the
firstedition May 2012
Couple behind “The Vow� to speak Downtown Summer programs for kids and kids at heart just around the corner Church members receive prestigious honors
A publication of First Choice Ministries First Methodist Houston fmhouston.com
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May 2012
from our pastor
Dr. Paul Clines, Executive Pastor Westchase
We are Connected! One of the unique and wonderful marks of the United Methodist Church that makes us special is that we are connected. As you look at the landscape of churches in America it is increasingly common for churches to operate independently. Some churches prize their independence, but here, we value our interdependence! Being connected is certainly more challenging. We are a global church with diverse opinions and views about structure, theology, worship, color of carpet in the sanctuary and just about every other conceivable matter. While challenging, it is also what makes us vital. It allows us to be a church that embraces people of every culture and affirm their part in the global Methodist family. It also allows us to establish multiple expressions of the church in radically diverse contexts and cultures around the globe. In the midst of all this diversity in the global UMC, one thing that makes our connection most powerful is the absolute unity we have in the Lordship of Jesus Christ and the authority of his Word. Good folks can debate and discuss some of the implications of this till the cows come home, but at the end of the day our unity is not in our history, it’s not in our “Cross and Flame” logo, not in a cause, style of worship, theological doctrine, nor any of the other multiple expressions of Methodism. Our unity is in the Lordship of fmhouston.com
Jesus Christ and authority of his Word. That’s important because the more we align ourselves around the central, unifying center of Methodism, the greater our effectiveness and usefulness to our Lord will be. I’m sharing this little Methodist “primer” because between April 24 and May 4 we are in the midst of a very important, global gathering of Methodists going on in Tampa, Fla. It’s called General Conference. This Conference occurs only every four years and it is a gathering of 1,000 United Methodist clergy and lay leaders elected from across the church. Our pastor, Dr. Steve Wende, is there as a voice for Biblical clarity and unity in the church. A member of our church, Mary Daffin, is going to be a candidate for the UMC Judicial Council (the “Supreme Court” of the UMC). She has served in that capacity before and we need her articulate and wise voice. You can follow the goings-on at General Conference at www.gc2012.umc. org, Facebook, Twitter or download a General Conference app. Most importantly, please be praying that the presence and will of God will guide everything that happens at General Conference and that we will be truly connected to the Source of our life!
keeping the sabbath May 6
Dr. Steve Wende preaching 8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown Dr. Paul Clines preaching 8:15 and 10:30 a.m. Westchase
May 13
Dr. Steve Wende preaching 8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown Dr. Paul Clines preaching 8:15 and 10:30 a.m. Westchase
May 20
Dr. Steve Wende preaching 8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown Dr. Paul Clines preaching 8:15 and 10:30 a.m. Westchase
May 27
Dr. Steve Wende preaching 8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown Dr. Paul Clines preaching 8:15 and 10:30 a.m. Westchase Hispanic Worship Service
Sundays at 11 a.m. 6th Floor Downtown Rev. Humberto Hernandez preaching
Sunday School
9:15 a.m. Westchase 9:50 a.m. Downtown
Sign Language Interpretation 10:30 a.m. Westchase 11 a.m. Downtown
Communion and Healing
12:05 p.m. Bintliff Chapel Downtown
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FIRST EDITION | NEWS
First Methodist member wins Grammy Richard Paul Fink said he cried after he learned that “Doctor Atomic,” John Adams’s opera about the creation of the atomic bomb, had won the 2012 Grammy award for Best Opera Recording. “This never happens to me. I’m a 56-year-old opera singer and I’m thinking, OK, how many years do I have left? To be treated to a Grammy is something else,” said the operatic baritone, who is in New York preparing to perform in the New York Metropolitan Opera’s production of the Ring Cycle. “Coming up on almost 30 years [in the opera and theater world] and now to have this…I would have been quite content to have been a Grammy nominee,” he said. Fink was among the cast of “Doctor Atomic,” which featured libretto by Adams’s longtime collaborator, Peter Sellars. The New York Metropolitan Opera production, directed by Penny Woolcock and conducted by Alan Gilbert, was recorded live by Sony in November 2008 as part of the Met’s “Live in HD” broadcast series. Baritone Gerald Finley performed in the role of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the title character, and Fink played Edward Teller, one of the physicists involved in Oppenheimer’s Manhattan Project at Los Alamos, N.M., in the summer of 1945. To read more about Fink’s Grammy win, visit http://blogs.wsj.com/speakeasy/2012/03/31/the-lord-of-the-ring/.
For information on wills and the First Methodist Church of Houston Foundation, please contact Allen Houk at 832-668-1834.
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Daffin receives George P. Noon Award Congratulations to Mary A. Daffin, J.D., for receiving the prestigious George P. Noon, M.D. Award during The Methodist Hopsital’s Doctors’ Day celebration in March. In a surprise announcement, Mrs. Daffin was presented this well-deserved honor for her excellence in professional activities, contributions to the community, demonstration of respect for human dignity and commitment to the highest service to humanity. This award, given periodically by the Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Center (MDHVC), recognizes individuals who have made significant and continuous contributions to the advancement of care in the field of cardiovascular diseases. In addition to her active role on The Methodist Hospital board and on numerous board committees, she also serves as a Methodist Hospital Research Institute Board member and MDHVC Council member. She is a partner in the law firm of Barrett Daffin Frappier Turner & Engel, L.L.P. Mrs. Daffin is a frequent speaker/author at conferences and seminars throughout the United States on bankruptcy law. She served as Assistant United States At-
torney, U.S. Department of Justice, for the Southern District of Texas from 1978 to1982. She spends a considerable amount of time giving back to the community: she served on the Board of Trustees of the Star of Hope (Honorary Trustee), a homeless shelter in Houston, and on the Board of Trustees of The Salvation Army. She served eight years on the nine-member Judicial Council of The United Methodist Church. Mrs. Daffin graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree from Alabama State University and earned her J.D. from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University.
