the
firstedition
September 2014
we
our seniors
6 - Our Church, Our Stories 12 - Spotlight on our Seniors 15 - Women’s Fall Retreat 16 - A New Church Experience
A publication of First Choice Ministries First Methodist Houston fmhouston.com
keeping the sabbath September 7
a pastoral word Dr. Paul Clines, Campus Pastor
Dr. Steve Wende preaching 8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown Dr. Paul Clines preaching 9:15 and10:30 a.m. Westchase
September 14
Dr. Steve Wende preaching 8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown Dr. Paul Clines preaching 9:15 and 10:30 a.m. Westchase
September 21
Dr. Paul Clines preaching 8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown Dr. Steve Wende preaching 9:15 and 10:30 a.m. Westchase
September 28
Dr. Steve Wende preaching 8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown Dr. Paul Clines preaching 9:15 and 10:30 a.m. Westchase Hispanic Worship Service
Sundays at 11 a.m. 6th Floor Downtown Rev. Humberto Hernandez preaching
First Methodist Houston… taking Christ to the world, right here in Houston! It wasn’t that long ago that “taking the Gospel to the world” meant long plane rides. Today, in Houston, it means a short walk for most of us! We are serving one of the greatest and most diverse cities on the planet. For a wide variety of reasons, people around the world are putting up with mosquitoes and humidity because they want to live in Houston. That’s great for Houston, but it’s really great for First Methodist Houston! We are given an opportunity to serve, build friendships and take the distinct, wonderful message of Christianity to the world…and all we have to do is walk down the street. Because of its location, this is especially true at our Westchase Campus. The good folks who identified the location for a “West Campus” 23 years ago had no idea they were planting a church at what would be the crossroads of the world a generation later.
Now here we are. Every Sunday people gather on our Westchase Campus to worship in a language where they can understand the Gospel. You can worship with a Swahili speaking congregation, Spanish speaking, Burmese speaking or Mandarin Chinese speaking congregation! Oh yeah, there’s two “Texan” speaking services as well! We are inviting people to worship here, but we’re also going to them. We are actively serving and building friendships at local schools and apartment complexes that have become the first home for many immigrants coming to Houston. Through our international ministries and language-based services, First Methodist Houston truly is living out the sentiment expressed by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 9:19-23… “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.” Praise God for this great church!
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 Methodist provides multiple venues for relevant, powerful worship. At our Downtown location, the traditional service is at 11 a.m., with more liturgical worship at 8:45 a.m. A new contemporary service will begin in October at 11: 11 a.m. At our Westchase location, the 10:30 a.m. service is contemporary, with traditional worship at 9:15 a.m.
September 2014
Camp Quillian Wrap-Up This summer, Camp Quillian celebrated 30 consecutive years, and what a fantastic summer it was. Over 1,600 boys and girls registered at camp this summer. It was wonderful to watch these kids experience full days of fun, games, sports, swimming and special activities. Each week campers attended chapel. They also experienced a week of VBS. There were so many victories this summer. It was great to witness children gain confidence as they learned to swim, or see the camper who scampered up to the top of the climbing wall and rang the bell for the first time. Campers were introduced to new activities such as lacrosse, water polo, cooking class, and Guard Start. And they especially enjoyed Kona Ice Thursdays and Chick-fil-A Fridays. This summer, because of your generosity, we awarded over $20,000 in financial assistance. Thanks to all of you who helped “Put a Smile on a Child� and who participated in Family Fun Fest. And a big thanks to the prayer warriors who kept all of the campers, swimmers and staff in the prayers. The Holy Spirit was present each and every day at Quillian Center and for that, we are grateful. Tom Gaden Quillian Center Director fmhouston.com
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United Methodist Men’s News Saturday, Aug. 9, First Methodist’s own Jeff Aldis was the Methodist Men’s keynote speaker at their monthly breakfast get together. Jeff presented a highly-motivating and informative talk on “The Walk to Emmaus” to a packed house! Allen Houk also presented his always-informative and on point devotional for the group. Please join Methodist Men’s next breakfast meeting in the Fellowship Hall at 7:30 on Saturday, Sept. 13 when they will have another timely and relevant speaker. Methodist Men meet the second Saturday of eachmonth for hymn singing, great Bible study, keynote speakers, a fabulous country breakfast and priceless Christian fellowship.
First Methodist to team up with Habitat for Humanity
First Methodist is teaming up this fall with our downtown neighbors and Habitat for Humanity to work on homes for well deserving families in Houston. This is an opportunity for us to connect with our Downtown neighbors and serve those in need together. There are three weekend opportunities for serving — Saturdays, Sept. 27, Oct. 25 and Nov. 22 — and we plan to fill each team with 12 church members and 12 residents living in our downtown neighborhood. If you would like to serve on one of the weekend projects, please go to www. fmhouston.com, click on the Habitat for Humanity logo and complete the registration form. For more information, contact the Missions Office at 832-668-1819 or kjames@ fmhouston.com.
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Grateful for In Touch Care By Carol Whitman With a passion for aging church members who can no longer attend church regularly, Rev. Charles Thompson, with a team of dedicated volunteers, launched the In Touch Care program early this year. When he made his plea from the pulpit and told the story of his own mother’s isolation from her church in her later years, members of First Methodist Houston responded with gusto. The program now has more than 60 people who want to reach out to elderly members. That’s how Agnes Hooven, 92, was paired with Treva Kigar. Now their new In Touch Care relationship brings joy and blessings to both women. Agnes joined First Methodist Houston back in 1943 when she married her late husband, Bill Hooven. Over the years, the couple had active leadership roles within the church and served under several pastors such as Rev. Paul Quillian, Rev. Kenneth Pope, Rev. Charles Allen, Rev. William Hinson and Rev. Steve Wende. Time took its toll on Bill Hooven’s health, and he died in 1993 following a
stay in a nursing home. Agnes experienced several illnesses herself, which made it difficult for her to attend services at the Downtown Campus. Since 2007, she has been worshipping via First Choice television. Having outlived many of her friends at church, Agnes has gone several years without much contact with her fellow church members. It was particularly hard when she lost her daughter in 2012 to a sudden illness. Now Agnes receives phone calls at least twice a month from Treva Kigar, a member of First Methodist since 2006. Treva also mails postcards when she often travels for her job at Marathon Oil. Talking with Agnes, who’s a good storyteller with a quick wit, is a bright spot in Treva’s busy work schedule. She is pleased to have such a flexible opportunity to serve members who have given so much of their lives in service to the church. In the same spirit, Agnes enjoys sharing conversation with Treva and getting better acquainted with one of her fellow church members through the new program of In Touch Care.
