The Connection - December 2012

DECEMBER.2012

PREPARE THE WAY OF THE LORD PAGE.02

BY REV. MIKE MAYHUGH HOPE IS A WHO PAGE.04

BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON PAGE.06

BY REV. JASON NELSON JOY PAGE.08

BY LISA A. MAYHUGH LOVE CAME DOWN PAGE.10

BY LYNN TAYLOR UNITED METHODIST MOMENT PAGE.15

BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE

This year at Christ Church, I am looking forward to the many opportunities that we will have to “prepare the way of the Lord” by sharing together in the preparation of our hearts for the coming of Christ.

Not only for Christ’s coming as a baby, but also for His promised return. On the first Sunday of Advent we will be talking about how to live with expectancy between these two Advents: that first Advent, when Christ was born and we experienced “Immanuel, God with us,” and the second Advent, when Christ will return and consummate His Kingdom. This is a great chance to invite to church those friends who love to discuss the signs of the time and are concerned about the future. There is so much uncertainty in the world, yet there is so much HOPE the church has to offer the world’s people!

House, guests will be invited to the Sanctuary to hear the presentation of “Amahl and the Night Visitors,” a short but beautiful opera about the visit of the wise men to the place of Christ’s birth. Some very talented young men and women will be a part of this production, and it will be a rare occasion to witness something magnificent.

• On December 9th, our Sanctuary choir will present the gospel in song, bringing us a beautiful Christmas concert during the 9:45 and the 11:05 services.

• On December 16th during the 11:05 service, our children will present their Christmas play in the Sanctuary. They will be bringing us the gospel in a unique way as they retell the story of Christ’s birth.

You never know what’s going to happen at a children’s program and yet they always seem to be the “icing on the cake” during Christmas. This will be a moment you won’t want to miss.

• Also on the evening of December 9 th, the Youth will host an “Open House” of their newly decorated facilities so that everyone can see what the 412 Ministry is all about. Directly following the Open

We’ll also have a chance to “prepare the way for the Lord” on Sunday night, December 23 rd at 6:00 pm, when Christ Church will offer its Christmas Eve Eve service. And also on Christmas Eve, when you’ll

This Christmas, Christ Church will offer several opportunities to “prepare the way of the Lord” while relishing in the beauty of what Christmas brings through music:

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PREPARE THE WAY OF THE LORD

BY REV. MIKE MAYHUGH SENIOR PASTOR

Don’t let the busyness of the season keep you away from what really anchors you - worship. I am reminded of a story of a man named Mark. Mark was waiting in line at his local post office. Only one clerk was working the window, so the line was moving quite slowly. As Mark waited, he began to fill out a check in hopes of speeding things up when he reached the counter. Unsure of the date, he turned and asked the woman behind him. “It’s the fifth,” she replied. Before he could write in the date on

the check, he heard a man from the back of the line cautioning, “Oh, I wouldn’t write the date in just yet.”

Now that was a slow-moving line! Maybe you have had a similar experience at the post office during a Christmas season. One of the best ways to combat our busy lives during this Christmas season - and to keep Christ in Christmas - is to show up, and bring a friend, to church. You never know what will happen when we give God the opportunity to speak into the heart of another soul. Christmas is the time to experience a real birth. Advent is upon us so let us prepare our hearts to receive the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. Prepare the way of the Lord!

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have multiple opportunities to experience a time of ref lection and peace with your family and invited friends as together we celebrate the birth of our King.

HOPE IS A WHO

BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR

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“You have heard of this hope before in the word of the truth, the gospel that has come to you. Just as it is bearing fruit and growing in the whole world, so it has been bearing fruit among yourselves from the day you heard it and truly comprehended the grace of God.” Colossians 1:5b-6

followers lived as though what God had done in Him really had made a difference in the world. They supported the poor, provided for widows, cared for children, ministered to the sick, countered selfishness with sharing, confronted injustice with courage, and committed to standing in for Christ wherever hopelessness threatened despair.

You’ve heard of this hope before, the Scripture says. It’s the gospel truth, the good news that has come to you and changed your life! It’s that word that’s growing and has the power to change the world!

Christmas is a hope-filled time, not so much because expectations are raised, though they are, but because the celebration of God’s embodied hope for the world brings new hope every time. There is no doubt hope is awakened at Christmas in Christ’s followers, but it’s also awakened in the secular world. As we who believe abide in the One through whom we know God is a God of hope, and as we embody God’s hopes for the world as Jesus Christ did, we not only “abound” in hope ourselves, we also become the hope of the hopeless. We do this, not so much by making sure the poor receive gifts, though our giving is meant to offer hope. We do this by embodying God’s hope in real and relational ways, in ways that invest the hope we have received, not in what we can imagine, but in the One who is beyond our imagining. We do this by becoming hope for each other – for those we know and love, for those on the edge of hopelessness, and for everyone in between.

Desmond Tutu has said that we Christians are “the hope of the hopeless, through the power of God.” We have no option, he said, but to be servants of a God who is always hoping for the best for us and all creation. In the early days of the Christian movement, when indeed the gospel truth was bearing fruit and growing in the world, it was an embodied, relational hope that drew people in. As Christ’s followers placed their hope in Him, the hope within their communities grew in action, too. His

This Christmas embody hope. Let hope-birthing and hopeinvesting and hope-sharing be your holy purpose. Allow the hope awakened in you to deepen your discernment of the needs for hope around you. Celebrate the fruit God’s hope in you will bear, not because of what you’ve done, but because of all God’s done in becoming embodied hope in Jesus Christ who was born not just to be our hope, but the hope of the whole world!

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

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This hope is a who – not a what. Before hope is ever articulated as a desire for a particular outcome in the future, it’s already a reality in the present that far exceeds any expectations we could ever imagine.

The “who” of hope is Jesus Christ, God’s very own hope, incarnate in the baby Jesus whose birth we celebrate as the introduction of eternal hope in the world and the declaration of the end of all hopelessness. Just as Jesus did in His relationship with God, so He calls us to do – allow God’s hopes for the world to be born in us so we might become God’s partners in the ongoing work of giving the world a future with hope. In other words, we, like Him, are called to embody God’s hope in the world, and for the world. This becomes possible as we abide in Jesus Christ and in the hope He is.

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PEACE

BY REV. JASON NELSON ASSOCIATE PASTOR

Isn’t this a powerful message, though? I love this. I love what it says and I love what it communicates: “Hey, no matter what comes your way in life, ‘KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON.’” I can see how this statement can act as some powerfully positive persuasive propaganda that can help lead people

through times of high anxiety and fear; but if you take these words, and place them in the context of our faith they can become a powerfully positive persuasive proclamation! KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON can change from propaganda to proclamation when Jesus is added to the mix. KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON can become so much more than a simple statement of positive thinking when it is grounded on the truth that Jesus is in control.