Scheel wins top prize in essay contest By Mary Louise Gulley Alex Scheel, son of Bill and Jill Scheel, won first place in the recent Texas Society Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) George S. & Stella M. Knight Essay Contest. Alex attended the State SAR Annual Convention in San Antonio to receive his award at the Youth Awards Luncheon. He received a $1,500 scholarship, which will be sent to the university of his choice upon enrollment. The Knight Essay topic must be an event, person, philosophy, or ideal associated with the American Revolution, the Declaration of Independence, or the framing of the United States Constitution. The title of Alex’s essay was “The Aftermath of a Battle and How it Helped Win a Revolution.” He was sponsored by the Robert Rankin SAR Chapter #62 in the Katy/ Houston area. Alex is an 11th grade student at S. P.
Waltrip High School and a member of the varsity baseball and swim teams. As an active member of First Methodist Downtown, Alex serves each Sunday as either a camera operator or the director of the church’s live television broadcast. Beginning church service early, at the age of eight he helped his father, Bill, usher in the balcony. Currently, he is also the Youth Representative to the Missions Board and participated in the mission trip to Honduras last summer. Alex plans to continue his education at The University of Texas and major in either Business or Radio-TV-Film.
May 2012
NEWS | FIRST EDITION
Downtown Computer Lab continues to serve
United Methodist Men News By Tom Weir
The Computer Lab presented classes every Thursday in April. The topic was “Bits and Bytes”: random topics such as Facebook, Twitter and iPads were covered. Instructors Ed Murphree and Dr. Carolyn Harris are eager to work with you on topics you desire. To make inquiries or suggestions, contact Ed Murphree at 281-888-6248, edmurphree@aol.com or Carolyn Harris at 713594-0576, crharris1221@gmail.com.
Volunteers recognized for service at WHAM
Leeland and Barbara Dorsett and Jairo and Ruby Quintero were two of five couples awarded Together in Ministry Awards at West Houston Assistance Ministries’ 30th Anniversary Luncheon in April.
fmhouston.com
We had a good turnout for our April meeting; 44 attended our fellowship. Our speaker was Harris County Judge Ed Emmett, who spoke to us on several topics such as new toll roads, health care and Julius Wardley the domed stadium. We presented Fred Crawford his past president pin, and Roy Plaisance the president pin. Seven of our past presidents were present for our pin presentation. We are in our 13th year of United Methodist Men and continue to be a vibrant men’s organization. In June we will elect a president-elect when our president, Roy, returns from his mission trip to South Dakota. Remember, to be an officer of UMM, you must be a member of First Methodist Houston. Our next UMM meeting will be Saturday, May 12 in the Downtown Fellowship Hall. Breakfast will be served at 7:30 a.m. Our speaker will be Julius Wardley, Director of the Texas Southern University Wesley Foundation. He was appointed by the Texas Annual Conference to re-launch this ministry in 2010. In his previous appointment as Director of the Tuskegee Wesley Foundation, he used minimal resources to turn this into a vital campus ministry. The Wesley foundation is active on college and university campuses throughout the United States and its good works are well known. Join us at our next Methodist Men meeting May 12. All men are welcome, ages 12 to 112+. UMM Humor: When asked by a young patrol officer, “Do you know you were speeding?” the 73-year old woman gave the young officer an ear to ear smile and stated: “Yes, but… I had to get there before I forgot where I was going.” The officer put his ticket book away and bid her good day.
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FIRST EDITION | NEWS
Join a joyful ministry: Be part of the Downtown Wedding Guild One of the most joyful ministries here at First Methodist is our Wedding Guild Ministry, led by lay leader Glenda Flores. Countless brides and grooms choose our magnificent Sanctuary to come before God to exchange their wedding vows. This has been a tradition since the building was completed in 1910. It is such a joy to share in the lives of these couples and their families and to make sure that their weddings come off
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without any problems. It is also a time to meet new people and to invite them to visit with us or to attend the many special events we have at the church. Weddings provide a wonderful outreach opportunity! Right now we are in need of new volunteers to assist with the Wedding Guild. This would mean being trained by Glenda and her team and then assuming the responsibility of helping out with some of the weddings on the church calendar.
Please prayerfully consider becoming a part of the First Methodist Wedding Guild. Contact Glenda Flores at 713-8511338 or gflores@fmhouston.com for more information. In a world filled with chaos and pain, a wedding can still put a smile on your face! To see the beginning of a new family that starts at our altar is something that gives us hope for the future.
