Connect - HPPC Magazine - Issue 8

JULY/AUGUST 2014 Issue No. 8

Sunday Mornings

The Core 4

Worship Services Communion Service Wynne Chapel 8:15 am

Sanctuary Services 9:30 & 11 am

Contemporary Service Elliott Hall

(Summer Location)

11:05 am

All Nations Service

Building Blocks for Life as a Disciple of Jesus Christ

Bell Center

(Basement of Alexander Bldg)

11 am

hppc.org/core4

Chinese-Mandarin Service H018 11 am *Child Care is provided 8 am–1:30 pm

Save-the-Date!

Sunday Morning Communities Children & Youth hppc.org/sundaysforchildrenyouth

Adults hppc.org/classescommunities

Season! celebrate your

In Every Season...Let Your Light Shine Speaker Suzie Eller, Proverbs 31 Ministries and Meet Ali Dunagan Women’s Ministry Kickoff Monday, Sept. 15 Elliott Hall | 11:30 am–1 pm

hppc.org/women Making Disciples of Jesus Christ

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Page 11 | Our youth are pouring into the community

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pastor editorial by Rev. Dr. Jim Gribnitz

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Senior Pastor Choosing Courage Over Comfort

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Photos Holy Week at HPPC

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Photos Easter at HPPC

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Member Spotlight Mike Anderson

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discipleship Young Disciple Making Young Disciples

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Urban mission Looking for Trouble

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congregational care A Role Reversal

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Women’s ministry Bible Study Adopts New Name

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deacon ministry Angel Food Ministry Turns 1!

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building community Serving Saturday

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photos Life at HPPC

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ECO NEWS Dallas to Host ECO National Gathering

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HPPC CALENDAR Upcoming and Recurring Events

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parish news

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PHOTOS Life at HPPC

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eCO Essential Tenets: God’s Word Part Two

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missionary spotlight Teri and Andrew Adair

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urban mission Amelia Earhart Parents Program Graduation

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Missionary News A Mission Family Grows

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world mission Impact of World Missions

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Worship in spirit and in truth by Dr. Greg Hobbs

Featured on the cover: Shaun and Allison Murphy with their daughter, Vivienne, on her baptism day of Easter Sunday

Connect Magazine is published bimonthly by Highland Park Presbyterian Church 3821 University Blvd.

Dallas, Texas 75205 Postmaster: Send address change to Connect Magazine 3821 University Blvd.

Dallas, Texas 75205 Periodicals Postage Pending at Dallas, TX

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Permission to Connect School years are crazy: running

around shuffling kids to school, games, recitals, church, scouts, galas, practices, rehearsals, study groups, tutoring, birthday parties…you get the idea.

REv. Dr. JIM GRIBNITZ

Then, “free” time during the year is usually either spent getting filled up quickly, relaxing from all the ‘going and going’ that you have been doing, or piled high with anxiety because you are feeling guilty that you are doing nothing.

minister to children & youth

Summers offer the opportunity to break that cycle and (hopefully) refocus. It is a good time to take a breath, look at your schedule and pace of life from the last year and prayerfully consider if you are living “the way you wish you had lived when you come to die” (Jonathan Edwards).

In the Christian life, for the young and old alike, it boils down to a couple simple things that the summer makes easier: relationships with one another and with Christ. If I could summarize what I hope for my summer, it is that my family spends time investing in our relationships with one another and with our heavenly Father.

Many church staff members can confess: It is hard to do. I get caught up in the rat race. I get caught up being too lazy to reach out to others. I get trapped into thinking “everybody is always busy, so I don’t want to bother them by inviting them to go do something together.” (All those, by the way, are very ridiculous but also make perfect sense!)

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Enter: the Church. The Church helps give permission for these connections to happen easily. We schedule activities that offer time for kids to connect with other kids and other adults, and for families to connect with each other. We have staff and lay leaders who are ready and willing to engage in meaningful spiritual conversation with those in their care as well.

We have opportunities designed with kids in mind for connecting, conversations and – fine, I’ll say it – FUN! It is powerful for kids to get together and genuinely enjoy being in one another’s presence. What a blessing it is to parents to have their children be with other kids from church. We are doing fun things like seeing a film with our kids and having a bingo night, to more serious things like hosting family Bible studies and launching a new “how to study your Bible” experience for 4th Graders.

This summer, we are all about relationships at HPPC. With God and with one another.

Don’t miss out!

2014 Children & Youth

Kickoff! kickoff!

Elementary Grades 1–4 hppc.org/elementary

Sundays 9:30 am, Alexander Hall Midweek Wednesdays M.A.S.H., 6–7:30 pm Kickoff M.A.S.H. with Kidprov–Wednesday, Aug. 27 Don’t miss Kidprov - a comedy troupe that loves Jesus and loves fun! All 1st-4th Grades are welcome! Alexander Hall at 6 pm, pick up Circular Drive at 7:30 pm. FREE pizza and lots of fun!

JAM56 Grades 5–6

Children & Youth

2014–15

Promotion Sunday

Sunday Aug. 24 – Children & Youth

Join us for this special Sunday as we promote all children to their new Sunday School class for the 2014-15 school year!

We are so excited to engage children in God’s Word and help develop their faith in Jesus Christ.

MidWeek Kickoff

Wednesday, Aug. 27 – All Grades

hppc.org/JAM56

Sundays 9:30 am, Bell Center Midweek Wednesdays Bible Study, 6–7:30 pm Kickoff JAM56 Pool Party–Wednesday, Aug. 27

Last Chance to head signover up for Summer Bring your towel and to the HP Pool (3801 Lexington) 6–7:30Trips! pm as we kickoff Youthfrom Mission

Wednesday night Bible study. We will have food trucks (no cost) so come hungry! Bring your friends!

Middle School Grades 7–8 hppc.org/middleschool

Sundays 9:30 am, Bell Center/MS Room Midweek Big Group 1st Wednesday of the month, 6–7:30 pm, Bell Center Weekly Small Groups (LTG)–Details online Kickoff Middle School Party–Wednesday, Aug. 27 Join us from 6–7:30 pm for a free BBQ cookout and pool party!

Confirmation Grade 7 hppc.org/confirmation

Introductory Parent/Student Meeting Sunday, Sept. 14, 6–7:30 pm, Bell Center 8 Student Monthly Classes (Mandatory) Sunday, 6–7:30 pm, Bell Center for dinner/class

High School Grades 9–12 hppc.org/highschool

Sundays 9:30 am, Bell Center Midweek Weekly Small Groups (LTG)–Details online Kickoff HS Big Group–Wednesday, Aug. 27 Wednesday, Aug. 27, 7–8:30 pm Start your year off right with dinner from food trucks and great fellowship!

