NOVEMBER.2012
HERE’S A THANKSGIVING CHALLENGE! BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR
Giving thanks is a Christian’s truest response to God’s grace in Jesus Christ. Gratitude is a Christian’s motive for worship and orientation toward life. Thanksgiving is the disposition of a Christian’s heart. As such it needs to be developed, cultivated, and enlarged over time, with the full awareness that even it stands in need of God’s redemption and sanctification.
thing they do holy and worshipful work. Thank the custodians for providing a safe and clean place for coming together as community. Thank the Member Care and Prayer volunteers for interceding on behalf of the most vulnerable in our family. Thank the younger ones for their energy and the older ones for their wisdom. Thank the leaders for their boldness and the followers for their presence. Thank everyone!
That said, here is a challenge for this season of Thanksgiving. Whenever and wherever you are with others from our church family, thank them! Express your genuine, heart-felt gratitude to them for their service, no matter what that service is. Thank the Greeters for making you feel welcome. Thank the Ushers for assisting you with a bulletin and seating. Thank the Acolytes for reminding you you’ve come to worship Jesus Christ. Thank the musicians for bringing you closer to God’s presence. Thank the Habitat volunteers for lending their time and skills to such great work. Thank the staff for considering every mundane
Here’s how to meet this challenge. Thank God first of all – for the gift of life and for eternal life in Jesus Christ, for loving you into being and guiding you through life’s trials, for granting you so many blessings you cannot count them all! As you undertake giving thanks in the f lesh, in person, and in the moment, your gratitude will grow and your capacity for love will increase. It’s been said that if you undertake a practice for 21 days it becomes a habit. So, if you begin the first of November, you may just have the best Thanksgiving Day you’ve ever experienced.
“I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:3-6
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CONTENTED I WILL BE BY LYNN TAYLOR COMMUNICATIONS SUPPORT
Fanny Crosby understood all too well the concept of finding contentment in the midst of hardship. Crosby, a prolific writer, composed over 9,000 hymns during her lifetime – soaring works that praised God and the world He created. And yet, the positivity ref lected in her compositions strikes me as nothing short of remarkable when I consider that Crosby lived most of her years never seeing the world she so eloquently praised, given a disease that robbed her of sight at a young age. About her blindness, Fanny Crosby wrote this poem: Oh, what a happy soul I am, although I cannot see. I am resolved that in this world, contented I will be. How many blessings I enjoy that other people don’t. To weep and sigh because I’m blind – I cannot, and I won’t! Fanny Crosby resolved to be content despite her hardship and, even more amazingly, had the ability to discern those blessings she could enjoy only because of her hardship! She stated that, had it not been for her aff liction, she might not have “so good an education or have so great an inf luence, and certainly not so fine a memory.” She also wrote, “It seemed intended by the blessed providence of God that I should be blind all my life, and I thank him for the dispensation. If perfect earthly sight were
offered me tomorrow I would not accept it. I might not have sung hymns to the praise of God if I had been distracted by the beautiful and interesting things about me.” What an incredible woman Fanny Crosby was! She made a conscious decision to live a life of contentment: to practice thankfulness in all things; to embrace and even rejoice in her hardships. I am moved and inspired by her story, so much so that I seek to emulate her attitude, especially when encountering my own life challenges. All who know me are well aware that there are days when I fail miserably in my attempts to do so. And still I strive to follow Fanny Crosby’s lead, celebrating the blessings that surround me and delighting in my hardships – all the while trusting that God will use me, just as I am, to accomplish whatever work He has purposed for my life. Thanksgiving Day is drawing near, so let’s determine that we’ll join my Facebook friends in accepting the challenge to give thanks. Not only during the forty days preceding Thanksgiving Day, but every day. And as we seek to identify the blessings in our lives, may God help us to remember that blessings can be found most anywhere, despite (and often because of) our circumstances. Fanny Crosby knew this to be true, and so she wrote with confidence, “…contented I will be.” May it be so for us all.