May 2012
NEWS | FIRST EDITION
First Methodist Houston Downtown to host the real-life couple behind “The Vow”
BY THE NUMBERS
THE VOW
Kim and Krickitt Carpenter, the real life true story behind the #1 Box Office hit movie, The Vow, will speak at First Methodist Houston Downtown on Sunday, May 20. The Carpenters, who authored the New York Times best-selling book, The Vow-The True Events that Inspired the Movie, have shared their story to a worldwide audience estimated at 400 million people. Their tale has become the subject of more than 400 interviews worldwide, including two appearances in People Magazine and the Today Show, three appearances on Dateline NBC and Inside Edition and the Oprah Winfrey Show. On May 20, at both the 8:45 and 11 a.m. worship services, they will share their story with First Methodist and Houston. That story is inspiring and captivating. Kim and Krickitt met in September 1992 when Kim, a University Assistant Athletic Director and Head Baseball Coach in New Mexico, called a California sportswear company to purchase team jackets. Krickitt Pappas took his order. They discovered they had much in common, and soon they were talking for several hours a week. In April of 1993 they met in person for the first time. Kim says, “It was like I had known her all my life.” He proposed two months later, and they married Sept. 18, 1993. Less than 10 weeks after their wedding, their vows were put to the ultimate test. A near fatal car crash would change everything. Kim and Krickitt were both critically injured, but Krickitt sustained far worse longterm injuries. The car’s roof collapsed around Krickitt and fractured her skull. She hung upside down for 70 minutes before rescuers
fmhouston.com
were able to free her. The doctors doubted she would survive. Within five days she was off life support but remained in a coma. As Krickitt was wakened by doctors 21 days later, Kim soon discovered that she would never be the same. The trauma to her brain caused retrograde and posttraumatic amnesia--erasing from her memory virtually all of the 18 months prior to the accident and four months after. Kim was heartbroken the day he heard his wife say she wasn’t married. She had no memory of her husband either in her head or in her heart. During the initial weeks of Krickitt’s neurological rehabilitation, Kim was by her side pushing her toward recovery and trying to jog her memory with stories and photos. Krickitt, though, resented “that stranger.” With medical bills soaring, Kim returned to work. Many in his position might have left to make a fresh start; after all, 90 percent of the bills belonged to a woman who didn’t know him. Kim did have doubts about their future, but he had made a vow. Krickitt was confused as to who she had been. The old Krickitt was gone; instead there was a new blend of traits and characteristics. After intense struggles in their relationship through several months, at the advice of their therapist, the couple began dating again to reestablish the emotional bonds that develop in the early days of a relationship. New memories and new love emerged. On May 25, 1996, they married again, exchanging new vows and rings. “Only one thing can surpass forever the painful events we have felt. That is the love I have for you,” Kim promised. Now, though they experience
Krickitt and Kim Carpenter, the reallife couple behind the #1 box office hit, “The Vow,” will speak at First Methodist Houston Downtown on Sunday, May 20. ups and downs like every other couple, they know that the love they share - a love based on their faith and to one another - can overcome all adversity. Today, Kim and Krickitt live in Farmington, New Mexico with their two children. Kim serves as the CEO of San Juan County, and Krickitt is a substitute high school teacher. Invite your friends, co-workers and neighbors to this special Sunday. More information, including downloadable fliers, can be found at www.fmhouston.com or on the Downtown Facebook page.
124 MILLION: Box office revenue for “The Vow” (through April 15) 10: Number of weeks after being married when the Carpenters were in a car wreck 3: Years between their two weddings 1,987: Number of “Likes” on the Carpenters’ Facebook page
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Rank that the Carpenters’ book, “The Vow: The True Events that Inspired the Movie,” achieved on the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller Lists
20: Date in May they will be at First Methodist Houston Downtown 7
FIRST EDITION | NEWS
Stephen Ministry - A Story Shared As I look back, I realize was called upon to minister but did not know that I was doing it, nor did I understand the purpose. I was 25 and had received a distressing call from my mother. She said “You need to come over and talk to your father, I think he is planning to kill himself. He has been cleaning his gun.” It was early May; my father had a heart attack that past December and his health was declining. He was in a very depressed state and did not want to live any more. I found him sitting in the backyard, sat beside him and asked if he was planning to take his life. He answered yes, saying, “I just want to die, I am so miserable, I don’t want to live like this anymore.” I said to him, “You know you can’t leave us like that; we would never be able to get over losing you if you took your life.” I said perhaps you need to say your goodbyes to your brothers and sister before God will let you come home. He agreed, so we planned a trip to visit his siblings. It was a wonder-
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By Rita Cardenas
ful visit; he got to spend time with everyone he loved. June came, we had a blessed Father’s Day, and the next morning he went home to be with the Lord. As I look back, I realized that Christ was using me as his vessel to minister to my father in his darkest hour. In later years, I spent many hours by my mother’s bedside absorbing every word as she remembered stories of her childhood and reminiscing about my father. My mother was not a member of the Methodist Church but she attended one in her neighborhood. It was the Methodists who came faithfully to minister to my mother during her months of illness. There was a gentleman who would call and read her favorite scriptures. The minister was the one I called at 7 a.m. on a Sunday to give her last rites before the decision was made to take her off of life support. I needed a Stephen Minister during those months but I did not know they existed. It was my mother, after her death, that
guided me to the Methodist Church. I began visiting First Methodist, fell in love with the church and realized this was my church home. When I took the oath to become a member, I agreed to give of myself to the church. As I began to learn more about Stephen Ministry, I felt it was something I could do. I realized God had given me the gift of compassion, which is a quality needed to provide care to those experiencing life difficulties. Stephen Ministry is Christ caring for people though people. Stephen Ministers provide high-quality, confidential, Christcentered care and support to people experiencing grief, divorce, cancer, job loss, loneliness, disability, relocation and other life difficulties. If you are hurting, you do not have to suffer alone. Please seek a Stephen Minister to walk alongside you to provide emotional and spiritual care for as long as the need persists. To request a Stephen Minister, call 713458-4709.