First Methodist Houston is in the process of updating our records. In order to assist us, we are asking you to send us your email address. There are exciting things happening at your church and we want you to be involved. Your email address will be a key to a door that will give you the opportunity to explore wonderful things! This fall we will be launching a new website that will give you the ability to securely log into your profile and make requests for changes, register for classes and events, as well as to securely give and view your giving record. In order for you to participate in these things, we have to have your email on file. Please do not assume that your email is in our database if you receive emails from our staff. We do not want your email to send you more emails… or to sell your emails to advertisers. We just want to make sure that you can participate fully in all of the exciting things your church is doing! Please email Linda Calvert at lcalvert@fmhouston.com from the email address you will want to use and please include your full name or head of household name so we can be sure to link it to you. You don’t want to miss all of the exciting things coming this fall. We thank you in advance for your help!
September 2014
Join the ladies of “Let’s Read” for an autumn book review The ladies of Let’s Read Book Club invite you to join them for their monthly book review. They gather the first Monday of every month at Hidden Treasures Books and Gifts Downtown. Monday, Sept. 8 (second Monday due to Labor Day holiday), Debra Neighbors will review The Prodigal: A Ragamuffin Story by Brennan Manning and Greg Garrett. Jack Chisholm is “the people’s pastor.” He leads a devoted and growing megachurch, has several best-selling books, and a memorable slogan, “We have got to do better.” Jack knows how to preach, and he understands how to chastise people into performing. What he doesn’t know is anything about grace. (Zondervan) Debra was a weekday downtowner, a professional in the area of First Methodist Houston Downtown. As a good “Neighbor” Methodist, she searched for a Methodist connection for her weekday life, discovered “Let’s Read Book Club” and the rest is history. Coming off a great review of “The Astronauts Wives Club: A True Story,” Debra will share this month’s author’s insights. Monday, Oct. 6, Janet Nolte will review The Book of Hours by Davis Bunn. Brian thought he had no future. Now he has the chance to start over...if he can solve the mysteries of the past found inside Castle Keep. After his wife’s death, Brian Blackstone’s days and hours had become a meaningless blur. He finally wills himself to go to the English village of Knightsbridge to confront the inheritance he doesn’t want to claim. What will happen? Join us as Janet shares about a favorite book…but will she give us the answer? Join us to learn. Janet is a First Methodist Houston member and attended both Downtown and Westchase services. Janet shares her many talents and leadership skills with a variety of ministries besides being a dramatic book reviewer, including First Place 4 Health, Stephen Ministry and Walk to Emmaus. Bring a sack lunch; we will provide the coffee, tea and water. For more information, contact Hidden Treasures Books and Gifts at 832-668-1876.
Interested in refugee ministry? We have been serving refugee families living at the Willow Falls Apartment complex near Westchase for three years and our ministry is growing quickly. Many of you have expressed interest in how you can serve with this amazing ministry. There will be a Refugee Ministry Informational Meeting at 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21 at the Westchase Campus. We will discuss the vision for ministry to refugees living near Westchase and the future opportunities for service and leadership. Please join us if you feel lead to be a part of what God is doing in this important ministry. Pizza will be served. RSVPs are appreciated but not required. RSVP to Kim James at kjames@fmhouston.com.
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Reading Circle News The UMW Reading Circle will meet Tuesday, Sept. 16 at Holly Hall, 2000 Holly Hall Street. Meeting room location will be provided later or available at the information desk when you arrive. • 10 a.m.: Refreshments • 10:30 a.m.: Business and Program • 12:00 Noon: Adjourn Mary Lou Low and Jodie Chambers will be co-hostesses. Melinda Gaskill will review the book, Making Masterpieces: 25 Years Behind the Scenes at Masterpiece Theater and Masterpiece Mystery by Rebecca Eaton. If you are a fan of “Downton Abbey,” you probably noticed the name Rebecca Eaton as executive producer of the credits. Eaton, the force behind Masterpiece programing, is a woman of great charm and determination, and makes no bones about her lifelong Anglophilia. She has brought much great English television to this country to air on PBS’ “Masterpiece.” The book is a fascinating look at the highs and lows of this great series and a poignant look at the influences and sacrifices that shaped her career as its head. Melinda is a fellow member of First Methodist. She and her husband, Lee, are active members of the Adelphi Class. We welcome her back to the Reading Circle and look forward to hearing her review this book. This program was originally planned for April 14, but was delayed because of scheduling conflicts. Visitors are welcome to the Reading Circle. We meet the third Tuesday of each month (except July and August) in homes of members. More information? Contact ruthgp@swbell.net.
