The Connection - Christ United Methodist Church Sugar Land

MARCH.2012

BOOK REVIEW

BY REV. MIKE MAYHUGH PAGE 2

DELVING INTO THE HOLY

BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE PAGE 4

APPORTIONMENTS

BY MARK HUFFER PAGE 6

PRIESTHOOD OF ALL BELIEVERS

BY ROBERT MCBURNETT PAGE 8

WHAT WILL YOU CHOOSE THE CROWD OR THE CROSS ?

MARK YOUR CALENDARS EARLY AND MAKE SURE YOU ARE IN FULL SWING FOR GRAND SLAM SUNDAY. REV. MIKE MAYHUGH WILL PREACH AT ALL 4 SERVICES TO DELIVER A VERY IMPORTANT MESSAGE ON THE DIRECTION OF CHRIST CHURCH. WE WANT OUR FULL ROSTER AVAILABLE, SO STEP UP TO THE PLATE, CALL YOUR FRIENDS AND INVITE THEM TO GRAND SLAM SUNDAY. GRAND SLAM SUNDAY MARCH 4 – “CHRIST CHURCH CHOOSES TO BE RICH IN PURPOSE” ACTS 5:27-39 MARCH 11 – “CHOOSE YOUR DIRECTION” MARK 8:31-38 MARCH 18 – “CHOOSE ETERNAL LIFE” JOHN 3:14-21 MARCH 25 – “CHOOSE THE CROSS” JOHN 12:20-33 APRIL 1 (PALM SUNDAY) – “CHOOSE CHRIST” MARK 11:1-11

SERIES BEGINS MARCH 4TH

APRIL 8 (EASTER SUNDAY) – “CHRIST IS RISEN” JOHN 20:1-18

I would love to encourage the entire Church to read Robert E. Coleman’s Book The Master Plan of Evangelism*. This book was so very inf luential in my spiritual formation and put a fire in my heart, mind and soul to invest in the Kingdom through faith forming relationships that will have an everlasting impact! I first read this book in one of my Christian Education classes at Asbury University. The book had sold 925,000 copies at the time. Today the book has sold over three million copies.

Robert E. Coleman is the distinguished Professor of Evangelism and Discipleship at Gorden-Conwell Theological Seminary. He is a graduate of Southwestern University, Princeton Theological Seminary, Asbury Theological Seminary and received his PhD from the State University of Iowa.

BOOK REVIEW

BY REV. MIKE MAYHUGH SENIOR PASTOR

This book looks at the method Jesus used to carry out His ministry. He did this with faith forming relationships that required obedience. Jesus showed the disciples how to live, and He expected results. If we are gong to make a difference in this world by making disciples, we need to look to the ultimate example—Jesus. We must be in ministry with the people God puts in our lives. This book includes a study guide that will help you implement your witness for Jesus Christ and fulfill our mission to be “people helping people find fullness in Christ.”

Robert E. Coleman states principles in his book.

8

timeless

1. Selection. Christ chose people to teach.

We are to target and choose FAT (Faithful Available and Teachable) people to pour our lives into!

(SEE MORE INFO ON PAGE 16)

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2. Association. Jesus stayed with them. To “know” was to be with Jesus. It takes time; it takes follow up. Every new Christian needs someone to follow until they themselves can lead on their own. To do otherwise is to abandon the new believers to the devil.

3. Consecration. Jesus required obedience.

Being a disciple-maker means you are the teacher and you have a pupil. No one will follow a person in whom they have no trust; nor will they sincerely take the step of faith unless they are willing to obey what the teacher says. Always keep the gospel message central in your conversations. Your pupil must count the cost! If your disciple is not willing to count the cost, then close your relationship and move on to the next person.

What would people know about Christ if I were the only Christian out there? Teach your disciple that in order to be healthy, one has to have a spiritual life, which includes church attendance, prayer and study of the Scripture. Context with Scripture study is important! What does that Scripture mean “Then for them,” “Now for Us” and if I took the Scripture seriously...What would I do differently? Class is always in session for Christians.

“Jesus showed the disciples how to live and He expected results. If we are going to make a difference in this world by making disciples we need to look to the ultimate example Jesus.”

5. Demonstration. Get in there, and show them how to live! We must ask ourselves:

6. Delegation. Jesus spent a year with his apostles before he assigned them work! Be sensitive; do not send them out to soon!

7. Supervision. Jesus checked up on his disciples. He gave them briefing instructions. He set the example by doing it first. And, He debriefed them and told them to expect hardship and rejection. Jesus sent them out two by two. Evangelism is not an optional accessory to our life. It is the heartbeat of all that we are called to be and do.

8. Reproduction. Jesus prayed for harvesters. Here is where we must all evaluate the contribution that our life and witness is making to the supreme purpose of Jesus who is the Savior of the world. Are those who have followed us to Christ now leading others to Jesus and teaching them to make disciples like we do?

*THE MASTER PLAN OF EVANGELISM IS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE IN THE CHRIST CORNER BOOKSTORE.

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4. Impartation. Jesus wanted His followers to obey Him. But in recognizing this truth, Jesus realized that His disciples would discover the deeper experience of His Spirit, and when they did, they would know the love of God for a lost world. Love is always giving itself away. Only as we allow the Spirit of Christ in us to exalt the Son, can we draw all people to Christ. However, we cannot give away that which we do not possess! We have to give our lives away to Christ first, before we can share Christ with others.

The Spirit of God always insists on making Christ known! Here is the great paradox of life—we must die to ourselves in order to live for Christ, and in that renunciation of ourselves, we must give ourselves away in service and devotion to our Lord. This was Jesus’ method of evangelism!

DELVING INTO THE HOLY

BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR

One of the most meaningful and exciting Easters I ever experienced began at midnight, precisely at that in-between time separating Saturday and Easter Sunday morning. Those who had been led by God’s Spirit to assemble in the garden outside the church doors, (for only God’s Spirit could move souls to come out in the windy chill that whistled through that night), huddled around a fire pit while a couple of the lay leaders of the church built a fire. Nearby someone else slowly read those Scriptures that reminded us the light of Christ had the power to overcome any darkness in this world.

