The Connection - February 2013

FEBRUARY.2013

“I WAS IN PRISON AND YOU VISITED ME.” MATTHEW 25:36b

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

A PERSON OF THE BOOK

BY REV. MIKE MAYHUGH SENIOR PASTOR

I am so excited that over 500 people have signed up for The Bible in 90 Days challenge! Our introductory sessions have been successful, with 40 participating on Sunday at 11 am, 115 on Sunday evening at 6:30 pm, and 60 on Wednesday evening at 7 pm.

Also participating are 5 Sunday School classes (Barnabas, Grace Abounds, Hope 24/7, Women’s and Weaver’s), 6 HomeGroups, many individuals, and several choir members who are actively organizing into their own group.

When we place our faith in Jesus as God’s Son and our Savior, God puts in our heart a hunger for God’s Word.

This is a natural progression since Jesus is God’s Word. I am so grateful to God for the move of the Holy Spirit that has inspired people to get into the Word of God. It is also exciting to know we will all be on the same page on the same day! Over 300 bibles have been purchased!

I read a story not to long ago about the Stanford Hotel in San Francisco. The hotel reports that it never lost a single Bible in 15 years since it placed them at bedsides as a service to guests. But in one month after it started putting dictionaries in the rooms as well, 41 dictionaries disappeared.

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Several meanings could be drawn from this situation, but perhaps the most obvious is that in the minds of the pilferers the words of humans are more useful than the words of God. But, of course, we know the opposite is true. The Bible is the Christian’s guidebook to knowing God and living life to the fullest. The Islamic people have a name for Christians. They call us “the people of the Book.” I like that phrase because it speaks about the importance of the Bible for a Christian. I am grateful that the Bible is important to so many of us. I am so glad the Word of God matters. I praise God that you are a person of the Book.

MIRACULOUSLY REDEEMED BY GOD

BY BILLY

If you want to be part of God’s redemptive plan in the life of people like Billy through the Restorative Justice Ministries, contact Betty Waedemon at bbw1m@aol.com.

This is My Story, This is My Song: At age eleven I quit school, ran away from home, and was in and out of juvenile institutions. Then I searched and searched until I found my Mom and at thirteen I went to live with her.

She and my stepdad were alcoholics, and I began drinking and using drugs regularly.

At 17, my first girlfriend became pregnant. When our baby boy died, I began to dive even deeper into drugs and alcohol. We had two daughters together before splitting up. I remarried and had a daughter, Latosha. My older daughters lived close by, and I discovered they were being molested and abused. They were taken into CPS custody.

This drove me into a deeper spiral of guilt, anger, and drugs. I became comfortably numb.

I was involved in gang activity, numerous crimes and spent time in prison. My mom died in 1999, and things began to shift inside of me. I was involved in a gang riot, and a man was injured badly. After my arrest, statements by my gang brothers pointed to me as the sole responsible party. If he died, I would be charged with capital murder.

I was escorted back to my cell, and before the door was closed, I was on my knees crying out to a God I heard so much about but did not know. I simply stated, “God I do not know You, but I want to get to know You. Save me from this life I have been living. I ask You to let that man live, and I will drop this gang life, and serve You right here in prison.” The man lived, and I began getting to know THE WORD, and built a personal relationship with my Lord, Jesus Christ!

I denounced my gang affiliation, and hundreds of men in prison who heard of my conversion did the same. Glory to God! I spent almost seven years in “super segregation,” and began digging into God’s Word, yielding to the teaching of the Holy Spirit, who began to transform me in ways that cannot be explained! While in jail, my two

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daughters were adopted out. In 2003, I found Latosha, and her aunt began bringing her to visit me. All she talked about was my getting out so we could hug and me getting out of prison so she could live with me.

I saw her for the last time on April 10, 2005. We sang together, prayed together, and had a wonderful visit.

The 13th the chaplain came and said Latosha had died in a trailer fire. Had it not been for my relationship with Jesus, I would have spun out again. God brought me through! Not two months later, I received divorce papers from my wife and discovered she had stolen the money my mother had left me. I began communicating with God about it all, and His voice clearly spoke to me, setting me free instantaneously from any bitterness, anger, unforgiveness, hatred. His words were simply, “Now you know what it is like to be victimized!” I hit my knees and let the Holy Spirit lead me as I repented of all the wrongs I had done, and began to intercede for all of my past victims.