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Former drug addict finds amazing grace By Carol Whitman When asked how First Methodist Houston has changed his life, Sunday school class president and 57-year-old college student, Tommy Ratliff, smiles broadly and his face lights up. Then tears pool in his eyes. He starts to speak, but he chokes up and has to stop. He looks heavenward; then he starts smiling and beaming again. “This church means more to me than I could possibly explain,” says Tommy. “The people here have helped me in hundreds of ways, too numerous to list,” he says. “The most important change has occurred in my heart. I now feel love – a feeling I don’t remember having, even as a child.” Tommy grew up in a family who didn’t believe in God. They taught him that church was a phony institution and Bible stories were nothing but good stories. Their discipline of him as a young child was often abusive and traumatizing. He didn’t feel loved, so he walled off his feelings to protect his young, tender heart. When he was 17, Tommy went to spend the weekend with a friend. He came home to find that his mom and dad had moved. They had left his clothes and other belongings on the porch. He learned his parents were getting a divorce and expected him to fend for himself. With no one to care, he soon became a high school dropout and seriously turned to drugs and alcohol to numb the pain of
his chaotic life. Despite having no high school diploma, Tommy managed to get good paying construction jobs, even working in Singapore for a time. But all the grueling, manual labor damaged his hands. “They were so twisted and gnarled that I had to use two hands just to hold a beer bottle,” says Tommy. “I wasn’t able to work anymore.” By October, 2010, Tommy Ratliff was at the lowest ebb of his life. He was 53 years old. He had no job and all his worldly and spiritual possessions were in shambles. He had squandered good income on drugs and alcohol. Like the Prodigal Son, he was down and out with no roof over his head. With a gnawing, hollow feeling in the pit of his stomach, he showed up at the Star of Hope looking for food and a bed. But he wasn’t ready to give up drugs. With a survival attitude but no true commitment, Tommy walked into James Bute Park, a popular homeless refuge a few blocks from Star of Hope. He got his usual free coffee offered by a preacher who was meeting the homeless. He was about to walk away, but decided to stay. He listened as the preacher proclaimed the good news of Christ’s unconditional love. At that moment, Tommy realized he craved that kind of love more than drugs and alcohol. In an instant, he gave his life to Jesus. With a miraculous change in his heart, Tommy returned to the Star of Hope, determined
Tommy’s program encouraged participants to find a home church. He tried a few, then, a friend brought him to First Methodist Houston...Tommy immediately felt that he belonged here.
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September 2014
to get off drugs and clean up his life. He committed himself to their seven-month Spiritual Recovery Program. It was a recovery road of ups and downs, but Tommy was working out his issues and gaining a better life than he had ever had. His program encouraged participants to find a home church. Tommy tried a few,
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then, a friend brought him to First Methodist Houston. On the way to the Sunday school class, they stopped to look inside the sanctuary. Tommy immediately felt that he belonged here. He became an active member of “One in the Lord” Sunday school class and now serves as its president. Tommy, who still lives at Star of Hope, has experienced many life-changing events since hitting rock bottom in 2010. He gave his life to God, he got a GED, and through the Harris County Hospital District, he was able to get surgeries to repair his disfigured hands. It was his hand therapist who first suggested he get a college degree so he could counsel young people on drugs. When he shared this idea with his “One in the Lord” Sunday school class, Ann Spears and class members encouraged him to enroll at University of Houston Downtown. Tommy starts the second semester of his sophomore year at UHD this fall. Through the help of school counselors, he has changed his major to math. “I’ve learned
that many kids hate math,” says Tommy. “I didn’t like it either. So I believe if I can become a math teacher, I can reach a lot of kids before they fall through the cracks. I want to show them, if a former drug addict can do it, they can do it too.” Tommy is adamant that no one call his a “success story.” He believes he is a work in progress and that God has an ongoing plan for his life. He also stresses that God has put many helpful people in his path along this journey. “I can say the church’s pastors and my Sunday school class are helping me change my life. Their faith in me has boosted my confidence and my self-esteem. Now I feel like I have people who truly love me and support me in my walk with God.”
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Port Houston students join First Methodist students on mission trip
In July Neighbors In Action sent a small group of students on First Methodist Youth Ministries’ Honduras mission trip. The students raised money by working the Stock Campaign and received generous donations from the First Methodist family. The trip included a construction project, which involved digging a 15-foot hole for an outdoor bathroom, and mixing concrete to make bricks. Another project was hosting Vacation Bible School for 120 children at a local church. This included crafts, songs, games, and a puppet show of Noah’s ark. We also had the opportunity to hold VBS at a local orphanage. Our high school girls worked with the local teenage girls talking about what it means to be a daughter of a king, and studying Biblical women of God. On the final day we threw a Princess Party for the girls and their families with a pinata and their favorite meal — fried rice! Each day our mission group began with devotional time, and every evening we had worship together. Our students practiced sharing their own testimonies so they are ready to share their stories of God’s work in their lives. This was truly a life-changing week where we were able to live in community with other believers and serve God with everything we had! Huge thanks to all those who supported us financially and prayerfully and made this trip possible!
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Summer in Port Houston means VBS with Neighbors in Action! In July and August, Neighbors in Action hosted four weeks of Vacation Bible School in the community park. The kids enjoyed crafts, games, Bible lessons, bounce castles, and food, and, most importantly, learned about God’s love for them and their community. We ended the summer with a pool party at Quillian Center! Neighbors in Action would like to thank everybody who made our Port Houston VBS possible: The First Methodist Children’s and Students’ Ministries from both campuses, West University UMC Students’ Ministry, Peter’s UMC Student Ministries, and First Methodist Hispanic Ministry for organizing and hosting all activities; as well as everybody who donated lunches and snacks! A special thanks goes to Kroger for sponsoring one week of VBS!
September 2014
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$90
IS THE AVERAGE COST OF A SLAVE TODAY.
THE AVERAGE AGE OF A CHILD ENSLAVED IN HUMAN TRAFFICKING IS
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.
5.5 MILLION
CHILDREN ARE ESTIMATED TO BE TRAFFICKED GLOBALLY EACH YEAR.
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September 2014
Combat Human Trafficking September is Human Trafficking Awareness Month. Human trafficking, modern day slavery, is the second largest criminal industry in the world and the fastest growing. It generates profits in excess of $32 billion each year for those who, by force and deception, sell human lives into bondage. That is more than the NFL, NBA and MLB combined. More children, women and men are held in slavery right now than over the course of the entire trans-Atlantic slave trade. And it’s happening here in Houston. The I-10 corridor is a hotspot for transportation of trafficked victims. We host two international airports and a sea port. International business and our diverse population make it easy for anyone to blend in. United Against Human Trafficking (UAHT) hosts several trafficking awareness events this month. • The 5th Annual Big Dipper Dash 5K run/walk will be Saturday, Sept. 6 from 4-8 p.m. The route goes through Stude Park in The Heights and along White Oak Bayou. • The Shop Smart Fair Trade Shopping Market will be held at the Stansbury Building of the Westchase Campus Saturday, Sept. 13 from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Shopping fair trade will give you an opportunity to learn more about human trafficking and ways to combat it through conscientious purchases. • Chapelwood United Methodist Church will host the Interfaith Anti-Human Trafficking Seder at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15. • The Dominican Sisters of Houston will host an indoor Labyrinth Walk for Freedom at the Dominican Center for Spirituality. For more information or to register for any of these events, contact United Against Human Trafficking at www.houstonrr.org.