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office of senior pastor

Choosing Courage Over Comfort

Rev. Bryan Dunagan gives encouragement on his first official visit to HPPC

of May 21 was unmistakable. After an 18-month search, HPPC’s new Senior Pastor Rev. Bryan Dunagan made his first appearance after being voted to lead our church. More than 1,000 people filled the Sanctuary to hear his message. Here are some excerpts from that night. To see Rev. Dunagan's complete video message, please visit hppc.org/seniorpastor.

On Visioning, Listening and Praying Some of the questions that I have

been getting a lot are ‘What kind of pastor are you going to be? What’s your vision? What’s your hope for this church?’ I don’t so much want to answer those questions because I believe that my role as a pastor is to come alongside great leaders that God has already called to this church and to listen intentionally and to continue discerning together what God’s vision is for us and to do that as a team.

But I do want to share a few anchoring passions from my life as a pastor – some of the foundations of my personal life in ministry – which are listening and prayer.

First, I long to be a pastor who listens.

I want to hear what are your hopes and dreams. How can we help unleash you and people into mission? What things do you want to see changed? And what do you not want to see changed? How can we care for you and care for this city and listen well to the needs of this church and the city that God has put us in? The reality is that great leaders are great listeners. And they are willing to acknowledge that they are usually not the smartest person in the room; they are just the leader.

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hppc.org/seniorpastor

the buzz in the air on the evening

Second, is the importance of prayer.

This church is so full of biblical wisdom, Kingdom initiative and Godly vision. A dynamic staff, elders and volunteer leaders who give their hearts and souls to this church. The past leaders of this congregation always began with prayer. Ian Bounds said that prayer is the preacher’s mightiest weapon. That the real sermon is made in the prayer closet, in his life and his profoundest convictions were born in his secret communion with God. Prayer makes the man, prayer makes the pastor.

On Courage One of the challenges that we are

going to face is that being a church for all generations will not always be comfortable. It will take grace and patience and a willingness to do some courageous things to reach new people. I long to model that in my own life – as a pastor who chooses courage over comfort. So when God says, ‘Will you go, will you serve, will you lead,’ that we will be willing to say, ‘Yes, Lord send us.’ Even if it is uncomfortable, even if it is scary. If left unchecked, the gravitational pull of life and of the church is almost always toward comfort and safety. On the one hand, we have a deep longing to be bold and courageous. That’s why we love movies like Braveheart, Lord of the

Rings and Finding Nemo – that brave little guy swimming in the ocean. But on the other hand, when I step out of the theater or put the book down, and when I think of all the things that make me comfortable, I don’t want to risk it. I would like to be brave, but I really want to be safe.

A courageous church that’s willing to do what no one else is doing in order to reach people that no one else is reaching.

I wonder if what this city and what the world needs is less warm blanket Christianity and more courageous disciples who are willing to step out and surrender that security in obedient pursuit of the Gospel. A courageous church that’s willing to do what no one else is doing in order to reach people that no one else is reaching. I can’t wait to see what Jesus will do as He continues to show up more and more as a part of this community and a part of this church. Thank you for inviting me to be a part of that.”

holy week at HPPC  All-Church Picnic on Palm Sunday

Darleene DeLee with Doris and McCarty Dowell

 Ashley and Evelyn Shull on Palm Sunday.  All-Church Picnic on Palm Sunday

Cheryn Mburu, Molly Mburu and Vesta Kangethe

 Serving Saturday - Uniting to Feed the Hungry

Sarah Stockum and Clare Mangethe

º Serving Saturday - Uniting to Feed the Hungry

Andy Crowe

 Serving Saturday - Uniting to Feed the Hungry

Judy Martin and Jean Raub

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easter at HPPC  Sunrise Service brings families together

with doughnuts and coffee Kristen Falatko, cousin of Allison Murphy

 Easter Sunday celebrated seven baptisms!

From left: Jack, Brian, Emily and Annabelle White

 From left: Jeffrey and Mary Cat Cone, with their children Cutter, Charlotte and Margot; Monica and Leland White

 Sanctuary 11 am Easter Service  Greeters welcomed Easter Sunday guests.

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Langston and Steve Sutcliffe

easter at HPPC  Easter Sunrise Service in Goar Park drew more than 700 early risers on April 20.

 These teens donned their Sunday best.  This proud family paused for the camera before heading into the Sanctuary.

 Worship singers at All Nations Easter Service  Easter is a family event at HPPC.

Marimon Nettleton and Gordon Nettleton with their sons, Philip (left) and Peter.

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member spotlight

Member Spotlight Mike Anderson | JAM56 Small Group Leader This self-titled ‘regular dad’ finds riches and rewards after stepping up to God’s call.

How long have you been a member at HPPC?

How did you come to lead a small group?

Kathy and I became members of this church 16 or 17 years ago, sometime before we married. I’ll admit it was Kathy’s idea, but she didn’t have to twist my arm too hard. We’ve been very happy here.

As our son, Michael, entered 5th Grade this past year, there was a call for volunteers – specifically a 5th Grade boy small group leader.

How have you been involved at HPPC? Early on, I was a church consumer – sitting in the Sanctuary, but not giving much back. Eventually, we found a Sunday Morning Community. I became very interested in hearing what was said each week. From then on, things started to change for me spiritually. And I learned there was something called “discipling.”

My wife, Kathy, and I began volunteering for our kids’ Sunday School classes – really in more of a backup role. I never felt reluctant to help, just uncomfortable taking the lead.

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I wondered who might be able to do such a thing – but I knew this: Despite my personal growth in recent years, I doubted I was capable of teaching anybody about the Bible! It’s one thing to help kindergartners color inside the lines, but teaching a bunch of smart boys is another thing entirely, and way above my skill set!

About that time I met the JAM56 Director Roy Farias and things started coming together. God had put it on my heart, just like that, to accept the yearlong commitment. I might not be a Bible scholar, but somehow I knew it would be okay.

What has the past year been like?

Each week we averaged about 10 to 15 boys. I think the kids know I’m just a regular dad, and that I’m sometimes learning right along with them. I can’t quote a bunch of Scripture when I talk to them; it’s not my gift. But I can have a conversation with them on their level, and help them understand the lesson and how it might fit into their 11-yearold lives. I ask them what they think and we figure things out together.

Watching Roy use his gift to play games and then teach these kids is terrific. They get rowdy. They eat doughnuts. Then they sit down and learn. These are bright boys and I love to see them connect the dots. It’s fun to be a small part of it.

I’m learning right along with the boys!

I can truly say this has been a rich and rewarding experience for me, and I’m thankful I’ve had the opportunity to help.

An HPPC 5th Grader shares the Gospel in her own neighborhood “I want to start a Bible study,” Mary McCue Bell, daughter of Dr. Julie and Rev. Dr. Nelson Bell, told her parents after a neighborhood block party last year.