We drew closer together around the fire, grateful for its light and warmth, and sang “Were You There. . .” and “O Sacred Head, Now Wounded,” then prayed, silently at first, followed by whispered, spontaneous, overlapping cadences of sweet communion with God. We recalled our joyous celebration of Palm Sunday the week before, and pondered how quickly the tide had turned for Jesus as He made his way through the days leading up to His crucifixion. We could remember those stories because we had already been together on Thursday night for Maundy

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Thursday Communion, and then again on Friday night, for a Good Friday service.

Now we were nearing Easter, still very much on the vigil we had begun Palm Sunday morning, all of us frail human beings seeking a deeper experience of God’s grace and forgiveness.

Soon it came time to enter the church and we went in singing “I Want Jesus to Walk with Me,” making our way up the aisles in a solemn and peaceful procession. For the next three hours we recalled God’s goodness in creation, in covenant, and in coming to us as Christ. We ref lected on our salvation history as we sang, prayed, and listened.

Several preachers (I, among them) offered a word to help place all of us in the position of the disciples who could not have known that Easter morning would reveal an empty tomb, and another word to remind us how to wait for that revealing by God. Then around 4 o’clock in the morning we moved to the Fellowship Hall where a baptismal pool had been constructed as the hub in the middle of circles of chairs, as though those of us who took our seats in them would immediately become a “ripple” once the waters of baptism were stirred. We

When the baptisms were finished, we left our chairs and moved to tables at the other end of the Fellowship Hall laden with coffee, tea, juice, sweet breads, various meats and egg casseroles. Our senses, having already been heightened by the vigil through the night, remained intensely tuned to God’s goodness as the ordinary stuff of the first meal of the day became a feast like none tasted before.

Our fellowship was equally blessed. We were friends now, brothers and sisters in Christ from several different congregations in town, coming together for fellowship in His presence. Around 6 o’clock, just as the first hint of dawn was appearing on the far horizon, our vigil ended, and each of us made our way to our respective sunrise services or to preparations for our congregation’s particular Easter celebrations. Our first Easter celebration had ended and we were on our way to our second celebration.

Every year, as Easter Sunday approaches, we pastors face the reality that most of those in our churches will choose not to delve into the holy. They will come for Palm Sunday, happy to join in singing “Hosanna” as the children process with their palm branches, but won’t return until Easter morning. Thus they will go from the lesser joy of Jesus’ triumphal entry to the greater joy of His resurrection. However, is there ever really triumph without suffering or a victory over death without crucifixion?

“The deep and lasting joy of Easter is best experienced after entering into the passion and richness of what we call Holy Week, the time between Palm Sunday and Easter morning. Imagine what might be lost if we didn’t remember Jesus’ final supper with His disciples after washing their feet and calling them to love as He had loved them?

And what would we forget when we refuse to remember how our Lord suffered for our sakes, no matter how averse we are to looking at His pain?

I invite you to delve into the holy as you keep your vigil for Easter this year. Attend Palm Sunday worship, yes! But also attend Maundy Thursday and Good Friday worship.

Both will be celebrated in the Sanctuary at 7 o’clock. Experience a holy “week” and be renewed as you come to better understand what it means to be redeemed. Thanks be to God.

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listened as someone read an account of one of the first Easter vigils in the early church.

Then we celebrated several baptisms: infants presented by their parents, confirmands who had completed their classes, and adults who had never been baptized. It was my joy to baptize two confirmands, the most my little church had presented in several years.

It was a sweet time of encountering Christ, and recognizing in Him how closely bound His followers are, and how immersed we all are in God’s grace, for we are all truly dependent on it.

over 900 missionaries around the world, serving in over 50 countries. They are pastors, evangelists, physicians, nurses and caregivers. Some are teachers, and some work in agriculture teaching people to grow crops. We provide meals to over 3 million people a year in some 50 different countries, feeding over 8200 people everyday. We join with United Methodist Missionaries who not only feed the soul with the word of Jesus Christ, but do everything we possibly can to alleviate hunger and health issues, and to train and educate people throughout the world.

UNITED METHODIST MOMENT

Apportionments

BY MARK HUFFER

If you have been in the United Methodist Church for a few years, you have probably heard the term “Apportionments” thrown around. Maybe you have wondered what it meant.

“So, here is some information about what Apportionments are and what they mean to us as United Methodists.”

The United Methodist Church is a connectional church; each congregation is not independent but connected to each other. Whether other United Methodist churches are down the street, across state, or around the world, we are connected with them. We share many things, including the ability to fund ministries and missions.

Together, we can make a greater impact to relieve suffering, feed the hungry, and proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ at home and around the world.

Through our apportionments, we support

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Overseas missions get a lot of attention, but you probably don’t know that out of every $1.00 of our apportionments, 84.3 cents goes to the local church, while 12.4 cents goes to the regional church, and 3.3 cents goes to General Church ministries.

The Texas Annual Conference uses these apportionments in many ways. Here are just a few examples: MINISTERIAL EDUCATION FUND – This fund was established to unify and expand our program of financial support for the recruitment and education of ordained and diaconal ministers, and to establish scholarships for those who choose to make the ordained or diaconal ministry their career. These funds support more than 13 United Methodist seminaries nationwide.

They include schools such as Perkins, Duke, Drew, Boston University, Candler, Gammon, St. Paul and Wesley, just to name a few.

Perhaps you may know some of the people who have benefited from M.E.F. support: Will, Keith, Tom P., Morris, Mike, Linda, Bob, Glenn, Jason, Kathy, Jeff, Denise, Stacey, Alan, Tom M., Brad, Jim, Taylor, Kay and Laura.

NEW CHURCH TRANSFORMATION DEVELOPMENT APPORTIONMENT – The main purpose of this fund is to create new congregations and to transform existing congregations so that all of them are vital, healthy congregations.