Our student ministry team served in our adopted village of Los Pinos, in the mountains of Honduras, caring for and empowering families living in extreme poverty by digging and stocking fishing ponds which will be used by the families to farm fish for small business development. In addition they ministered through VBS, princess parties, prayer walks and evangelistic outreaches each day. Our Thailand/Myanmar team served at the Feed My Lambs home for refugee children on the Thai/ Myanmar border. They taught English, led craft and recreation activities for the children and even got to take them to Dairy Queen. The team also served in the prison and in villages across the border in Myanmar. Our teams delivered pillowcase dresses, beanie babies and care packages from First Methodist Houston church members. We were all touched by the response of everyone who received them. God used all of us this month, some going and some sending, to let people living in extreme poverty know of His great love for them. Sending people from across the world to deliver a message of hope and restoration — because we serve a God who will go to any length to reach us.
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We
Our Seniors
at First Methodist hOUSTON Fellowship | Fun | Service | Tours Day trip to Seguin
Seguin, Texas has many places to visit with one thing in common - they each have a story to tell. From the historic homes, the state’s oldest licensed bar to one of the world’s largest nutcracker collections and museums, you will hear their fascinating tale when we visit on Wednesday, Sept. 10. We will take a luxury coach on our twoand-a-half hour leisure ride to our destination. Places of interest we will visit are Sebastopol House Historic Site and Wilson Pottery Museum where we will explore the Greek Revival “limecrete” mansion built in 1856 by skilled slaves, and Historic Downtown on the Square where we will visit unique boutiques and shops. Go “nuts” at the Pape Pecan House Nutcracker Museum, home to one of the world’s largest collections of more than 8,000 nutcrackers in all different shapes and sizes. We will depart downtown Houston at 8 a.m. and return by 7 p.m. The cost of the trip is $20 with lunch at your own expense at the Dixie Grille. There are limited spaces available, so make your reservation early with Judy Saenz, 832-668-1836 or jsaenz@fmhouston.com.
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First Methodist Houston Senior Adult Ministries strives to promote, coordinate, support and sponsor programs, events, and activities which benefit the spiritual, intellectual, and social needs of Senior Adults in the church and the community. Opportunities to join activities sponsored by the Senior Adult Ministry are not limited to church members. We hope that through our program we can enhance the lives of our fellow seniors and to fully keep them “Primetimers on the Go!” Adult Education Sunday School Classes each Sunday at 9:50 a.m. Downtown. D-Groups (discipleship groups) at Westchase meet at various times and locations throughout the week (check website for times). All classes are welcoming with excellent fellowship and service opportunities with a variety of teaching styles. We have the perfect class for you! Tuesday and Thursday Bible Studies (held at Downtown Campus) Bible Study with lunch for $5 beginning at 11:30 a.m. Service Opportunities Work days at local mission/aid ministries around town Tours Day trips scheduled each month are offered at reasonable cost. Trip details are listed in the Sunday bulletin, First Edition and church website at www.fmhouston.com. Use any of these to find information about trip/tour dates and times. Book Reviews (held at Downtown Campus) First Monday of each month our Book Club meets at 12 noon. Bring your lunch and enjoy a great review. Seasonal Luncheons Opportunities to fellowship with others around the holidays with special programming provided.
Seniors on the green for Senior Golf League Beginning Thursday, Oct. 9, the First Methodist Senior Golf League will begin their 2014-2015 tour. We will begin the tour at Sharpstown Golf Course at 10 a.m. Please contact Tom Gaden at 713-458-4705 or tgaden@quilliancenter.org to be added to the list. There is no charge to join the league, but all golfers are responsible for their own green fees. The Senior Tour schedule is as followed: • 10/9-Sharpstown GC • 10/16-Hermann GC • 10/23-Gus Wortham GC • 10/30-Glenbrook GC Additional courses will be played in November and will be communicated to the “League Participants” via e-mail.
September 2014
Overnight trip to George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum
Killer Karaoke Mystery Café
Nov. 18-19
We will be traveling to Dallas by luxury coach to visit the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum and the Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. We will leave from the Downtown lobby Tuesday, Nov. 18, at 8:30 a.m. Our first stop will be in Corsicana, Texas for a delicious lunch at Sirloin Stockade which offers an all-you-can-eat hot and cold buffet. Then on to visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens, one of the most beautiful outdoor attractions in the world, which features 66 acres of spectacular display gardens that showcase incredible seasonal flowers, ornamental shrubs, trees and plant collections in a serene setting on White Rock Lake. We will check into our rooms at the Country Inn & Suites before leaving for dinner at El Fenix Mexican Restaurant which is as much a Dallas tradition as the State Fair of Texas. Wednesday, Nov. 19, we will have a hot breakfast at the Country Inn before leaving to visit the 226,000 square foot George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum. It’s tough to tour the library without shedding a tear or two no matter how you voted in 2000 or 2004. Bush’s eight years in office were defined
by 9/11 and, in a powerful way, that is what defines the artifacts on display. This is not to say the place is humorless – far from it. The personal touches and humor throughout the library reflect the man behind the presidency. We will spend the day at the library, taking a break for lunch to eat at Café 43 located just outside the main entrance. We will begin our journey home at 2 p.m. The cost of this overnight trip is $150 (double room occupancy; $185 single room occupancy). The cost of the trip includes hotel with breakfast, transportation and entrance fees. To register or receive more information, contact Judy Saenz at 832-668-1836 or jsaenz@fmhouston.com.