Eventually, I went to the Carol Vance Unit to participate in the InnerChange Program. I am so grateful for this part of my journey. I was approved to be released to a halfway house in Fifth Ward. As I got close to release, the place was closed. My mentor suggested I go to Third Ward, Fertile Ground. I refused. Every other place I attempted, the doors were closed. It was like Jonah and the whale; God was saying, “You’re going, one way or the other!” I came to Fertile Ground in December 2011. I would not trade it for anywhere on earth! I know I am where God wants me to be. I have been made manager and a watchman over men’s souls. I do not take this responsibility lightly.

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Most transitional housing focuses on making a successful transition back into society, but at Fertile Ground, we also focus on Christlike character development. Life is so much more than just working and staying out of prison; it is about discovering experientially the salvation of our Lord, and His will and purpose for one’s life, which will always be for His Glory, and for the further enhancement of His Kingdom. Thank you for the opportunity to share My Story and My Song which praises my Savior all the day long.

UNITED METHODIST MOMENT

Methodists and Prison Ministry

BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR

“Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’”

Matthew 25:34-36, NIV Every Annual Conference in the United Methodist Church is mandated by The Book of Discipline to establish a committee on criminal justice and mercy ministries (known by the acronym, CJAMM). A main responsibility of this committee is to raise awareness in local churches in order to involve local members in ministry to those who are incarcerated and their families, and in ministry to victims of crimes and their families. This is not a new or even recent mandate. Methodist ministry inside prisons has been a part of our denomination’s practice since John Wesley’s days.

Wesley made his first prison visit after a layman, William Morgan, wrote him suggesting “it would do much good if anyone would be at the pains now and then of speaking with” the prisoners. When Wesley agreed, Morgan took both John and Charles Wesley to Castle Prison on August 24, 1730. After that first visit, Wesley wrote: “We were so well satisfied with our conversation there that we agreed to go thither once or twice a week.” Indeed, he kept up that practice throughout the remainder of his life.

Prison conditions were deplorable in Wesley’s day. Prisoners were often kept in irons to prevent their escape.

Food and water supplies were inadequate or nonexistent. Prisoners had only the clothing on their back from the day they entered; many were naked. No care was taken to provide clean or sanitary cells; sick prisoners were neglected so that disease spread rapidly to other inmates. In fact a condition known as “jail fever” not only made it dangerous to minister in the prisons but also posed a real-life threat to Wesley and his volunteers.

Wesley encountered other difficulties, too. Often the jailors opposed his ministry and refused him entrance.

Public opinion was against him and his ministry. The “anti-Methodists” questioned whether prisoners had a “right” to salvation at all since heaven was supposed to be the reward for a virtuous life. Lawyers frustrated him at every turn. Wesley was never discouraged, however. He preached at Newgate Prison in Bristol: “God willeth all men to be thus saved. . . . Since God loves all and is willing to provide salvation for all who will receive it, then love must be for all humanity, including the prisoner.”

In addition to his preaching, Wesley read prayers to the inmates, taught them Scriptures, offered them spiritual guidance, helped them learn to read, and fed and clothed them. He did all these things for English prisoners as well as for French prisoners-of-war. It mattered not to Wesley, for every prisoner had a soul worthy of God’s love and forgiveness. On Monday, March 4, 1738, the first person to whom Wesley offered salvation by faith alone was a prisoner condemned to death named Clifford. Wesley later reported that Clifford died in perfect peace.

For John Wesley, prison ministry was always a critical focus for Methodists, both lay and clergy alike. Methodists today are called to continue ministry in prison settings, doing the same things Wesley himself did: advocating for better conditions; working for the restoration of their well-being; teaching them about God, God’s Word, and how to pray; essentially loving them as God would. Throughout his involvement in prison ministry, Wesley was guided by the Matthew text above. So should we be who continue our Methodist heritage of ministry on the “inside.”

Christ Church’s Restorative Justice Ministries program regularly offers “Freedom Walks,” visits to local prisons in order to learn about our ministries within them. RJM Sunday will be celebrated February 17 th . Our hope is you’ll not only be in prayer for this special day and our RJM ministries, but that you’ll also support them with your presence and time. It’s part of who we are as Methodists.

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

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

OUT OF MY COMFORT ZONE IN GOD’S PLAN

COL ORS OF CA NCER

BY BOB FICKS

Working with drug dealers, robbers, and other criminals was something I would never have done as it was so far out of my comfort zone. How could a CPA living in the isolated bubble of Sugar Land ever begin to relate to someone who had been so evil as to end up in prison?

