lathrop at children@cumcsl. org or call 281.690.4748. All children who have attended Sunday School here in the past will automatically be promoted to a new class on August 21. If your child has not yet attended Sunday School at Christ Church, please let us know so we can assign him or her to the appropriate class. We are looking forward to another great year of sharing the gift of God’s love with His children.

FINE ARTS ACADEMY PREPARES FOR NEW SCHOOL YEAR REGISTRATION OPEN NOW

Register now for the Fine Arts Academy fall semester! We offer piano, guitar, voice and oil painting lessons throughout the school year. More information can be found at www.cumcsl.org/music, or you can contact the Director, Lahonda Sharp, at 281.690.4741 for more information.

For a full listing of activities and ways you can get involved at Christ Church, please visit WWW.CUMCSL.ORG

This class is composed of singles and couples of all ages with a participatory format and Bible-based studies. Meets in the Bride’s Room.

9:45 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES ADVENTURERS

This class consists of couples in their 30’s - 50’s, with children of all ages. This group is a discussion-oriented class studying a variety of Biblical topics. We use study guides, videos, guest speakers and music to enhance our studies. Meets in room 302/303 in the Family Life Center.

BARNABAS

This class is a friendly community consisting of adults in their 40’s - 60’s united by a shared belief in Christ, seeking and providing encouragement to one another through prayer, Bible study, topical studies and lots of fellowship. Meets in the Chapel.

COUPLES FOR CHRIST

This class consists of married couples in their 20’s - 40’s with or without children. It is a relaxed, yet engaging class that provides Christ-centered fellowship, support, and opportunities for service.

Meets in the Bride’s Room (across from Sanctuary).

GRACE ABOUNDS

All ages and stages of life are welcome (married, single, single on Sunday). This class has a participatory rather than lecture format. We love a great discussion! Study facilitators rotate among interested class members. Meets in room 312 in the Family Life Center.

GRACE NOTES

This class is composed of choir members who love to study God’s word and discuss relevant issues. Meets in the Choir Room.

H.O.P.E. 24/7 (HEAR OUR PRAYERS EVERYDAY 24/7)

Our name reflects our focus on prayer. Discussion-oriented studies cover a range of topics to encourage spiritual growth. Socials and missions round out our activities for members, ages 40’s - 70’s. Meets in room 311 in the Family Life Center.

JUBILEE

This class is made up of mature individuals, ages 50+ who enjoy the fellowship of others and share in the nourishment gained from Biblebased studies. Lively discussions abound under the leadership of Jan Randolph. Meets in rooms 11/12.

SEEKERS

This is a class of mixed ages with couples, singles, and single on Sundays that concentrates on Bible study, missions and lively discussion. Meets in room 308 in the Family Life Center.

STAGES

This class consists of single parents, remarried couples, and blended families, ages 30-50’s, exploring a mix of Biblical studies and contemporary issues. Meets in room 310 in the Family Life Center.

TGIS (THANK GOD IT’S SUNDAY)

This class is made up of couples and singles of all ages who enjoy lively discussion and fellowship. Topics range from Bible study to contemporary issues and books. Meets in the Scout Shack.

WEAVERS

This class is made up of marrieds and singles, ages 55+, dedicated to Bible study, fellowship and service. This class is very mission-oriented.

Meets in the Library (upstairs across from the Sanctuary).

WOMEN’S CLASS

This class is made up of women of all ages whether married, single, widowed or divorced. We primarily do Bible-based studies and various service projects. Meets in room 307 in the Family Life Center.

CELEBRATE SINGLES SUNDAY SCHOOL

All singles are invited to join us for our new Sunday School class. The class begins September 11, 2011. Meets in room 309 in the Family Life Center.

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ALPHA STARTING IN SEPT • THURSDAYS• 6:30 - 8:30 PM

SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES 8:30 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES CRUSADERS

WORSHIP

SERVE

WEEKLY WORSHIP SCHEDULE - SUNDAYS CONTEMPORARY • 8:15 AM • SANCTUARY TRADITIONAL• 9:45 & 11:05 AM • SANCTUARY CASUAL - the hub• 11:00 AM • FAMILY LIFE CENTER GYM

CHOCOLATE, COFFEE AND TEA, OH MY! AUGUST 7 - 21• MINISTRY CENTER

HEALING PRAYER SERVICES - MONTHLY AUGUST 9 • 7 PM • SANCTUARY

If you are experiencing the grief of loss or suffering due to illness or brokenness, God is ready to bring healing, wholeness and salvation to you. Christ Church offers monthly services of hope and healing every second Tuesday of the month.

