The Connection - February Edition 2012

FEBRUARY.2012

WHAT WILL YOU REMEMBER PAGE.04

BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE ALPHA-N-ME PAGE.06

BY DAMON TUCKER WHAT DOES? PAGE.07

BY DEBRA MARTIN MORE GOD, LESS CRIME PAGE.07

BY BYRON R. JOHNSON UNITED METHODIST MOMENT PAGE.08

BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE WORSHIP, CONNECT, GROW & SERVE PAGES 09 - 13 A SPECIAL THANK YOU PAGE.14

BY OUR MILITARY SOLDIERS

SERIES BEGINS FEBRUARY 5TH

MAKING DISCIPLES

BY REV. MIKE MAYHUGH SENIOR PASTOR

I am so excited that Christ United Methodist Church is moving forward with our mission “people helping people find fullness in Christ.” Let’s allow God to bring forth His transformation in our lives and in our church.

make everything about “making disciples for Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world,” but I am more than willing to take the risk because that is the way it has to be. The church must never lose its passion for its focus and mission.

“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them” Deuteronomy 4:9 (NIV).

We are in the business of bringing people to Jesus. Your life and your job as a member of this church needs to have this as your primary goal. Jesus has been my Savior and my hope. I love God so very much and know that only God can give me fulfillment. I also know that the joy of my salvation is not to be hoarded but shared with other people. We are all called to pass on God’s extravagant love that comes through Jesus Christ to others. The main tool we have to make this happen is the church, but if the church has lost its way, it is worthless. We have the opportunity at Christ Church to influence the lives of our children and others who come through the doors. We live in a free country that allows us to invite others to experience Christ alongside us.

Moses wanted to ensure that the people did not forget all they had seen God do, so he urged parents to teach their children about God’s great miracles. This in turn helped parents remember God’s faithfulness and provided the means for passing God’s salvific miracles from one generation to the next. It is so easy for us to forget the wonderful ways in which God has worked in our lives and in the lives of people we know. One way to help us to remember is by telling our children, friends, relatives, associates, and neighbors how God has been made real in our lives.

Deuteronomy 4:9 has two intense warnings. One is to be careful, and the other is to watch. These admonitions occur many times in the book of Deuteronomy. We all stand in danger of losing it all by falling into an apathetic state when it comes to teaching others about God. We live in danger when we do not constantly remind ourselves of God’s mighty works. We live in danger when we become lazy and fail to teach all these things to our children. Our children then fall prey to anything else out there, and they become pagans.

Deuteronomy lays great stress not on the priests or other religious leaders but on the parents as the ones responsible for their children’s spiritual education. God trusts His great events of revelation to the parents who must pass them on to their children.

My heart breaks as I see my girls struggle. It was especially hard on this Dad when I had to watch them experience rejection. Girls are so mean to girls. I watched Meagan lose friends in High School that she had known for over 6 years because they went the wrong way and she would not follow them. It is hard telling our children, “No, that is not what we do as Christians,” when the world is clearly shouting another path to follow.

Everyone is called to be a Christian Educator. We are all living in a storm of constant change. It is imperative that we disciple our family, help others to remember God’s salvific acts, educate others how to teach and be vigilant that we do not become apathetic in our endeavors to make disciples of Jesus Christ.

I am grateful for friendships, discipleship, and fellowship that help us make it through all stages of our lives. I am thankful for the people God put in my girls’ lives that developed them into the wonderful, young, Christian women they are today.

I reflect back, and I am thankful to everyone who guided me on the way so I could be where I am today. In fact, I need to go back and apologize to some of my Sunday School teachers because I know I was a handful.

I am also thankful God placed me here at Christ Church. I’m not too sure how thankful you are going to be with my tenacity to

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

How has God been made real in your life, and how can you pass that on to God’s children and the community around you? What are some great treasures you have learned while studying the Bible?

Guess what? That knowledge is not just for you but for your family, your church and anyone God enables you to have influence with.

Do you understand God’s grace and forgiveness? How can you exude that to others? Teach people to work through that work of forgiveness. Teach them to forgive and forget. Teach them how not to give free rental space in their heads to garbage that the world has thrown at them. Have you experienced the Lord’s healing? Then help others in restoring their lives to health.

Have you experienced the Holy Spirit’s transformation in your life? Can you give that hope to others and help them pray through their circumstances?