This fund replaced the Room-To-Grow program, of which our church (Christ United Methodist) was a recipient of a Room-ToGrow note. In mid 1980 our church received

WORLD SERVICE FUND AND FAIR SHARE GOALS – Our Apportionments also help to support our extensive domestic and international mission outreach ministries, among which are Partners In Mission (PIM) and United Methodist Volunteers In Mission (UMVIM). While UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief), our Red Cross equivalent, and the not-for-profit global humanitarian aid organization of the United Methodist Church, is not an apportioned item, the World Service Fund is. This fund supports UMCOR’s staff and field personnel and the administrative costs of this ministry so that 100% of every dollar donated to UMCOR goes directly to aid those in need. UMCOR works in over 80 countries and in the United States. UMCOR trains volunteers in disaster relief response, so we can go anywhere in the local area we are needed to offer assistance. Perhaps you heard of the work we did after hurricanes Katrina and Rita or the work that was done in Texas after the wildfires this summer.

UMCOR is also leading and directing the efforts of the United Methodist Church in Haiti.

Apportionments are also used to support and fund United Methodist Missionary Conferences, organizations and activities such as: Rio Grande Missionary Conference Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference Lakeview Summer Camping Scholarships Lon Morris College Black College Fund Africa United Methodist University Lydia Patterson Institute Wesley Foundations and Campus Ministries Gulfside Assembly Wiley College Cote d’Ivoire Partnership Russia Initiative Hispanic Ministries

I have only touched on a few of the things our Apportionments go to support. If you desire more information, then come to Annual Conference; it is open to the public, in Galveston this June 3 through 7. Come sit in on some the general meetings and hear the reports given by all the ministries that Apportionments fund. I’ll be there; you can sit with me.

How about signing up to be trained by UMCOR to be a first responder in disaster relief? Then you and I can respond to the next natural disaster that may happen, whether it be in Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Alabama or another other location in the U.S. where we maybe called upon to respond.

How about going to Haiti with our next mission team, as we assist the people of Haiti in rebuilding after the earthquake of 2 years ago?

Come with me to Cote d’Ivoire and lend a hand in rebuilding schools that were damaged during the recent crisis!

Plan on attending the next Perkins School of Theology for Laity, those one day classes taught here in Houston by Perkins professors. I can guarantee it will deepen your faith, expand your knowledge of the Bible and introduce you to some of the best theological minds in the country.

These are just of few of the things our Apportionment dollars do for the United Methodist Church, but more importantly for the people of God. So when you say you don’t want your dollar spent on Apportionments, just remember what our Lord said, “For where your treasure is, there also your heart will be.”

I, for one, treasure the experiences I have had working with the ministries that our Apportionments fund and want to keep funding all of them with 100% payment of our church’s share.

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

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a $150,000.00 loan, of which we had paid back approximately $90,000.00. Around 2009 the program was discontinued and the balance of the note, $60,000.00, was simply forgiven. Can you imagine if we were not part of a connectional church that this would have been possible?

stone that is a stumbling block, but we pass right over the part in verse 5 where it says we, WE, are living stones being built into God’s spiritual house. We are a royal priesthood, called for the purpose of praising God. Our role in this priesthood is to represent Christ and share His grace with others – called to stand in the gap between them and Christ.

Let me call on a couple of my favorite Christian authors.

PRIESTHOOD OF ALL BELIEVERS

BY ROBERT MCBURNETT

So, you’re driving down the road and the sign in front of the church catches your eye: First United Methodist Church Senior Pastor – Mike Morris Pace Associate Pastor – Linda Stacy Lightle Ministers – Everyone else We have been conned into believing that clergy do ministry and the laity consume it.

This is not only inaccurate; it’s unbiblical.

We are all called to ministry.

In 1 Peter 2, we read As you come to him, the living Stone— rejected by humans but chosen by God and precious to him— 5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ.

4

and then . . .

But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

9

We are well acquainted with the image of Christ as a stone, the cornerstone, and the

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First, Mark Buchanan a pastor in Vancouver writes, “Now, I’m a pastor, writing books, preaching sermons, and greeting parishioners at the back door. Sunday after Sunday, I speak to the people about God. Week after week, I speak to God about the people.” I put the book down to think that one through. I don’t write books and I don’t preach sermons. Greet parishioners? I can do that. Speak to the people about God on Sundays? I can do that. Speak to God about the people during the week? I can do that.

There is nothing in there that requires ordination. Greet your fellow church members. Greet visitors in the halls and in the pews. Speak to the people you encounter here about God, and then during the week speak to God about the people. We can all do that.

The second author I want to call on is Barbara Brown Taylor. She is an ordained Episcopal priest and fabulous writer. Linda Summers Pierce has used her work in some of her sermons. Barbara Brown Taylor did not set out to be a priest, but she felt the Lord calling and pulling on her. When she mentioned her intent to join the priesthood to an Episcopalian bishop, he said, “Think hard before you do this. Right now, you have the broadest ministry imaginable. As a layperson, you can serve God no matter what you do for a living, and you can reach out to people who will never set foot in a church. Once you are ordained, that is going to change. Every layer of responsibility you add is going to narrow your ministry so think hard before you choose a smaller box.” I put this book down too to think through what she wrote. As I think about it, I see what she is saying. Sure our pastors have a powerful forum through the Sunday sermon, but during the week their work tends to keep them in church circles. We are the ones that go out and mingle with the masses. We circulate constantly in the

land of the unbelievers. We have many more opportunities to talk to the people about God.

back.” This exchange launched a change of perspective, and he began meeting them wherever God showed up – in the workplace.

And one more from Barbara Brown Taylor.

Ultimately she left the priesthood, but not her ministry. Here is what she wrote about that transition, “We need a different way of being together before God shaped more like a circle than a pyramid. We need to ditch the sheep paradigm. We need to take turns filling in for Jesus, understanding that none of us was equal to the task to which all of us had been called. We need to share the power . . . Church is not a stopping place but a starting place for discerning God’s presence in this world. I renewed my membership in the priesthood of all believers, who may not have as much power as we would like, but whose consolation prize is the freedom to meet God after work, well away from all centers of religious command, wherever God shows up.”