Sanders Family Christmas with Texas Repertory Theatre Enjoy The Texas Repertory Theatre Company matinee performance of Sanders Family Christmas - a toe-tapping, bluegrass Christmas filled with humor and nostalgia! The Gospel-singing Sanders family returns to a small church in the wildwood to share their stories of warmth and family amidst a rousing collection of Christmas tunes, all done with good humor and filled with the spirit of the season. This holiday production will have you clapping your hands, tapping your feet, and celebrating the pure joy of the Christmas season! The Texas Repertory Theatre Company was founded in 2006 and has become one of Houston’s premiere playhouses, producing a variety of theatrical literature of every genre for all ages. We will leave the church at 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14 and return by 5:45 p.m. The cost is $35 and includes your ticket and transportation. We have a limited number of tickets, so reserve yours today with Judy Saenz, 832-668-1836 or jsaenz@fmhouston.com. Deadline for registration is Monday, December 1.
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The Downtown Fellowship Hall will be turned into the Halloween Mystery Café Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 11 a.m. The presentation of Houston’s world premiere play “Killer Karaoke” unfolds as we try to guess who done it? Enter the glittering and cutthroat world of the professional Karaoke Singer! A crazed serial killer is stalking the contestants of the Gulf Coast Regional SemiFinal right before the National Silver Microphone Karaoke Competition and it’s up to YOU to find out who done it …while there are still some crooners living! This Mystery Café event is structured as a four-act-play with a three-course seated lunch. You will be seated at round tables and the action of the play goes on all around you. This allows for you to be inside of the play to help solve the crime. Since this is the week before Halloween, we are encouraging you to come dressed in a Halloween costume and prizes will be awarded. Costumes are optional, but we hope everyone will participate. The cost is $20 and it includes the performance (complete with sound and props; all accessories, clue packets, bribe money, programs) and three-course meal. There will be a prize for the person who names the killer. We need a minimum number of 50 people to bring this mystery performance to the church. We invite everyone to come and bring a friend for great fellowship, food and mystery! To make your reservation please contact Judy Saenz at 832-6681836 or jsaenz@fmhouston.com.
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Church Circle News Church Circle UMW of First Methodist Houston will meet Tuesday, Sept. 9 at 10:30 a.m. in Room 211 Downtown. Our September program will be presented by Susan Gallman, who is our Assistant Leader. Thank you, Susan, for outstanding spiritual programs each month. For our August meeting we put together health kits for disasters which may hit in the USA. Thank you, Ruth Ann Adams and Bonnie Chesser, for gathering the supplies for the kits. We do not have any birthdays for September. Please bring your favorite food dish to share with our group. We will have our luncheon after the business meeting led by Jane Thompson, our leader. We welcome all ladies of the church to visit Church Circle. You will receive a blessing!
Tuesday Bible study resumes September 9 Please join us beginning Tuesday, Sept. 9 for Malachi: A Love That Never Lets Go by Lisa Harper. This is a women’s Bible study on the book of Malachi. Lisa’s video Bible study focuses on God’s mercy. On our worst day, God doesn’t walk away from us and His love for us is not determined by our performance. No matter how many times we mess up, God loves (and never leaves) broken people. “I the LORD do not change.” (Malachi 3:6) Those taking this Bible study will gain a fresh perspective on the Book of Malachi. It is more than a book in the Bible about tithing. Lisa brings the Scripture to life through dynamic storytelling. Lunch will be available beginning at 11:30 a.m. for $5, with the study beginning at noon.
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Women’s Fall Retreat in Navasota October 3-5
It’s not too early to begin planning for the 2014 Women’s Fall Retreat to be held Oct. 3-5 at Camp Allen in Navasota. We can promise that you will be blessed and feel renewed in your faith after this weekend getaway. Bring your mother, bring your daughter, bring your BFF. Women of all ages will find this weekend a welcome respite from the day-to-day challenges of managing a job or a household. Being surrounded with the love of Christian women will draw you nearer to Christ and restore your weary body and soul. This year’s retreat speaker is Olga Samples Davis. An acclaimed educator, author and poet, Olga led a workshop on writing at our Spring Retreat. She was so inspirational that we have invited her back for fall. Those of you who had the pleasure of attending the Fall Retreat last year know what a beautiful retreat site it is. Because the name is Camp Allen, you may be thinking of sleeping in cabins or tents, but that’s not what it’s like. We will be staying in the “hotel” on the retreat property again this year. The clean, comfortable rooms accommodate two people. And ladies, the food is good! Camp Allen has numerous outdoor and indoor activities to fill your “free” time on Saturday afternoon. You might want to visit the Camp Allen website www.campallen.org to learn more about the facility. The cost for the weekend is $185. This includes three meals on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday. If you would like to have dinner at Camp Allen on Friday night when you arrive, you can pay for that separately at the Welcome Desk when you get there. The cost is $12. If you choose to come just for the day on Saturday, the cost is $65 and includes your meals. The church will reserve a van, and you can meet at the Westchase Campus and ride in the van to the retreat Saturday morning. The cost of the van will be $10. The registration deadline is Sunday, Sept. 28. For registration information, go to www. fmhouston.com; use the registration form on the next page; or contact Myrna Calhoun at 832-467-4767 or myrnacalhoun@att.net, or Robin Milutin at 832-668-1861 or rmilutin@fmhouston.com.