We are living in a world where we have forgotten to make the “main thing” the “main thing.” We have taken for granted all that God has taught us and it is time for the church to wake up and be the church God has destined it to be. Make disciples!

God will show all of us the way to do it in this crazy, upside down world if we will just ask Him. It is our destiny to pass on God’s faithfulness to other generations. If we do not, it stops with us, and the church dies. We have already skipped two generations with our lethargic approach to making disciples. It is time to rise up and be who were called to be: people helping people find fullness in Christ.

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

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

SHINING IT UP FOR LENT

BY LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR

With the season of “Lent” on my mind, I turned to John’s writing. One of my favorite “Fireflies. . .” articles he entitled “Yes, L-EN-T”, as if to say folks probably didn’t know much about this season or how to live into it. He wrote about the Middle Ages’ custom of placing ashes on the foreheads of penitent worshipers and how the word “Lent” comes from the Anglo-Saxon for “spring,” a season most always associated with reawakening, rebirth, and new life. He mentioned how the early Church observed it as a period of preparation for Baptism on Easter Sunday morning, and how it’s generally been associated with fasting or other forms of self-denial. Then he wrote about its focus – Jesus’ pain, rejection, and ultimate crucifixion.

In the hope that the rest of what he wrote will inspire you to “let your light shine” this Lenten season, I’m copying his last few paragraphs. Though published twenty-four years ago, it’s still relevant today.

“Lent invites reflection. This season comes to our modern world almost as a stranger.

To many, it comes as an intruder. For in the midst of the world’s noise, Lent calls the faithful to silence. Lent confronts an affluence-seeking society with the demanding claims of sacrifice. It has the effrontery to suggest to a self-serving age that salvation is to be found in self-denial, in service to others. To a culture saturated with the trappings of superficial success, Lent speaks of self-giving. It elevates the sacrificial spirit. In a society that shuns pain, Lent suggests there is redemption to be found through suffering. It mystifies us with the magnificent defeat that is the cross. To our emphasis on freedom and liberty, Lent speaks of discipline, duty, and discipleship.

In the midst of multiplied activities, the season calls the devout to quietness and meditation.

Lent comes as a stranger. A passing stranger. If we would entertain Lent as a guest, we must do so on its own terms, not ours. If we only indulge this eccentric, impertinent visitor, we miss its message and lose its gifts.

Lent offers the possibility of ‘coming to consciousness’ for the human spirit. It is a 40-day journey of the soul, a priority pilgrimage for the devout.”

I hope you will make your observance of this penitential and holy season a “priority pilgrimage” and “shine it up” for Lent this year. After all, we are saying to the world that we’re people helping people find fullness in Christ, people called to “use their faith to help others along the way.” So, go on...shine it up! Grace and Peace to you.

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

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When I began my ministry in the North Arkansas Annual Conference in the 1980’s, my colleague, John S. Workman, was the Religion Editor for the Arkansas Democrat, a job I often coveted. In 1988 he published his only book, “Fireflies in a Fruit Jar”, and sub-titled it, “On Religion, Politics, and Other Wonders by a Southern PreacherTurned-Journalist.” John was a blessing.

You would know that just by reading his “Acknowledgments” paragraph: “With unending gratitude to all those who – though often with ‘blinking’ lights – use their faith to help others along the way. With equal gratitude to all those slayers of the dragons of sorrow, grief, illness, and pain. Thank you for your example. Go forth, little fireflies of God. Let your lights shine.” My, how his light shined! John’s now residing in his eternal home, and I miss him. His book was a collection of articles from his newspaper days. He often wrote about God and Jesus Christ, letting his light shine as bright as it would. He dispelled a lot of darkness. We need more people like him.

UNEXPECTED SOLES FOR SOULS DONATION

BY SANDRA VAUTRAIN

The Mathews family includes Haley, Andi, Tanner (on the left - 9 th grader at Elkins HS) and Tucker (on the right - 6th grader at Quail Valley MS).

Soles for Souls is a ministry of Christ Church which provides new tennis shoes and socks for students serviced through the FBISD Shared Dreams and LCISD Common Threads programs. Soles for Souls also provides shoes on an as-needed basis for families in the Fort Bend Family Promise program. Soles for Souls holds an annual campaign in September and early October collecting new tennis shoes, socks and monetary donations, but on December 12, Sandra Vautrain, Ministry Team Leader, received the following email about an unexpected Christmas donation:

Hi Sandra, I am inquiring about making a donation to your Soles for Souls mission. My husband and I have an annual Christmas party which includes a traditional gift exchange. This year we opted to ask our guests to bring a shoe/sock donation instead in honor of your Soles for Souls program.