THE THREE THAT REMAIN: FAITH, HOPE, AND LOVE OUR NEXT SERMON SERIES • STARTING AUGUST 28

August 28: Faith For the Fearful - Isaiah 41:4b-13 September 4: Hope For the Weary - Isaiah 40:27-31 September 11: Love For Those Who Hate - Matthew 5:43-48 ALTAR PRAYER PARTNERS

Prayer partners connect people in need with the power and presence of God. Just reach out your hands at the altar rail during Communion or after worship, and a prayer partner will come pray with you.

CONNECT NEW MEMBER CLASS AUGUST 14

Membership is about much more than having your name on a roster; it is a commitment to grow spiritually and to participate in our life together at Christ Church. If you are looking for a new church home, we invite you to participate in our New Member Class. It is a great opportunity to learn more about spiritual growth and how we can help one another in our journey to find fullness in Christ. You will get to know the pastors, meet staff, make new friends, learn the vision of our church, find your unique ways to serve, and discover how to connect to a greater involvement within the church. Reserve your spot at our Welcome Center or online.

HIGH SCHOOL MONDAY MADNESS • MONDAYS • 7 - 9 PM

All high school youth (incoming 9th – outgoing 12th) are invited to join us weekly for Monday Madness from 7 - 9 pm. We will meet at various locations; go to www.cumcsl.org/youth for details and a complete schedule of upcoming events. Bring $ to play. Questions? Contact Tripp or Joan in the Youth office. THIS WEEK, August 8, no Fun Days due to Schlitterbahn trip.

MIDDLE SCHOOL TUESDAY FUN DAYS • TUESDAYS • 1 - 3 PM

Middle school youth (incoming 6th – 8th) are invited to join us weekly on Tuesdays for a fun activity on campus or off-site from 1 - 3 pm. We will meet at various locations; go to www.cumcsl. org/youth for details and a complete schedule of upcoming events. Bring $ to play. Questions? Contact Tripp or Joan in the Youth office. THIS WEEK, August 9, no Fun Days due to Schlitterbahn trip.

Come support and learn about the Christ Church Haiti Mission team! Free Trade chocolate, coffee, tea, Haitian jewelry, vanilla and tin art will be on sale in the Ministry Center August 14 and 21. We will also have a Silent Auction of unique pieces of Haitian artwork collected by a Christ Church member during a recent mission. The Silent Auction will close on August 21 at 11:00 am.

ADULT CHOIRS BEGIN

If you enjoy music and singing and fellowship now is a GREAT time to serve in one of our choirs. Joyful Noise sings at the 9:45 service and rehearses Sunday mornings at 8:30 am in the Choir Room. Chancel Choir sings at the 11:05 services and rehearses Wednesdays from 7 - 9 pm in the Choir room. The Chancel Choir will resume rehearsals on August 10, and both choirs will be back in the loft on Sunday, August 14. For more information, contact Lahonda Sharp at Lahonda@cumcsl.org or 281.690.4741.

CHILDRENS CHOIR REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

The Children’s Choirs are preparing for another terrific year. The Choirs are for Pre-K (age 4 by September 1st) – 5th grade children.

The choirs sing periodically during services and produce two children’s musicals each year. Choirs meet on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 - 6:30 pm and/or on Sunday mornings during the 8:15 and 11:05 services. In addition, we offer Choir Chimes for 3rd – 5th graders on Wed. from 5 – 5:30 pm. If you are interested in more information please contact Lahonda Sharp at 281.690.4741 or Lahonda@cumcsl.org or Tracei Wilson at 281.690.4759 or Tracei@cumcsl.org. Registration is now online at www.cumcsl.org/music .

WOMEN’S BREAKFAST: FASHION, FRIENDS & FINDS SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 • 9 AM • FLC GYM

Please join us for our Women’s Breakfast: Fashions, Friends and Finds.

This breakfast is a special outreach event for Dress For Success, a non-profit that provides interview appropriate clothing for low-income women. Image consultant, Rebecca Matthews, will also be back to give us some hints on the fall fashions and to let us shop from some of her fashion finds. The price is $35.

BACK TO SCHOOL DISTRIBUTION EVENT SATURDAYS, AUGUST 13 FROM 8:15 AM - 4 PM & AUGUST 20, 8:15 AM - 1PM

Hope on the Brazos will be held where students can be immunized, get a haircut, and qualified students may receive items through Common Threads. Common Threads has asked for volunteers from Christ Church to distribute school supplies, shoes, help clients shop for clothing, and more. Soles for Souls will be providing new shoes.