See, because Jesus has authority over everything that the physical world can throw at us AND because Jesus has authority over everything that the nonphysical world can throw at us, we can be confident and we can have peace! When storms come our way, when adversity gets up in our face, when anxiety and fear swell up around us or within us, we can simply KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON. Do you believe in the awesome, amazing power and liberating love of Jesus Christ? Do you know, believe, and trust that He’s in charge? If you do, then no matter what comes your way, you can KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON. Trust the Giver of Peace!

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In 1939, England faced a serious and imminent threat of invasion by Nazi Germany. Obviously this was a serious threat to their national security and to the morale of the English people. To deal with morale, the Ministry of Information was established as the department responsible for positive publicity and propaganda. During the war, they were appointed by the British Government to create and distribute a number of morale-boosting posters. These posters were designed to go up all over England as a reminder to the people of who they are as steadfast people. Two of these posters were distributed by the thousands, but a third was made and never used. The third poster said, “KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON.” This third poster was to be issued only if Germany actually invaded. Of course they never did invade, so these posters were never distributed.

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JOY

BY LISA A. MAYHUGH 412 YOUTH DIRECTOR

In Luke chapter 2, we find the angel of the Lord speaking to the shepherds that were just hanging out in a field and watching their f lock. It was a typical night... like any other night. But suddenly they found themselves surrounded by angels and they became terrified. And the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” Joy - what a gift they were given.

Not just for them but for all people. The Hebrew word for Joy is Rinnah. The literal translation for this word is “a ringing cry; a creaking or shrill sound; a shout; a proclamation; rejoicing; shouting; singing in triumph.” It’s this last definition that catches my eye the most. Singing in triumph!

One of my favorite Christmas songs is “I Want the Joy.” It is a song based on two verses of Scripture: Isaiah 51:11: “The ransomed of the LORD will return.

They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will f lee away;” and Psalm 43:4: “Then will I go to the altar of God, to God, my joy and my delight. I will praise you with the harp, O God, my God.” The lyrics to the song go like this: I want the joy of the Lord to come now I want the joy of the Lord to fall now I want the joy of the Lord in my life.

Now typically, at Christmas time, you can find people singing all kinds of Christmas tunes. They hum them in the shower, grocery store and while they are in the car going places. But this song isn’t one that I would put in that category. And yet, I find myself singing it every year. It’s a song of JOY and is a constant reminder for me of the liberation that Christ offers us.

When Christ came as a gift to us it was to purchase our freedom. We were ransomed from guilt, shame, sin, death and most of all our own selves. The bondage that we allow to carry on inside our minds is sometimes more captivating than anything anyone could ever throw at us. And yet, here we have this tiny baby being brought into a world with the magnificent declaration from the angels “singing in triumph” which shall be for all people. That declaration that was made by Isaiah so many years ago became a reality on that night when Christ was born, and continues to be our legacy. “Everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them.” Not just joy for the moment but everlasting joy and it will overtake you if you allow it to.

My prayer for you this Christmas season is that you allow that triumphant singing of joy to take hold of your life and you sing from the depth of your soul each day that is given to you. Celebrate His birth!

Celebrate His purchase! Celebrate His gift!

I want the joy of the Lord to lift me I want the joy of the Lord to change me I want the joy of the Lord in my life.

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It’s time I started dancing over all these graves It’s time I gave you, oh my God, the highest praise It’s time to lift my voice and beg for these blessings to fall.

LOVE CAME DOWN…

BY LYNN TAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS SUPPORT

I was recently invited to compose an article on the topic of love for inclusion in the church’s Christmas newsletter.

I immediately accepted this invitation, certain that writing about love would be an easy task. After all, I am quite an authority on the subject! I adore my family, I cherish my friends, and I am devoted to my church. I am mad about Nutella and Italian food, I am partial to the color blue, and I have a fondness for most any genre of music (excluding heavy metal, of course, as it hurts my head). I delight in my new puppy, I am enraptured by the beauty of creation, and I have a deep affection for books, especially mystery novels. Given my clearly exceptional understanding of its meaning, how difficult could an article about love possibly be?

The answer to that question became painfully obvious when I sat down and attempted to “wax poetic” about love within the context of the Christmas season, for it was then that I discovered I was in way over my head.

Not even a dictionary or thesaurus could assist me in my quest to find words powerful enough… grand enough… to articulate the nature of God’s love for His children.

God’s love is: • An endless love extended to us even when we disappoint or disobey Him: (God) will never leave you nor forsake you. (Deuteronomy 31:8) • An unconditional love bestowed upon us no matter the severity of our transgressions: He does not retain His anger forever, because He delights in mercy. He will again have compassion on us, and will subdue our iniquities. (Micah 7:18) • A grace-filled love wrapped up in swaddling clothes, placed in a manger, and presented as a priceless gift to the world: Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. (Luke 2:10-12)

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• A sacrificial love offered as a perfect and holy atonement for our egregious sins: For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16) How does one begin to describe, much less comprehend, such a great love? How can one convey the boundless quality of a love like that? For generations, countless men, women and even children have endeavored to communicate the magnificence of God’s love, using any and all forms of creative expression. But the truth is this: no matter the vehicle we elect to use, it is impossible to describe the indescribable; to explain the inexplicable.

We humans love conditionally, our love ebbs and f lows with the ever-changing tide of our emotions, and our love for self often exceeds our love for another. And so we are hard-pressed to grasp the endless, unconditional, gracefilled, sacrificial kind of love God has for us.

Christmas is nearly upon us, and the air will soon be filled with the sounds of the season, including carols about God’s love as revealed in the gift of Jesus Christ. One of my favorites is this work by 19th century poet Christina Georgina Rossetti: Love came down at Christmas, Love all lovely, Love Divine; Love was born at Christmas, Star and Angels gave the sign.

I may never be able to fully fathom God’s infinite love for His children with my mind, or satisfactorily explain it with my words. Still, I pray that God will allow this “lovely, Love Divine” to penetrate my heart like never before during this holiday season. May I spend this Christmas rejoicing in, and sharing with others, the very good news that God’s amazing love came down… to save a sinner like me.

List and describe some of the things you love.

Ref lect upon, then describe God’s amazing love for you.

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This holiday season, consider how you might thank and praise God for the love that “came down at Christmas.” Will you write a story, poem, or song? Will you sing, dance, paint, or play an instrument? Will you serve or minister to someone in need? Or will you simply share with another the Good News so that he or she might also have a chance to experience God’s amazing love, most powerfully demonstrated in the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ?

M Loved HONOR A

ONE

DECEMBER DATES CITY OF SUGAR LAND’S 10TH ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

DECEMBER 6 • 5:00 PM

Join us at the SnowGlobe Live! for the annual Tree Lighting event in Sugar Land Town Square.

CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERT

DECEMBER 9 • 9:45 & 11:05 AM • SANCTUARY

The Festival Choir and Orchestra will present the

CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS ON SALE EVERY SUNDAY IN THE MINISTRY CENTER, FROM NOVEMBER 18 THROUGH DECEMBER 9

The legend of the poinsettia relates how a poor girl wanted to honor the Christ child by laying a gift on the altar of her church.