I would suggest that all of us, or almost all of us, have already solemnly agreed to participate in these forms of ministry. I have, and I’m guessing you probably have, too.

Wherever God shows up! A few years ago, I was asked to invite some people to share their ministries during worship over several weeks. I invited a friend to share his ministry. When I asked him in the hallway, he said, “I don’t have a ministry.” I reminded him that I had been coaching soccer across the field from him for a few years and I saw how he dealt with his players and with their parents. It was truly a ministry. He thought about it, and gave the testimony. He later told me it changed the way he looked at coaching soccer. He met them where God showed up – on the soccer field.

I believe this needs to be our personal mission, an intentional mission. We can’t delegate it or depend on someone else to do it for us. We must make Christ real in our lives and share that spirit with others, to channel God’s grace. God gave us the ability to lead others to Christ, and we must carry Christ out into this world that is in desperate need of His love and grace.

I will also remind you of one section of the Communion ritual. The pastor prays, “Make us one in Christ, one in each other and one in ministry to all the world.” Who is asked to be in ministry? “Us.” And to whom are we to be in ministry? “To all the world.”

We have been conned into believing that clergy do ministry and the laity consume it.

This is not only inaccurate; it’s unbiblical.

We are all called to ministry. One more thing, we do not belong to Christ Church, we are Christ Church. Living in Christ means showing love, compassion and grace in all aspects of our lives – at church, at work, at social gatherings, on the soccer field wherever we are.

“ All of us are called by Christ into ministry. Some are called to ordination; most of us are not, but we are all in ministry together.”

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I’m also reminded of a conversation in our Sunday School class a few years ago when the oil business was in a downturn. Most of us have experienced the cyclical nature of that industry. One of my friends expressed his frustration with work. His company had laid off a significant segment of the workforce, and the workload was weighing on everyone who remained. Compounding his stress, was the stream of co-workers coming by his office seeking comfort and advice. He said he couldn’t bring himself to throw them out, but it was keeping him from completing his work. One of the saints in our class said, “Did it occur to you that maybe God put you there to listen to them and ease their pain?”

My friend responded, “I never thought of it that way.” Someone else offered, “You must be good at it, or they wouldn’t keep coming

If you’ve ever presented a child for infant baptism in the United Methodist Church, you were asked if you would “live before this child a life that becomes the gospel.” If so, I suspect your answer was, “Yes.” In the same way, we are called to live before the world a life that becomes the gospel.

WHY THE CHANGES IN THE TRADITIONAL WORSHIP ORDER

BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE

John Rutter

REQUIEM Presented by The Festival Choir & Orchestra at Christ United Methodist Church Lahonda Sharp, Conductor Beth McConnell, Organist

Pre-Concert Music at 5:30 Childcare 281-690-4784

March 25, 2012 6 pm

We invite the entire congregation and community to share the names of deceased friends or relatives who have contributed to your Christian faith. The names will be printed in the concert program and candles will be lit during the service in memory of those listed. To submit names, you can go to our website at www.cumcsl.org or fill out a pew card at church and place in the offertory plate or turn it in to the office.

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EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR

You’ve likely noticed by now that the sermon happens earlier in traditional worship than it used to. Actually it happens earlier in the 8:15 service than it once did, too. We made this change last July. If you’ll look at pages 3 and 4 in the front of our United Methodist Hymnal, you’ll find “An Order of Sunday Worship Using the Basic Pattern”. The “order” in which things happen in worship is important, and this “Basic Pattern” is important because it comes from a fairly recent recovery of our best understanding of how early Christians worshiped. They came together, greeted one another, sang songs, heard the Scriptures read and preached upon, and then “responded” to God’s Word with acts of faith, the giving of gifts, commitments to service, and so on.

In the 1970’s all the major Protestant denominations “reformed” their worship orders to more closely align with the ancient church practices described in detail in manuscripts discovered in the 1960’s. When our latest United Methodist Hymnal was published in 1989, it contained the “reformed” worship order. Moving the sermon to an earlier position in the “order” seems odd to those of us who grew up with the sermon near the very end of the service. But that was before this discovery and the recommended reformation of the order for worship.

Drawing upon the wisdom of our ancestors in the faith, we’ve come to understand that the Scripture Reading and Sermon are to be the climax of the service. And even though we are still tempted to end the service after the preaching, thinking, “Okay, now we just go out and obey the message we’ve heard,” there is great wisdom in making an “authentic response” in the moment. After all, preaching calls for a response, and giving time for those in the congregation to just sit and “soak in” the message allows for a “corporate” response that models the faithful life we are to lead out in the world. It takes time for that response to “gel,” so we follow preaching with a time of prayer, the giving of gifts, an affirmation of faith, and finally a hymn that calls us to commit. Allowing time for “soaking” in God’s Word insures the response God’s Word deserves and prepares all of us to live more faithfully in the world. Think of the “soaking” as the “so what” as opposed to the “now, what?” we might feel if we left immediately after preaching.

Think of it as a time for gaining clarity with regard to God’s purpose for our lives, both as a congregation and as individual witnesses in the world. The proclamation of God’s Word is an awesome, powerful thing and a mighty vehicle through which God’s Spirit loves to move and dance and create and inspire!

It’s more than worthy of the time it takes to soak it all in!

WORSHIP

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

MIKE’S GRAND SLAM SUNDAY SUNDAY, MARCH 4 • ALL SERVICES

Mark your calendars early and make sure you are in full swing for GRAND SLAM SUNDAY. Rev. Mike Mayhugh will preach at all 4 services to deliver a very important message on the direction of Christ Church. We want our full roster available, so step up to the plate, call your friends and invite them to GRAND SLAM SUNDAY. EASTER LILY SALES STARTING MARCH 11 • MINISTRY CENTER OR ONLINE

Easter Lily Order Forms may be found in the pew pockets or you can order online. Please complete the form and attach it to your payment. Drop both in the box at the Ministry Center Table on March 11, 18, or 25. You may also bring orders to Sandy in the front office. (All profits will go to the church’s operating budget.)