Students ages 11 & older are welcome to assist including those working for YES hours. Contact Sandra Vautrain at sandra625@ earthlink.net or 281.265.2404 for info.

THE UNITED METHODIST WOMEN ARE COLLECTING ITEMS FOR HEALTH KITS THROUGH SEPTEMBER18 • MINISTRY CENTER

You may obtain a list of the items we’re collecting at www.cumcsl. org/umw or at our table in the Ministry Center. You may also make a donation by indicating “health kit” in the memo line of your check; each kit cost approximately $12. Questions? Contact Lajuan Ellis-Thayer at 832.659.3529. Drop off items in the collection bins downstairs.

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FREEDOM WALK TOUR SEPT 8 & OCT 13• CAROL VANCE PRISON UNIT

The Freedom Walks are very moving and a lot of fun. They are on Thursdays at either 2:00 or 7:30 pm and only take 1 hour. We can also arrange tours for Bible studies and other groups if needed.

Individuals and groups should signup at least a week in advance.

Contact Betty Waedemon at 281.980.5368 to sign up for a walk or to get more information.

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY MONDAYS & FRIDAYS • 9 AM• VOLUNTEER CENTER

Join members of all ages as they create tangible expressions of the prayers of our church for those needing comfort, healing, assurance, and presence. We meet every Friday and Monday. If you don’t know how to crochet or knit, we will teach you! Email Jan Randolph at jan@cumcsl.org for information.

OUR NEXT HABITAT HOUSE BUILD FALL 2011

Christ Church will begin construction of its 11th Habitat for Humanity house this fall in the Teal Run Subdivision. Each Saturday we will need approximately 20 volunteers to work alongside the recipient of the home to complete the construction. If hammers and nails are not your strength, we also need folks to paint, install insulation, work on landscaping, and prepare and serve food for the volunteers.

Financial contributions, used to purchase the building materials, are also needed and can be made through the church office or during worship. Please write “Habitat” on the memo line. For more information on how you can get involved, please contact Stanton Brown (spbrown@hotmail.com) or Mark Buhrke (mbuhrke@fugro. com). Won’t you help us make someone’s dream of owning a home come true.

UM ARMY THANKS YOU FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT!

Dear Friends of U.M. ARMY, I wish to thank you for your generous donations to U.M. ARMY. Donations such as yours are extremely important and enable us to fulfill our mission to so many people. We are more than a little nervous as we look at rising prices for fuel, food, and building materials. But as a testament to our being “ye of little faith”, God moves in the hearts of many compassionate and giving people, people such as you, and provides “a good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over…” As a result we are able to provide hundreds of low-income homeowners with needed repairs such as wheelchair ramps, roof repairs, steps and handrails, porch repairs, exterior siding and painting. In addition to this we witness the work of the Spirit in our youth as they grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ through God’s Word, mission work, prayer, and worship. Thank you for your support. U.M. ARMY witnesses to all people the love of Christ, and this is made possible by the generous giving of those who support our mission.

BOOKSTORE B I B LES

BY TRICIA BALTAZAR

CHRIST CORNER BOOKSTORE MANAGER

The Bible, by definition, is the sacred book of the Christian religion. A good Bible is a basic “must have” for anyone looking to grow with respect to personal faith, relationship with God, biblical knowledge and relationship with other Christians.

When it comes to selecting a Bible, there are many options available. The two most popular translations sold in Christ Corner Bookstore are the New International Version (NIV) and the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV). The Message is a paraphrase version that is popular as well. The Bible translation that can be found in the pews at Christ Church is the NRSV.

Within each type of translation of the Bible, there are many versions available. There are study Bibles, devotional Bibles, parallel Bibles, children’s Bibles, Biblezines and the list goes on.

A few bookstore favorites are: My Goodnight Bible The Action Bible

The Adventure Bible The Manga Bible

Women’s Devotional Bible The Grandmother’s Bible

Men’s Devotional Bible Life Application Study Bible

Archaeological Study Bible The Case for Christ Study Bible

Apologetics Study Bible NIV/The Message Parallel Bible

Study aides can be helpful as well in your quest to understand the Bible. Bible dictionaries, Bible commentaries and concordances are all useful tools to help further your knowledge and understanding of God’s Word.

The bookstore stocks a wide selection of Bibles and study aides. Special orders can be placed as well. Whichever translation and version of the Bible you choose to read and study, know that it is God’s desire that we encounter Him in His Word. Blessed reading.