May 2012
NEWS | FIRST EDITION
freely, freely Various members of the church were recently asked to tell us what they are excited about in our church. Here are their responses. We have been members of First Methodist for more than 30 years and each year has been a blessing to us. As we participate in the life of the church and come into the Worship Center of the Westchase Campus, our spirits soar as we see what God is doing with his people. Our church has truly become a picture of what heaven most surely will look like. We have such a diverse and multigenerational congregation. We see all age groups and ethnicities participating in worship. That for us is exciting and the way it should be. We seek to engage and incorporate the entire congregation into the life of the church; thereby enabling us as a body and as individuals to grow in our relationship with Christ. We are likewise thrilled to see what is happening in our Downtown Campus. It is so exciting to see it continue to grow and remain positioned to bring future generations into the Kingdom. Although our church has served Houston, the nation and the world for more than 170 years, our best years are still ahead of us. We simply have to remain faithful because He is faithful. - Mary and Sam Daffin Every Tuesday I’m excited to attend the noon Bible study! We have just finished Beth Moore’s study of Daniel, Lives of Integrity, Words of Prophecy. It was one of the most powerful studies I’ve ever experienced! Each week we come together to enjoy a delicious meal, to fellowship with each other and to engage in a challenging study of God’s Word. We are now beginning a new six-week session: Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed: A Study of David. This study will feature teaching by Priscilla Shirer, Beth Moore, and Kay Arthur. I am so thankful to First Methodist for offering such wonderful opportunities to study God’s Word in depth. I love Tuesdays at First Methodist! - Ruthie Estes
I am excited about all the wonderful and dedicated volunteers at First Methodist. As chair of the Wedding Guild, I see the ladies of this vital ministry preparing our sanctuary for a wedding, assisting the wedding party, and greeting guests who have never been inside our church. The Wedding Guild has the opportunity to minister to hundreds of people that are visiting our church and share our great history, mission and vision. As Lay Leader of the Evangelism Team, I see our volunteers reach out and connect with the many visitors to our church through greeting, letter writing, e-mails, calls and prayer. I am excited about all the members that step forward and give their time, talents and God-given passion to help serve our church, community and the world. – Glenda Flores I’m really excited to see First Methodist Houston’s projects that will touch people’s heart and serve the Lord. Last summer, a few other youth and I met a woman on the Metro train who raved about how she and her 90-year-old mother loved to watch our service on TV every Sunday because they were touched by the Word of God. I’ve not only been touched by what I’ve been taught at First Methodist, but I’ve seen others be touched too. I also enjoy being able to do God’s will within my church. I love to participate in all of the church’s different events and projects because I know I’m doing what God means for me to be doing. I am so excited to see First United Methodist Church continue to touch people’s hearts as well as serving God. - Kaylee Sarton
“Freely, freely you have received; freely give.” - Matthew 10:8b
fmhouston.com
The reason I like First Methodist Church Houston is because on Sunday I drive in with my parents to our historical church. I know God loves our church because through so many years His word is still taught on the pulpit. I have learned so much about God and the Bible and about His plan for my future. I love to see so many old and young people come to our church. I think they know that God is here to welcome us. My favorite is going to big church at 11 a.m. and hearing the pastors give the sermon. I also love the choir and sometimes I get to sing and speak from the stage. I’ve had lots of fun at VBS and going on retreat. I can’t wait to go on mission trips and teach others what God has taught me. - Luis Civallero
Survey says...
What is a Senior Adult and what do they want? When a senior texts “LOL,” it means Living On Lipitor. We recall S&H green stamps, glass milk bottles with paper caps, roller skate keys and Howdy Doody. Some may think of a senior adult as anyone who’s 20 years older than they are! But usually we define seniors as those who are at least AARP-eligible, or more likely, those closer to retirement age. Is this you? Well, even if you’re a young whippersnapper of 50, you may be interested in thinking about potential “Senior” activities for Downtown later this summer when we take a break from our usual monthly field trips. What kind of things would you like to do and what would you be likely to support by active participation? Would you prefer activities that are educational? Health-related? Entertaining? Serviceoriented? Or…some of each? Look out for a survey form which will be available in your Sunday School classes and small groups, fill it out and we’ll drum up some fun for the summer and beyond for our Senior Adult Ministry Downtown!
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FIRST EDITION | CHILDREN’S MINISTRY DOWNTOWN
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May 2012
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY WESTCHASE | FIRST EDITION
A little H2O Have you ever noticed the number of water stories in the Bible? There’s the parting of the Red Sea, Noah’s Ark, Jesus’ baptism, Jesus turning water into wine, etc. Water reminds us of refreshment and cleanliness. It makes things cooler. Water is a necessity. As we get closer to summer, take the opportunity to use “teachable moments” about water with your children. • When it is bath time, have this conversation. Say: You were really dirty before your bath. You had to scrub and scrub with soap and water to clean your body. Now you are really clean! Water and soap made you clean on the outside! Jesus makes us clean on the inside. He “washes away” all of your bad choices. • If your child cannot swim, have a conversation when putting on “floaties.” Say: It would be really scary to be in water without floaties, but the floaties help to hold you up. This reminds us of how God holds us up when things around us are scary. Just as the floaties hold you up, God holds you up in scary situations. He won’t let you go. • Offer your child a drink of water after a time outside. Say: Wow, I was really thirsty! The water makes me feel better. It is so refreshing! Sometimes water and rest will make you feel better after working or playing, but sometimes we need more than that. When things around us make us tired, we can ask God to provide us with rest and refreshment, and He will do it.