Please let me know a good time and place to make this delivery. In the afternoon would be great so I could have some of our kids participate in the drop-off.

I look forward to hearing from you, Andi Mathews

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

As Sandra explains: Andi & I corresponded several times regarding the donation being dropped off at my house temporarily. On December 22, the Mathews family dropped off the donations. When I heard them pull up, I went out the front door. Haley, Tanner, & Tucker were retrieving a large decorated box out of the back of their pickup truck. I put my hand over my mouth saying, “Oh my gosh,” shaking my head in disbelief with tears in my eyes. I did not know this Christ Church family nor did I have any idea they were doing this drive for the program until I received the e-mail. Andi explained to me that there were about 30 couples at this adults-only Christmas party. After inventory, 39 new pairs of tennis shoes and 171 pairs of socks were contributed. The donation spent Christmas at my house since the school district program was closed for the holidays. It brought great joy to my heart each time I looked at it. On Tuesday, January 3, I called Common Threads in Lamar CISD regarding this donation, and the following day the donation was delivered to Common Threads with great appreciation.

While I was at Common Threads on the 5, I was told the story of a student who received a new pair of shoes just that morning. Common Threads is housed in the old Jane Long Elementary building along with various other programs. One of those programs is for older, special needs students. That morning a teacher from that program came to Common Threads saying she had a 21 year old male student who lives in a group home who was wearing shoes that were entirely too large for him His feet were flopping in them when he walked. The teacher inquired if there was a more acceptable pair of shoes. Irma of Common Threads looked in the bins and found a new pair of men’s size 7 shoes that had been donated by Christ Church earlier in the fall. The generous gifts of Christ Church continue to benefit local students in need.

In April, Soles for Souls will be 10 years old. It has been an amazing decade of providing thousands of new shoes for local students who rarely have a new pair of shoes. In Matthew 25:40 it reads, “And the King will answer them, ‘I assure you: Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of Mine, you did for Me.’“ To God Be the Glory!

If your heart, be as my heart, then. . .

UNITED METHODIST MOMENT

BY LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR

When (Jehu) left there, he met Jehonadab son of Rechab coming to meet him; he greeted him, and said to him, “Is your heart as true to mine as mine is to yours?” Jehonadab answered, “It is.” Jehu said, “If it is, give me your hand.” So he gave him his hand. Jehu took him up with him into the chariot.

2 Kings 10:15, NRSV In September, 1749, John Wesley prefaced his sermon “Catholic Spirit” with this quote from 2 Kings.

He began by saying even sinners acknowledge that love is due all people. However, he continued, Christians owe a “peculiar love” to those who love God, because Christ lived it, taught it, promised it, and commanded it. Some will argue, Wesley said, that because they don’t think alike, they can’t work together or be in fellowship with each other. The error in this is that, at our best, we know only “in part” as long as we are in this life; therefore, there will always be differences of opinion. Who among us can be absolutely certain all our opinions are true? So we keep our focus on the essentials as we bear with those whose thinking differs from ours, and as they bear with us, asking, as Wesley would have us do, “Is your heart right, as my heart is with your heart?”

According to Wesley, before we can ask or answer this question, we must evaluate the state of our own heart. We can do this by asking ourselves the following questions: •

Is my heart right with God?

•

Do I believe in the Lord Jesus Christ?

•

Is my faith filled with the energy of God’s love?

•

Do I seek God’s will above my own?

•

Is my heart right toward my neighbors?

•

Are my actions rooted in God’s love?

If we are able to answer “yes” to all of these, then, “thanks be to God”, we are able to extend our hearts and our hands to each other in “peculiar,” Christ-like love!

Thus, to love each other as Christians is not the same as sharing opinions or even agreeing which style of worship or church government or method of prayer is best. To love another is to embrace the other with the same tender affection you would lavish upon one who is your friend and companion. It is to regard them as worthy of God’s blessing as any other person laboring for the sake of God’s Kingdom.

It is to be patient and kind and understanding toward them, forgiving what needs to be forgiven and hoping for only the best in their lives. It is to pray for them, but not without praying that you might live according to God’s will. Finally, it is to provoke them to do good by building them up in love so they might be made ready for the Lord’s use.