She had fun playing with some of the 50 kids that her University Park block boasts and decided on her own that it would be great to share her faith. After creating a flier and delivering it to parents, Mary McCue had a group of five Kindergarten and 1st Grade girls.

discipleship

Young Disciple Making Young Disciples

Mary McCue shaped the format for her one-hour study from a familiar place. Both M.A.S.H. and JAM56 utilize fun games and snacks in addition to Bible study time, and she knew it would work well.

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope. – Jeremiah 29:11 May’s meeting was on a chilly morning on the Bell’s backyard patio, complete with a fire in the fireplace.

The girls gathered around for a quick review of the previous month’s lesson about Fruits of the Spirit. After naming all of the fruits, they giggled recalling the fun game of racing across the lawn with a lime on a spoon.

Mary McCue said, “The games always tie back to the lesson so they can remember it easily.”

After the girls tried to balance the day’s snack (mini Oreos®) on their noses before it landed in their mouths,

Mary McCue turned to the lesson. Befitting the season, she asked the girls about their summer plans as a way of introducing her Scripture verse, Jeremiah 29:11, to discuss how God has plans for all of them.

There were plenty of wiggles, giggles, hair twisting and excited outbursts, but the best part was listening to these girls interact with one another while coloring pictures of their summer plans. Conversation ranged from how God knew who they were before they were in their mommies’ tummies to the fact that you are definitely alive when you are in heaven.

HPPC’s mission is Making Disciples of Jesus Christ, and Mary McCue Bell is proof that having a heart to disciple can never start too young.

Mary McCue Bell (back) with (from left): Chloe Whitaker, Caroline Stoller, Lucy Montgomery, Katherine Stoller and Kate Parkhurst

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urban mission

Looking for Trouble Austin Neuhoff serves immigrant families by tackling their problems “I love solving problems. I get a lot of enjoyment out of helping people solve problems that they can’t solve themselves.”

HPPC member Austin Neuhoff’s statement seems contrary to most people’s natural desire to minimize problems in their lives, but he has figured out that this is a way to serve utilizing his gift and enthusiasm for solving all kinds of dilemmas.

Austin was searching for a relational way to live out his faith and in 2009, he was introduced to HPPC’s Refugee Ministry by Dawn Barnett. Dawn had been helping the Lost Boys of Sudan since many of them came to the Metroplex in 2000. He now volunteers with our church’s Refugee Ministry. The ministry partners with Refugee Services of Texas (RST), helping refugee families with basic and immediate needs upon their arrival to Dallas.

Take a peek into Austin’s unpredictable yet satisfying service in the name of Jesus Christ by reading selected entries from his journal.

Austin Neuhoff’s Journal CHRISTMAS EVE | December 2011

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have been working with a new refugee family from Iraq since September. They are Christians and from what I can tell, this has led to their persecution in Iraq, which has qualified them to be refugees in the US. We can’t communicate very well because I don’t speak Arabic and they don’t speak English yet. Nonetheless, I have managed to communicate (or so I think) that my family is going to pick them up today and take them shopping for Christmas. After all, it is Christmas Eve and we are doing what any real Americans do during the Christmas season – GO SHOPPING! My family arrives at their apartment excited about getting them whatever they want.

They too are excited – but not about the stuff they were going to get – but about us being with them. Since September I have spent many hours with them trying to help them navigate and settle in Dallas. My family has not yet met them, but has heard the stories of their challenges.

When they greet us at the door, we attempt to say “let’s get in the car and go shopping,” but they pull us into the apartment and show us an enormous feast (pictured). The family doesn’t care about Walmart or shopping or the other material things. They only care about spending time with my family and me.

What a humbling experience that was for all of us. They showed us what really mattered to them. It was a great lesson for us and a wonderful afternoon.

I WANT TO DRIVE | Spring 2013

t

he new muslim family from Iraq I have been partnered with presents some interesting cultural (and religious) differences that I need to be aware of and respect. For example, I need to take off my shoes before I enter their apartment.

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The family doesn’t care about Walmart or shopping or the other material things. They only care about spending time with my family and me.

urban mission

I WANT TO DRIVE | continued (Who said you have to go to a foreign country to get a foreign missionary experience?) This family has come with a little of their own money and already have a car that the husband, Firas, drives. This is a big advantage compared to most refugees. They ask me to help them get a drivers license for Kansa and Nesreen, his wife and his sister. I take the ladies to the DMV. Kansa has been driving for a while so passes the drivers test easily. Nesreen, however, is a different story. She passed the written test with no problem but needed help on the practical part.

After I repeatedly offer to take her driving, she informs me that in her culture it is not appropriate for her to be in the car alone with a man. If relatives back home found out that a man taught her to drive, she would be shamed. I understood and had an easy solution for that – my wife! I volunteered Pauline to practice with her.

Gratefully, and after a few scary sessions, Pauline did her job and Nesreen got her license. She is now on the road y’all!

TIME FOR SCHOOL | January 2014

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rmila is 18 years old (part of the Nepalese family I am currently assisting) and her only request is that she be able to go to school. She speaks no English.

When I call RST to let them know her desire, they inform me that since she is 18, DISD will not admit her. I decide to make some calls and ask some questions.

I go to the school and they inform me that she will need immunization shots and to complete the district paperwork at the DISD annex building. I coordinate the immunizations with RST. The next day, I go to the annex building and confirm all of the paperwork and process that is needed to enroll her – not highlighting the fact that she is 18 and may not be eligible.

We also want them to be able to solve problems on their own eventually and we have seen these families do just that.

Nonetheless, I take Urmila and her parents to the annex building. They need to sign their signatures, which they cannot do, so they make an “X.” Nobody is speaking the same language, yet we meet with success. We all smile.

We then hustle to the school with paperwork in hand. We meet with the admissions group and show them all the forms and information we have completed and gratefully she is now enrolled as an 18-year-old Nepali freshman in DISD. Mission almost accomplished. We are on our way until we find out she needs uniforms. It is late in the afternoon on a Thursday and time to improvise. Urmila borrows from her cousin for the next day. On Saturday, my team of Pauline and our 7-year-old daughter, Elise, assemble and pick up Urmila for shopping at Target to get her outfitted with uniforms. Now we are off and running! Mission accomplished.

Urmila is a student.

“The Refugee Ministry has been a blessing to me. I begin working with each new family with the end in mind. I explain to them that I am helping them as a volunteer from a Christian church and we want to assist them through this transition period. We also want them to be able to solve problems on their own eventually and we have seen these families do just that. The joint experiences I have had with these refugees has created some real high points for me over the past few years. These meaningful moments make me grateful to God and HPPC to have these opportunities,” Austin said.

Austin noted that this sort of volunteering isn’t for everyone but encourages others to find a place where they know their skills will benefit the Kingdom. He said, “My family enjoys the stories that come out of this ministry. Sometimes the relationships are short-lived and others go on longer, but either way it is fun to be a part of what God is doing in my life and theirs.”

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congregational care

A Role Reversal One who has cared for so many received the gift of caring in her own time of need having walked the path of another’s journey can create an immediate sense of bonding and compassion.