She picked a bouquet of weeds because that was all she had to give. As she walked to church, she prayed her gift would be good enough. She said, “Dear Jesus, I’ve a gift to bring to lay before your throne. It is my small and humble heart. Please use it for your own.” As she laid her bouquet on the altar the flowers turned the brightest red. When we place a poinsettia in our worship spaces to remember a loved one or honor someone who’s blessed our life, we honor Christ and offer our hearts in celebration of His birth. Beautiful poinsettias from Brookwood Nursery may be purchased in the Ministry Center, online, and through the front office from November 18 through December 9. Look for the red order forms in the Ministry Center and Sanctuary pew pockets.

The poinsettias will be placed in worship on December 23 and available for you to take home after the Christmas Eve service you attend. Contact Sandy White for additional information 281.980.6888.

AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.CUMCSL.ORG/CHRISTMAS

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Christmas Oratorio by Camille Saint-Saens.

AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS

DECEMBER 9 • 5:30 PM • SANCTUARY

This heart-warming Christmas musical will inspire

children and adults of all ages.

SILENT NIGHT WORSHIP SERVICE A TIME OF HOPE AND HEALING

DECEMBER 11 • 7:00 PM • SANCTUARY

Especially for those experiencing difficult circumstances.

CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS MUSICAL

DECEMBER 16 • 11:05 AM • SANCTUARY

Christ Church Children’s Choir will share the special

story of the birth of Jesus Christ.

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP

DECEMBER 23 6:00 PM • TRADITIONAL*

DECEMBER 24

3:30 PM • FAMILY (DESIGNED FOR YOUNG CHILDREN)

5:00 PM • TRADITIONAL*

5:30 PM • CASUAL* (FAMILY LIFE CENTER GYM)

7:30 PM • CONTEMPORARY*

11:00 PM • TRADITIONAL* * INCLUDES HOLY COMMUNION

Christmas Concert Special Worship Services

When: Wednesday November 28th 6:00 pm Where: CUMC Gymnasium Tickets $ 20 or $10 children 12 and under For ticket information call Kathy Fry 713-557-8577 FKathryn8@aol.com Childcare available by reservation 281-690- 4784

December 9, 2012 9:45 am & 11:05 am Christ United Methodist Church  Sugar Land, TX  281‐980‐6888  www.cumcsl.org

Amahl and the Night Visitors Sunday December 9, 2012 5:30 pm Sanctuary

Free to the public – light reception directly following

One of the most popular operas of all time, Amahl and the Night Visitors tells the story of how a crippled, young shepherd boy’s life changes forever when he sees an amazing star “as big as a window.” When three foreign kings following the star in their search for a wondrous child encounter Amahl and his mother, the result is a timeless and inspiring message of how faith, charity, unselfish love and good deeds can work miracles.

The Children’s Christmas Musical December 16th, 2012 11:05 Worship Service Our own Children’s Choir members will tell the story of the birth of Christ like only children can.

You won’t want to miss this beautiful service.

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CAST Amahl – Joshua Muth Mother – Stephanie Northcutt King Kaspar – Tracy Shirk King Melchior – Michael Vaughn King Balthazar – Timothy Jones The Page – Drew Essen Dancing Shepherds – Ballet Grace Shepherds & Villagers – Members of Festival Choir

Lets talk about it 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 8 - 9 pm in Rooms 210/211,Wednesdays and Fridays from 12 - 1 pm in Room 305 .

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.

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AL-ANON

If your life has been affected by someone else’s drinking, there is hope. Al-Anon meets on Mondays from 12 - 1 pm in FLC Room 305. Al-Anon is an anonymous fellowship.

ALATEEN

Alateen meetings are for children, ages 9-19, who have family and / or friends affected by the disease of alcoholism and addiction. Tuesdays at First United Methodist Church 431 Eldridge Road Sugar Land, Texas and Thursdays at Rose Rich Group 5114 Avenue H Rosenberg, Texas.

Tuesdays • 8 to 9 pm • Sugar Land Thursdays • 6:30 to 7:30 pm • Rosenberg

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THESE PROGRAMS, PLEASE CONTACT RENEE TEEL AT 281.980.6888.

UNITED METHODIST MOMENT

A Christmas Collaboration

BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE

Welcome Our Newest Members!

EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR

One of the most beloved Christmas carols of all times is “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” which was written

by Charles Wesley, John’s brother, in 1739, and set to the tune of MENDELSSOHN by Felix Mendelssohn. He was only thirty-two years old when he wrote this carol.

But some fourteen years later one man did choose to “mend” Charles’ words to this Christmas hymn. And it was only after his edits that “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” became one of the most beloved carols of all time.

Fortunately that man was a friend to both John and Charles Wesley and was the first Methodist evangelist to help fuel the growth of the movement. His name was George Whitefield. Were it not for George’s edits, which were to “mend” several of the words to the first verse of the carol, we’d all be singing “Hark, how all the welkin rings, ‘Glory to the King of kings; peace on earth, and mercy mild, God and sinners reconciled.’ Joyful, all ye nations, rise, join the triumph of the skies; universal nature say, ‘Christ the Lord is born today!’” Seems like George Whitefield was “able” and got the “sense” and “verse” after all!

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.

ELI AND JULIA OLGUIN, JOHN (15), CELESTINA (14), AND MIA (9)

NOT PICTURED: MICHAEL AND CHRISTINA HIPPS LAINE CIPOLLA

NEW MEMBER CLASS

If you are interested in becoming a member or learning more about what we believe, you are invited to participate in a New Member Class. During 3 gatherings, you will visit with the pastors, make new friends, and discover the vision of Christ Church in our community. You will also learn how you can become involved in the life of the church and its ministries. The sessions are held on consecutive Sunday evenings beginning February 10, 2013. You will then be invited to join the church the following Sunday during services. The first week includes a dinner with the staff, the second week will provide an opportunity for you to learn more about the group opportunities we offer and the third week includes an ice cream social with some of the ministry leaders of Christ Church. There is no fee to attend. Childcare is available. To speak to someone about joining the church, please contact Benita Sebesta at 281.690.4763, benitas@cumcsl.org, or register online.

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During his lifetime Charles wrote over 6,000 hymns and each one of them was a mini theological treatise written in poetic form; no small feat. Just like his brother John who often wrote sermons and made journal entries while riding on horseback, Charles wrote a great many of his hymns while riding, often stopping at houses along the way to ask for pen and ink or whatever supply he might need. And just as his brother John chose words deliberately and carefully, so Charles chose his words and chastised anyone who might take it upon themselves to edit or alter what he had written. He wrote: “Many gentlemen have done my brother and me (though without naming us) the honor to reprint many of our hymns. Now they are perfectly welcome to do so, provided they print them just as they are. But I desire they would not attempt to mend them, for they are really not able. None of them is able to mend either the sense or the verse.”