Ripple Pool Party The JOY Ministry reaches out to children, youth and adults with special needs as well as their families. Join us for one of our JOY respites! JOY Respite Dates (All activities in Quillian Gym unless noted) • Sat., May 12, 3:30-7:30 p.m. • Sat., June 9, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Stansbury Hall • Sat., Sept. 8, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. • Sat., Oct. 13, 3:30-7:30 p.m. • Sat. Nov. 10, 3:30-7:30 p.m. • Sat., Dec. 8, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Stansbury Hall JOY Camp (Monday-Thursday) July 30-Aug 2: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
VBS 2012 Westchase Campus Join us July 9-13 for Operation Overboard! We’ll dive in to develop a deeper understanding of the Bible. We’ll wrap up VBS with a Family Pool Party on Friday, July 13 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Online registration is available at fmhouston.com.
Let’s kick off Summer together! Ripple Children’s Ministry will host a pool party at Quillian Recreation Center on Friday, June 22 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Bring your family, friends, and $3/person for a pizza dinner.
Are you on Facebook? Check out (and “like”) the Ripple Children’s Ministry page! fmhouston.com
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FIRST EDITION | STUDENT MINISTRY
STUDENT MINISTRY SUMMER CALENDAR DOWNTOWN MAY ••• 5: Casting Crowns Concert ••• 6: Graduation Sunday/Grad Banquet ••• 11: Zach’s Graduation @ UH ••• 13: Mother’s Day Roses ••• 20: Confirmation Sunday JUNE ••• 11-15: VBS Downtown ••• 18-20: Schlitterbahn Trip - New Braunfels ••• 23-30: London Youth Choir Trip JULY ••• 9-13: VBS Westchase ••• 14-20: Honduras Student Mission Trip ••• 23-27: Student Life Camp (Dallas) ••• 29 - Aug. 4: Pine Cove Outback AUGUST ••• 2-4: Lake Retreat @ King’s Lake House ••• 4: Nikki’s Graduation @ SHSU ••• 12: Student Sunday For more information, to sign up to be a part of these activities, or to schedule a time to talk with a youth staff leader, contact Rev. Mark Welshimer at mwelshimer@fmhouston.com or Nikki Leaverton at nleaverton@fmhouston.com.
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Wonderful words of life By Lisa Sampson
As my senior year of high school closes and graduation and college (!) come ever closer, I like to take a break from the mountainous piles of homework I have to reflect on my life so far. In these daily reflections, I am truly pleased to see that most of the best experiences of my life happened in or were available to me through the church. I have had multiple opportunities to go on mission trips and retreats, volunteer at Vacation Bible School, and participate in the worship service in a number of capacities. There are so many life-changing experiences that I would love the chance to detail, but I would like to take this chance to write about one of the most uplifting songs I have ever heard: “Hold My Heart” by Tenth Avenue North. I know it sounds almost silly to write about a song, but please, hear me out. I first heard the song on KSBJ, taking note of the powerful message the song possessed: it was a cry for help from someone who desperately needed a Savior. Little did I know that the song would come to mean so much to me. The July before my junior year of high school, I went to my third Student Life Camp with the Youth Group and thousands of other students from across the southern region of the country. Sophomore year was particularly disgusting to me and resulted in me being incredibly hardhearted. I knew that camp was supposed to be a place where I would have the chance to retreat, but my cynical attitude forbade me from having the good time I knew I needed to have and severely distanced me from God. During the week, the camp pastor, Ben, was teaching a series on the life of James, Jesus’ brother. On the second night of camp, as if from nowhere, Ben asked us to rejoice when met with trials. If God could have tried to pick a better moment to distance me from Him, He couldn’t have topped that, I thought. Ben went on to say that locked into every painful experience were hope and potential for the future. “Through pain, we gain wisdom,” he continued. My thoughts were steeped in dis-
belief. Ben added, “Pascal once said that no one has ever complained because he only has one mouth. Why complain, then, that you are experiencing pain if everyone else goes through it?” Ben finished his message, and our worship band was about to lead us in our final song for the night. The air in the room was tense, and everyone was still. Eventually, the keyboard finally broke the silence, and two thousand voices surrounding me began to sing. Tenth Avenue North sang a song I knew all too well —“Hold My Heart” – and it struck a chord within my soul. My tough exterior collapsed, and my adamantly defiant attitude, exhausted and defeated, quickly resigned. Vulnerability shone through all the cracks. The song lyrics were full of passion and confusion and anger and hope, all of which were clouding my heart. Amazed, I sang along: One tear in the driving rain / One voice in a sea of pain / Could the Maker of the stars / Hear the sound of my breaking heart? / One life; that’s all I am / Right now I can barely stand / If You’re everything You say You are / Would You come close and hold my heart? These words were my cry for help. Desperately, I realized I needed to rely on God. As salty tears streamed down my face, my heart rejoiced, for I had seen a light at the end of the dark tunnel I was in. My sobbing restricted my breathing, and I could feel God wrapping His arms around me, comforting me and letting me know that it was okay. As I venture off to college, I will forever hold the song (and experience) in my heart. I am expecting to face rough patches on the long, winding journey that is adulthood, but music is an incredibly powerful thing – through God, it has the power to heal. Praise the LORD. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise him! - Psalm 147:1
May 2012
MUSIC MINISTRY | FIRST EDITION
Music Ministry Downtown gets ready for summer The music ministry Downtown will continue to provide a variety of music for worship. Soloists, the Sanctuary Choir, the Rejoice Ringers and Praise Connection will all be heard in praise of God during the month of May. After May they will take a break before gearing up again in the fall. We will be wrapping up our organist search soon. By June we should have our new organist in place. In the meantime, Sharon Goldsberry has agreed to serve as interim organist while we complete our search. We are sure to be in for a treat as she shares her gifts with our congregation. In June we will be hosting the KidShine Music Camp. Be sure to sign up soon, as space is limited to 75 participants from 3rd through 8th grades. Please pray for our Youth Chorale as they and their director, Andrea Brown, head off to London to perform with a festival choir under the direction of composer and conductor, Rollo Dilworth. Are you an experienced musician? Do you feel God’s call to serve? Now is a great time to consider joining the Sanctuary Choir. We have just begun a new cycle of preparation that will carry us through the
summer. In July, we present a patriotic service in honor of our great country’s birth. This year will bring back some of our favorites, and we hope to create some new favorites this year with a cohesive service that will remind you how wonderful it is to be “One nation, under God.” Also in July, we will host an All State Choir Camp at the Westchase Campus to help prepare local high school students for competition in the Texas All State Choir process. For more information regarding camps or joining the Sanctuary Choir or any of our other fine groups, visit the website and navigate to the music page. For more information, feel free to contact Terry Morris, Director of Music and Fine Arts, at tmorris@fmhouston.com or 832-668-1823. You can also contact the music ministry assistant, Debbie Mathews, at dmathews@fmhouston.com or 832668-1824.