September 2014
2014 Women’s Fall Retreat “Phenomenal Christian Women: Blessings & Burdens of Love in Every Season” Retreat Speaker
Olga Samples Davis
Fri.—Sun., October 3-5, 2014 Camp Allen—Navasota, Texas Cost for the FMH Women’s Fall Retreat is $185 for the weekend or $65 for Saturday only. Make check payable to FMH. Submit your completed form with payment by Sunday, September 28, to Myrna Calhoun—12615 Brookfield Park—Houston, TX 77041 Questions? 832.467.4767 or myrnacalhoun@att.net If you would like to discuss eligibility for a scholarship, please contact Robin Milutin at: 832.668.1827 or rmilutin@fmhouston.com Name:
Date:
Address: Many know Olga Samples Davis as an outstanding educator, an award-winning poet and playwright, and a memorable public speaker. She is best known as a wellspring of love, humor, and strength. Her literary and performance artistry embraces audiences with unbridled joy, uninhibited alacrity and unconditional acceptance. Born in San Antonio, Olga Samples Davis graduated from UT at Austin and received her Master’s degree from UT in San Antonio. She is presently the Executive Director of Cooperative Ministries in Higher Education at St Philip’s College. She is an educator, literary and performing artist, and retreat leader, as well as the author of A TIME TO BE BORN and her memoir, THE THINGS MY MAMA TOLD ME: The Wisdom That Shaped Our Lives.
Musician: Nancy Fauber-Hoh
Home Phone:
Cell Phone:
Email: Circle One: Full Weekend
Amount Paid: $
Saturday Only
Van Transportation:
The church will reserve a van for “Saturday Only” attendees. The cost of the roundtrip will be $10 per person. Please add $10 to your check if you need a van reservation. Would you like to reserve a place on the Saturday van? Yes ___ Personal Transportation: If you are spending the weekend, do you need a ride? Yes ___ If you are driving, would you be willing to transport others? Yes ___ Number of riders you can accommodate: ____ Accommodations: Indicate your preference. Rooms will accommodate 2 persons. If you don’t have someone you would like to room with, we will fill the space with someone needing a roommate. Roommate Request: ___________________________________ Special Needs: _______________________________________ Emergency Contact:
www.fmhouston.com
fmhouston.com
(Name & numbers)
_________________________________________________
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The dictionary defines a friend as “a person who has a real liking for and confidence in another person.” W.E. Vine, in his Expository Dictionary of NT Words, says it is one who is “loved, dear.” The term “friendship” is found only once in the New Testament (Jas. 4:4). It comes from the Greek word philia which is akin to philos which is translated “love.” Vine suggests it includes the idea of “loving as well as being loved.” The Bible contains examples of friendship which illustrate this idea. Its most classic example is the friendship of David and Jonathan. “Now when he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul” (1 Sam. 18:1). Their love for and confidence in one another is a lesson all who would be and have friends should learn. The apostle Paul and Timothy developed a liking for and a confidence in one another. “I thank God, whom I serve with a pure conscience, as my forefathers did, as without ceasing I remember you in my prayers night and day, greatly desiring to see you, being mindful of your tears, that I may be filled with joy, when I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also” (2 Tim. 1:3-5). Friendship means the same today. Our close friends are those whom we love and are dear to us. They are those in whom we have confidence that they hold us dear.
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Doing Life Together
Small Groups at First Methodist Houston By Rev. Kaitlyn Bowie
Relationships. They bring meaning to our lives, provide joy in the midst of loneliness, and challenge us to think truthfully about ourselves. If we really think about it, it is actually very difficult to describe who we are without mentioning our relationships. When someone asks, “Who are you?” or “Tell me about yourself,” we frequently respond by describing our relationships at home, work, and socially. “I am the daughter of Dan and Beth. I was a teacher to elementary students. I am a friend to Megan and Kirsten.” Many of our first responses to this question immediately involve our relationships to the people in our lives. Our relationships make our lives what they are. This is part of the reason for small groups. The people we spend time with and the men and women we invest our lives in shape who we are and how we see ourselves. This is no different within the church. God has created us for deep and meaningful community, and the church is that place where we invest our lives. This can become very challenging in a large church, where it is possible to slip in and out without interaction. Small group communities can add deeper relationships and substance to the lives we are called to embrace. Here at First Methodist Downtown, we will begin the process of forming small groups this fall. In a church where over 80% of regular members commute to church, we have an amazing opportunity to set up small groups by neighborhood. We will be organizing groups so that people will have the opportunity to experience the beautiful hospitality of First Methodist throughout the week in each other’s homes, coffee shops and restaurants. Small groups can become a place of friendship, a place of shared faith and doubts, and a place of support with the many challenges life throws our way. Right now I am looking for people who feel called to open up their home as a place of hospitality, or people willing to facilitate a group in alternate locations. Small groups take a different form than other events within the life of the church. Instead of one “leader,” the small group together shares the role by alternating homes, taking turns as the conversation guide, or host. If you, and/or a friend are willing to consider hosting a small group, please contact me, Rev. Kaitlyn Bowie, at kbowie@fmhouston.com. More information will be provided soon for those who are interested in joining a group.
September 2014
AFTER SCHOOL
ONLINE REGISTRATION BEGINS AUGUST 1, 2014
COST: $250 A MONTH
$275 A MONTH BRIARMEADOW ONLY
$100 NON-REFUNDABLE REGISTRATION FEE Quillian Center offers an amazing after school program for children ages 5—13. We provide after school snack, supervised homework time, sports, games, and gym activities. Quillian Center is a state licensed facility where your child is cared for by a nurturing fun loving staff. Quillian’s after school program picks up students from Walnut Bend, Outley, Askew, Sneed, Frostwood, Briarmeadow and Wesley Academy. New this year, we will serve Rummel Creek*, Shadowbriar*, Emmerson* and Collins*, (*) if six or more students from each school are registered.
Quillian Center reserves the right to discontinue service to a particular school(s) due to low attendance.
REGISTER ONLINE AT WWW.QUILLIANCENTER.ORG fmhouston.com
10570 WESTPARK DR. HOUSTON,TX 77042 713-458-4707
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Rev. Terence Hagans Anthony Rodgers Rev. Kaitlyn Bowie Over the last year, an amazing team of staff, lay members and generous supporters have come together to create a new Downtown worship service called “The Source.” Officially launching for weekly worship on October 12, this new service will feature a mix of Contemporary Christian and Gospel music. It will be held at 11:11 a.m. each Sunday morning up on our newly refreshed 6th Floor, where a completely redesigned worship space will provide a media-rich, tech-friendly, and casually comfortable environment.