WORSHIP 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 YOUTH WORSHIP • 6:00 PM • FAMILY LIFE CENTER GYM CELEBRATING HOLY COMMUNION

• All services, every first Sunday • Every Sunday in the Chapel, 8 to 8:15 am • Every Sunday in the hub, 11:15 to 11:30 am

COMMUNION SERVANTS NEEDED CHRISTMAS EVE-EVE WORSHIP AND CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP, SANCTUARY SERVICES

Gathering around the Lord’s Table on Christmas Eve reminds us that the God who came to live among us is also the One who gave Himself for us. When we celebrate Communion on Christmas Eve we share in the feast of God’s love given to us by Christ, who promised His presence would be made known in the breaking and sharing of bread.

Because we will welcome our largest attendance on Christmas Eve, additional servants of Christ are needed to prepare and serve at His Table. Please prayerfully consider this one day of service in His Name and contact Sandy White at sandyw@cumcsl.org to volunteer.

Detailed instructions and training provided. Thank you.

2012 CHRISTMAS CONCERT SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9 • 9:45 & 11:05 AM • SANCTUARY

The Festival Choir and Orchestra will present the Christmas Oratorio

by Camille Saint-Saens.

AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9 • 5:30 PM • SANCTUARY

One of the most popular operas of all time, Amahl and the Night Visitors tells the story of how a crippled, young shepherd boy’s life changes forever when he sees an amazing star “as big as a window.”

When three foreign kings following the star in their search for a wondrous child encounter Amahl and his mother, the result is a timeless and inspiring message of how faith, charity, unselfish love and good deeds can work miracles. Our own Drew Essen and Josh Muth have lead roles in this Christmastime production.

SILENT NIGHT WORSHIP: A TIME OF HOPE AND HEALING TUESDAY, DECEMBER 11• 7 PM • SANCTUARY

The Christmas season can be a painful time for those who’ve experienced loss. Instead of bringing excitement and happiness, it can bring reminders of an empty place at the table and in the heart.

This beautiful service of Word and music offers a quiet time of reflection on God who weeps with us and wants to restore our joy.

Hope is offered through prayers, a special Advent wreath liturgy and the Pastor’s meditation, and the joy of sound and song is gifted by the Festival Choir, Sacred Harps and bells. Candles will be lit during the singing of “Silent Night” which includes a special verse written just for this night that celebrates the new life we have in Christ. All are invited to attend this service. Extended family members, friends, co-workers and acquaintances are most welcome.

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CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS MUSICAL SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16 • 11:05 AM • SANCTUARY

The Children’s Choir will be presenting their version of the story of Christ’s birth as part of the worship service. You won’t want to miss this wonderful performance!

THE FIRST NOEL. . . .AND YOU’RE THE SHEPHERD! SUNDAY, DECEMBER 23 • 6 PM • SANCTUARY

The sweet carol says the first “noel” was sung to shepherds as they kept watch over their sheep. What if we, the congregation of Christ United Methodist Church, could see ourselves as “shepherds” of the whole community? Well, in fact, we are. So what are we shepherds to do? We can invite family and friends and neighbors to attend one of our Christmas Eve services. Then we can make sure there’s room for them by attending the Christmas Eve-Eve service ourselves on Sunday, December 23, at 6 pm in the Sanctuary. If we return the next day to serve as greeters, ushers, Communion preparers and helpers, we not only get to worship again, but we also get to show our appreciation to those who accepted our invitations. We welcome our largest number of guests on December 24. By attending our traditional candlelight worship service one day early, we leave room for our guests and by returning to serve we demonstrate to those we’ve invited and to all who come that we are a church that believes in helping people find fullness in the Savior whose birth we celebrate. To serve, contact Sandy White at 281.690.4777 or sandyw@cumcsl.org.

2013 ALTAR FLOWERS NOW - JANUARY 31 • MINISTRY CENTER

Reserve your 2013 altar flower arrangement date in the Ministry Center. Cost is $50. Place checks payable to Christ Church in the manila envelope and be sure to write “altar flowers” on the memo line. Contact Stephanie Strickland at finance@cumcsl.org or 281.690.4747.

THANK YOU FOR PREPARING THE WAY!

Advent means waiting and giving and preparing. Thank you to each of you who waited and stayed after worship on November 25 to give your time and energy to preparing our Sanctuary and gathering spaces for Advent and Christmas. From the Advent wreath and Chrismon tree to the Nativity and family tree, the way has been prepared for all who enter our church to remember that we have something wonderful to celebrate, the coming of God to be among us. Truly your hearts are already prepared to receive Him; thank you for making straight paths for others to receive Him. A special thank you to Roland Huysman and his team.

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

DECEMBER 2

8:15 AM CONTEMPORARY*

9:45 & 11:05 AM TRADITIONAL*

11:00 AM CASUAL @ THE HUB* DECEMBER 9

8:15 AM CONTEMPORARY

9:45 & 11:05 AM CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERT

11:00 AM CASUAL @ THE HUB* DECEMBER 11

7:00 PM SILENT NIGHT WORSHIP SERVICE DECEMBER 16

8:15 AM CONTEMPORARY

9:45 AM TRADITIONAL

11:05 AM CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS MUSICAL

11:00 AM CASUAL @ THE HUB* DECEMBER 23

8:15 AM CONTEMPORARY

9:45 & 11:05 AM TRADITIONAL

11:00 AM CASUAL @ THE HUB*

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE-EVE SERVICE 6:00 PM TRADITIONAL* DECEMBER 24

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES

3:30 PM FAMILY (DESIGNED FOR YOUNG CHILDREN)

5:00 PM TRADITIONAL*

5:30 PM CASUAL* (FAMILY LIFE CENTER GYM)

7:30 PM CONTEMPORARY*

11:00 PM TRADITIONAL* DECEMBER 30

8:15 AM CONTEMPORARY

9:45 & 11:05 AM TRADITIONAL

11:00 AM CASUAL @ THE HUB*

* INCLUDES HOLY COMMUNION

ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES HANG AN ORNAMENT ON OUR CHRIST CHURCH FAMILY TREE ANY SUNDAY IN ADVENT - FAMILY TREE IN THE GATHERING HALL

Beginning November 25 and continuing through Christmas Eve, you and your family may place an ornament on our Christ Church family tree located in the Gathering Hall. Simply choose an ornament that represents your family, mark it with “2012,” bring it to church, and hang it on the tree with a short prayer of thanks. Then watch as this special tree comes to life with family photos and the symbols of Christmas that are meaningful to our family. These ornaments will be kept and placed on future trees. Thank you for blessing your church family by sharing what Christmas means to your family.

BE FIT TUESDAYS AT 11 AM • FRIDAYS AT 9:30 AM • FLC ROOMS 302/303

Put on some comfortable clothes and try out this gentle exercise class.