That is what happened when a handful of women came alongside HPPC’s Parish Nurse and longtime member Cheryl Black, after she was diagnosed with a recurrence of breast cancer in late 2013. A strong woman who has devoted a lifetime to the health and healing of others was now in need of care herself.

Cheryl was in the process of remodeling part of her home in November when she found herself thrust into a renewed battle with the disease. The Thanksgiving holiday was fast approaching, with many friends and family expected, yet she was unable to summon the mental and physical strength required to accomplish the project. In addition, the dust and fumes were dangerous to her already compromised immune system.

A group of ladies from HPPC heard about the need and required no prompting to spring into action. Seven women who have experienced cancer or walked the path with someone who had temporarily “evicted” Cheryl from her home. They organized and then invaded with brooms, dusters, vacuums, mops and, most important, high spirits, in order to clean the house from top to bottom.

In no time, corners were dusted, furniture was polished, floors were cleaned, silver was shined, pillows were fluffed and items were packed up in preparation for finishing the remodeling project.

Another caring member of the HPPC family stepped in and made sure the master bedroom and bath remodel was accomplished within a week, with low emission paints and minimal dust.

With a clean and shiny home accomplished, the cleaning entourage enlisted Highland Park Catering to provide Cheryl’s family with a full Thanksgiving dinner so that Cheryl and her family only had the remaining task of enjoying and relaxing with loved ones.

Opportunities are all around us to pour out simple gifts to those in our church family. When we do this, we serve as the hands and feet of Christ here on earth.

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What a wonderful experience it was to witness women come together with a single goal in mind – to love up on and help out a sister in need. Never loved getting down and dirty as much as I did that day.

What a gift!

Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

– Philippians 2:4

“Mother’s Heart” makes a name change to “Moms After God’s Heart” change is good. This spring, the current members of

the decade-old Women’s Bible Study Mother’s Heart decided that the class name needed an update to better reflect the class personality.

The original study was started by Janie Bell and Anne Scates and was a lecture format with small group discussion. However, as more HPPC studies were offered and class leadership changed, the format and makeup of the class evolved.

Today, Moms After God’s Heart consists of mothers, ages 30 through 60, who circle up for group discussion of books by authors such as Linda Dillow, Jane Denison and Joanna Weaver related to spiritual growth, parenting and marriage.

Co-leader Anne Blakeney said, “This has become a true discipleship group for moms. These women desire for their love of and commitment to Christ shine in every aspect of their lives – especially family relationships.”

Nikki Gribnitz, the wife of Minister to Children and Youth Rev. Dr. Jim Gribnitz, said, “As a new stay-at-home mom, the ladies here are such an encouragement to me. Their wisdom and biblical advice are priceless. I want every mom in our church to have the support and love on their journey that I have found here!”

Visit hppc.org/women to find a summer or fall Bible study, see upcoming events and find ways to get involved in the Women’s Ministry.

women’s ministry | deacon ministry

Women’s Bible Study Adopts New Name

“I have raised four children and love to come alongside others who are where I’ve been and also where I have yet to go. This is an intergenerational group who enjoy encouraging each other and growing in wisdom together,” said class co-leader Ellen Rain.

Angel Food Ministry Turns 1!

Special meal deliveries warm hearts and tummies during major life events The Angel Food Ministry, a Congregational Care initiative, began last May and is now celebrating a year of meaningful interactions with so many members and their families through the gift of food and fellowship. During major life events, a deacon delivers a homemade meal complete with an angel food cake.

Get Involved!

Volunteers are needed to bake the angel food cakes and help assemble the bags that deacons and shepherds deliver to families.

Contact Elaine Curtis at 214-525-4230 or by email at elaine.curtis@hppc.org.

2013 Angel Food Ministries Report

92 Parishes Reached

310 bags delivered in one year!

250

Powered by 19 Shepherds and 73 Deacons

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Angel Food Ministry kicks off May 2013

150

100

50 bags

May 2013

Dec. 2013

May 2014

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building community + serving

Serving Saturday for Haiti Outreach Ministries HPPC family unites to feed the hungry during Holy Week In the midst of a time typically filled with Easter egg

hunts, children’s sporting events and preparations for family gatherings, HPPC called upon its members to demonstrate the servant heart of Jesus on the weekend that marked His triumphant resurrection from the dead.

On Saturday, April 19, for two energy-filled hours, more than 750 church members, friends and family came together to prepare meals for hungry families of Haiti. The goal was to assemble 65,000 meals. In addition to the meals assembled on Saturday, the congregation donated an additional 35,000 meals, bringing the total to 100,000 meals that will be distributed through HPPC’s ministry partner, Haiti Outreach Ministries (HOM).

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Overheard...

“What a great event, and I loved that it was during Easter weekend! My son, who went on the Haiti mission trip last summer, and I participated, and it was so meaningful to him that the meals are going to Haiti. Thank you!”

– Cynthia Landen

Established in 1989, HOM has served the poorest Haitians in the neighborhoods of Port-au-Prince. Spiritual, physical, medical and educational needs are met by dedicated staff and volunteers through churches, clean water and food distribution, health clinics and schools.

“[Serving Saturday] was one of the most heartwarming and exciting events I have ever been a part of at HPPC. To see the camaraderie among church members and how it united everyone joyfully for ‘one cause’ It gave me, personally, so much joy. I hope we have more events like this in the future, as not only does it serve to minister to the world, but it’s such a team building objective for our church.”

– Martha Jeavons

Stop Hunger Now, an international hunger relief agency, brought the ingredients to be assembled, which included rice, soy, dehydrated vegetables and a vitamin pack. Teams of five worked together to funnel the ingredients into packages that were then taken to additional stations for sealing, counting, boxing and palletizing.

“The enthusiasm was over the top, with lots of folks saying we should do this more often…I’ve been at HPPC for over 50 years, and one-day group efforts have always been well-received.”

– Ann Smith

Boxes at Haiti Outreach Ministries

Undernourishment kills more people every year than malaria, tuberculosis and AIDS combined.

USAID, 2013

building community + serving

Nearly 870 million people, or one in eight, were suffering from chronic undernourishment from 2010-2012. FAO, 2012

Undernutrition contributes to 2.6 million deaths of children under five each year – one third of the global total. UNICEF, 2011

Undernourished children experience as many as 160 days of illness each year.

UNICEF, 2008

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LIFE at HPPC  Men’s Golf Scramble at Stevens Golf Course Ron Lutz, Dave Konker and John Van Amburgh

 Mike Hawkins and Hunter Williams at the Men’s Ministry Golf Scramble on April 28.

 Senior Commissioning Sunday on May 4

From left: Claire Chapel, Loring Dalton and Ginna Klein

 On June 1, Rev. Charlie Dunn and Rev. Laura Murray, assistant pastors, were the first pastors to be ordained at HPPC into ECO.

 Friends and family celebrated the new pastors.