The Source will not only offer an excellent alternative worship experience for our Downtown Campus, but it will also help support our church’s Small Groups and Missions initiatives. Through a combination of our new multi-generational, neighborhood-based small groups and our ongoing Sunday Night Young Adults ministry, The Source will help people to connect in authentic and meaningful small group communities that will deepen their friendships and their faith. Additionally, The Source will sponsor hands-on missional outreach opportunities including our weekly street-walking Homeless Outreach held every Wednesday night.
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Interested in connecting with The Source? Here are a few ways to do so: First, come join us for our one-time Preview Service on Sunday, September 14 at 11:11 a.m. up on the 6th Floor to get a taste of what we’ll be offering every week starting in October. Second, visit our website, TheSourceHouston.org; like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter and Instagram. And third, help us spread the word by inviting your friends and family to check us out online and come visit us at The Source. If you have any questions or want to learn more about us, please feel free to contact our pastors, Terence Hagans (thagans@fmhouston.com, 281-668-1838) and Kaitlyn Bowie (kbowie@fmhouston.com, 281-668-1879). September 2014
Fabulous folks in the Finance Office By Ron Sledge, Lay Leader I am not sure we have “properly introduced” our Finance Office in the First Edition — so let’s do it. The accounting and finance functions for a church, and other non-profits in general, is not for the faint of heart. The accounting rules are unique, the lingo/vocabulary is unique, and the goals and objectives are super-unique — when compared with that of “business and commerce.” Our particular church adds to that baseline complexity the nifty extras of our two-campus structure, a school, a recreation center, and a multi-media ministry. I am certain we have well over “1,000 separate categories of revenues and expenses” in our Church chart of accounts. It takes a special group of folks to keep track of everything and keep everything on track. We just so happen to have such a special group of folks in our Finance Office. The team is led by Ken McLemore, who came aboard last fall, from Nashville. Ken has extensive background and experience with other non-profit organizations, school support entities, energy company development, hotel/resort finance, banking, and as a CPA and auditor. It is a “bonus” for us that he was the CFO of the GCFA of the United Methodist Church — the primary administrative agency of the 35,000 churches in our denomination (we finally have someone who can decipher our apportionment formula!). The Finance Office is responsible to and supportive of our clergy, program directors, our Conference office, our employed staff, our auditors, our Finance Committee, our Trustees, our Wesley Academy community, Missions, First Choice, our NIA outreach, our Quillian community, and of course, to you and me – for all manner of accounting/ reporting/payroll/HR and countless tasks which go unseen. Karen Sprague, Tony Harkins, and Jeri Ann Adams all work hard and work together to keep up in a fast-moving and demanding environment. Their collective experience and varied career backgrounds in bank management, medical administration, regulatory compliance, insurance underwriting, and human resources merge to help us carry out our many missions, in the name of Christ. Please offer them a word of thanks for all they do.
Introducing Nydia Quant, Early Childhood Director
I’m writing to introduce to you our newest member of the MainStreet Kids and Family Ministries family. As you aware, our beloved Lisa Irwin resigned from her position at First Methodist in July. Although I was very sad to lose Lisa, I am very excited to introduce to you Nydia Quant our new Early Childhood Director. Nydia comes with a vast amount of experience in Early Childhood and she has an amazing heart for the Lord. Please stop by and introduce yourself at any time. Praying for you and yours daily Candice D. Davis MainStreet Kids Children’s Minister and Family Ministries Director Nydia Quant is our new Early Childhood Director of Main Street Kids Ministry at First Methodist Houston. Nydia brings years of experience in working with children and serving their families. She is married to her husband, Claudio, of 23 years, and they have a son, Adrien, who will be a senior in high school this year. Nydia enjoys spending time with her family, listening to worship music, reading a good devotional while having a great cup of Starbucks coffee, and shopping. Nydia’s passion is to plant God’s word in children’s hearts and to see them develop a strong relationship with Jesus Christ. She is a teacher at heart and loves to talk to children and be silly with them. She loves people and is excited to see all the amazing things that God is has planned for Main Street Kids.
fmhouston.com
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Who will you become? By Elaine Pendergrass, Head of Wesley Academy You may be thinking I’m already grown up, I’m in the middle of my career, or I’m retired. Take a moment to consider who you have become (your career) and then consider what it took to get there. You may have had a dream to be a ______ (fill in the blank), or you may have chosen a career because of your perceived strengths. The career-choosing process likely began when you were a child, or maybe you discovered who you would become in school. Education plays a large part in preparing for your career choice. An education, though, does not begin at the college level. In fact, many studies suggest that education begins while a child is in utero. Learning begins before a child can even cry aloud. Did you know that First Methodist Houston has a private school on the Westchase Campus (10570 Westpark Drive)? Wesley helps children discover the answer to, Who will you become? Wesley Academy exists to provide a rigorous education in a caring environment which teaches Christian character, promotes a faith in Jesus Christ, and equips students with knowledge and experiences to become contributing citizens in their community and the Kingdom of God. Wesley Academy educates babies (6 months old) through 8th Grade. Wesley Academy provides students and families the opportunity to become. Their becoming begins with academics but moves well beyond that. Wesley Academy is based upon Character, Faith, and Knowledge. Wesley teaches children about who they can become in Christ. This Christian education is done through weekly Chapel services, daily devotions, regular prayers, and is woven into all many other areas of the school. Philippians 1:6 says, “I am sure that the One who began a good work in you will carry it on until it is completed,” (NIrV). As a Christian school, Wesley commits to help children become who God wants them to be. Do you have a child, grandchild, neighbor, or friend who could benefit from the Christian education provided at Wesley Academy? Don’t miss out on the opportunity for you to help a child become. Take time to learn more about Wesley Academy today. Visit wesleyacademy.net or www.facebook.com/wesleyacademy. To schedule a tour, contact the School Office at lthompson@wesleyacademy.net or 713.266.3341.