“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-7
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Many of my Facebook friends are now taking the Forty Days of Thanksgiving challenge: each day for forty days, they are posting onto Facebook one thing for which they are thankful. The practice of daily identifying those things for which we are thankful is a great exercise, to be sure, as it helps us to move through life with a keener awareness of the many blessings God provides. And no matter how difficult our life circumstances might be, I truly believe there are always blessings to be found. Whether in the form of a verse of Scripture that speaks directly to our trial, a note from a friend, a hug from a loved one, an opportunity to rest, or a song that encourages – all of these are merciful gifts from a God who allows His children to experience comfort, peace and even contentment when dealing with the hardships that life often presents them.
HELP US SAY “THANK YOU!”
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APPRECIATION WALL THROUGH THE MONTH OF NOVEMEBER • GATHERING HALL & FAMILY LIFE CENTER
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Help us express appreciation to all of our wonderful voluteers. Stop by and post a note.
ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE BY LISA A. MAYHUGH 412 YOUTH DIRECTOR
“‘Be sure to set aside the best portions of the gifts given to you as your gifts to the LORD.’” Numbers 18:29 One of the definitions of attitude is “position.” That we should take the “position” of gratitude is foreign to us at times. Our attitudes are so quickly swayed by our emotions or our circumstances. And yet we are told in Ephesians 4:23 to “…let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes.” It becomes a spiritual discipline to take the “position of gratitude.”
strength. As the horses get closer and closer, you can almost feel your own heart racing and your breathing begin to get more and more shallow. I remember thinking “they will never survive this battle; what is he thinking?” and yet with the leadership of William Wallace, Scotland went on to defeat England that day. This was the first battle among many. If Scotland’s men had decided to go with their emotions or circumstances, they would have never experienced the victory that day. If we let our circumstances or emotions drive our attitude, I doubt we would ever have gratitude first in our hearts. Think of your circumstances. They may seem as immense as what Scotland was facing. We certainly have no control over our circumstances nor do we have control over our emotions, but we do have an opportunity to trust in a Savior who will show us victory in our lives if we just “hold the position” of gratitude.
We certainly have no control over our circumstances nor do we have control over our emotions, but we do have an opportunity to trust in a Savior who will show us victory in our lives if we just “hold the position” of gratitude.
Think about it from the perspective of a military position. When soldiers take their stands on a field of battle they are told to “hold their position.” I’m reminded of the great movie Braveheart with Mel Gibson. In that movie there is a particular scene where William Wallace (played by Mel Gibson) is leading a very frightened but brave nation to “hold their position” against the coming onslaught of England’s army on horses. All they have to defeat this army are massive12’-15’ poles that have been sharpened to a point at their ends, and brute
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As you pray about what you are to give during this Generosity Campaign, ask yourself first: “What am I grateful for?” Against all odds I will “hold true to this position” and have an “attitude of gratitude.” “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God” Colossians 3:16.
SABBATICAL CHAPTER 6
BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE
EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR
Two words best describe my time away – exhilarating and exhausting. There was not much time in between the experiences with family, in the United Kingdom, and on my hike, to journal, ref lect, or process my thoughts and feelings. I made several mental notes and did some writing, but I’ll be processing my experiences for the rest of my life, no doubt. Above all, I’m most grateful to God for the lessons that were mine to learn and re-learn. I share a few of those as a way of offering a summary report. 1. Not everything will go according to plan. There will always be unanticipated challenges like museum closures, traffic detours, failed equipment, conf licting schedules, and unseasonable or dreadful weather. Staying f lexible while engaging the circumstances makes it possible to make the most of these challenges and move on. More importantly, being completely open to God’s presence in the moment provides the most peaceful solution. When I failed to let God’s Spirit guide me out of whatever “mess” I/we were in, I lost patience, became unkind, and spoiled whatever “fruit” of the Spirit might have prevailed. When I managed, by God’s grace, to be led by God’s Spirit, the most amazing blessings resulted. Not everything will go according to plan, but if God is involved, everything will work for “good”, and everything did!