Several events softened my heart so I could see what God had in His plan for me. First, was hearing the director of the IFI program, Tommie Dorsett, talk about the need for mentors and the positive impact our love could have on the inmates; second were the Bible messages that faith without works is an unfilled faith, and when Jesus said that what you do for the least of men, you do for me.

Over the last two years, I have been blessed to be a mentor to inmates at the Carol Vance unit who are near their release date. The men there have professed to have changed their lives through Christ. Their past is forgiven, and they are moving to a new life filled with the Holy Spirit. Faith in Jesus is the common bond between my inmate mentee and me. Despite my background, the Holy Spirit was able to move me into a fruitful relationship with the men. In fact, they inspire me. All the inmates I have mentored have read the Bible at least once. I had never read the Bible, and they inspired me to take the Disciple One study.

Many of the inmates have been in prison for years, so the transition back into society will be a shock to them. While in the IFI program, they receive life skills and spiritual classes to help with their faith walk and the transition.

But nothing compares to one-on-one mentoring time. As a mentor, I help the inmate focus on what changes he has made to allow him to have a successful, God-focused life.

This includes anything from family relationships to future employment. One of my most heartwarming moments was when one of the inmates told me he could not wait for my visit, as it allowed him to have a discussion that was not about “prison talk.”

Personal safety is a natural concern, but I feel safer at Carol Vance than at a shopping center parking lot. Of course, there are a number of prison guards and IFI staff at the unit. I also have faith that God will put his protective arms around me and keep me safe.

The need for mentors is great - there are always more inmates asking for a mentor than are available. Your spiritual rewards are great, and your service will be appreciated. I pray that the Holy Spirit will move you to be part of this ministry.

DON’T FACE CANCER ALONE!

It was May 6, 2010, the Thursday before Mother’s Day, when I was diagnosed with Stage 1 breast cancer. I had a lumpectomy May 27, 2010. Six weeks later, from July to mid-August, I underwent radiation.

Overall things went well, except that I went through it mostly alone.

I told very few people, and those I told, when they asked how I was doing, I responded with medical updates. I felt so alone.

My daughter was in 8th grade when I was diagnosed, and I put on a brave face to protect her from fear. By refusing to talk about my feelings of fear, to others or my daughter, I became very depressed.

After my physical healing was complete, and life became more normal, I still couldn’t shake the depression. For the most part I was able to cover it. I maintained minimum activities, but found myself quieter than usual and at times shorter tempered.

Then came the announcement that Christ Church was going to start a cancer support group. I wanted to be a part of this group, to help others to go through what I had. But I am the one who received help.

After the first meeting, I was elated, and couldn’t sleep for hours, just overjoyed at talking to others who were going through, or had gone through, what I had. All understood the fears, and other emotions that I went through.

Since starting the Colors of Cancer support group, my depression has finally lifted. I can truly say I have my life and my joy back. I praise God for the COC group. We learn together, pray for each other, and praise successes for each other, all with studies focusing on God. The Colors of Cancer group welcomes all adults who have had a diagnosis of any type of cancer, as well as their caregivers. We use the Reconstruction of a Survivor curriculum to guide our monthly discussions. Come and check us out on the 3rd Tuesday of EVERY month, from 7 - 8:30 pm in the Volunteer Center.

THANK YOU! Thank you to all who gave generously toward the staff bonus!

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For details on how to get involved, contact Betty Waedemon at bbw1m@aol.com

A JOURNEY FOR LIFE

BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR

very words God spoke to Adam as Adam was sent from the garden. And they are the words the Church has used through the centuries to send persons on their Lenten journeys. They remind us to consider ourselves dead to sin and alive in Christ (purified as by burning) as we ref lect on our relationship with God in all of God’s persons – Father, Son, and Spirit – and as we ref lect on our relationships with others, even to strangers in need of God. Lent is a time to be sent on a confrontation with all that would prevent us from God’s life-giving embrace and from sharing God’s love and grace with others.

Our Lenten journey will be about forty days long.

The number forty is significant, for Israel wandered for forty years and Jesus endured a fast for forty days in the wilderness. During this time, we’ll journey through the prophets, explore Daniel’s commitment to God, consider God’s expectations of us, and then enter into the week leading up to our celebration of Easter journeying with Jesus from the upper room, to the cross, to the tomb, and to the garden.