Participants are encouraged to be fit by practicing flexibility, balance, range of motion, strength, and breathing. A scripture is shared and class ends with a quiet time of prayer. Monthly fee for 1 day a week is $15; 2 days a week is $30.

ONE ROOM BOOK CLUB WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9 • 9 AM • VOLUNTEER CENTER

Celebrate the holidays with Book Club. All members will bring a treat and a favorite reading to share with the group.

GIVING CHARITABLE DEDUCTIONS FOR 2012 NOVEMBER 21 - DECEMBER 31

Please remember that Monday, December 31, will be the last day you can mail your contribution checks in order to claim a charitable deduction for 2012. Sunday, December 30, will be the last day donations can be accepted in the offering plate for 2012 charitable deductions. Checks that are placed in the offering on the first Sunday of 2013 will not qualify for a charitable contribution deduction in 2012 even if the check is backdated to 2012. However, checks that are written, mailed and postmarked in 2012 will be deductible in 2012 even if not received by the church until 2013. To ensure the deductibility of your church contributions, please do not file your 2012 tax return until you receive your 2012 Statement of Contributions.

These will be mailed in mid-January.

STAFF CHRISTMAS BONUS NOW THRU DECEMBER 24

You are invited to make a special contribution to provide Christmas bonuses for our Church staff. Our dedicated staff works tirelessly throughout the year, and even more so during the Advent season.

We hope you will remember them in the spirit of this season and give generously, as you are able. All funds received will be divided equally among more than 30 staff members. If you are able to make a contribution, note “staff bonus” on your check or envelope and please submit any contributions no later than December 24. If you have any questions, please call John Pound at 832.647.6888.

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DECEMBER WORSHIP

GROW CHILDREN’S SUNDAY MORNING SCHEDULE DURING CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

December 16: Regular Sunday School for all children during 9:45 am Sunday School hour. Wee Worship children will be participating in the hub at 11 am for a special Sunday Celebration.

December 23: Regular Sunday School lessons for 2 year-old through kindergarten Sunday school at 9:45 am. Grades 1st - 5th will combine for “Three Gifts for Jesus,” a special celebration in Room 210/211 during the regular Sunday School hour at 9:45 am.

December 30: Childcare will be available for children ages 2 and under. Ages 3, 4, and kindergartners will meet in Room 108 and 1st - 5th will meet in Room 210/211 for “A Star Celebration” during the 9:45 am Sunday School hour.

4TH GRADE FRIDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES FRIDAY NOVEMBER 30, 2012 • 6 - 8 PM • ROOM 210/211

All 4th graders are invited to their first FRIDAY NIGHT AT THE MOVIES. Bring $3 for pizza, a dessert to share, a pillow / blanket to sit on, and all your friends. RSVP to children@cumcsl.org so we will know how much pizza to order.

BRAND NEW ADVENT STUDY 2012 RECOMMENDED ADVENT STUDY DECEMBER 2 - 23

5TH GRADE GIRLZ BIBLE STUDY STARTS WEDNESDAY JANUARY 9, 2013 • 3:30 - 4:30 PM • ROOM 11/12

5th Grade Girls Bible Study starts on Wednesday, January 9 from 3:30 - 4:30 pm in Room 11/12. Parents, please plan now to pick your daughters up from school, along with a group of their friends, on these 4 weeks and bring them to Christ Church for a fun hour of food and sharing. Oh, by the way, we will be talking about friendships. You won’t want them to miss it!

DISTRICT LEADERSHIP TRAINING SATURDAY, JANUARY 26, 2013 • 8:45 AM - 1:30 PM ST. PETER’S UMC, KATY, TX

You’re invited to attend the Texas Annual Conference Southwest District Leadership Training. Our conference is placing special emphasis on discipling the young, so if you minister to children or youth, you’re encouraged to attend. They will also have special sessions for those serving on church committees such as Trustees, SPR or Finance Committee. The event is hosted by St. Peter’s UMC located at 20775 Kingsland Blvd., Katy, TX 77450. Register online at www.southwestdistrict.org under upcoming events.

Exciting new release for Advent 2012: “A Different Kind of Christmas.”

Based on the book, “Christmas is Not Your Birthday,” Mike Slaughter leads you on a 5-session journey to reclaim the broader missional meaning of Jesus’ birth and experience a Christmas season with more peace and joy than any toy or gadget could ever bring. Cut through the hype that leaves you exhausted and broke. Instead, experience the peace of knowing that God gave everything He had for us. Study includes a DVD, leader guide, and book. Daily devotions as well as youth and children’s versions are also available. Contact Tricia Baltazar for ordering information at tricia@cumcsl.org or 281.690.4761.

ACQUIRE THE FIRE (ATF)

PUT IT IN WRITING TUESDAY DECEMBER 11• 3 PM• CHURCH LIBRARY

YOUTH MID-WINTER RETREAT 2013

Our lives are full of stories. One way to secure those memories for ourselves and future generations is to “put it in writing.” Jan Randolph will lead this monthly writers’ workshop designed to instruct, inspire, encourage and support participants in the writing process. Our explorations will include (but not necessarily be limited to) memoirs, journal writing, prayer journals, faith stories, family narratives, poetry, etc.

WOMEN’S BOOK CLUB

If you like to read books with Christian content, please join us on the second Tuesday each month at 7 pm in the Volunteer Center. We will be reading Rediscovering Values on Wall Street, Main Street, and Your Street: A Moral Compass for the New Economy. Contact Benita Sebesta at mbsebesta@sbcglobal.net or 281.732.2217 for more information.

IMPACT: 4TH AND 5TH GRADE MOTHER/DAUGHTER RETREAT

If you are a mom of a 4th or 5th grade girl then you won’t want to miss the registration for our Mother/Daughter Retreat, which will be held on Friday, March 1 - Saturday, March 2. Register in early January.

Space will be limited so please register early.

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

WEEKEND OF JANUARY 18 - 19

This is a high energy two-day event produced by a national touring group and attended by youth from throughout the Houston area. It takes place at Grace Community Church and includes awesome worship, speakers and small group time. All youth in grades 7-12 and adults are welcome. Registration is $49 (Youth) and $25 (Adults).

Register online at www.cumcsl.org/youth. Your spot can be reserved with a $25 deposit. The outstanding balance and forms are due January 11, 2013.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 15 • SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17 CAMP CHO-YEH IN LIVINGSTON, TX

How does a weekend away with some really fun people and an opportunity to spend time with your friends and Jesus sound? Join us for a Mid-Winter Retreat over the weekend of February 15th - 17th, 2013. This year we will be heading to the piney woods of Livingston to Camp Cho-yeh. Come reconnect with your friends from school and meet some new ones! Who can attend? All Youth in grades 7-12 and Adults. How much? On-Time Registration: $165 (Youth) and $85 (Adults) for all who register on or before January 21st, 2013; deposit of $50 at time of registration thru January 14th with balance due 1/21/13. Late Registration: $185 (Youth) and $105 (Adults); late fees apply for registrations received from 1/22/13 thru 2/4/13. What does it include? Retreat cost and round-trip transportation. How do I register? Register online. Register NOW and your spot will be reserved with a $50 deposit (through January 14th). The outstanding balance and forms are due January 21, 2013. What is the deadline?