You might say to love another in this way is to have an enlarged heart – a heart that’s big enough to be open to neighbors and strangers, as well as to friends and enemies. As Wesley wrote, one with a “catholic spirit” is ready “to spend and be spent for” the other, “yea, to lay down his life for their sake”.

“If your heart be as my heart, then give me your hand”. It’s more than a sweet sounding Valentine sentiment; it’s a way of life!

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

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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.

HAVE YOU READ A GREAT BOOK LATELY? If you’ve read a Christian book recently that you’d like to share with others, please consider submitting a book review to Christ Corner Bookstore.

Contact Tricia Baltazar for submissions or questions at ccb@cumcsl.org.

FEBRUARY 5 “Not Just a Healer” Mark 1:29-39

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

JUST CHOOSE HAPPINESS: A GUIDE FOR JOYOUS LIVING REVIEW BY PAM BLUESTEIN AND BENITA SEBESTA

UMW (United Methodist Women) recently started a new circle for women who love to read. Our choices of books reflect the values and issues concerning all women, events in the world, and issues of today that may help in our spiritual growth and broaden our horizons about how God is working in each of us and others.

Our first book was Nell W. Mohney’s Just Choose Happiness: A Guide for Joyous Living. The title may sound simplistic and cliché. However, if you approach this book with that attitude, you will miss out! The book is easy and enjoyable to read as well as compelling and thought-provoking. Her personal stories are identifiable, and through her spiritual approach, she gives tips and advice on how we as Christians can learn to really choose freedom and happiness through our relationship with Christ. She tells us how we should learn to delegate, practice sound financial management, read scripture daily, pray often, and choose vocations and careers that we would find fulfilling which are a reminder that God cares about every aspect of our lives. Each chapter ends with questions which makes this book an option for individual personal growth or for group discussion.

FEBRUARY 12 “Not Just a Show Off” Mark 1:40-45 FEBRUARY 19 “Not Just An Idol” Mark 9:2-9 FEBRUARY 22 ASH WEDNESDAY “Not Just a Teacher” Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 FEBRUARY 26 “Not Just a Man” Mark 1:9-15

On Sunday, February 5 we will start our new sermon series “Who Do You Say I Am?” It was critical for Mark to address this question. We will see Mark’s answer unfold before us through his eyewitness accounts, ultimately culminating in the declaration that Jesus of Nazareth is “the Messiah, the Son of God.”

Mohney discusses quite eloquently how many people (yes, even Christians!) outwardly appear to be happy and content, all the while hiding shame, disappointment, fear and insecurity.

However, being happy is a choice you make, but you can’t do it alone. God wants us to be happy. He will walk with you and bring you from the dark to the light if you let Him. He came so that “we might have life and have it abundantly”

Mark uses this title “Son of God” throughout his writings. The demons even recognize Jesus as the Son of God, as we will experience in the sermon on February 5, “Not Just a Healer.” For Mark, all of his recorded accounts of Jesus point to the identity of Christ as the “Son of God.” Mark also emphasizes both the arrival of God’s Kingdom as central to Jesus’ teaching and the need for people to repent and believe the “Good News” in light of its arrival! Old Testament promises are being fulfilled before Mark’s very eyes! Life in this new Kingdom is different from what life was like when they were still waiting.

Mohney saved the best for the last chapter. In it she discusses the Holy Spirit and how much we need the Holy Spirit in our lives. The Holy Spirit wants to reside in each of us. It is up to us to open the rooms in our lives and let the Spirit in. We cannot be happy without it.

Mark also has a great sense of urgency that I believe the modern Church has lost. Throughout Mark, we see an intense fervor to tell the world Jesus is “the Son of God” and proclaim the need for all to repent, believe and follow Him. Not only that, all Christians should immediately go and tell others this good news of salvation for all who believe that Jesus is “the Son of God.”

Come by Christ Corner Bookstore and purchase your copy today.

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

WORSHIP

CONNECT

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 • 6:30 PM • FAMILY LIFE CENTER GYM

ENCORE! WEDNESDAY,FEBRUARY 1 • 11:00 - 1:30 PM SANCTUARY & GATHERING HALL

CELEBRATING HOLY COMMUNION

• All services, every first Sunday • Every Sunday in the Chapel, 8:00 to 8:15 am • Every Sunday in the hub, 11:15 to 11:30 am

ASH WEDNESDAY WORSHIP SERVICES WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22 • SANCTUARY

Three services will be offered in the Sanctuary on Ash Wednesday, February 22.