MARCH HEALING PRAYER WORSHIP SERVICE TUESDAY, MARCH 13 • 7 PM • SANCTUARY

Need to lay your burden down for a little while and rest in the warmth and healing light of God’s love? Then join others in the Sanctuary on the second Tuesday evening of the month. The March Healing Prayer Worship Service will be held on the 13, at 7 pm. No matter your need, you are always welcome.

WORSHIP DURING HOLY WEEK

Palm Sunday, also known as Passion Sunday, will be April 1 this year. Palm branches will be available at every service that morning, and the Children’s Choir will sing in all three of the Sanctuary services. This Sunday is important because it begins Holy Week, perhaps the most important week in any Christian’s life. On Thursday night, Maundy Thursday will be observed.

Actors will portray Jesus and His disciples in the upper room as we gather at the Lord’s table for Communion. Then on Friday night, a moving and powerful celebration of Tenebrae (or darkness) will be held, commemorating Jesus’ crucifixion and death. Both of these services will be held at 7 pm in the Sanctuary. Because we will not have an Easter celebration at Oyster Creek this year, additional services have been added here at our campus. Sanctuary services will be held at 8, 9:30, and 11 in the morning. Casual services will be held in the Gym at 9 and 11. Please plan to observe a holy week and join in one or more of our Easter morning celebrations.

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

ACTORS NEEDED FOR MAUNDY THURSDAY REENACTMENT

Men, all ages, are needed for a special reenactment in the Maunday Thursday worship service, April 5, 7 pm, in the Sanctuary. One, or maybe two, rehearsals will be needed before that date, but no memorization of lines is required. Actors will freeze-frame the scene in the upper room during the celebration of Communion in the worship service. Christ Church is pleased that our own Piecemakers quilting group is sewing costumes.

Holly Griffith will rehearse the cast and stage the tableau.

Contact Lahonda Sharp at lahonda@cumcsl.org, 281.690.4741 or Sandy White at sandyw@cumcsl.org or 281.690.4777 if you are willing to participate in creating a meaningful and moving setting in which to gather round our Lord’s Table as we remember His last Passover meal with His disciples.

THE COLOR PURPLE AND OTHER THINGS

The paraments, or Altar cloths, that are used during the season of Lent are purple, a color long-associated with penitence in the history of Christianity. Purple is used to remind us, first of all, of the suffering Jesus endured as well as the suffering of a world where sin still reigns. But purple also reminds us of royalty.

Because the making of purple cloth was a very expensive process, involving the dangerous harvesting of deep water shellfish, such cloth could only be afforded by the very wealthy of Jesus’ day. In Mark 15, Pilate’s soldiers draped Jesus’ shoulders with a purple robe and put a crown of thorns on His head, mocking Him. He was hailed “King of the Jews” in John 19. This was part of His suffering.

As we see the color purple on Sunday mornings, we are reminded that Lent is a time for growing through repentance, through prayer and fasting and other spiritual disciplines, and through concentrating on what it means to take up our cross and follow Jesus. Along with the purple paraments and a life-sized cross, the “Paschal Candle” may also be placed in the Sanctuary during Lent and Holy Week. The word “paschal” comes from the “paschal lamb” that was sacrificed on the night of Passover in memory of the Israelites’ deliverance from death. That lamb was then, and still is, a symbol of redemption. Jesus is our “paschal lamb,” and it is His saving work that we remember when we see the Paschal Candle standing beside the Altar.

When you are in worship this Lent, look around the Sanctuary and see what other symbols you see to remind you of the Paschal Mystery that is the heart of the Christian gospel - the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

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

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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

CONNECT “GIRL TIME” FOR 4TH AND 5TH GRADE GIRLS SUNDAY, MARCH 4 • 2 PM • ROOMS 210/211

All 4th and 5th grade girls are invited to attend our March “Girl Time” on Sunday March 4 at 2 pm in room 210/211. This is a great time to bring friends.

ENCORE! WEDNESDAY, MARCH 7 • 11 AM - 1:30 PM • SANCTUARY AND GATHERING HALL

Join us for a presentation provided by Mary Ann Weber of the Houston Audubon Society. 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 March 5. Reserve your space by emailing jan@cumcsl.org.

MEN’S LUNCH THURSDAY, MARCH 8 • 11:30 AM • LUPITAS

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

JOY! SATURDAY, MARCH 24 • TASTE OF TEXAS RESTAURANT

Join others from Christ Church in going on off-site day trips that provide Christian fellowship, enrichment, and recreation.

On March 24, we will gather at the Taste of Texas on the Katy Freeway for a tour that includes a delicious meal along with fascinating facts and stories of Texas history and heroes presented by owner, Nina Hendee. The restaurant houses a collection of rare Texas historical documents and artifacts. Cost is $21.65 per person. Email Jan Randolph at jan@cumcsl.org if you desire to attend.

OAM GAME DAY WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28 • 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.

EYES AND EARS OF JESUS

We are the eyes and ears of Jesus on earth today. It is our duty to be watching and listening to people around us, recognizing when they have needs for care. If you find someone with a need, listen and care. If you find the need is something greater than you can provide, tell the person about our Stephen Ministry program providing confidential one-on-one Christian care by trained Stephen Ministers. Put him or her in touch with Referrals Coordinator Sally McKnight at 713.306.1719 for more information. Jesus is depending on us to be his eyes and ears on earth.

FACEBOOK.COM/CUMCSL TWITTER.COM/CUMCSL

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY FRIDAY, MARCH 30 • 6:30 – 11 PM • SWEETWATER COUNTRY CLUB

Twenty-five years, Wow! Where does the time go? Christ Church School opened its doors in 1987 with 14 teachers and 97 children. There are 5 staff members from 1987 who still work at the school: Glenna Albert, Beth Carter, Nancy McCall, Becky Neese and Annette Smith. We held classes in the ground floor with moveable partitions as walls. We were “open concept” before it was in style! In September 1994, we moved into the beautiful Education Wing. We were so excited to have actual doors and windows.