January 21, 2013 (On-Time); February 4, 2013 (Late)

YOUTH WORSHIP SUNDAYS • 5 - 8 PM • GYM

All middle school & high school youth are invited to join us in the Family Life Center Gym every Sunday night from 5 - 8 pm. During that time we will have dinner, games, worship and Bible study. Our youth worship service will now begin at 6 pm. Bring $2, and enjoy dinner with us.

412 - THE ENCOUNTER • WEDNESDAYS • 6:30 - 8 PM • CHAPEL

High school students are invited to this weekly Bible study, Wednesday evenings from 6:30 - 8 pm in the Chapel. Off the week of Thanksgiving.

SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES 8:30 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES CRUSADERS

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.

CELEBRATE SINGLES SUNDAY SCHOOL

All singles are invited to join us. Meets in room 309 in the Family Life Center.

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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 301 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 Bible-based 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

FEBRUARY 22 - 24 • THE ORCHARD AT CANEY CREEK WHARTON, TX

Do you need a weekend of great fellowship and renewal? Then make your plans now to join us in February for the perfect Women’s Retreat!

We will enjoy popular speaker and author, Carla MacDougal, and experience powerful worship together all in the beautiful location of The Orchard at Caney Creek. The retreat is $199, but you can reserve your spot with a $100 deposit (the balance is due on February 1).

Register now at www.cumcsl.org/women, as space is limited. If you have questions, please call Kim Daniels at 832.620.9092 or email her at kimdaniels1@live.com. We hope you will join us for a wonderful, spirit-filled time away with God and one another.

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.

YOUNG ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL Primarily for college and career aged, 18-29. Meets in the Family Life Center Gym.

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DENIM & DIAMONDS WOMEN’S RETREAT 2013

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.

SERVE DO YOU LIKE COOKIES? SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16 • 5 PM • GATHERING HALL

Interested in meeting other women of Christ Church? Join us & help us prepare for this one-time service project where women will share cookies and conversation. Help includes set-up, decorating, serving, and delivery of cookies to local charities. Cookie exchange will be December 16 at 5 pm in the Gathering Hall. Contact Kathleen Randall at 832.423.9624 or via email at kltx@hotmail.com for details.

UM ARMY 2012 CHRISTMAS CAMP WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26 - TUESDAY, JANUARY 1 PASADENA, TX BRIGHTEN THE HOLIDAYS FOR THE CHILDREN OF REYNOSA SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2 • 10:45 AM - 12:30 PM ROOMS 210/211

The 5th Grade Mission Team is busy again, collecting small children’s toys and teen gifts to be taken to the children of Reynosa, Mexico in time for Christmas. There are 3 ways for you to help: 1. Donate gifts such as: baby toys, small stuffed animals, mini figures, matchbox cars, dress-up items, watches, pocket games, sports balls, baseball caps, small make-up/toiletry items, jewelry, flip-flops, sun glasses, calculators, English-Spanish dictionaries, etc. Items can be new or gently used and should be brought to the Collection Bins near rooms 11/12 by Sunday, December 2.

2. Donate wrapping paper and tape.

3. Join us for a wrapping extravaganza in Rooms 210/211 on Sunday, December 2 from 10:45 am to 12:30 pm. All ages are invited; this is a great opportunity to serve as a family.

ACOLYTE CHRISTMAS PARTY AND SERVICE PROJECT SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8 • 10 AM TO NOON • ROOMS 210/211

Acolytes! Come join the fun in a party that’s just for you. Our theme this year is “Prepare the way of the Lord!” and that’s just what we’ll do through games and crafts, relays and story-telling. There will be special treats - yum! - and prizes, too. And then we’ll assemble over 3,000 candles for Christmas Eve! Wow! So circle December 8 and meet us in 210/211 at 10 am for two non-stop fun-filled hours. Contact Judy or Victor Hicks, your Acolyte Coordinators, at 281.980.8727 or 281.935.2754 to RSVP. Parental help is always welcomed.

UMW C.H.I.A. CIRCLE (CHRIST’S HANDS IN ACTION) MONDAY, DECEMBER 10 • 10 AM • FLC 301

This group of ladies gathers monthly for hands-on mission projects and studies. All ladies are welcome to participate. Contact Billie Blair at BillieBuddyB@aol.com or 281.242.3695.

FREEDOM WALK TOUR DECEMBER 13 • CAROL VANCE PRISON UNIT

Curious about how God is creating REAL crime prevention? Join this one-hour tour experience the second Thursday of the month at either 2 or 7:30 pm. Sign up at least a week in advance. Bible studies and other groups are welcome! Contact Betty Waedemon at 832.755.7761 to sign up or to get more information.

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

Join us over Christmas break for our UM Army Mission in Pasadena, TX. During this week, participants will be assigned to work teams which combine their unique strengths and gifts in order to meet the home repair and maintenance needs of the less fortunate in the area. This is an amazing mission that allows us to share the Gospel message of love and hope offered by Jesus Christ through our hands and our hearts. Who: All current high school Youth in grades 9–12 and Adults. Cost: $275 (Youth); $215 (Adults - 25 and older); $130 (Young Adults – ages 19-24). A non-refundable deposit of $50 is due at the time of registration through November 15. Remaining balance is due November 30. Deadline to register: December 21, 2012.

Parent Volunteers and Adult Drivers Needed.

CARPENTER’S HANDS “ONE DAY, GOD’S HOUSE” JANUARY 12 • 8 AM - 3:30 PM

Join us for our next Carpenter’s Hands workday as we add practical improvements to the facility and work together to beautify our church building. All adults (and youth 12 and up with parent) welcome.

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 Fridays and Mondays. Don’t know how to crochet or knit? We’ll teach you! For information, email Jan Randolph at jan@cumcsl.org.

SENIOR RINGERS MONDAYS • 6 PM • CHOIR ROOM

This musical opportunity is available to all interested persons, especially Older Adults. It offers a place to learn, serve and fellowship through the art of ringing chimes or handbells under the direction of Molly Ness. No experience is necessary. The group is still accepting new members, and requests for ringers to perform in the community during the day have already been coming in. To join this ensemble, contact Molly Ness at 281.344.8343.

HAITI TEAM SAYS MESI! THANKS YOU FROM HAITI TEAM

On behalf of the Hope for Haiti team, thank you so much for your generosity in supporting our mission with your prayers and your gifts.

Be assured that your donations went directly to provide for our Haitian brothers and sisters in Christ and your prayers guided our path. “Mesi Anpil,” a Creole way of saying “Thanks a lot!”