First Methodist Houston then and now By Zach Copeland, Youth Ministry Intern I have been working with the youth group at First Methodist Houston since 2009, but my roots with the church are much deeper. My father was an associate at First Methodist in the late 80s and the church was a constant figure during my childhood. I have so many memories of the church building itself, which, to a young boy, is an endless maze of exciting places to explore. However, it is the people who stand out most in my mind. The people of this church make downtown a welcoming place and continue to make First Methodist feel like home. Today, I see that same care for the young people of this church through the support of the youth. I have participated in Spaghetti Luncheons and Stock Holders’ dinners and seen how generous our members are with their time and gifts. I have
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also seen the fruit that has grown out of those gifts. I continue to see the lives of the youth changed by mission trips and great times at retreats and camps. These experiences are only possible with the support of generous stockholders and sponsors. These gifts are essential, but more important are the conversations and relationships that come from spending time with our youth. We have an amazing group of young people at this church that are excited to grow up in the church and continue the values and message that they have heard from its members. I encourage you to visit the 6th Floor Downtown and spend time speaking with our youth and impart the message that you want to be continued at First Methodist for years to come.
Three Sopranos sing the Gospel “Greats” “Amazing Grace,” “How Great Thou Art,” “Precious Lord,”…. These are just a few of the Gospel Greats that will be shared by the Three Sopranos. The Women of First Methodist are proud to present this program on June 3 at 2 p.m. in the Worship Center of First Methodist Houston’s Westchase Campus. Please join us for an inspirational afternoon of singing the songs that you sang growing up. The program will consist of solos, duets and trios sung by three sopranos who are all members of the Houston Baptist University choral group known as the Schola Cantorum. These young ladies, Adrianna Nelson, Alexis Walker and Kortney Johnson, will be joining the rest of the HBU choir as the host choir for the Classical Music Festival in Eisenstaedt, Austria in August of 2012. Both Adrianna and Alexis are also members of the First Methodist choir. This program is an opportunity to assist these young ladies in deferring the cost of the trip by giving a love offering at the program. Join us at 2 p.m. June 3 for an exciting afternoon of singing and memories. See you there!
You can be a recording artist Have you ever had a desire to be a recording artist? Well, now is your chance! The Westchase Campus Worship Choir will be professionally recording a Christmas CD entitled “The Hope of Christmas” on the evenings of May 21 and 22, and we are looking for MORE singers who want to be a part. Anyone can join us at anytime. Come be a part of this exciting project. For more information, contact Bonnie King in the music department at Westchase at bking@fmhouston.com or 713458-4799.
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FIRST EDITION | WOMEN’S MINISTRY
Women’s Spring Retreat at Laity Lodge
In the Circle
Church Circle News Church Circle of First Methodist Houston will meet Tuesday, May 8 at 10:30 a.m. in Room LL9 Downtown. Susan Gallman, assistant leader, has planned a mission project for our circle members to complete. We will be making flood-disaster pails for future use in our country. The pails contain many cleaning supplies for families to use when a disaster hits their area. The pails are given free to families. Ruth Ann Adams and Bonnie Chesser will bring the supplies. Jane Thompson, our leader, will have a short business meeting before we have our work session and covered-dish luncheon. Please bring your favorite food dish to share with members. Alvretta DeVillier has a birthday on May 13. Happy birthday, Alvretta! Thank each of you who purchased our wooden crosses on Palm Sunday. We use the sales to help with our mission projects. Come and visit Church Circle. You will receive a blessing!
Reading Circle News The Reading Circle of First Methodist Houston will meet Tuesday, May 15 at 10 a.m. at the Wesley Community Center, located at 1410 Lee Street. Our hostesses will be Ruth Palmer and Genevieve Moss. The program will be Diana Garbis, the new Wesley Executive Director as of Feb. 23, 2012, and a tour of the new Kurtz Family Education and Recreation building at Wesley. Please come and enjoy the morning with friends.