The morning service will be held at 6:30 am and is convenient for those on their way to school or work. The second service will take place at noon, making it easy for those who can attend on their lunch hour. The evening service will be held at 6:30 pm and will feature the Festival Choir. Start your observance of Lent by attending one of these services.

HEALING PRAYER SERVICE TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 14 • 7 PM • SANCTUARY

February’s second Tuesday Healing Prayer Worship Service will fall on Valentine’s Day this year. So many things can break our hearts - grief over losing a loved one or a relationship, betrayals by family or friends, children who aren’t making good decisions. . . If your heart is broken, come gather with others seeking the presence of Christ the Healer at 7:00 pm in the Sanctuary on Valentine’s Day.

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 January 30. Reserve your space with Jan Randolph at jan@cumcsl.org.

4TH AND 5TH GRADE GUY TIME SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5 • 1 - 2:30 PM • FLC GYM

All 4th and 5th Grade Guys and their dads are encouraged to join us for Sports Sunday on February 5 in the Family Life Center Gym from 1 - 2:30 pm.

SAGE WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 8 • 12:00 • ROOMS 11/12

Christ Church and Sugar Land Methodist Hospital work together to present monthly seminars where specialists will come with a presentation about their field, preventive medicine recommendations, and the latest news in treatment options.

MEN’S LUNCH THURSDAY,FEBRUARY 9 • 11:30 • LIVE OAK GRILL

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

FREE AUTHENTIC HAITIAN LUNCHEON AND REPORT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12 • 12:30 PM • ROOMS 11/12

ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITY BOY SCOUT TROOP 441 MULCH SALE NOW THROUGH FEBRUARY 6

We are selling several types of bag mulch as well as potting mix as a fund raiser starting now and going through February 6. Mulch will be delivered to your door on February 25. The profits from the sale wil help the boys pay for scouting activities. We will be in the Ministry Center through January 29; come get more information and place your order. You can also call 281.352.6923. Please help our boys learn the rewards of self-reliance and achievement by purchasing your spring-time mulch from them.

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

Would you like to hear all the wonderful stories of our Christ Church mission to Haiti, see pictures of all the beautiful people we met there and eat the same things that the team ate? Then please join us to see and hear how God worked through us in Petit Goave, Haiti. Here’s a quote from one of the team members… “I thank the Lord for this amazing opportunity to serve the people of Haiti, share and receive His love, and be the hands of Christ. I will always treasure the people we met in Haiti who gave us so much more than we gave them, our awesome Christ Church team who I now consider family, and all the church members who supported us with their prayers and gifts.”

NEW MEMBER CLASS FEBRUARY 12, 2012

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.

FACEBOOK.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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CONNECT

(CON’T)

JOY! LONE STAR FLIGHT MUSEUM IN GALVESTON FEBRUARY 16 • 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Join with Older Adults from Christ Church and the community in going on an off-site day trip to the Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston. The Flight Museum is home to a collection of restored aircraft and aviation exhibits. This is a wonderful opportunity for fellowship and enrichment. We will travel by bus to and from the museum and have lunch at a Galveston area restaurant.

Pre-registration is required by February 9. Please contact Jan Randolph at jan@cumcsl.org to register.

CONNECTING WOMEN THROUGH CHRIST FEBRUARY 18 • 8:30-10:00 AM

Want to find a small group, but don’t know where to look?

Overwhelmed by where to start? Join the Women of Christ Church on Saturday, February 18 from 8:30 - 10 am for breakfast and a chance to connect with small groups offered just for women.

Come here our speaker, Lisa Mayhugh, share her thoughts with us. The event is free, but we ask that you register online or with Jeanne Damon at jeanne@cumcsl.org by February 15.

FATHER-DAUGHTER DANCE FEBRUARY 18 • 5 - 8 PM • FAMILY LIFE CENTER GYM

Children’s Ministries is excited to announce Christ Church’s first FatherDaughter Dance! All fathers (and father-figures) and daughters, ages 4 through 5th grade are invited to attend. This is a great event for you to invite your friends to our church. Price is $27 per father/father-figure and $10 per daughter/girl. Space is limited. Price includes dinner, corsage, photograph, and dancing!