2. You can’t stay on the mountaintop forever. As beautiful and awe-inspiring as the great cathedrals of England were and as magnificent as the glacier-covered volcanic peaks of the Pacific Northwest appeared, it would have been impossible to remain in either. After touring half a dozen great cathedrals, I could no longer contain my feelings and simply wept upon entering the next. And as much as I wanted to stay near the top of the mountain, I knew we’d have to descend to find water, for the lifegiving rivers and streams ran through the lowest paths in the valleys. I was reminded that I did not have to wander in an architectural wonder or perch on the precipice of the heavens to be close to God. God’s presence is with us everywhere. So we depart the cathedral/church, empowered by our encounter with the Divine, to serve as God would have us serve, and we descend the mountain to be led by God through every valley, even the one whose shadow is death. God is God of the mountaintop experience and also God of the valley! 3. Gratitude opens the heart to joy. There were days I cringed at the thought of having to navigate another mile in a country with a particular fondness for “roundabouts”, and the unusual oppressive heat along the trail made every effort to climb the next incline doubly difficult. But as I gave thanks for each moment, each glorious setting, each person we met along the way, my capacity for joy increased. It became easier to whisper prayers of praise and thanksgiving for the beauty surrounding me and to truly “see” the magnificence of God’s glorious creation with all its inhabitants. We have so very much to be thankful for, every moment of every day. Thank you again for your prayers and support. This sabbatical experience has enriched my life, informed my ministry, taught me a few new things about “church”, and encouraged me to continue in service to the One who is above all and in all. Thanks be to God. Amen. people helping people find fullness in Christ worship • connect • grow • serve
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It is with great gratitude that I thank my family, my Christ Church family, Mike Mayhugh and the rest of the staff, John Pound and our Staff Parish Relations Committee, the many volunteers who led worship and oversaw the monthly Healing Prayer services, and the Lily Foundation for my Sabbatical experience. I’m especially grateful for my assistant, Sandy White, who truly was the “one” who made it possible for me to be away so long. And it’s with a heart full of thanksgiving that I acknowledge all of you who prayed for me, wrote notes of encouragement, and gifted me with tokens of your love and concern before my departure.
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CHRIST CHURCH JAUNTERS WALK TO BENIFIT HABITAT!
JOSH WILSON
IN CONCERT FRIDAY NOVEMBER 2 7:00 PM
SANCTUARY
PRE-CONCERT BY FORGIVEN! Be moved and inspired on Friday, November 2 as we welcome singer-songwriter Josh Wilson to Christ Church for a special celebration concert as we conclude our Generosity Campaign. Forgiven! will open the evening with a special pre-concert at 7 pm. This event is FREE and open to the public so invite a friend.
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BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS
UNITED METHODIST MOMENT
Methodists Bless God BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCE EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR
On June 21st (year unknown) John Wesley wrote the following prayer in his journal:
I humbly and heartily thank Thee for all the favors Thou hast bestowed on me: for creating me after Thine own image, for daily preserving me by Thy good providence, for redeeming me by the death of Thy blessed Son, and for the assistance of Thy Holy Spirit; for causing me to be born in a Christian country, for blessing me with plentiful means of salvation, with religious parents and friends, and frequent returns of Thy ever blessed sacrament. I also thank Thee for Thy temporal blessings; for the preservation of me this night, for my health, strength, food, raiment, and all the other comforts and necessities of life.
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Wesley thanked God for his life and his eternal life in Christ. He thanked God for all the ways the Holy Spirit guided his life and how he was nurtured and sustained with every celebration of Holy Communion. Then he went on to thank God for his heritage and religious freedom, for good parents and friends, and for practical things like food, clothing, good health, and simple comforts. He freely and gladly acknowledged God as the source of everything good in his life. He indicated he was indebted to God – forever! But this indebtedness was not a burden; it was precisely what motivated his Christian witness and service. Truly his gratitude enabled him to surrender himself to whatever place, station, or status life might bring him.
In essence, Wesley was blessing God for all of the blessings he had received from God. He knew the Jewish tradition, where every prayer was a blessing prayer, and each one began by blessing God: “Blessed are you, Lord our God, King of the Universe, for. . .” And he was familiar with the wisdom surrounding the berakoth, or blessing prayer: “It is forbidden to taste of this world without saying a blessing; whoever tastes of this world without saying a blessing commits unfaithfulness.” Thus it was completely natural for him to thank God for the most mundane things even as he praised God for those things of a divine nature: life and salvation and the sustenance of the Lord’s Supper.