In ref lecting on the Lenten journey toward Easter Sunday, Don Saliers, renowned author and professor of Christian worship, wrote: “God remembers and embraces human life with a love and grace that death cannot undo, and we are to be the witnesses. As Christ was sent, so are we.” Thus, the holy season of Lent is a time to be sent – sent more deeply into God’s Word, sent on fresh encounters with the Spirit’s presence, sent to greater involvement in the community of the faithful, sent out in ministry as baptized Christians, sent to witness God’s love in Jesus Christ.

We’ll take the first steps of this journey on Ash Wednesday, February 13, when we gather in worship to meditate on our mortality and sinfulness, and our great need for a Savior. We’ll commit to daily repentance, and recall that Christ conquered death and sin so we might have life. Then we will be imposed. The imposition of ashes on our foreheads will remind us we are dust: “for dust you are and to dust you will return.” These are the

There will be signposts along our journey – somber colors, rough-textured cloth on the Altar, and wooden Altar pieces**. Prayers of Confession will be added to the worship orders; musical selections will ref lect the season. Our celebration of Easter will actually begin on the Thursday night before Easter when we gather for Holy Communion and remember how Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, then called the broken bread, His Body, and the shared cup, His blood of a new covenant. It was then He commanded the disciples to love one another. The next night we will gather again for Good Friday worship, called good because of what His death meant for the redemption of the whole world. We will journey to a place of profound wonder and gratitude as we recall His sacrifice. Those who continue on their journey through Holy Week on to Easter will be blessed that morning with a very real sense of the presence of Jesus Christ whose arms will be open and ready to embrace us (as depicted in our church’s own Resurrection window), so that through His embrace and our witness to it, the whole world may be won by God’s love and mercy. This is how the Lenten journey is a journey for life! May it be so in your life! Thanks be to God. Amen.

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**Grateful thanks to Dee Schrinner for crafting the wooden Altar pieces and to Priscilla Thomas for providing the plain purple Altar dressings. Truly both undertook these tasks as labors of love.

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 • 6:00 PM • FAMILY LIFE CENTER GYM

GAME DAY WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 27 • 10:30 AM - 1 PM • ROOMS 11/12

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

FEBRUARY HEALING PRAYER WORSHIP SERVICE TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12 • 7 PM • SANCTUARY

So many things can break our hearts - grief over losing a loved one or a relationship, betrayals by family and 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 pm in the Sanctuary on February 12. Communion will be celebrated and those coming for prayer will be offered anointing with oil.

ASH WEDNESDAY WORSHIP WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13 • 6:30 AM, NOON, AND 6:30 PM SANCTUARY

Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent which begins a season of prayer, fasting, and renewal in the church that corresponds to Christ’s forty-day fast. At our brief Ash Wednesday services, we will meditate on our mortality, our sinfulness and need for a Savior, and renew our commitment to daily repentance. Most of all we’ll remember with gratitude and confidence that Christ has conquered sin and death.

Music will be provided by Lahonda Sharp at 6:30 am, Lisa Mayhugh and Drew Essen at noon, and the Festival Choir at 6:30 pm. All three services will offer a time for prayer and the imposition of ashes.

Begin your observance of this holy season by attending one of these worship services.

A SERVICE OF PSALMS MARCH 3 • 5 PM • SANCTUARY

March 3 at 5 pm Festival Choir and Orchestra will present “A Service of Psalms” featuring Leonard Bernstein’s, Chichester Psalms and a variety of other anthems. Our special guest soloist will be the fabulous Barbara Tucker. This concert was planned in conjuction with our journey through the Bible in 90 days. Please join us for the beautiful program. This is a free concert and will conclude with a light reception.

ENCORE! WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6 • 11 AM - 1:30 PM SANCTUARY AND GATHERING HALL

Join us for a program of Chinese Performance Arts, including fans, swords and Tai Chi. 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 February 3. Reserve your space by emailing jan@ cumcsl.org.

WHY DON’T YOU TRY THIS?

When you’re going through tough times, everyone has advice. But often it isn’t advice you need—it’s caring. Stephen Ministers are trained to give confidential caring by listening instead of telling you what to do.

To learn more about Stephen Ministers and how they might help you, contact Referrals Coordinator Sally McKnight at 713.306.1719.

MEN’S LUNCH THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 14 • 11:30 AM BAYTOWN SEAFOOD; 2409 FM 1092 IN MISSOURI CITY

Men of all ages, join the Older Adult Men for lunch and fellowship at Baytown Seafood. 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.