OAM GAME DAY WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22 • 10:30 AM - 1 PM ROOMS 11/12

Want to play? Bring a sack lunch and gather with us for some fun. We play bridge, Mexican Train and more.

FIFTH WEDNESDAY SEMINAR PROTECTING YOUR ASSETS/MEDICAID PLANNING FEBRUARY 29 • NOON • ROOMS 11/12

Julia Dean, a top Houston attorney, will present “Protecting Your Assets and Medicaid Planning.” This educational program is aimed at providing information seniors need to make informed choices regarding their future.

SERVE FREEDOM WALK TOUR FEBRUARY 9 • CAROL VANCE PRISON UNIT

Curious about how God is creating REAL crime prevention?

Join this one-hour tour experience on 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.

PHONE VOLUNTEERS

Christ Church has many 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 two friendly people who will volunteer to take a half-day shift at our receptionist desk each week for Tuesday afternoons and Friday mornings. We will train you on how to operate the switchboard, help you to know how to answer questions, and equip you in every way to perform this important task. To find out more about this ministry, contact Debbie Meier at dmeier@cumcsl.org.

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.

SENIOR RINGERS MONDAYS • 5 - 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. To join this ensemble, contact Molly Ness at 281.344.8343.

CALLING ALL SINGERS!

Now is a great time to join a choir at Christ Church. Our Festival Choir is preparing music for Holy Week and our Lenten concert. The “Rutter Requiem” will be presented on March 25 at 6:00 pm. Choir rehearsals are on Wednesdays, 7-9 pm in the Choir room. If you enjoy music and singing and fellowship now is a GREAT time to join one of our choirs. For more information, contact Lahonda Sharp at 281.69.4741 or lahonda@cumcsl.org.

ONLY 1 HOUR? – I CAN DO THAT!

NAME TAGS...

Remember to wear your name tags.

If you need one, please visit the Welcome Center.

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

FACEBOOK.COM/CUMCSL TWITTER.COM/CUMCSL

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

Did you know that the 4th Thursday of every month East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry holds a Food Fair? The Food Fair allows those in need to get a load of groceries from 10 am to 12 pm. Nearly 300 people show up on these Thursdays and EFBHN could use our help in sacking and carting food to the clients’ vehicles. Contact Ginny Schabacker at 281.980.1179 if you interested in service or have questions. Serve one hour or three and you will feel a connection with our community and be taking action on that which Christ has compelled us to do – “Love your neighbor as yourself” Matthew 19:19 - Blessings to you for considering to serve.

EFBHNM FOOD PANTRY NEEDS FOR FEBRUARY GIVE THE GIFT OF FOOD

Flour (2 lb bags); Sugar (2 lb bags); Juice (46-64 oz cans/bottles). Please place donations in the designated collection bin. For a complete list of Food Pantry needs go to www.cumcsl.org/efbhnm.

CARPENTER’S HANDS “ONE DAY, GOD’S HOUSE” SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 • 8 AM* - 3:30 PM BREAKFAST BEGINS AT 7 AM

Last May 21 Christ Church had approximately 150 volunteer workers (skilled and unskilled) do repairs, painting, refurbishing, and selected building improvements around the facility. Join us for our next Carpenter’s Hands event on Saturday, February 11, 2012. Breakfast (beginning at 7 am) and lunch are included, and our day will begin at 8 am with a time of devotion. Crews will be made up of a mix of skill levels, with at least one or two members having prior experience with the work to be done. Our purpose is to beautify the church as well as add practical improvements to the facility that will enhance current usages.

FYSH ‘HOME BASE’ CAMP 2012 JUNE 4 - 7 • 8:30 AM - 3 PM DAILY

All youth who have completed 5th - 8th grade as of June 2012 are invited to join us this summer for FYSH ‘Home Base’ Camp.

This is a great opportunity to help your student find their servant heart in a home-based environment, and to have them meet new friends through service, fellowship and worship. For more info and to register, please visit www.cumcsl.org/youth.

BIG HOUSE 2012 - SPACE IS LIMITED TO THE FIRST 15 YOUTH WHO REGISTER JUNE 14 - 17 • CALDWELL, TX

LOST AND FOUND

Have you lost an article here at the church? We will have our Lost and Found items on a ministry table for you to locate lost items collected. The dates are February 5 to February 19. Items not claimed will be donated to East Fort Bend Human Needs.