In this season of giving thanks, faithful Methodists will find a way to thank God, and thus, bless God, through their prayers and deeds of service. As they say prayers of gratitude around bountiful Thanksgiving tables, faithful Methodists will likely name some of the same things Wesley did – life, eternal life, fellowship with Christ, the guidance of the Holy Spirit, religious freedom, the necessities of life, family members, meaningful work, and so on. Faithful Methodists will thank God for everything and everyone in their lives even before they know how life will turn out for them or the others. In other words, theirs will be a habit of counting (and recounting) their blessings and blessing God for each one. Faithful Methodists will not limit God to the status of Divine Dispenser of Blessings, but they will bless God so that in turn, they may be a blessing to others and a bless-er of others. So in this season of giving thanks, bless God and everyone at your table as you say grace over meals, bless God and your children as you kiss them goodnight, bless God and your spouses as you go about your days, bless God and your co-workers, bless God and your neighbors, bless God and your friends, bless God and total strangers. Practice blessing God and practice blessing others. There are no minimum requirements for blessings.
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.
Welcome Our Newest Members!
CALLING ALL CHRIST CHURCH WOMEN
FEBRUARY 22 - 24 THE ORCHARD AT CANEY CREEK WHARTON, TEXAS
Do you need a weekend of great fellowship and renewal? Than make your plans now to join us in February for the perfect Women's Retreat! We will enjoy popular speaker and author Carla MacDougal and experience powerful times of worship together, all in the beautiful location of The Orchard at Caney Creek. Online registration starts November 1. Be sure to register as soon as possible, as space is limited. If you have questions, please call Kim Daniels at 832.620.9092 or email her at kimdaniels1@live.com. We hope you will join us for a wonderful, spirit-filled time away with God and one another.
JEFF AND RYAN JARRARD, CONNOR (3) NOT PICTURED: BILL AND JOYCE BARRON
Women’s Ministry
All women of Christ Church - young & old, married & single - are invited to participate in Women’s Ministries. With several options available, there is a place just for YOU! We have a cookie exchange coming up in December, a retreat in February, and the following regular gatherings: WOMEN’S COOKIE EXCHANGE SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16 • 5 PM • GATHERING HALL
All women of Christ Church are invited to join us for our Cookie Exchange. Please bring 3 dozen cookies (homemade or not) wrapped for sharing. We will eat some, share some, and send large batches to local charities. Meet some fantastic ladies and give them the chance to meet you! Questions? Contact Tricia Baltazar at tricia@cumcsl.org or 281.690.4761. BOOK CLUB 2ND TUESDAY OF THE MONTH • 7 PM
Join us for fellowship and conversation as we discuss a wide variety of books. Contact Benita Sebesta at 281.732.2217 or benitas@cumcsl.org. CARING CASSEROLES
This group gathers monthly (meeting dates vary) to prepare and assemble casseroles which can be distributed to any members of our church family facing illness, celebrating the birth of a new child, or otherwise in need of a home-cooked meal. Contact Kim Daniels at kimdaniels1@live.com for more information. GODLY ACTIVE LADIES SERVING (G.A.L.S.) LAST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH • 6:30 PM • LOCAL RESTAURANTS
The group’s focus is to be a multi-generational group of women with a heart for nurturing and supporting women in need in various seasons and circumstances of life. We welcome women of all ages to join us. Contact Norma Pharr at pharrbo@aol.com or Mary Beth Yarbrough at mbathemba@comcast.net.
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For additional information regarding Women’s Ministries, please contact Tricia Baltazar at tricia@cumcsl.org or 281.690.4761.
WORSHIP
GROW
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
PUT IT IN WRITING TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 7 • 3 PM • CHURCH LIBRARY THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 29 • 10 AM • CHURCH LIBRARY
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
NOVEMBER HEALING PRAYER WORSHIP SERVICE TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 • 7 PM • SANCTUARY
November’s Healing Prayer Worship Service will be the second Tuesday, November 13. Comforting scriptures will be read, Communion will be celebrated, and Christ’s servants will pray for those who find it hard to pray for themselves. If you or a loved one or friend is in need of God’s healing mercies, please join with others on November 13.