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pastors at HPPC  Bill and Sande Fegan visit with Rev. Bryan

Dunagan during dinner on May 21.

 The Woodley family paused for a photo with

Rev. Dunagan at Our Legacy Continues dinner.

 Our Legacy Continues dinner on May 21

Rev. Dunagan, Cele Johnson and Sandra Cecil

 Rev. Joe Rightmyer visits with the Kong family at

his farewell reception on June 8

 June and Rev. Joe Rightmyer visit with well wishers.

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ECO National gathering

2014 National Gathering From Consumerism to Community

2014nationalgathering.com

Dallas to Host ECO National Gathering ECO meeting to offer something for all kinds of church leaders As a society, we get a lot from our churches. It’s

where we worship, celebrate, grieve and encounter Jesus.

But there is more – we are designed for more. We are made for mission. We are made to create something beyond ourselves and to do just what comes easily.

With both Jesus Christ and the vision of making disciples at the center of our lives, we move “From Consumerism to Community.”

That is the theme of the 2014 National Gathering of our new denomination, ECO. Up to 2,000 people are expected from across the country for two days of worship, connection, training, Gospel teaching, prayer and inspiration at the Hotel Intercontinental in Addison.

“The last national gathering was electric. It was filled with people who were united and excited to do great things for the glory of God. I expect the Dallas event to be just as amazing and fruitful.”

– Monty Montgomery HPPC encourages you to participate in this gathering that has something for everyone. Speakers and breakout sessions will equip not only pastors and church staff but elders and other church leaders too.

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Karen Konker shared, “It was a great joy to gather in Orlando in 2013 with those from the Fellowship of Presbyterians [organization of Presbyterians within the PC(USA)] and ECO. Nothing is as uplifting and encouraging than to spend time – at meals, in worship, and in inspiring plenary and breakout sessions – with warm and enthusiastic fellow Presbyterians excited to serve the Lord and grow his Kingdom in their churches and the world.”

Alan Hirsch, who currently co-leads Future Travelers, an innovative learning program helping megachurches become missional movements, will address attendees.

Alan is considered to be a thought-leader and key mission strategist for churches across the Western world.

Katherine Leary Alsdorf, co-author with Tim Keller of Every Good Endeavor: Connecting Your Work to God’s Work, will also be on the main stage to share her wisdom.

For a detailed description of events and to register for the Gathering, visit 2014nationalgathering.com.

Go to hppc.org/eco to learn more about our new and exciting denomination.

Upcoming Calendar

JULY

Date

Event

Location

Time

Thursday, July 3

Smokey John’s BBQ Bible Study

1820 W Mockingbird Ln

7–9 pm

Friday, July 4

Fourth of July Party + Parade

Lee Home

8:30–11:30 am

Church Offices Closed

Hunt Building

8:30 am–5 pm

Tuesday, July 8

Elementary & JAM56 to Hurricane Harbor**

Off Campus

9 am–4 pm

Thursday, July 10

High School Ethiopia Mission Trip Departs

Friday, July 11

Spain Mission Trip Departs

Saturday, July 12

All Nations Ladies Bible Study

Off Campus

4–6 pm

Sunday, July 13

Elementary Family Fun Day – Roller Skating

White Rock Skate

2–4 pm

Tuesday, July 15

Elementary to Perot Museum and Dave & Buster’s** Off Campus

9 am–4 pm

Thursday, July 17

Smokey John’s BBQ Bible Study

1820 W Mockingbird Ln

7–9 pm

Friday, July 18

Elementary Family Night – Rough Riders Game**

Dr. Pepper Ballpark

7:05 pm

Saturday, July 19

Body & Soul Ministry – Breakfast to the Homeless

Off Campus

7:30–10:30 am

Monday, July 21

Brown Bag & a Book

H018

12–1 pm

Tuesday, July 22

Elementary & JAM56 to Hurricane Harbor**

Off Campus

9 am–4 pm

nd

rd

Wednesday, July 23

Elementary (Rising 2 –3 Grade) Sewing Camp**

JAM56 Room (229)

9:30 am–1 pm

Thursday, July 24

Elementary (Rising 2nd–3rd Grade) Sewing Camp**

JAM56 Room (229)

9:30 am–1 pm

Elementary (Rising 2 –3 Grade) Sewing Camp**

JAM56 Room (229)

9:30 am–1 pm

Elementary Family Night – Bingo

Elliott Hall

6–8 pm

Saturday, July 26

Elementary Family Movie Time**

Studio Movie Grill

11 am–1:30 pm

Sunday, July 27

Rev. Dunagan All-Church Welcome Lunch

Elliott Hall

12:30 pm

Tuesday, July 29

Elementary & JAM56 to Hurricane Harbor**

Off Campus

9 am–4 pm

Thursday, July 31

Middle School Mystery Trip**

Off Campus

10 am–9 pm

Rising 4th Graders Dive Into the Water...Into the Word**

Great Wolf Lodge

11 am

IFP Partner – Informational Lunch

Private Dining Room

12:15–1:15 pm

Friday, July 25

Sunday, August 3

nd

rd

Njuthine Mission Trip Departs Monday, August 4

Rising 6th Graders Schlitterbahn Trip Departs**

Off Campus

Thursday, August 7

Smokey John’s BBQ Bible Study

1820 W Mockingbird Ln

7–9 pm

Monday, August 11

Sky Ranch Launch Camp**

Various Rooms

9 am–3 pm

AELC School Prep Days Begin (through Aug. 24)

3531 N Westmoreland

Tuesday, August 12

Sky Ranch Launch Camp**

Various Rooms

9 am–3 pm

Wednesday, August 13

Sky Ranch Launch Camp**

Various Rooms

9 am–3 pm

Men’s Ministry to Rangers vs. Rays Game

Globe Life Ballpark

5:30–9:30 pm

Early Childhood Sunday School Training

Alexander Hall

6–7:15 pm

Sky Ranch Launch Camp**

Various Rooms

9 am–3 pm

Thursday, August 14

Check hppc.org/calendar for most up to date information. **Advance registration required.

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upcoming events, cont.

July/Aug.