On Friday, March 30, 2012, we are having our 25th Anniversary Celebration Dinner Auction at Sweetwater Country Club. Our theme this year is “Star Light, Star Bright.” The success of our auction enables Christ Church School to purchase equipment, playground maintenance, and supplies that would not be possible without budget constraints. We would love to have you join us for a wonderful evening of dinner, live and silent auctions and dancing. Also, if you have vacation homes, timeshares, airline miles, hotel points, autographed sports items, etc. that you would like to donate, we would welcome them.

Please contact Beth or Becky in the school office at 281.980.2582 or ccs@cumcsl.org for ticket information or auction questions. It will be a great evening and we hope to see you there.

SAVE THE DATE - UMW DISTRICT SPRING CELEBRATION SATURDAY, MARCH 31 • GATHERING HALL

Save the date! More information to follow soon!

CHRIST CHURCH SCHOOL REGISTRATION FOR THE 2012-2013 SCHOOL YEAR

Registration for the 2012-2013 School year at Christ Church School will be held on Monday, February 27 for church members, and Wednesday, February 29 for the community at 8:30 am in the school office. There are information sheets (light blue) in the clear acrylic holders throughout the church listing the classes offered and the fees. For more information, you may call the school office 281.980.2582, and speak with Beth or Becky. The school hours are Monday-Friday 9:30 – 2 pm.

KINDERGARTEN AND BRIDGE CLASSES AT CHRIST CHURCH SCHOOL

Did you know that CCS has a Kindergarten and Bridge Class?

The Bridge Class has met since 1990 and is for those children who could go to Kindergarten but need a little more time to mature. The class meets Monday through Thursday from 9:30 am until 2:00 pm. The class is small; 13 children is the maximum with a teacher and a full time assistant. The children also have enrichment opportunities with music and PE several times per week. We will be happy to answer your questions, or call the school office at 281.980.2582.

SERVE FREEDOM WALK TOUR MARCH 8 • CAROL VANCE PRISON UNIT

AUDIO/VISUAL TRAINING DAY SATURDAY, MARCH 10 • 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM SANCTUARY & GYM

Media Production Ministry is holding an Audio/Visual Training Day on March 10 from 8:30 am - 12:30 pm. All currently involved should plan to attend. Any others interested are encouraged to join us as we will familiarize ourselves with all equipment and protocol in the Sanctuary and the Gym. We support all ministries of Christ Church by enhancing the Word of God through sight and sound. It stands to reason that we all have the same knowledge and basic foundation from which to serve. Let us know you’ll be there by contacting Gerald Brewer at gerald@cumcsl.org or 281.690.4772.

BELTS FOR THE HOMELESS THROUGH MARCH 14 • COLLECTION BINS

Help the homeless by donating new or used belts. The belts will be donated to Crossroads at Park Place, a shelter that provides meals, clothes, and services to the homeless of Southeast Houston. At Christmas, members of this church donated a carload of jeans, and they were thrilled to get them, but said one of their biggest needs were belts so the jeans would stay on. Please place your donations in the collection bins located downstairs by Room 11/12

by March 14. To learn more about Crossroads at Park Place go to www.crossroadsatparkplace.org.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY SPRINGS INTO ACTION SIGN UP MARCH 18 • MINISTRY CENTER

Join the Christ Church Habitat team on Saturday, March 24 as we will work on one of the homes currently under construction in the Teal Run subdivision. Stop by the Habitat table in the Ministry Center on Sunday, March 18 to sign up and get more info. Bob Ayers, our new Habitat Leader, robert.ayers@pgs.com or Mark Buhrke mbuhrke@fugro.com can also provide additional information.

ONE GREAT HOUR OF SHARING SUNDAY, MARCH 18 • ALL WORSHIP SERVICES

Sunday, March 18 has been designated by the United Methodist Church as the Sunday to lift up and support the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) which aids in ministries of food, shelter, health and peace in the United States and throughout the world. Gifts on this one Sunday will underwrite UMCOR’s “costs of doing business.” That helps them keep their promise that 100 percent of every other gift you make to a specific UMCOR project can be spent on that project-not on home office costs. Mission Dollars collected on March 18 will also be designated for this One Great Hour of Sharing for UMCOR. If you would like to contribute by check, please write “One Great Hour” in the memo line or you can put all your single $1 bills in the offering plate on the 18.

The 3rd Annual Fort Bend Empty Bowls, benefitting East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry, will be Friday, March 23 from 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm at Safari Texas Ranch. Tickets are $25 per person. Guests will be served a simple meal of soup donated by popular area restaurants and bread in recognition and support those in our community who do not have enough food to eat. The evening will include entertainment provided by local talent and both silent and live auctions. All proceeds go to East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry. This year’s goal is to raise $50,000 to relieve hunger in our community. To purchase tickets or for more information, contact Ginny Schabacker at schabginny@windstream.net or 281.980.1179.

GET YOUR CAR SPARKLING FOR EASTER! SATURDAY, MARCH 31 • 4503 SWEETWATER BLVD

Get your car sparkling clean for Easter and support our youth at the same time. The Youth Jamaica Mission team is having a car wash fundraiser on March 31. The location is 4503 Sweetwater Blvd, Sugar Land, Tx (Dr. Halford’s office location). We will be there from 8:30 am - 3 pm. Come and join the fun.

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

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.

UM ARMY 2012 JULY 22 - 28

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

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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.

FORT BEND EMPTY BOWLS BENEFIT FRIDAY, MARCH 23 6:30 - 9:30 PM SAFARI TEXAS RANCH

SERVE

(CON’T)

EFBHNM FOOD PANTRY NEEDS FOR MARCH GIVE THE GIFT OF FOOD

The Food Pantry is in need of cooking oil, sugar, flour, corn meal, canned juice, toiletries and diapers (size 4) and pull ups. For a complete list of Food Pantry needs go to www.cumcsl.org/ efbhnm.

FEINSTEIN CHALLENGE!