EFBHNM HOLIDAY BASKET FOOD DRIVE

Again this year the Food Pantry will provide holiday meals for 600 families. Items needed for these baskets include: stuffing mix, chicken broth, sweet potatoes, instant mashed potatoes, pie filling or cake mix and frosting, sugar, flour, can of fruit, pumpkin, cranberry sauce, pkg of turkey/chicken gravy mix. Place items in Collection Bins by December 14. Help us to help others in our community have a bountiful holiday.

FAMILY PROMISE

Christ United Methodist Church recently finished a week of hosting Family Promise. Thanks to many volunteers clocking around 330 total hours, we were able to feed and provide a home to several families.

Two of these families will be able to move on and into their own homes within the month. Please visit www.cumcsl.org/missions to find out more and learn how you can volunteer. Watch for more information and announcements for the next rotation in the January edition of The Connection. We will be hosting Family Promise again during the week of February 10 through 17, so mark your calendars now!

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS TO HELP FINISH OUR 12TH HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HOME SATURDAYS TILL WE’RE DONE

The walls are up. The roof is on. Now we need to finish the job. Sign up and come on out any Saturday from now until early December and help us finish this home for our Partner Family: Ben, Irma and their 4 children. We have windows and doors to install, siding and trim to nail into place and lots of caulking and painting to do. So come work with us at 1206 Clay Street in Richmond. You can make new friends, learn a new skill and do great work in the name of our Savior. Remember, your actions speak louder than your words, so come spread the words of Christ through your actions. Sign up in the Ministry Center, with Doug McCubbin at douglas@horizonsconsultingllc.com or visit our webpage at www.cumcsl.org/missions.

ALTERNATIVE GIFTS FOR CHRISTMAS

With the Christmas season now in full swing, you can take the opportunity of this blessed season to offer an alternative, noncommercial gift, via Gifts Unto Others, as a symbol of Christ’s love.

By giving through GUO, you can give a blessing to yourself, to those you love, and to those who receive the benefits of your donation. For each donation, you receive a personalized gift card to let the one you are honoring know that they have shared with you in the joy of giving.

It’s simple and fast. Simply choose a charitable mission or area in the GUO catalog, submit your order form and payment. Or go online to the GUO catalog at www.cumcsl.org/guo and place your order and pay online. For questions, call Maria Larson at 281.565.4502.

FACEBOOK.COM/CUMC-

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS! STARTING NOVEMBER 25

Starting November 25, come pick one or several tags off the Angel Tree and make someone’s Christmas a special one. The Angel Tree is located in the Gathering Hall and has tags listing Christmas wishes from children in need and the elderly in nursing homes. The children come from homes in the FBISD Shared Dreams Program. You can also pick a shopping bag off the tree with a list of everyday items needed for underprivileged families.

All presents must be returned to the Angel Tree on December 9 or 16, and will be delivered immediately following the 11:05 am service on December 16.

Don’t have time to shop? Please consider making a donation to the Angel Tree. The donations will be used to purchase last-minute items and other gifts needed for children who have a parent in prison or for special occasions throughout the year. Drop your check in the gift box next to the Angel Tree.

Thank you for your thoughtful care toward those in need this Christmas season. Questions? Contact Terri Schnakenberg at 281.924.4597 or Susan Die at 281.778.6988.

TWITTER.COM/CUMCSL

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

WHAT HAPPENS TO ALL THOSE $1 BILLS?

Each $1 bill placed in the offering plate each Sunday is known as a Mission Dollar. Mission Dollars are used for various mission needs and voted on by your Mission Committee made up of 6 members. Here are some highlights of your mission dollars hard at work for 2012: • Purchased Bible literature for those in prison seeking a new life in Christ • Purchased H-E-B cards for those who come to our church who are in desperate situations • Sponsored Fort Bend Family Promise golf tournament to help fund a new Family Day Center • Provided Rainbow Room with funding to help buy supplies for children in the Child Protective Services system • Donated to the Chaplain services of the Howard T. Tellepson Seafarer’s Center and the Bethel Port Ministries who minister to the crewmen of over 434 ships from 69 different countries that come into the Port of Houston • Contributed to Native American Ministries to help with missions to Native Americans and provide scholarships for United Methodist Native American seminarians • Helped fund the United Methodist Committee on Relief through the One Great Hour of Sharing • Assisted with funding for Missionary Diane Wimberley in Bolivia • Made a contribution to help with our 12th Habitat Home build • Donated to the Parks Youth Ranch for homeless teens • Helped complete our pledge commitment to East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry new food pantry by contributing to the Empty Bowls Event • Contributed to our missionaries in Spain • Purchased 20 new school supply kits to support the Supply Our Students (SOS) Drive • Donated to scholarship fund to help 5 primary/secondary students in Haiti for a year • Helped homeless youth by contributing to Covenant House Houston • Supported a student’s education in Cote d’Ivoire, Africa • Helped with the recovery efforts from the Texas wildfires • Contributed to the Children’s Haven International Orphanage in Mexico • Donated to the Methodist Children’s Home which provides services to more than 1400 children and youth • Assisted our Christ Church missionary leaders in Belize and Haiti • Contributed to Fort Bend Cares to further the outreach to children in need • Helped buy supplies for Free City Wide Thanksgiving and Christmas meals

CHALLENGE?

The Bible in 90 Days Challenge begins January 6. Are you up for it?

It won’t be easy. Not everyone will say yes. Not everyone will finish.

But those who do will most definitely be rewarded. Will you accept the challenge?

WHAT IS IT?

The challenge is, quite literally, to read the entire Bible in 90 days. In support of this challenge, the Sunday sermons (beginning January 13) will correlate with your weekly reading.

HOW DO I PARTICIPATE?

Bookmarks listing the daily reading schedule are available in the literature racks around the church, or you may print out a copy of the reading plan yourself. There are 2 options for participants: • Read 12 pages per day on your own.

• Read 12 pages per day on your own, AND participate in a small group using the DVD/participant guide-based discussion Want to participate (with or without a small group)? Let us know with a simple 3-question form at www.jotformpro.com/cumcsl/90Days.

WHAT DO I NEED?

All you need is a Bible. You can use one you already own, or you may purchase a copy of The Bible in 90 Days. If you wish to purchase materials from us, please place your order with Tricia Baltazar by December 20.

• The Bible in 90 Days - $12.99 • Participant Guide - $7.99 + tax • Bible/Participant Guide Combo - $20.00 • Kindle edition via Amazon - $10.99 • YouVersion Bible App (Free) with The Bible in 90 Days plan (Free) QUESTIONS?

Need help finding a small group to join for this study? Contact Tricia Baltazar at 281.690.4761 or tricia@cumcsl.org.

FOR A DAILY READING SUMMARY, FOLLOW JASON NELSON ON TWITTER @REVJASONJNELSON.