Date

Event

Location

Time

Friday, August 15

Sky Ranch Launch Camp**

Various Rooms

9 am–3 pm

Saturday, August 16

Body & Soul Ministry – Breakfast to the Homeless

Off Campus

7:30–10:30 am

Sunday, August 17

Early Childhood Sunday School Training

Alexander Hall

12–1:30 pm

JAM56: 3rd Sunday Breakdown

Off Campus

12:15–2:30 pm

Genesis Choir Back to School Party

Off Campus

6–8 pm

Brown Bag & a Book

H018

12–1 pm

Management Council

H018

5–7 pm

Thursday, August 21

Smokey John’s BBQ Bible Study

1820 W Mockingbird Ln 7–9 pm

Friday, August 22

AELC Back to School Social

3531 N Westmoreland

TBD

Sunday, August 24

Promotion Sunday

Alexander Building

9:30–10:30 am

4th Sunday All-Church Lunch

Elliott Hall

12:30 pm

Session Meeting

H020

5:30–8 pm

Alexander Hall

6–7:30 pm

JAM56 Fall Kick Off

HP Pool

6–7:30 pm

Middle School and High School Fall Kick Off

Off Campus

6–7:30 pm

Chinese Family Retreat Departs

Off Campus

Monday, August 18

Monday, August 25

Wednesday, August 27 M.A.S.H. Fall Kick Off

Friday, August 29

HPPC App Download the HPPC app and get the latest podcasts, videos, blogs, and event news. hppc.org/app

Summer

women ’s bible studies

The Inheritance by Beth Moore Tuesdays, through Aug. 5 | 11:30 am–1 pm A Study of the Psalms Thursdays, through Aug. 14 | 9:30–10:15 am Children of the Day by Beth Moore Fridays, through Aug. 22 | 10:30 am–12 pm

hppc.org/womenssummer hppc.org/womenssummer 22

Recurring Events Date

Event

Location

Time

Sundays

Morning Prayer Time With a Pastor

H019

8:30–9 am

Nursery (2 months–2 years)

Alexander Bldg

8 am–1:30 pm

Marriage Prep** (July 13–Aug 17)

Private Dining Room

9–10:30 am

Early Childhood Sunday School (2 yrs–Kindergarten)

Alexander Bldg

9:30 & 11 am

Mondays

Can I Ask That? Intergenerational Sunday School Class Gym 5th Grade – Senior Adults (July only)

9:30–10:30 am

Elementary Sunday Morning (1st–4th Grade)

Alexander Bldg

9:30 am

JAM56 Sunday Morning (5th–6th Grade)

JAM56 Room

9:30 am

Youth Sunday Morning Communities

Bell Center

9:30 am

Adult Sunday Morning Communities

Locations Online

9:30 am & 11 am

Genesis Youth Choir Rehearsal* (begins Aug 17)

Choral Hall

See Calendar

Wee Summer Weekly (Mon/Wed, Tue/Thu in July)***

Alexander Bldg

9:30 am–1 pm

Elementary (Rising 2 -3 Grade) Lunch Bunch

Off Campus

11 am–12 pm

Elementary Family Bible Study (July only)

Alexander Hall

6–8 pm

Women’s Brown Bag Bible Study (through Aug. 5)

H018

11:30 am–1 pm

Families Anonymous Meeting

H019

7–8 pm

Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting

H018

7–8 pm

College Bible Study (through Aug. 5)

College House

8–9 pm

Chinese Business Breakfast (begins Aug. 6)

Elliott Hall

7–8 am

Elementary Open Gym (July only)

Gym

9:30–11:30 am

Elementary & JAM56 Pool Time (July only)

UP Pool

1:30–3:30 pm

Chancel Choir Rehearsal (resumes Aug. 20)

Choral Hall

7–9:30 pm

Frank Hundley Men’s Bible Study

H019

7:30–8:30 am

Summer Ladies Bible Study (through Aug. 14)

H020

9:30–10:15 am

Elementary (Rising 4 –5 Grade) Lunch Bunch

Off Campus

11 am–12 pm

Women’s Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting

H019

7–8 pm

Highland Park Chorale Rehearsals (Aug. 21–Sept. 25)

Choral Hall

7–9 pm

Men’s Breakfast at Flying Fish

Off Campus

7–8 am

Summer Knitters

Private Dining Room

9–11 am

YA Women’s Bible Study (through Aug. 22)

Parlor

10:30 am–12 pm

Bridge 101 Instruction

H019

10:30 am–2:30 pm

All Nations Youth Bible Study

Off Campus

7:30–9 pm

All Nations Worship Team Rehearsal

Bell Center

10 am–12:30 pm

Chinese Weekly Bible Study

H020

6:45–8:30 pm

nd

Tuesdays

Wednesdays

Thursdays

th

Fridays

Saturdays

rd

th

*Check hppc.org/calendar for rehearsal schedules **Advance registration required ***Not meeting the week of July 14

Events, dates and times are subject to change and reflect information received when the issue was sent to press.

Visit hppc.org/calendar for most up-to-date information.

23

Parish News

*Only immediate family members that are surviving church members are listed.

Births Charles Bradley Knott Son of Christina and Zachary Knott Born March 29, 2014

Andrew Worthington Lesher Son of Kristen and Barret Lesher Born Aug. 23, 2013 Baptized April 20, 2014

Lydia Alexis Dao Daughter of Lori and Vuong Dao Born April 8, 2014

Vivienne Lee Murphy Daughter of Allison and Shaun Murphy Born Oct. 8, 2013 Baptized April 20, 2014

Sacrament of Baptism

Lillian Brittain Neblett Daughter of Abby and Colin Neblett Born Dec. 3, 2013 Baptized April 20, 2014

Clara Lane Joiner Daughter of Amanda and Brian Joiner Born April 5, 2013 Baptized March 16, 2014 Colby Wayne Joiner Son of Amanda and Brian Joiner Born April 5, 2013 Baptized March 16, 2014 Avery Jane Oliver Daughter of Allison and Wade Oliver Born Nov. 1, 2013 Baptized March 16, 2014 Emma Leete Eickenhorst Daughter of Sarah and Dan Eickenhorst Born Jan. 8, 2014 Baptized April 20, 2014 Waverly Ford Frederick Daughter of Michaele and Kirk Frederick Born Nov. 21, 2013 Baptized April 20, 2014 Yardley Castle Frederick Daughter of Michaele and Kirk Frederick Born Nov. 21, 2013 Baptized April 20, 2014

Annabelle Pinson White Daughter of Emily and Brian White Born Nov. 25, 2013 Baptized April 20, 2014

Weddings Emily Fatica and Will Hundley Daughter of Deborah and John Fatica Son of Caroline and David Hundley Married April 12, 2014 Casey Castellaw and Chandler Sinclair Daughter of Jenny and Jim Castellaw Son of Brandi and Brandon Sinclair Married April 26, 2014

Entered the Church

Triumphant

Mary Ellen MacLennan, passed away on March 12, 2014. Sympathy to her husband, Kenneth MacLennan, and family.

Dr. Cliff Jones Jr., passed away on March 29, 2014. Sympathy to his wife, Mardi Jones, and his son, Cliff “Tripp” Jones, and family.

Ed Merritt, passed away on March 31, 2014. Sympathy to his wife, Norma Jean Merritt, and family.

Lucy Wanjiku Kabiru, passed away on April 9, 2014. Sympathy to her daughter, Catherine Wambui Kabiru, and family.

Louise Carnes, passed away on April 9, 2014. Sympathy to her son, Howard Lawson, and family.

Edwin “Tar” Barlow, passed away on April 16, 2014. Sympathy to his daughter, Kathleen Hodges; and his grandsons Sheldon and Hayden Hodges and families.