ADDITIONAL OPPORTUNITIES SAGE: “OH, MY ACHING JOINTS” WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 14 • 12 - 1 PM • ROOMS 11/12
Christ Church and Sugar Land Methodist Hospital work together to present monthly seminars where specialists will come with a presentation about their field, preventive medicine recommendations, and the latest news in treatment options. The November program, “Shoulders and Hands,” will be presented by Dr. Dominy. ONE ROOM BOOK CLUB WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 14 • 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 November meeting is The Red Scarf by Kate Furnivall. If you enjoy reading and conversation about books, you are invited to join Book Club. BE FIT TUESDAYS AT 11 AM • FRIDAYS AT 9:30 AM • FLC ROOMS 302/303
Put on some comfortable clothes and try out this gentle exercise class. Participants are encouraged to be fit by practicing flexibility, balance, range of motion, strength, and breathing. A scripture is shared and class ends with a quiet time of prayer. Monthly fee for 1 day a week is $15; 2 days a week is $30. CRAZY FOR CHRISTMAS WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28 • 6 PM
It will be an evening of dinner, desserts, fellowship, shopping, and great entertainment. This is an event that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. Tickets will go on sale late in October in the Ministry Center. Currently we are soliciting table decorators. Each table is set for 8 people and we have 32 tables in the room. If you would like to decorate a table, please contact Kathy Fry at 713.557.8577 or fkathryn8@aol.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, poetry, etc. Please email jan@cumcsl.org to let her know you plan to join this group. Just bring paper and pencil and your mind full of stories. “I’M NOT QUALIFIED TO BE A STEPHEN MINISTER” APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED THROUGH 11/16/2012!
What qualifications are necessary to be a Stephen Minister? One needs to be a caring person who is willing to learn, grow and serve. One must be willing and able to maintain confidentiality. One needs to make a commitment to training (which begins January 2013), to ministry and to supervision. If you meet those qualifications, your Stephen Leaders will equip you with the rest of what you need: training, support, encouragement, care and prayers. They will make sure that you will succeed as a Stephen Minister. If you have felt God’s tap on your shoulder, but still are not sure whether to serve as a Stephen Minister, please call for more information. Contact Sally McKnight at 713.306.1719 or Judy Edmondson at 281.701.3640. WOMEN’S BOOK CLUB
If you like to read books with Christian content, please join us on the second Tuesday each month at 7 pm in the Volunteer Center. We will be reading Rediscovering Values on Wall Street, Main Street, and Your Street: A Moral Compass for the New Economy. Contact Benita Sebesta at mbsebesta@sbcglobal.net or 281.732.2217 for more information. BRAND NEW ADVENT STUDY 2012 RECOMMENDED ADVENT STUDY DECEMBER 2 - 23
Exciting new release for Advent 2012: “A Different Kind of Christmas.” Based on the book, “Christmas is Not Your Birthday,” Mike Slaughter leads you on a 5-session journey to reclaim the broader missional meaning of Jesus’ birth and experience a Christmas season with more peace and joy than any toy or gadget could ever bring. Cut through the hype that leaves you exhausted and broke. Instead, experience the peace of knowing that God gave everything He had for us. Study includes a DVD, leader guide, and book. Daily devotions as well as youth and children’s versions are also available. Contact Tricia Baltazar for ordering information at tricia@cumcsl.org or 281.690.4761. CALLING ALL CHRIST CHURCH WOMEN!!! FEB.22-24 • THE ORCHARD AT CANEY CREEK, WHARTON, TEXAS
Ladies of Christ Church: plan to join us in February for the perfect Women’s Retreat! We’ll all gather for a weekend of fellowship and renewal at The Orchard at Caney Creek, which you’ll love. We will be enjoying popular speaker and author Carla MacDougal. Online registration starts November 1. Be sure to register as soon as possible, as space is limited. You are welcome to call Kim Daniels at 832.620.9092 or email kimdaniels1@live.com for answers to any questions you may have. Looking forward to seeing you all!!!
SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES 8:30 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES CRUSADERS
MIDDLE SCHOOL 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 SUNDAYS • 6:15 - 8:30 PM • FAMILY LIFE CENTER
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. 412 - 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. Off the week of Thanksgiving.