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“You just don’t understand until you’ve experienced it for yourself.” Photos by Kathy Mabry “If everyone knew what a remarkable experience this was, we’d be bringing bus loads of women.”
“I hiked, I painted, I read, I prayed, and I made several new First Methodist Houston friends. I needed this time away. What a blessing.”
“Suzanne Stabile (retreat speaker) was great. I’m still reading my notes and processing how her words are changing my life.”
Join us in 2013 — April 5-7! Women’s Retreat Ministry You are invited to attend Let’s Read Book Club Monday, May 7 from 12-1 p.m. David Epperson, author, will be reviewing his novel “The Third Day” Bring your lunch to Hidden Treasures Books and Gifts Downtown. We will provide iced tea, coffee and conversation. 832-668-1876 or www.fmhouston.com May 2012
MISSIONS MINISTRY | FIRST EDITION
Changing the World On April 14 and 15, First Methodist served those in need across the city with four large outreaches, three partner ministries projects, two prayer services and Online Missionary training. With more than 300 volunteers involved over two days, God used us to help “Change the World” for Christ.
This June our Summer of Service theme will be “Reaching the Unreached.” We will kick off Sunday, June 3 and will have change cans for us to collect our change for the year with the goal of helping to complete a translation of the Bible for an unreached people group. In addition, we will all have opportunities to serve on local projects and on mission teams around the world. Registration begins Sunday, May 6. Want more info about what’s happening in the Missions Ministry? • Pick up a Missions Ministry booklet from the kiosk in the Downtown Lobby or Westchase Atrium. July 29 - August 4, 2012 • Visit us online at fmhouston.com. Register today at • Check us out on Facebook - search “First Methodist Houston Missions.” www.pinecove.com/ • Contact the Missions Office at 832-668-1819 or kjames@fmhouston.com. summer-camps/outback. fmhouston.com
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FIRST EDITION | WESLEY ACADEMY
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May 2012
QUILLIAN CENTER | FIRST EDITION
Register now for Quillian Summer Camp Our camp caters to children ages five to 14. We have a wealth of opportunities for children that range from sports, enrichment classes, bible studies, crafts, special events, games and service projects. Just imagine a summer filled with magic shows, ice cream socials, swimming, rock climbing, special guest speakers and so much more. Campers will also enjoy daily swim times in the swimming pool and Noah’s Ark pool, game room time and organized games. There is a special Teen Camp for ages 13-14. Registration for Summer Camp is going on now. Sign up by May 27 and take advantage of “Early Bird” registration fees. One week sessions begin on June 4, and camp runs through August 24. Quillian Center has the only day camp in Houston accredited by the American Camp Association.
Put a Smile on a Child Each year, we receive many requests regarding financial assistance. Our goal is to honor as many of these requests as possible by providing scholarships to those families who qualify. This program, called “Put a Smile on a Child,” has touched hundreds of lives throughout the years and has given children the opportunity to participate in summer camp activities who would otherwise be left home alone. We would like to invite individuals, small groups and Sunday School classes to participate. Please consider this request and help put a smile on a child! Your donations will help a child attend summer day camp. A donation of $175 will sponsor a child for one week of summer camp. For more information contact Jack Long at 713-458-4712.
Registration begins for youth basketball program
Summer Adult Sports Leagues
Calling all kids age five to 14, it is time to grab your shoes and head to Quillian for the Summer Youth Basketball season. Quillian’s Youth Basketball program is a top notch program that boasts great coaching and fun competition. Quillian Youth Basketball is a coed league that is perfect for children of all skill levels. Equal playing time, weekly practices, a Christian atmosphere, jerseys and awards for all, and great coaches are all part of the program. You do not want to miss out on this upcoming season. Registration begins May 14. The cost is $70 for children ages five to seven and $95 for children ages eight to 14. This summer we will also host a high school basketball league for young adults ages 15-18. For more information contact Derek Devore at 713-458-4730 or ddevore@quilliancenter.org.
Basketball and hockey postseasons are heating up, baseball season is in full swing, and football season is just around the corner. This is a great time for sports and an even better time for you to get involved in Quillian’s Adult Sports Program. Summer seasons will be starting soon and we have many different sports to offer individuals and teams. So grab your friends, teammates, co-workers and neighbors, and we’ll see you at the fields. • June 24 – Men’s Summer Basketball - $375 per team • June 11 – Men’s Summer Softball - $275 per team • May 12 – Coed Summer Softball (Tuesday Nights) - $275 per team • May 14 – Coed Summer Softball (Thursday Nights) - $275 per team For more information or to register, contact Derek Devore at 713-458-4730.
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Learn to Swim classes Each session of Swim Lessons is held twice weekly for four weeks. Classes are 40 minutes and begin promptly each day. Both morning and evening classes are available. Students three to five years old will learn the skills needed to feel more comfortable in the water, be able to do the basic skills and then begin their learning progressions for swimming. Students age six or older have already learned the basic aquatic skills and are beginning to learn each of the six strokes. Students will progress at their own rate. • Cost: $100 per session ($90 for Quillian Members)
Aquatic programs and pool information
The swimming facilities include a large swimming pool with dual slides and two diving boards. The smaller pool, known as the “Noah’s Ark Pool,” was voted best pool in Houston in a poll by Great Day Houston! It is the most popular area as it is ideal for pre-k and early elementary children. It is shallow and provides a good area for splashing and playing. A “Noah’s Ark” structure is located in the center of the pool and includes three slides and a crawl-through. A mushroom water drop, a rainbow slide, a coconut water drop and spraying water from Noah’s animals complete this fun facility. Either of these pools may be rented for private parties after public pool hours and on Sundays. Open swim times are offered for a daily fee of $6.50 per person, or you may choose to purchase a 20-swim pass for $100. The daily fee for Quillian Members is $4.50. Quillian Memberships are available for church members at $5. For more information on memberships contact Jack Long at 713-458-4712.