Roy Bettis, passed away on April 19, 2014. Sympathy to his daughter Carolyn Berry and family; his son Holt Bettis and family; his daughter Valerie Krause and family; and his granddaughter, Caroline Krause.

Ruth Innes, passed away on April 20, 2014. Sympathy to her son, Craig Innes, and family.

Sarah Mitchell Jones, passed away on April 24, 2014.

Andee Underwood, passed away on April 28, 2014. Sympathy to her fatherin-law, George Underwood, and family.

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 Information printed in Parish News is provided from HPPC’s Congregational Care list. If you want to share news of births, baptisms, marriages or deaths, please contact Elaine Curtis in Congregational Care at 214-525-4230 or elaine.curtis@hppc.org or online at hppc.org/parishnews.

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Bless the World Children & Youth Find out how you can pray for and encourage our 2014 summer missions teams. hppc.org/missiontrips

Place Scripture in your children’s hearts forever!

Carol Choir

Canterbury Choir

Kickoff Sunday, Sept. 7

Kickoff Sunday, Sept. 7

Chorister Choir

Genesis Youth Choir

Kindergarten–1st Graders

Grades 2–3

Kickoff Sunday, Sept. 7

Grades 4–6

Grades 7–12

Kickoff Sunday, Aug. 17

Adults Sign up for these remaining Trips!

Loitoktok – Teaching & VBS Ministry Aug. 2–11 – Cost $3,500 Njuthine – Medical & VBS Ministry Aug. 3–14 – Cost $3,500 Guatemala – Living Water Sept. 27–Oct. 4 – Cost: $1,900

Opening eyes and ears to the glory of God through music!

The Chancel Choir Open to All Highland Park Chorale By Audition Only

Handbell Choirs

Elliott Handbell Ensemble Advanced Highland Ringers Intermediate

Rangers vs. Rays

Register Today!

Day Adventure Trips

Men’s Ministry at the BallPark in Arlington Wednesday, Aug. 13 $25. Register before Aug. 10.

hppc.org/men

Family Bible Study Family Fun Nights Lunch Bunch Mini-Camps Pool Time

hppc.org/summerathppc 25

LIFE at HPPC  JAM56’s Fiasco Cup

From left: Anna Walker, Brinkley Brown and Caroline Massey

 M.A.S.H. kids played Sharks and Minnows.  Hayden LeMaster at JAM56’s Fiasco Cup  Middle School End of Year Party

From left: Elise Sugg, Elizabeth Massa, Gracie Davis and Lauren Stone

 Middle School End of Year Party

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From left: Thomas Savage, Jackson Brumbaugh and Buck Popolo

ECO

+ the essential tenets

by Rev. Dr. Michael Walker, Theologian-in-Residence

Essential Tenets: God’s Word Part Two

In the last issue of Connect, we introduced the Essential Tenets of ECO: A Covenant Order of Evangelical Presbyterians.

As a statement of faith, the Essential Tenets summarize what we believe are the central teachings of Scripture and offer both a testimony to the world and a basis for the unity, mission and discipline of the church.

The introduction of the Essential Tenets “begins with the end in mind,” expressing the goal of our confession of Christian faith: “The great purpose toward which each human life is drawn is to glorify God and to enjoy Him forever.”

This classic statement of human purpose (borrowed from the Westminster Shorter Catechism of the 16th century) reminds us that God created us for His glory, and that the satisfaction of our deepest, most human desires is found only by fulfilling this great purpose in relationship with Him. Because our union with Christ by the Holy Spirit restores us to this fellowship with God, “we confess our faith not as a matter of dispassionate intellectual assent, but rather as an act by which we give God glory.”

What is the source of this faith we proclaim? How do we know what will glorify God? The first major section of the Essential Tenets turns to answer these questions, under the heading: “God’s Word: The Authority for Our Confession.”

Although God is constantly being revealed through His creation (whether nature around us or the human experience of pursuing God), such “natural knowledge” of God is quite

limited and very often distorted by sinful hearts and minds (Romans 1:20-21). Therefore, we depend on God’s distinct, special communication to us. We depend on God’s Word: “We glorify God by recognizing and receiving His authoritative self-revelation, both in the infallible Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments and also in the incarnation of God the Son.” Jesus Christ is the Word of God made flesh, the one in whom “all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are offered to His disciples.” For those of us who were not eyewitnesses to the earthly ministry of Jesus: “The written Word grants us those treasures, proclaims the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ, and graciously teaches all that is necessary for faith and life.”

The “written Word,” the Bible, is thus the indispensible source of true knowledge of God, and is the authoritative foundation for our confession of Christian faith.

Further, the Essential Tenets emphasize the close relationship between the written Word of God and the ministry of the Holy Spirit: “We affirm that the same Holy Spirit who overshadowed the virgin Mary also inspired the writing and preservation of the Scriptures.The Holy Spirit testifies to the authority of God’s Word and illumines our hearts and minds so that we might receive both the Scriptures and Christ Himself aright.”

Pray for the continuing ministry of the Holy Spirit, that we might understand, believe and obey the Word of God!

27

missionary focus

Missionary Focus Teri and Andrew Adair | The Antioch Partners The Antioch Partners (TAP) is a

Prayer Requests: • W isdom and discernment for Teri and Andrew as they counsel and encourage missionaries serving around the world, some who are serving in very difficult situations.

• P ray as TAP mobilizes and deploys businesspeople to serve in the arena of Business as Mission (BAM). God is using the BAM movement to lead people to Christ, plant churches and impact individuals and communities with transforming power of His love.

• P ray that in the midst of their TAP responsibilities, Andrew and Teri will maintain a healthy work/life balance and will continue to grow in their relationship with God and each other.

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missionary-sending agency in Houston, Texas, that partners with Presbyterian churches in the U.S. in sending followers of Jesus to participate in God’s mission in the world.

Those serving through TAP have been called

by God to long-term, cross-cultural ministry and are engaged in many aspects of Kingdom work, including inviting people to follow Jesus, social justice, discipleship, supporting church-planting movements, leadership development and business as mission.

As the TAP Director, Andrew provides leadership and direction to the ministry.

Teri is the TAP Personnel Coordinator and manages the personnel side of the ministry, which includes working with mission personnel from the very beginning of the discernment process through the end of service. As members of TAP’s leadership team, Andrew and Teri have the privilege of working together as a ministry team as they serve those God has called into long-term, cross-cultural mission service.

Here is a recent story from their ministry: “We wish we could introduce you to all the TAP Partners (“Partners” is the term we use for missionaries), but since that is not possible, we’ll introduce you to one of our most recent Partners.