For the 15th year, philanthropist, Alan Shawn Feinstein will divide $1 million proportionately among hunger fighting agencies throughout the country who accept his challenge. All donations (cash, checks and food items) made to East Fort Bend Human Needs Ministry during March and April will be counted as part of this great Challenge. The more donations made to EFBHNM, the more of the Feinstein $1 million the ministry will get. Please help us lessen hunger in East Fort Bend County by donating during the months of March and April. Checks can be made out to “CUMC” and note EFBHNM on the memo line. Place non-perishable food item donations in the EFBHNM bin at the Collection Corner. Food items will be valued at $1.00 per item.

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 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.

CAR NEEDED TO KEEP ON THE GOOD ROAD

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be released from prison with $50 and the clothes on your back and no job or means to make a living? It would be frightening to say the least. Even if you have a place to stay, you need a way to get to job interviews, parole and church. If you have a car that is not being used or collecting dust in your garage, Hope Ministry of Texas would like to put it to use by making it available to those that do not have transportation. Please contact Jennifer Lowe at 281.770.4269 YARN NEEDED

If you have any yarn laying around your house that you don’t have a use for, the Children’s Ministry team will gladly accept your donation. Donations can be dropped off in the children’s ministry office.

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

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

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 friendly people who will volunteer to take a half-day shift at our receptionist desk each week. We will train you on how to operate the switchboard, help you to know how to answer questions, and equip 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 • 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. Joy Bells and Senior Ringers rehearse at 6 pm and the Jubilation Ringers at 7 pm.

ONLY 1 HOUR? – I CAN DO THAT!

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.

NEW FROM MEALS ON WHEELS

Christ United Methodist Church has expanded their partnership with Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels! Christ Church will now function as the meal distribution center serving home-bound older adults who live in Sugar Land, Missouri City, Stafford, and surrounding communities in Fort Bend. The meals on wheels distribution center at Christ Church is located just inside the covered drive on the Austin Parkway side of the campus from 8 am to noon, Monday - Friday. Fort Bend Seniors Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious meals to approximately 750 homebound older adults who are unable to prepare nutritious meals for themselves. Volunteering to help deliver meals only takes about 1 to 1 ½ hours of time each week. For more information on volunteering with Fort Bend Seniors, please contact Christ Church member Leah Doyle at leah@fortbendseniors.org or 281.633.7053.

ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITY OAM FAITH AND FITNESS TUESDAYS AT 11:00 AND FRIDAYS AT 1:00 • ROOMS 302/303

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

Participants are encouraged to focus on prayer, scripture and physical fitness (flexibility, balance, range of motion, strength and breathing). Monthly fee for 1 day a week is $15, 2 days a week is $30.

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

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

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 for our new Sunday School class. 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

FACEBOOK.COM/CUMCSL TWITTER.COM/CUMCSL

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.

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.

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.

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

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CONNECT AT

SOMETIMES WE ARE HELPERS; SOMETIMES WE NEED HELP.

WOULD YOU LIKE SOMEONE TO WALK WITH YOU? In Galatians 6, Paul tells us to “carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” At Christ Church our Stephen Ministers have been trained and organized to do just that. They provide confidential, one-to-one care, prayer and support to those who are going through a difficult time. If you would like more information on how a Stephen Minister might walk through those hard times with you, contact referrals coordinator Sally McKnight at 713.306.1719.

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

GROW Want insights into Sunday’s sermon before Sunday? Looking for a short-term, weekday morning Bible study? Then come to the Library at 9 am on Wednesday mornings starting February 29 for “Lenten Lessons on the Lectionary.” We’ll explore Pastor Mike’s sermon texts through lecture and discussion questions. This one-hour class will continue through Wednesday, April 4, and you may enter the class at any time along the way. Please bring a study Bible. For more information contact Linda Summers Pierce at lindasp@cumcsl.org or 281.980.6888.

ONE ROOM BOOK CLUB WEDNESDAY, MARCH 21 • 9 AM • VOLUNTEER CENTER

This group meets once a month to discuss a book chosen at the previous meeting. If you enjoy reading and conversation about books, you are invited to join Book Club. The March 21 meeting will be a discussion of Sarah by Orson Scott Card.

THIRD GRADE BIBLE STUDY STARTING MARCH 21 • 3:45 - 4:45 PM • ROOM 209

All 3rd Graders are invited to join us for a 3-week Bible study on Wednesdays, March 21 through April 4 from 3:45 - 4:45 pm. We will meet in Room 209 for a fun snack activity, games and study. The study will be led by Benita Sebesta, our Third Grade Coordinator. She will take the children on an exploration of Genesis 37 and the story of Joseph and how it can apply to their lives today. We encourage each child to load up one friend, two friends or many friends and bring them along. A special treat for the one who brings the most guests! To help us plan for materials and snacks, please register online on the church website or RSVP to Kim Ripley at 281.690.4765 or kimr@cumcsl.org.

YOUTH SPRING RETREAT 2012 FRIDAY, MAY 4 - SATURDAY, MAY 5 CAMP CHO-YEH, LIVINGSTON, TX

Take a break from your busy ‘end of school year’ schedule in May and join us for a one-night getaway to Camp Cho-Yeh in Livingston. This overnight retreat will give you an opportunity to enjoy some fellowship with your friends and grow in your faith with awesome worship and small group discussions. Come re-charge with us as you head into your last month of school! All youth currently in grades 6-12;and, Adult chaperones are welcome.Cost: $90(Youth)and $50(Adults); Deposit of $25 at time of registration thru March 15 with balance due 4/10/12; Fees include: Retreat cost (1 night lodging plus 2 meals), activities and round-trip transportation. Deadline: April 9, 2012.

THE GREAT COMMISSION THURSDAY, MARCH 22 • 6:30 (DINNER) CLASS STARTS AT 7 • ROOMS 11/12

Christ has personally given us our ‘marching orders’, including His promise that we do not go alone; He is with us every step of the way.

Are you ready? Let’s suit up, link arms and go - to deliver the greatest message the world will ever hear! Join Rev. Mike Mayhugh for this class on The Great Commission. Dinner will start at 6:30 pm and will be available for $5! Class will start at 7 and should wrap up by 8:30.