This class is composed of singles and couples of all ages with a participatory format and Bible-based studies. Meets in the Bride’s Room. 9:45 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES ADVENTURERS
This class consists of couples in their 30’s - 50’s, with children of all ages. This group is a discussion-oriented class studying a variety of Biblical topics. We use study guides, videos, guest speakers and music to enhance our studies. Meets in room 302/303 in the Family Life Center. BARNABAS
This class is a friendly community consisting of adults in their 40’s - 60’s united by a shared belief in Christ, seeking and providing encouragement to one another through prayer, Bible study, topical studies and lots of fellowship. Meets in the Chapel. CELEBRATE SINGLES SUNDAY SCHOOL
All singles are invited to join us. Meets in room 309 in the Family Life Center. 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
youth sunday nights @ 6:30
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. WEAVERS
on facebook & twitter
WOMEN’S CLASS
This class is made up of women of all ages whether married, single, widowed or divorced. We primarily do Bible-based studies and various service projects. Meets in room 307 in the Family Life Center. YOUNG ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL Primarily for college and career aged, 18-29. Meets in the Family Life Center Gym.
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412sugarland
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).
SERVE ANGEL TREE SIGN UP!
What a blessing it is to help those in need, especially at Christmas. Please join our Angel Tree volunteers and help deliver the joy of Christmas to needy children and elderly in nursing homes. You can also help with decorating and creating the beautiful Angel Tree that stands in the Ministry Center during the holidays. Help us share God’s love this Christmas. Visit the Ministry Center on November 4 or 11 or contact Terri Schnakenberg at 281.924.4597. FREEDOM WALK TOUR NOVEMBER 8 & DECEMBER 13 • CAROL VANCE PRISON UNIT
Curious about how God is creating REAL crime prevention? Join this one-hour tour experience the second Thursday of the month at either 2 or 7:30 pm. Sign up at least a week in advance. Bible studies and other groups are welcome! Contact Betty Waedemon at 832.755.7761 to sign up or to get more information. GOLFERS WANTED! MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19
Fort Bend Family Promise was recently awarded a challenge grant from the George Ranch Foundation to purchase property to build a much-needed new Family Service Center. They have until the end of 2012 to raise the necessary matching funds, so have set a goal to double the proceeds from last year’s golf outing. It’s going to take a lot of work, but with the community’s help, they are optimistic they can reach their target and secure the grant! If you like to golf, then you can help! Go to www.fortbendfamilypromise.org and register a foursome to help them achieve their goal! CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS TO HELP FINISH OUR 12 HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HOME SATURDAYS TILL WE’RE DONE TH
The walls are up. The roof is on. Now we need to finish the job. Sign up and come on out any Saturday from now until early December and help us finish this home for our Partner Family: Ben, Irma and their 4 children. We have windows and doors to install, siding and trim to nail into place and lots of caulking and painting to do. So come work with us at 1206 Clay Street in Richmond. You can make new friends, learn a new skill and do great work in the name of our Savior. Remember, your actions speak louder than your words, so come spread the words of Christ through your actions. Sign up in the Ministry Center, with Doug McCubbin at douglas@horizonsconsultingllc.com or visit our webpage at www.cumcsl.org/missions. NO TRICKS...JUST TREATS FOR THE CHILDREN OF REYNOSA, MEXICO!
Our 5th grade mission team invites you to donate half of the candy you receive this trick or treat season and give JOY to the children of Reynosa, who rarely are given this luxury. Please bring all donations to the Collection Bins near Rooms 11/12 by Sunday, November 11. The candy will be made into goodie bags by the team and taken to Mexico in time for Christmas!