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

CONNECT GAME DAY WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28 • 10:30 AM - 1 PM • ROOMS 11/12

WOMEN’S COOKIE EXCHANGE SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16 • 5 PM • GATHERING HALL

Want to play? Invite a friend, bring a sack lunch and gather with us for some fun. We play a variety of games, including Bridge and Mexican Train. Lunch includes a roundtable discussion of Scripture and faith.

All women of Christ Church are invited to join us for our Cookie Exchange. Please bring 3 dozen cookies (homemade or not) wrapped by the dozen for sharing. We will eat some, share some, and send large batches to local charities. Meet some fantastic ladies and give them the chance to meet you! Questions? Contact Tricia Baltazar at tricia@ cumcsl.org or 281.690.4761.

4TH AND 5TH GRADE “GIRL TIME” SUNDAY, DECEMBER 2 • 5 PM • ROOMS 210/211

Food, FUN and Caroling. We will eat pizza as we prepare to go Christmas Caroling at The Terrace, then we will return from The Terrace to share dessert, hot chocolate and fellowship. Bring $3 for pizza, a dessert to share, make a “homemade” Christmas card at home as a family (will be given to the residents at The Terrace) and feel free to don a fun Christmas hat or reindeer antlers. This is always such a meaningful event for the girls as they share their Christmas joy with the residents of The Terrace. Girls must RSVP to children@cumcsl. org so that we can accommodate all who want to attend safely in vehicles. Parent drivers are needed.

ENCORE! WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5 • 11:30 - 1:30 PM SANCTUARY AND GATHERING HALL

Join us for a piano concert by the extraordinary Beth McConnell.

Worship is at 11 am in the Sanctuary followed by a fellowship meal in the Gathering Hall. The program will be in the Sanctuary after lunch. $7 donation. Pre-registration is required for the meal and closes December 2. Reserve your space by emailing jan@cumcsl.org.

CHURCH DAYS AT SCHILTTERBAHN GALVESTON

Join Family Ministries in the heated indoor Schlitterbahn-Galveston park on Saturday, December 22 or December 29 for only $17 per person (3 and older). Hours open are 10 am to 5 pm. To guarantee reservation, must provide full payment by December 10. Contact Amy Abels at atvu@comcast.net for more details.

WHEN ALL THE WORLD IS REJOICING, WHY AM I THE ONLY ONE IN PAIN?

The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy, but for many people they bring only sadness and painful memories. A Stephen Minister can provide extra support and a listening ear during this difficult season and beyond. To find out more about Stephen Ministry or to request a Stephen Minister’s care, contact Sally McKnight at 713.306.1719.

412 CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9 • 4 - 5 PM • FAMILY LIFE CENTER GYM

MEN’S LUNCH THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13 • 11:30 AM LIVE OAK GRILL ON 12935 DAIRY ASHFORD IN SUGAR LAND

Men of all ages, join the Older Adult men for lunch and fellowship at Live Oak Grill. A wonderful cross-generational event and a great way to find out what is going on in our community and beyond.

412 YOUTH CHRISTMAS PARTY SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16 • 5 - 8:30 PM • FLC GYM

All youth in grades 6 - 12 and their friends are invited to our 412 Youth Christmas Celebration on Sunday, December 16. We will meet in the FLC Gym beginning at 5 pm to share fellowship as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! As a special mission project, we will be adopting some of our older home-bound congregation members, as well as residents at several of the local elderly care facilities. We will be collecting items at the party to provide gift baskets to these older adults. Youth are invited to help deliver the items collected on Monday, January 7. For details and a flier, please visit www.cumcsl.org/youth.

Normal bookstore hours are Sundays, 9 - 11 am & by appointment Monday-Friday FACEBOOK.COM/CUMCSL TWITTER.COM/CUMCSL 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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Please join 412 Youth for a Christmas Open House from 4 - 4:45 pm, as we show off our new space and celebrate new beginnings in the 412 Youth Ministry Department. Then stay and enjoy some music as some of our youth and the Music Ministry of Christ Church present “Amahl and the Night Visitors” at 5 pm.

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

3300 AUSTIN PARKWAY SUGAR LAND, TEXAS 77479

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP SERVICES

DECEMBER 23 6:00 PM • TRADITIONAL*

DECEMBER 24

3:30 PM • FAMILY (DESIGNED FOR YOUNG CHILDREN)

5:00 PM • TRADITIONAL*

5:30 PM • CASUAL* (FAMILY LIFE CENTER GYM)

7:30 PM • CONTEMPORARY*

11:00 PM • TRADITIONAL* * INCLUDES HOLY COMMUNION

CHRIST CHURCH STAFF

Rev. Mike Mayhugh, Senior Pastor Rev. Linda Summers Pierce, Executive Associate Pastor Rev. Jason Nelson, Associate Pastor Karen LaMotta, Executive Director - Connect Ministries Roland Huysman, Executive Director - Operations Lisa Mayhugh, Director - 412 Youth Ministries Ingred Lathrop, Director - Children’s Ministries Jan Randolph, Director - Older Adult Ministries Lahonda Sharp, Director - Music & Fine Arts Renee Teel, Director - Mission Ministries Tricia Baltazar, Coordinator - Grow Groups & Bookstore Jeanne Damon, Coordinator - Grow Teams For a complete staff listing, please visit our website at www.cumcsl.org/staff

THE HEARTBEAT

WE’RE HERE TO HELP!

PLEASE REMEMBER IN YOUR PRAYERS...

Carol Campbell’s friend, Caylee Clarke’s friend and godmother, Candee Chandler’s brother, Don Chandler’s cousin, Stacee Hawkin’s uncle, Susan Brubaker, Andrew Thummel, everyone affected by Hurricane Sandy, Jeff and Gloria Riddle’s son; Elisa McIntire’s brother-in-law’s mom, Buhrke Family, Jolene Lanier’s friend, Candee Chandler’s brother, Don Chandler’s cousin, Don Benson, Kellie Bretz’s son, Cathy Richards’ husband, Linda Lockwood’s nephew, sister & brother-in-law, Barbara Sanderson’s mother, Roseann Johnson’s cousin’s daughter, and all those serving in the military.

JOYS...

Jennie Sime’s mother; Cindy Masaki’s friend; Cheryl Thomas, Susan Brubaker’s friend, Susan Brubaker; Brian Stonesifer; Elisssa McIntire’s aunt; Cathe Seaton; Linda Brandino’s brother; Mallory Rathnau; Sterling Bittenbender’s friend’s son; Gael Bittenbender’s mother.

CHRIST CHURCH EXTENDS ITS SYMPATHY TO...

Emily Henderson on the death of her sister; John Ward on the death of his sister, who was also Jan Randolph’s aunt; Judy Monroe’s uncle, who is also Ginger Musgrove’s brother; Jeff Riddle for the death of his mother; Susan Kenney on the death of her father; Cathy Simeone on the death of her father; Mike Jumper on the death of his mother.

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