The mayonnaise jar and two cups of coffee When things in your life seem almost too much to handle, when 24 hours in a day are not enough, remember the mayonnaise jar and the two cups of coffee. A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him. When the class began, he wordlessly picked up a very large and empty mayonnaise jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls. He then asked the students if the jar was full. They agreed that it was. The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls. He then asked the students again if the jar was full. They agreed that it was. The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded with a unanimous “yes.” The professor then produced two cups of coffee from under the table and poured the
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entire contents into the jar, effectively filling the empty space between the sand. The students laughed. “Now,” said the professor as the laughter subsided, “I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things — God, your family, your children, your health, your friends and your favorite passions — and if everything else was lost and only they remained, your life would still be full. The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, your house and your car. The sand is everything else — the small stuff.” “If you put the sand into the jar first,” he continued, “there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls. The same goes for life. If you spend all your time and energy on the small stuff you will never have room for the things that are important to you. Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play with your children. Take time to get medical checkups. Take your spouse out to dinner. Play another
18.There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal. Take care of the golf balls first — the things that really matter. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand.” One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the coffee represented. The professor smiled. “I’m glad you asked. It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem, there’s always room for a couple of cups of coffee with a friend.”
September 2014
Thank you to our readers and advertisers! By Joe Flores
Thank you for reading First Edition! The staff work diligently to provide timely information about First Methodist, Wesley Academy and Quillian Center so you can stay informed and plugged in to our services and activities. First Edition has such dedicated readership that local businesses are asking for more space to promote their products and services. I would like to ask our readers to support our advertisers. When you see their ads, please stop by and let them know you saw their ad in First Edition. Take a friend to lunch or dinner, or order some flowers for your spouse. Get new business cards printed, buy a new house, get a massage, or hire a personal trainer. When you support our advertisers they will continue to buy the space in First Edition which in turn helps offset the expense of production and distribution of this great communication piece we enjoy every month. A special thank you to our advertisers! Your support of First Edition in the form of your advertising allows First Methodist to spread the word about church activities and keeps our membership and friends plugged in to their church. Our 3,500 distribution reaches an active readership that want to support your business. If you are a regular advertiser you know the effectiveness of First Edition. For businesses that want to advertise with First Edition, contact Kim James at kjames@fmhouston.com or call her at 832-668-1819.
For advertising rates amd information, contact Kim James at 832-668-1819 or kjames@fmhouston.com. fmhouston.com
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September 2014
joys and concerns Births:
Deaths:
FIND US ON:
Jane Elise Mackey, 7-29-2014, daughter of Stephen and Teressa Mackey Elizabeth Wilcox, 8-02-2014
honorariums and memorials In Honor Of: Dorris Maynard F. Richard Drake
In Memory Of:
Designated Fund: FMH Foundation 90th Birthday DT Children’s Renovations Birthday
Given By:
M/M Leslie Denham Janet Drake
Designated Fund: Given By: Jack Maynard First Choice Ministries M/M Major Collins Arthur Howard Malone First Choice Ministries M/M Major Collins Doris Gillum First Choice Ministries M/M Major Collins Jack Maynard First Choice Ministries Children & Grandchildren of Marjorie Harmon Skiles Jack Maynard First Choice Ministries M/M Wes Hall Jack Maynard DT Renovations M/M Leslie Denham Jack Maynard First Choice Ministries David, Diane and Donna Jack Arthur General Ministries Margaret Lam Jack Maynard General Ministries Margaret Lam Jack Maynard First Choice Ministries Ann Tanner John Shaw FMH Foundation Paula Jackson John Shaw FMH Foundation M/M Michael Farr John Shaw FMH Foundation Bellaire Circle of First Methodist Jack Arthur 2nd FL Children’s Space Marilyn Cheaney John Shaw Woodward Fund M/M Bernie Embrey John Shaw First Choice Ministries M/M Jim Ainsworth John Shaw FMH Foundation Valerie Butz Jack Maynard DT Renovation/Fellowship Hall Mary Lou Maynard Laura Macune FMH Foundation Don Macune Laura Macune FMH Foundation Cynthia Compton Jack Maynard First Choice Ministries Dr/M Ed Hungerford Laura Macune Downtown Music M/M B G Giessner John Shaw Woodward Fund Sharon Brown John Shaw FMH Foundation Pathfinders Sunday School Class Rev. & Mrs R Williams FMH Foundation Rhonda Wicker Doris Gillum First Choice Ministries M/M Major Collins Jack Maynard First Choice Ministries Bible Discovery Sunday School Class Jack Maynard First Choice Ministries Eleanor Smith Cliff Woltz Woodward Fund Adelphi Sunday School Class Doris Gillum First Choice Ministries Adelphi Sunday School Class Laura Macune FMH Foundation M/M Jason Loner Laura Macune Downtown Music Alpha & Omega Sunday School Class Laura Macune Downtown Music M/M Richard Kolterman Mildred Ragan First Choice Ministries Wallace Ragan Jack Maynard First Choice Ministries Vera Stephens Beth Bounds First Choice Ministries Vera Stephens Doris Gillum First Choice Ministries Vera Stephens William (Bill) Frey Sr. First Choice Ministries Vera Stephens Larry Cobb FMH Foundation Lois Ginger Ralph Nolte Stephen Ministries Celia Anklesaria fmhouston.com
TV: Sundays live on KUBE-TV, channel 53 (Comcast) and channel 653 (Comcast HD). Dish and Direct TV subscribers will find us on channel 57. Channel 13 (KTRK) carries the 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:
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. The pastor “on call” will return your call as quickly as possible. Pastor on Call: 832.668.1800, option 7
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 additional Mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to First Edition, 1320 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002-6803. Website: fmhouston.com
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the
firstedition
PERIODICAL Dated Material
First United Methodist Church 1320 Main Street Houston, TX 77002
The Source Ministry Team Rev. Terence Hagans, Anthony Rodgers and Rev. Kaitlyn Bowie
coming next month • The New Face of First Methodist • Stewardship • The Source - A Downtown Church Experience