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Christ United Methodist Church www.cumcsl.org
SENIOR RINGERS MONDAYS • 6 PM • CHOIR ROOM
This musical opportunity is available to all interested persons, especially Older Adults. It offers a place to learn, serve and fellowship through the art of ringing chimes or handbells under the direction of Molly Ness. No experience is necessary. The group is still accepting new members, and requests for ringers to perform in the community during the day have already been coming in. To join this ensemble, contact Molly Ness at 281.344.8343. EFBHNM HOLIDAY BASKET FOOD DRIVE
Again this year, the Food Pantry will provide holiday meal baskets for at least 600 families. Items needed for these baskets include: stuffing mix, chicken broth, sweet potatoes, instant mashed potatoes, pie filling or cake mix and frosting, sugar, flour, cans of fruit, pumpkin, cranberry sauce, and packages of turkey/chicken gravy mix. Please place items in marked Collection Bins. Please help us help others in our community to have a bountiful holiday. PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY MONDAYS & FRIDAYS • 9 AM • VOLUNTEER CENTER
Join members of all ages as they create tangible expressions of the prayers of our church for those needing comfort, healing, assurance, and presence. We meet Fridays and Mondays. Don’t know how to crochet or knit? We’ll teach you! For information, email Jan Randolph at jan@cumcsl.org. GIFT UNTO OTHERS
The Gift Unto Others (GUO) program provides gift-givers with an alternative to traditional, commercial gifts. These alternative gifts are perfect any time of the year to thank a teacher; honor committee members who have helped you; celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, memorials and, of course, Christmas. Browse through the GUO catalog for gift ideas, then place your order. In return, you will receive a card to present to your GUO recipient announcing a gift that is “from me, to you, for others!” Share in the joy that comes when you combine a gift-giving occasion with an opportunity to help others! UM ARMY 2012 CHRISTMAS CAMP WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26, 2012 - TUESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2013 IN PASADENA, TX
Join us over Christmas break for our UM Army Mission in Pasadena, TX. During this week, participants will be assigned to work teams which combine their unique strengths and gifts in order to meet the home repair and maintenance needs of the less fortunate in the area. This is an amazing mission that allows us to share the Gospel message of love and hope offered by Jesus Christ through our hands and our hearts. Who: All current high school Youth in grades 9–12 and Adults. Cost: $275 (Youth); $215 (Adults - 25 and older); $130 (Young Adults – ages 19-24). A non-refundable deposit of $50 is due at the time of registration through November 15. Remaining balance is due November 30. Deadline to register: December 21, 2012. Parent Volunteers and Adult Drivers Needed.
CONNECT ENCORE! WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 7 • 11:30 - 1:30 PM SANCTUARY AND GATHERING HALL
Join us for a presentation by Janice Suchyta, attorney, entitled “Health Care Law.” Worship is at 11 am in the Sanctuary, followed by a fellowship meal in the Gathering Hall. The program will be held in the Sanctuary after lunch. $7 donation. Pre-registration is required for the meal and closes November 5. Reserve your space by contacting Jan Randolph. MEN’S LUNCH THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8 • 11:30 AM • CORELLI’S
Men of all ages, join the Older Adult men for lunch and fellowship at Corelli’s. 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. PRAY FOR HAITI TEAM
Come send off our Haiti team with prayers and hugs! We will meet in the church parking lot to help them load up and make sure they have packed plenty of Christ’s love! Please continue to pray for them until their return on November 7 at George Bush Airport at 5:05 pm. Team members are: Linda Miller, team leader, Yong Han, Don Henderson, Mark Huffer, Jeff McDonald, Bob Sime, Pat Wyeth and Mary Beth Yarbrough. God bless our missionaries for being a reflection of Christ for the people of Haiti! GAME DAY WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 28 • 10:30 AM - 1 PM • ROOMS 11/12
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. CHURCH DAYS AT SCHILTTERBAHN GALVESTON
Join Family Ministries in the heated indoor Schlitterbahn-Galveston park on Saturday, December 22 or December 29 for only $17 per person (3 and older). Hours open are 10 am to 5 pm. To guarantee reservation, must provide full payment by December 10. Contact Amy Abels at atvu@comcast.net for more details. WHAT EXACTLY IS THIS STEPHEN MINISTRY WE’VE BEEN HEARING ABOUT?
Stephen Ministry is a lay confidential caring ministry. Stephen Ministers are not counselors or therapists; rather, they are caring Christian friends who can offer a listening ear to help others through the tough times in life. Stephen Ministers are trained and supervised in their ministry. If you are going through a tough time and could use a caring friend, contact referrals coordinator Sally McKnight at 713.306.1719.
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.