Join us in the summer of 2012, as we will be hosted by St. Paul’s UMC in Bridge City, TX for our UM Army Mission. 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. For more info and to register, please visit www.cumcsl.org/youth.

SOUPER BOWL OF CARING SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5

On Sunday, February 5, millions of people will tune in to the Super Bowl football game. There will be parties with abundant food, friendship and fellowship. At the same time, there will be families and individuals in our community who are hungry and feel hopeless. Please help demonstrate God’s love by participating in the Souper Bowl of Caring. You can purchase a pre-packaged food bag at a participating H-E-B, Kroger and/or Randalls store OR drop your non-perishables in the Collection Bin downstairs through February 5. All of the donations go directly to East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry.

BUY ONE, GET ONE HALF OFF PRESENT THIS COUPON WITH PURCHASE AT CHRIST CORNER BOOKSTORE DURING THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY AND TAKE ADVANTAGE OF A BUY ONE GET ONE HALF OFF OFFER. **OFFER APPLIED TO ITEM OF EQUAL OR LESSER VALUE** EXPIRES FEB 29, 2012

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UM ARMY 2012 JULY 22 - 28

BUYONEGETONEHALFOFF

We want to give opportunity for youth, 6th through the 8th grade, to come together and grow in their Christian experience, through all aspects of our mission, whether it be on the worksite, or in fellowship with one another. For more info and to register, please visit www.cumcsl.org/youth.

TELFAIR WALK - CHRIST CHURCH HABITAT BUILD WE’LL PRAY TOGETHER . . . WE’LL GIVE TOGETHER . . . WE’LL WALK TOGETHER . . . WE’LL BUILD TOGETHER!

Jubilee Jaunters want to make the Telfair Charity of Your Choice 5K Walk a church-wide event to benefit the Christ Church 2012 Habitat House!

Houston Federal Credit Union has already committed $5,000 to kick off the event!

In March, 2011, a team of 12 Christ Church members from the Jubilee Sunday School class AND Linda Summers Pierce joined to form the Jubilee Jaunters walking team with a goal to collect funds for Habitat for Humanity. The Team registered for the 5K Telfair Charity of Your Choice walk held April 9, 2011. By the end of the Walk, the team had collected funds from registrations and donations and qualified for the $1,500 award for the most money collected by a team.

Total collections including the high Team Collections Award to just under $9,800 for the 2011 Habitat House.

For the 2012 Telfair Charity of Your Choice 5K walk, the team decided to expand the effort and go church-wide to collect the full $70,000 needed to build one Habitat house! Oh yeah, when we first learned that the requirement had increased from $60,000 to $70,000 we had to pause, too . . . then Noah came to mind. Everyone thought he was crazy when he built an ark on dry land; so call us crazy as we seek to raise $70,000 for the Habitat House.

There are several ways we hope to “involve” everyone and some of these are: combine the efforts of the Jubilee Jaunters and the church’s Habitat team, get the kids involved by asking them to draw pictures to help with publicity, invite the youth to volunteer and especially to become part of the walking team, invite Sunday School classes and other small groups to be walkers, promoters and donors. Everyone can be promoters.

The task of the promoters will be to help spread the word, to help with donations and pay a registration fee on behalf of a walker. AND a very important ingredient is prayer. We will need the prayer warriors throughout the church to pray for our effort.

This year we want everyone to join this Crusade for Building – by Walking Together Step by Step at the Telfair Charity of Your Choice 2012 5K. We will need walkers to join the team. With 100% of the registration fee going to the chosen charity, if that fee remains at $25 and we have 100 walkers that alone would be $2,500 towards the goal. In the past there has been a significant award for the team with the most walkers. Last year’s winner had 72 walkers on their team. We have a goal for 100 walkers and hope for even more.

The Walk date is Saturday, April 14. Watch for more information and drop by the Ministry Table to sign up to help February 12, 19 and 26.

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

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

GROW 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 - 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

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.

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

CELEBRATE SINGLES SUNDAY SCHOOL

ONE ROOM BOOK CLUB WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15 • 9:00 AM • VOLUNTEER CENTER

COUPLES FOR CHRIST

This group meets once a month to discuss a book chosen at the previous meeting. The February 15 meeting will be a discussion of Caleb’s Crossing

by Geraldine Brooks. If you enjoy reading and conversation about books, you are invited to join Book Club.