NEW MEMBER CLASS FEBRUARY 10, 17, 24 AT 5:30 PM

One of our main values at Christ Church is ‘Connected Community,’where we nurture relationships with one another and Jesus Christ. If you are ready to learn more about Christ Church and what we value and believe, please join us at the next New Member Class. It begins February 10 with a free dinner and a chance to meet pastors, staff and other new friends. After this fun three-week class, we hope you will choose to become a member of our church family. Register online, at the Welcome Center, or by contacting Benita Sebesta at benitas@ cumcsl.org.

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

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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.

SERVE

GROW

RJM FREE LUNCHEON SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17 • NOON • ROOM 210/211

PUT IT IN WRITING TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 12 AT 3 PM OR THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 28 AT 10 AM • CHURCH LIBRARY

You are cordially invited to our annual free luncheon as we lift up Restorative Justice Ministry Sunday here at Christ Church. Our worship services that day will be filled with testimony and song from the men in prison whose lives are being changed by God. Come and join us in fun and fellowship as we share Christ’s love with the men in white. For info, contact Betty Waedemon at 832.755.7761.

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.

JOSHUA TREE COMING FEBRUARY 17!

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 24, AND MARCH 3

Then they answered Joshua, “Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go” (Joshua 1:16). As we prepare for life’s journeys, we are all in need of supplies. Faith, trust, the commitment to work hard, and knowledge of the Word of God and His promises for us are all things that a Christian needs. Would you help a fellow traveler on his way? Christ Church’s first Joshua Tree will begin its ministry on February 17 in the Ministry Center. Come and choose a way to help incarcerated men and women as they commit their lives to the Lord and work their way to the Promised Land of a life with Christ at its center. You will be able to lead as Joshua led the people by providing supplies such as a Bible, a Disciple study book, a Kairos sponsorship, and many other life-changing gifts. This is a blessed opportunity to help place the feet of these “pilgrims” on the path towards the life God wants for them. Keep your eyes out for the Texas Cactus Joshua Tree. Reach through the thorns and out to a fellow Christian who is on their journey.

FAMILY PROMISE RETURNS TO CHRIST CHURCH HOST CHURCH FOR FAMILY PROMISE • FEBRUARY 10 - 17

Looking for a place to serve in 2013? Consider Family Promise, a program that reaches out to families displaced from their homes by providing them with a temporary place to stay, right here at Christ Church. Rotations occur one week each quarter, and the first rotation of 2013 will take place during the week of Sunday, February 10. Over 300 volunteer hours are logged in during each rotation, so your help is needed! Serve behind the scenes by providing supplies, setting up and breaking down the rooms, doing laundry, and providing meals.

Or connect directly with the families by being a dinner host, staying overnight, or by staffing the Family Center at New Hope Lutheran Church during the rotation’s 2nd weekend. Allow some families in need to experience Christian love in the new year by extending to them some Christ Church hospitality! Contact Kira Halcarz at 832.654.9356 or kira.halcarz@gmail.com.

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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, and poetry. Just bring paper and pencil and your mind full of stories.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 2013

It is registration time for VBS 2013! “Kingdom Rock” will be chiseling through our hallways June 24 - 28, so don’t let your kids miss this incredible opportunity to be “where kids stand strong for God!” Registration for your children and their friends 4 years old (as of Sept.

1, 2012) through 5th grade is open now. Do you have kids younger than 4? No problem - just sign up to volunteer and we will have a space for them as well! We can’t possibly have a successful VBS without YOU, our volunteers, so sign on to www.cumcsl.org/children and click on the “Kingdom Rock VBS 2013” link today! Questions? Contact Ingred Lathrop at 281.690.4748 or Kim Ripley at 281.690.4765.

ONE ROOM BOOK CLUB WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20 • 9 AM • VOLUNTEER CENTER

This group meets once a month to discuss a book chosen at the previous meeting. The book to be discussed at the February meeting is Faithful Unto Death by Stephanie Jaye Evans, and the author will be joining us. If you enjoy reading and conversation about books, you are invited to join Book Club.

POWERFUL TOOLS FOR CAREGIVERS

Powerful Tools for Caregivers is an educational program designed to equip family caregivers with effective self-care tools. This program focuses on the caregiver, not the care recipient. You will benefit from this class whether you are helping a parent, child, spouse, friend, neighbor, as well as someone who lives at home, in a nursing home or across the country. This six-week course meets once per week at Christ Church starting on March 14. For more information regarding the Powerful Tools for Caregivers class and to register, contact Leah Doyle at 832.380.5535 or Leah@fortbendseniors.org.