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FIRST EDITION | JOYS AND CONCERNS
FIND US ON:
TV: Sundays live on KUBE-TV, channel 53 (Comcast) and channel 653 (Comcast HD). Dish & Direct TV subscribers will find us on channel 57. Channel 13 (KTRK) carries th e sermon portion of the service at 5 a.m., delayed by one week. Radio: KHCB-FM 105.7 on Sundays at 8 p.m. Internet: fmhouston.com Video streaming: fmhouston.com/ communications/livestreaming.aspx By phone: 832.668.1800 (DT) or 713.458.4700 (WC)
PASTOR ON CALL:
welcome to the family (since 3/11/12)
“And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” - Acts 2:47
• James Kwaku, Houston 77031 • Victor Odili, Houston 77031 • Doremus and Lynette Wallace, Houston 77082 • Tom and Tracie Sander and son Tommy, League City 77573
• Lynnette Gulley, Houston 77090 • Jeannie Jones, Pearland 77584 • Rachel Zeno, Houston 77072 • Marilyn Brann, Houston 77022 • Don Dowling, Houston 77027
joys and concerns “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.”
- Romans 12:15
Births:
Amelia Fiona Abernathy, 12/12/11, daughter of Daniel and Elyse Abernathy Indira Kamal Beasley, 2/12/12, daughter of Duane and Ivana Beasley Victoria Anne Jaster, 2/24/12, daughter of Allan and Lisa Jaster Wyatt Gabriel Gonzales, 3/11/12, grandson of Judy Saenz Winufred “Winnie” Grey Stephens, 3/28/12, daughter of Jake & Melanie Stephens
Baptisms:
When the church offices are closed, you may dial the “Pastor on Call” and leave your name, a number where you can be reached, and a brief word about the nature of your emergency.
Noah Ethin Chikala, 3/11/12, son of Navirumdu Chikala and Francine Murhebwa Hayes Scott Lowers, 4/8/12, son of Eric and Mary Lowers, grandson of Ann and Max Spears Lucas William Gebhart, 4/15/12, son of Robert and Michele Gebhart, grandson of Dr. Steve and Karin Wende William Holley Spear VI, 4/15/12, son of William Holley, V and Kathryn Spear Travis Grayson Spear, 4/15/12, son of William Holley, V and Kathryn Spear
The pastor “on call” will return your call as quickly as possible.
Deaths:
Pastor on Call: 832.668.1892
PRAYER REQUESTS
If you or someone you know needs prayer, fill out a prayer card at church, call the church office or submit your request through our website. Because of your support, First Methodist Houston provides Stephen Ministers, Good Neighbors, Hospital Visitation, CanCare, AIDS Care and Alzheimers Care. “First Edition” (USPS 015-624) is published monthly for $25 per year by First United Methodist Church, 1320 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002-6803. Phone 832-6681800. Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, Texas and at additonal Mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to First Edition, 1320 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002-6803. Website: fmhouston.com
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Mrs. Lurine Nielsen, 2/19/12 Mr. Cecil L. Lott, 3/9/12, husband of Mrs. Belva Lott Mr. Edward Wilson, 3/11/12, father of Marj Cujko Mr. David J. Lund, 3/15/12, husband of Mrs.Laurel Lund Mrs. Virginia Moers Graham, 3/16/12 Mrs. Mary Lou Mayes, 3/27/12 Ms. Dorothy L. Cook, 4/3/12 Ms. Ruth Estess, 4/11/12, grandmother of Kim Menefee
honorariums and memorials In Honor Of:
Designated Fund
Given By:
In Memory Of:
Designated Fund:
Given By:
M/M Allen Houk
William (Bill) Ward Dorothy Schmidt William (Bill) Ward William (Bill) Ward Dorothy Schmidt William (Bill) Ward Cecil Lott Cecil Lott Donald Stewart Nell Bentley Earl Cobb
First Choice Ministries
First Choice Ministries First Choice Ministries First Choice Ministries First Choice Ministries Living Memorial First Choice Ministries Downtown Renovation Downtown Renovation Downtown Renovation First Choice Ministries Downtown Renovations
Larry Hubbard
Linda Thompson Monday Night Bible Study Gp. Mary Parker M/M Ward Schmidt Marilyn Beaird Warren Russell Logos Class M/M Loyd Hurst The Family of Don Stewart Johnnie Reaves & Family Mary Lou Low
May 2012
FIRST EDITION
Loving Jesus, Loving Downtown
CLAY STREET RAMP
WELCOME CENTER AND COMMONS AREA
“When we put first-class facilities together with Christ-focused members, Bible-based ministries, and the blessing of the Holy Spirit, we will have a church that can continue to influence this city and bring hearts to Christ in amazing ways for many, many years to come.” - Dr. Steve Wende FIRST FLOOR PLAYSCAPE AND NURSERY
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us ... run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” - Hebrews 12:1-2
CHILDREN’S SECOND FLOOR WORSHIP SPACE
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To see a brochure and to watch a video on all of our exciting plans for renovations of our Downtown Campus, visit www.fmhouston.com. 19
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First United Methodist Church 1320 Main Street Houston, TX 77002
PERIODICAL Dated Material