YOUTH MID-WINTER RETREAT 2012 @ FOREST GLEN FEBRUARY 17 - 19

Join us for our District Mid-Winter Retreat. This year we will be heading to the piney woods of Huntsville by attending Mid-Winter at Forest Glen Camp. Come reconnect with your friends from summer camp and meet some new ones!

Register through February 6: $190 Youth and $130 Adults Check out all the details online at www.cumcsl.org/youth.

UMW BOOKCLUB CIRCLE SECOND TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH • VOLUNTEER CENTER

Please join us as we begin a new book Old Testament Prophets for Today by Carolyn J. Sharp. We meet in the Volunteer Center the second Tuesday of the month at 7 pm. Contact Benita Sebesta at mbsebesta@sbcglobal.net or 281.732.2217 for more information.

All singles are invited to join us for our new Sunday School class. Meets in room 309 in the Family Life Center.

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

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.

THE HUB LIFEGROUP

From 9:45 - 10:45 in the Family Life Center Gym each Sunday morning.

Come explore God’s Word in a relaxed and comfortable setting.

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.

FACEBOOK.COM/CUMCSL TWITTER.COM/CUMCSL

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CONNECT AT

HAITI MISSION

FREE AUTHENTIC HAITIAN LUNCHEON AND REPORT SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12 • 12:30 PM • ROOMS 11/12

Would you like to hear all the wonderful stories of our Christ Church mission to Haiti, see pictures of all the beautiful people we met there and eat the same things that the team ate? Then please join us to see and hear how God worked through us in Petit Goave, Haiti. Here’s a quote from one of the team members…

“I thank the Lord for this amazing opportunity to serve the people of Haiti, share and receive His love, and be the hands of Christ. I will always treasure the people we met in Haiti who gave us so much more than we gave them, our awesome Christ Church team who I now consider family, and all the church members who supported us with their prayers and gifts.”

SEE MORE PICTURES AT FACEBOOK.COM/CUMCSL

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

WOMEN’S

WOMEN OF CHRIST CHURCH:

Please join us Saturday, February 18 at 8:30 am for breakfast, conversation and an opportunity to connect to one of our women’s groups. Lisa Mayhugh, wife of our Senior Pastor, will be our featured speaker. Learn about our on-going small groups or join with women with similar interests to start a new one! The event is free, but RSVP to Jeanne Damon, jeanne@cumcsl.org or register online.

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MINISTRY

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

3300 AUSTIN PARKWAY SUGAR LAND, TEXAS 77479

WE’RE HERE TO HELP!

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.

CHRIST CHURCH STAFF

Rev. Mike Mayhugh, Senior Pastor Rev. Linda Summers Pierce, Executive Associate Pastor Rev. Jason Nelson, Exec. Director of Discipleship Ministries Karen LaMotta, Exec. Dir. of Outreach Ministries Jeanne Damon, Discipleship Ministries Stacey Fleck, Business Manager Roland Huysman, Facilities Tripp Kerth, Youth 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

THE HEARTBEAT

READ MORE ON PAGE 8 PLEASE REMEMBER IN YOUR PRAYERS...

Bill King’s son, Anne Strodtbeck’s friend, Pam Hall’s father, Gail Williams’ husband, Nancy Wood’s friend, Barbara Buchanan, the Thornton family, Pete Olson’s friend, Jim Rose, JoAnn McCarthy’s brother-in-law, Bill King’s son, Sarah Guffey , Nicole Burford’s colleague’s grandson, Elaine Arnold, Leslie Patrick’s husband, Emmy Finley’s son, Zeba Douglas and family, Bryan & Heather Boyer’s friends, Bob Pierce, Ty Sponsel’s great-grandmother, Evan Juneau’s best friend’s mother, Joy Dowell’s family and friend , Joy Dowell’s housekeeper, Trae Smith, Carolyn Hill’s friend, and all those serving in the military.

ANSWERED PRAYERS...

Mary Preble, Nguyen Vu Cuong; Paul Stimson.

CHRIST CHURCH EXTENDS ITS SYMPATHY TO...

Harry Sparwasser on the death of his mother; Alison Thornton, family and friends on the death of her husband, Patrick; Brad Smith on the death of his mother; Linda Payonk on the death of her mother; David Strickland on the death of his aunt; family and friends of Jordan Allen; Bob Ripley on the death of his niece; Sylvia & Chuck Smyth on the death of their grandbaby; Jean Reeves’ on the death of her aunt.

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