412 YOUTH ‘5TH QUARTER’ FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9 • 10 PM - 1 AM • FLC GYM
Mark your calendars NOW for our 412 Youth ‘5th Quarter’ on Friday, November 9 from 10 pm to 1 am (on Saturday). All Youth in grades 6-12 and their friends are invited to join us after the high school football games for our ‘5th Quarter’ time of fun and fellowship in the FLC Gym. Hope to see you there! 412 YOUTH CHRISTMAS PARTY SUNDAY, DECEMBER 16 • 5 - 8:30 PM • FLC GYM
All youth in grades 6 - 12 and their friends are invited to our 412 Youth Christmas Celebration on Sunday, December 16. We will meet in the FLC Gym beginning at 5 pm to share fellowship as we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! As a special mission project, we will be adopting some of our older home-bound congregation members, as well as residents at several of the local elderly care facilities. We will be collecting items at the party to provide gift baskets to these older adults. Youth are invited to help deliver the items collected on Monday, January 7. For details and a flier, please visit www.cumcsl.org/youth.
GIVING CHARITABLE DEDUCTIONS FOR 2012 NOVEMBER 21 - DECEMBER 31
Please remember that Monday, December 31, will be the last day you can mail your contribution checks in order to claim a charitable deduction for 2012. Sunday, December 30, will be the last day donations can be accepted in the offering plate for 2012 charitable deductions. Checks that are placed in the offering on the first Sunday of 2013 will not qualify for a charitable contribution deduction in 2012 even if the check is backdated to 2012. However, checks that are written, mailed and postmarked in 2012 will be deductible in 2012 even if not received by the church until 2013. To ensure the deductibility of your church contributions, please do not file your 2012 tax return until you receive your 2012 Statement of Contributions. These will be mailed in mid-January. STAFF CHRISTMAS BONUS NOW THRU DECEMBER 24
You are invited to make a special contribution to provide Christmas bonuses for our Church staff. Our dedicated staff works tirelessly throughout the year, and even more so during the Advent season. We hope you will remember them in the spirit of this season and give generously, as you are able. All funds received will be divided equally among more than 30 staff members. If you are able to make a contribution, note “staff bonus” on your check or envelope and please submit any contributions no later than December 24. If you have any questions, please call John Pound at 832.647.6888.
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Normal bookstore hours are Sundays, 9:00 am - 12:30 pm & by appointment Monday-Friday
For a full listing of activities and ways you can get involved at Christ Church, please visit WWW.CUMCSL.ORG people helping people find fullness in Christ worship • connect • grow • serve
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NON-PROFIT ORG. US POSTAGE PAID SUGAR LAND, TX PERMIT #129
3300 AUSTIN PARKWAY SUGAR LAND, TEXAS 77479
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
IN CONCERT FRIDAY NOVEMBER 2 7:00 PM
SANCTUARY
For a complete staff listing, please visit our website at www.cumcsl.org/staff
THE HEARTBEAT
PRE-CONCERT BY FORGIVEN!
WE’RE HERE TO HELP!
PLEASE REMEMBER IN YOUR PRAYERS... Brenda DeBlance, DeWitt Morrow, Jennie Sime’s mother, Sheila Gunn’s family, Susan Brubaker’s friend, Rick Nagai, Cathy Richards’ husband, David Garrett, Don Benson, Mike Jumper’s mother, Mary Ashmore, Cornelius Wing, Evan Juneau’s frient, Lynda Miller’s daughter-in-law’s father, Lynda Miller’s husband, Betty Holcomb’s son-in-law’s father, Noelene McCall’s husband, Lillian Bussels, Emmy Finley , Holli Rabon, Pat Gilhaus, Les Gilhaus, Margie Thompson’s cousin, Brad Michael, Amanda Jaegli’s brother, Jayne Warthan’s neighbor, Brian Stonesifer’s father, Betty Waedemon’s brother, Roberta’s husband, Debbie Meier’s friend, Debbie Meier’s mother-in-law, and all those serving in the military. JOYS... Sara DiPalma; Michael Hipps; Bill Guffey; Sterling Bittenbender; Lahonda Sharp’s father; Doris St. Cyr’s husband. CHRIST CHURCH EXTENDS ITS SYMPATHY TO... Christ Church extends its sympathyto the family and friends of James Evans; Jackie Sada on the death of her husband, Louis; Tom Bittenbender on the death of his aunt; Candee Chandler on the death of her brother-in-law; Martin Mauk on the death of his mother; family and friends of Janet Glasgow; Tricia Bradbury on the death of her father; Diane Sindelar on the death of her mother; Bret Dyer on the death of his mother; Sharon Cole on the death of her father.
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