Sincerely, David Sabom - Executive Director

For a full listing of activities and ways you can get involved at Christ Church, please visit WWW.CUMCSL.ORG

people helping people find fullness in Christ worship • connect • grow • serve

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Normal bookstore hours are Sundays, 9:00 am - 12:30 pm & Thursdays, 10:00 am - 12:30 pm.

NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID SUGAR LAND, TX PERMIT #129

3300 AUSTIN PARKWAY SUGAR LAND, TEXAS 77479

WE NEED YOUR HELP! VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT CHRIST CHURCH CHILDREN’S MINISTRY VOLUNTEERS NEEDED - SUNDAY SCHOOL

Our Children’s Ministry team works hard to provide great opportunities for our children to grow into spiritual champions who Love God and know that God loves them. We need adult and youth volunteers who want to serve God by sharing His love with the children on Sunday mornings. Please contact Ingred Lathrop at 281.690.4748 or children@cumcsl.org if you are interested in learning more about this serving opportunity.

MORE THAN A CUP OF COFFEE

Are you like many of us who enjoy a cookie or cup of coffee on Sunday mornings between services? Our Hospitality Team is grateful to serve our congregation by providing refreshments, but it is so much more than the cup of coffee. It is about welcoming one another just as Christ has welcomed us. It is about gathering people into the body of Christ, inviting them to the banquet of God’s gracious love. It is about helping a newcomer feel genuinely welcome to Christ Church, and doing something, however small, to show we care.

Our Hospitality Team is currently too small to adequately serve the needs of this ministry, and we are inviting you to help. There is a minimal time commitment; no experience is necessary, and there are immeasurable benefits. Contact Karen LaMotta at karenl@cumcsl. org or 281.690.4767.

PHONE VOLUNTEERS

Christ Church has a continuing opportunity for our members to serve in the church. It is a chance for you to be that first friendly voice people hear when they call our church. We are in need of friendly people who will volunteer to take a half day shift at our receptionist desk each week. We will train you on how to operate the switchboard, help you to know how to answer questions, and equip in every way to perform this important task. To find out more about this ministry, contact Debbie Meier at dmeier@cumcsl.org or at 281.690.4740.

THE HEARTBEAT

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WE’RE HERE TO HELP! CHRIST CHURCH STAFF

We are delighted you are part of Christ Church. If you have a question or if we can help you within the life of the church, please feel free to contact us.

Rev. Morris Matthis, Senior Pastor Rev. Linda Summers Pierce, Executive Associate Pastor Rev. Jason Nelson, Exec. Director of Discipleship Ministries Jeanne Damon, Discipleship Ministries Stacey Fleck, Business Manager Roland Huysman, Facilities Tripp Kerth, Youth Ministries Karen LaMotta, Exec. Dir. of Outreach Ministries Ingred Lathrop, Children’s Ministries Jan Randolph, Older Adult Ministries Lahonda Sharp, Music Ministries Renee Teel, Mission Ministries For a complete staff listing, please visit our website at www.cumcsl.org

PLEASE REMEMBER IN YOUR PRAYERS...

Elisa McIntire’s Cousin, Taylor Cole’s friend, Jessica Forray’s Father, Al Guerrero, Amber & Jace Williams, Debbie Meeker, Joanna Metzger’s friend, Judy Smith’s mother, Becky Bain’s stepniece, Jennie Sime’s mother, Sherry Heitzenrater’s cousin, Holly Rabon, Donald Berg and family, Roger McGuire, Suzi Dowell’s brother-in-law, Kathy Fry’s niece, and all those serving in the military.

ANSWERED PRAYERS...

Jeff Daniels’ fiance’s cousin, Grant McIntire, Stacy Howdeshell’s friend’s son, Evan Gisler, Brenda DeBlance’s daughter, Sally Lambert’s step-mother, Anne Strodtbeck.

CHRIST CHURCH EXTENDS ITS SYMPATHY TO...

Debora & Mike Thelen on the death of their sister-in-law, Debbie Meier’s family on the death of her nephew.

SHARE YOUR JOYS AND CONCERNS WITH US

Your pastoral staff and leaders of Christ Church’s Member Care Ministries want to share in your joys and concerns. You might not know this, but hospitals do not contact churches – even when you give them your church name, address, and contact information. Part of this is due to HIPPA laws. So whether you’re about to enter the hospital or you’re celebrating the birth of a baby, please call Sandy White in the church office at 281.980.6888. She will forward your message to the pastors and appropriate member care ministry leaders.

PHONE: 281.980.6888 • WWW.CUMCSL.ORG • FACEBOOK.COM/CUMCSL people helping people find fullness in Christ worship • connect • grow • serve