CONCERT FOR A CAUSE SUNDAY EVENING AT 7 PM • FEBRUARY 10

New Hope Lutheran Church in Missouri City is hosting a special “Concert for a Cause” featuring two professional vocalists from New Orleans who have achieved some prominence in that musical city. This will be an evening of songs and arias, celebrating the best of Valentine Day-themed romantic duets and Broadway favorites!

Performing nationally and internationally, Betsy Uschkrat, soprano, and Tyler Smith, tenor, collaborate with Steven Blackmon, pianist, to bring their talents to Fort Bend, benefiting two great causes - Fort Bend Family Promise and the East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry.

Light refreshments will be served after the concert so the audience can meet with the performers, as well as the directors from each charity. Advance tickets are recommended; go to www.newhopelc.org to purchase.

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 begins 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.

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

youth

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ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES SAGE WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13 • NOON • ROOMS 11/12

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

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.

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

SEEKERS

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

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.

JOY! THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 21 • 10 AM HOUSTON BAPTIST UNIVERSITY MUSEUMS TOUR

Join others from Christ Church for an off-site day trip that provides Christian fellowship, enrichment, and recreation. We will be touring the Museum of American Architecture and Decorative Arts and the Museum of Southern History, followed by lunch on the HBU campus and an additional tour of the Dunham Bible Museum. The tours begin at 10 am at 7502 Fondren Road in Houston, 77074. (Those wishing to travel as a group will meet in the church parking lot at 9:15 am and depart by 9:30 am.) The price is $12 per person (including tours and lunch), and pre-registration and pre-payment is required by February 17. Email Jan Randolph at jan@cumcsl.org if you desire to attend.

TGIS (THANK GOD IT’S SUNDAY)

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. Meets in room 310 in the Family Life Center.

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

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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.

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.

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

3300 AUSTIN PARKWAY SUGAR LAND, TEXAS 77479

SAVE THE DATE! APRIL 20

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

THE HEARTBEAT

WATCH FOR EXCITING DETAILS.

For a complete staff listing, please visit our website at www.cumcsl.org/staff WE’RE HERE TO HELP!

PLEASE REMEMBER IN YOUR PRAYERS...Reba McNally’s friend, Paul & Ardell Stimson’s sister-in-law, Jessica Forray’s father, Bob Smith, Jeanne Martin’s friend, Laine Cipolla’s daughter’s classmates’ grandmother, Haase family friend, Georgia Trudeau, Linda Lockwood’s nephew, Cindy Highsmith’s father, Susan Brubaker’s friend, Hazel Adkinson, JoAnn Eck’s stepson and daughter-in-law, Diane Keller’s family friend, Debbie MacDonald’s mother, Tamika Taylor’s friend’s family, Mary McCain’s friend, Ann Edger’s cousin, Sherry Raven’s friend, Bill & Cindy Finley’s grandson, Frank Jordan, Georgia Trudeau, Billie Blair, Wes Whiddon, Betty Denton, Cynde Lomonte’s great-nephew, Carla Rozario, Lee & Susie Duggan’s grandson, Emmy Finley, Sarah Guffey’s friend’s daughter, Stephanie Strickland, David Strickland, Teddy Jefferson’s friend, Tyler Espinosa’s grandfather, Sherry Raven’s uncle, families in Newtown, CT, and all those serving in the military.

JOYS... Cathy Richard’s husband; Candee Chandler’s brother; Don Chandler’s cousin; Cathe Seaton; Jim Heitzenrater’s sister; Jim Heitzenrater’s nephew; Friend of Elizabeth Jefferson & George & Nancy Kuebler; Cynde Lomonte’s great-nephew; Paige Buhrke; Elizabeth Jefferson’s friend.

CHRIST CHURCH EXTENDS ITS SYMPATHY TO...Melanie Slagle on the death of her father; Don Benson on the death of his mother; Reba McNally on the death of her niece, Lori Matthews and family on the death of her cousin’s son; Kay Decker on the death of her mother; Steve Lind on the death of his father; Tom Byrd on the death of his grandfather; Bonnie Alverson on the death of her mother; Steve Western on the death of his father; family and friends of Brian Stotenberg; Valerie Dull on the death of her mother; Louis Alexander on the death of his mother; Cindy Kirkendall on the death of her grandmother; family and friends of Betty Jean Weeks.

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