We’ll call her Ashley (not her real name), and she will be returning to South Asia this summer for long-term, cross-cultural service. Ashley is from a Presbyterian church in the southern part of the U.S., and she’s an amazing young woman. God has given her a passion for serving women who have been trafficked and involved in prostitution. Ashley spent two years serving in South Asia among this population and she saw God at work in many ways among these women. Given the intensity of her work, she returned to the U.S. for a time of renewal and additional preparation. As she reflected on her ministry experience there, Ashley realized she needed the support structure of a sending agency like TAP if she’s going to be able to thrive there long-term in ministry.

Now she is ready to go back and her home church is fully supportive, as is TAP (she was appointed as a TAP Partner earlier this year).

Ashley will be serving with a team composed primarily of local Christians in her context who are reaching out to these women (and their children) whom God loves so deeply. God is doing amazing work through this ministry and Ashley is excited to be joining their team. If you would pray for Ashley as she finishes raising her support, gets everything ready for her departure and returns to South Asia this summer, that would be a wonderful blessing!”

AELC Moms Celebrate Class Accomplishments The Tuesday before Mother’s Day, 12 student mothers were honored for successfully completing the ARK (Adults Raising Kids) program at the Amelia Earhart Learning Center. In a fitting ceremony, the beaming mothers took the stage to accept their certificate of completion and shake hands with their program mentors and partners.

“We celebrate the lives of our parents, who come together to bring us the best that they have to bring every day and knowing that the mothers here serve to provide what their children need and support their families. You have taken time to ensure that not only are your children successful but you ensure that we bring the best that we have for the Amelia Earhart Learning Center – for all of the children,” Dr. Paulette Daniels remarked.

The members of the Earhart Outreach Committee all played a role in the parent programs and graduation. Through service and donations this year, HPPC was able to help update and furnish the Parent Center at AELC, which holds various education classes and activities that foster relationship building and personal growth.

The newly created Parent Center is now utilized five days a week and parents have begun to feel empowered to start leading their own activities. Parent engagement is at an all-time high, resulting in increased PTA participation and volunteerism in the school and surrounding community.

Adopt-a-school | Missionary news

Parents Program Graduation

Excited to celebrate their graduation, the ladies participated in an HPPCsponsored visit to the Arboretum for lunch.

A Mission Family Grows Michelle and Kevin K. celebrate the birth of their first child On their way to South Sudan as missionaries with Gideon

Theological College, Kevin and Michelle found out that Michelle was expecting. “We have been praying for her for over two years,” Kevin said.

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord. – Psalm 127:3 Adriella Grace arrived on May 17 at 2:55 pm. In Hebrew, her name means “Belonging to the Flock of God.” Even though we try to control things in our lives or situations, they believe that Adriella’s birth is a testament to God’s power and unfailing love.

At seven weeks, the doctor brought them to their knees in prayer when he told them that the baby would most likely not make it.

Despite his prediction, God safely delivered her into Michelle and Kevin’s arms.

Hear Kevin preach in 1105 Sunday, July 13

The family will be back in Dallas during the month of July to renew visas, raise additional financial support and have friends and family meet Adriella. Kevin will be preaching in the 1105 Contemporary worship service in July and will be ordained in August.

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World missions

Missions Making a Global Impact In order to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ in the world, HPPC is committed to doing ministry cross culturally. One of the ways we do this is through short-term mission trips.

HPPC members are mobilized to go on one-week or two-week trips to work in partnership with those out in the field.

Often, those who go to make a change for others are transformed themselves.

Here are some of the trips that have previously taken place or will take place over summer and early fall.

Guatemala + Honduras 783 million people in the world lack access to acceptable drinking water. HPPC teams demonstrate God’s love by building water wells, teaching hygiene classes & spending time with the people of these countries.

Cuba HPPC supports and partners with sister churches in Aeropuerto, Ciego de Avila and Las Tunas to evangelize and plant churches.

HPPC Mission Trips

Spain The Pilgrim’s Fountain, founded by CRU, is a refuge and hostel for pilgrims walking the Camino de Santiago on their journey to Santiago de Compostela. Service, conversational evangelism, hospitality and sharing meals with pilgrims from all over the world are elements of the mission.

Njuthine, Kenya During last year’s trip, HPPC’s team saw more than 1,300 people at the medical clinic. Short-term missionaries will do the same this year along with running VBS.

Loitoktok, Kenya

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Haiti

Ethiopia

Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere. Construction, painting and maintenance are key activities of service.

Through VBS, the Gospel is shared with the many children of Port-au-Prince.

Ethiopia ACT serves families and children living in poverty while providing care for those affected by HIV/AIDS. The team helps train and mentor those desiring to start a small business and become self-sufficient.

In a remote community in the Maasai Mara region of Kenya, the HPPC team conducts a Pastoral Training Conference, assists with VBS and helps with repairs and maintenance at the Imbirikani Girls School.

hppc.org/missiontrips

Dr. Greg Hobbs, Director of Music Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make joyful noise to him with songs of praise!

Psalm 95 Oh sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth!

Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day Psalm 96 Oh sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things!

Psalm 98 Singing and living out our faith

are two interconnected actions – we sing because we have faith and we express our faith through singing. In these three examples from the Psalms, we see that we are not merely invited to sing to the Lord, we are encouraged to do so as a

response to God’s greatness. In the first example, we sing with joy due to the immense privilege we have of being in God’s presence. In the 96th Psalm, we sing to God and bless Him as we tell others of His salvation. In the third example, we sing as a response to God’s ministry and the manifestations of His marvelous greatness. Singing is how we – all of us – respond to God. I am often asked how many people are in our church music ministry. My response is usually that I am not sure, and I ask them what the attendance was this past Sunday. You see, the most important choir in our church does not wear robes each week, register in our music database and toil through many rehearsal hours.

Our congregation is the most important choir in our church. We are all together as members of a musical family offering singing responses to God in worship.

As the Psalmist exhorts us, so must we all realize that as believers we sing. We sing our faith, thereby enriching our knowledge and connection with the Spirit of God as it intersects our lives and the lives of all those around us in worship. We sing to make witness of God’s greatness and goodness, verbally reciting the faith that indwells us. We sing together with one voice, not solely as hundreds of individuals who happen to coincidentally be singing at the same time, but through solidarity as members of a whole body joined together unified by one voice.

You are a part of our music ministry and you are singing this Sunday. Whether you produce a polished vocal sound or a guzzling noisy grunt, quietly hum along with a familiar tune or sing with gusto, you are on this Sunday. Oh come, let us sing.

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3821 UNIVERSITY BLVD. DALLAS, TEXAS 75205 214-526-7457 | HPPC.ORG

Being part of a community has been such a blessing – it has literally infiltrated every aspect of our lives.We’re so thankful to have the opportunity to do life, share struggles, encourage and pray for one another while seeking wisdom with brothers and sisters in Christ. These friends make us better, point us to the Lord and stand shoulder-to-shoulder with us as we fight for the Kingdom.

– Shannon and Neal Barker

Are you Growing in Christ through community? hppc.org/classescommunities