Registration is required! Deadline for registration is March 19 and space is limited. Contact Bobby Wooley at bobby@cumcsl.org if you have questions.

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL - REGISTER NOW

VBS 2012, Sky: Everything is Possible with God, is the week of June 11 through June 15. Children age 4 (by September 1, 2011) through 4th grade are invited to register. A special Mission VBS is available for current 5th graders. Looking for a place to serve? It takes about 100 adults and 100 youth to make this week happen so please consider volunteering. Childcare and pre-VBS available for children under 4 with volunteering parent. Online registration is available for children and volunteers at www.cumcsl.org. Children’s current registration fee is $25. Fee will increase to $30 after April 1. For more information, contact Ingred Lathrop at 281.690.4748 or children@cumcsl.org.

BEYOND THE GOLD SPORTS CAMP JULY 30 - AUGUST 3

Children’s Ministries is excited to announce that UW Sports Ministry will be at Christ Church July 30 through August 3. Camp will include basketball, cheer, flag football, and soccer for children that have completed Kindergarten through 5th Grade. A special Team 45 Camp will be available for Pre-K children (age 4 by 9/1/11). Camp time is 5-8:15 pm. Registration is available online. Preparations are beginning now and there is much to be done between now and camp week. First on the agenda is to fill leadership roles. If you have an interest in sports and children, this is a great serve opportunity for you! We need volunteers for the following positions: Camp Director (leadership skills a plus) Coordinator for each area: Facilities, First Aid (medical background and/or first aid certified), Prayer, Registration, Security, Snack, Sports Flash. For complete job descriptions and/or more information please contact Kim Ripley at kimr@cumcsl.org or 281.690.4765.

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.

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

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

Normal bookstore hours are Sundays, 9:00 am - 12:30 pm & Thursdays, 10:00 am - 12:30 pm. people helping people find fullness in Christ worship • connect • grow • serve

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WEDNESDAY MORNING PASTOR’S BIBLE STUDY STARTING WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 29 • 9 AM • LIBRARY

HOLY WEEK PALM SUNDAY, APRIL 1 8:15, 9:45 & 11:05 AM • SANCTUARY 11 AM • FAMILY LIFE CENTER MAUNDY THURSDAY, APRIL 5 7 PM • SANCTUARY GOOD FRIDAY, APRIL 6 7 PM • SANCTUARY EASTER SUNDAY, APRIL 8 8:00, 9:30, AND 11:00 AM • SANCTUARY 9:00 AND 11:00 AM • FAMILY LIFE CENTER

Christ has personally given us our ‘marching orders,’ including His promise that we do not go alone; He is with us every step of the way. Are you ready? Let’s suit up, link arms and go - to deliver the greatest message the world will ever hear!

Join Rev. Mike Mayhugh for this class on The Great Commission. Dinner will start at 6:30 pm and will be available for $5! Class will start at 7 and should wrap up by 8:30. Registration is required! Deadline is March 19 and space is limited. Contact Bobby Wooley at bobby@ cumcsl.org if you have questions.

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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org

TO: THE FORT BEND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY VOLUNTEERS & CHRIST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH VOLUNTEERS A tree stands because it has roots….thank you for being those roots…..with the building of my home from the start…. For every hammer held, and every nail hit, we say, THANK YOU. For every stroke of every brush, against every wall, door, or window frame, we say, THANK YOU. For every morning you wake up early, get dressed on your off day, (time spent away from your family) and come help to build my home, we say THANK YOU. For every backache, headache, knee pain, sore shoulder, stomped toe, or hurt finger that you have gained, in spite of the pain, you sucked it up, and stayed….for this we say THANK YOU. You come back, you keep coming….. You don’t stop, you don’t quit…. No excuses, you do what you can, what has to be done. You are a blessing beyond measure, and truly appreciated. For your consistency, patience, dedication, your time, and hard work….my daughter and I say, THANK YOU!!!!!!

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

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

3300 AUSTIN PARKWAY

SERIES BEGINS MARCH 4TH

SUGAR LAND, TEXAS 77479

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

WE’RE HERE TO HELP!

PLEASE REMEMBER IN YOUR PRAYERS...

Ann Upp, friends and family of William Patterson, Lisa Mayhugh, Roni Thompson’s mother, Roni Thompson’s sister, Adrian Hassell, Benita Sebesta’s niece, Annabeth Heisig’s uncle, Jean Reeves’ sister, Sheila Schubarth’s mother, Sheila Schubarth’s aunt, Monique Harrison, Ty Sponsel’s mother, Matt Decker’s daughter, Tripp Kerth, Ron Rathnau’s sister, John Randall’s mother, Rosalee Dutton, Sandra Vautrain’s aunt, Anna Pardue’s friend’s mother, Jean Bergman, Dave Hagler, Raymond Rideout, Elisa McIntire’s father, Jennie & Bob Sime’s son-in-law, Julie Bigham’s cousin, Susan Brubaker’s friend’s brother, Gina Evoritt’s grand-niece, and all those serving in the military.

ANSWERED PRAYERS...

Mona Henderson’s sister, Lillian Bussels, Mark Smith; Jan Randolph, Cindy Rudasill, Harold Abels; Sharon Hazel, Reba McNally’s son, Bill King’s son, Tom Pace’s mother, Carole Tiefenthaler’s father, Chris & Franni Bakewell’s son, Carly Warren, Lisa Warren’s boyfriend, Randall Jefferson, George Kuebler’s brother, Elisa McIntire’s uncle.

CHRIST CHURCH EXTENDS ITS SYMPATHY TO...

Jim Beck Brown on the death of his grandmother; Suzanne Fuqua on the death of her mother; Robin & Bill Jordan on the death of his brother-in-law; Julie McDonald on the death of her grandmother; Betty Snyder on the death of her husband Earl; Russell Straw on the death of his aunt; Sandra Vautrain on the death of her uncle; Glenn Morrison on the death of his cousin; Kelsey Nelson on the death of her grandmother.

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