HIGHLAND PARK PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
2018/19 IMPACT REPORT
LEADING ALL GENERATIONS TO BECOME TRANSFORMED FOLLOWERS OF JESUS FOR THE FLOURISHING OF OUR CITY AND BEYOND.
HIGHLAND PARK PRES Est. 1926
ALL NATIONS Est. 2001
A FAMILY OF CHURCHES FOR THE FLOURISHING OF THE CITY. MANDARIN CHINESE Est. 2011
PEAK STREET CHURCH Est. 2018
DEAR HP PRES FAMILY,
As I reflect on my fifth year of partnership in ministry with you, I’m reminded of what Paul shared with the Ephesians: “I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking...that you may know the hope to which God has called you, and his incomparably great power for us who believe” (Ephesians 1:16-19). The following pages are a celebration of all that God continues to do in and through this wonderful church as we anchor our lives in the hope of Jesus, and the power of his resurrection love. One way to do that is by looking at how many people in our congregation served either locally or by going on a mission trip, or took some kind of next step in growing as a disciple of Jesus. We also celebrate stories of transformation—where we truly see God’s faithfulness through Highland Park Pres. It is such a joy to be on this journey with you. I’m inspired by the boldness of your faith, and I have never been more excited about our future together as we invite more people to find God’s immeasurable love in the person of Jesus. Joyfully,
BRYAN DUNAGAN Senior Pastor
I HAVE NOT STOPPED GIVING THANKS FOR YOU, REMEMBERING YOU IN MY PRAYERS.” EPHESIANS 1:16
VISION 100 OUR ELDERS HAVE BEEN DREAMING A WAY FORWARD TO CELEBRATE THE CENTENNIAL OF OUR CHURCH WITH A BOLD VISION.”
There is an indescribable feeling of excitement and possibility as we look back at all God has done and look forward to our future together. God has done wonders here at Highland Park Presbyterian Church over the past 90 years, and with the promise of God’s continued faithfulness in our hearts, we ask now, “What wondrous things does he have planned for the years to come?” When our church was first launched with 53 people in 1926 in a largely undeveloped area, the pioneers had one goal in mind: To live out the teachings of Scripture and to surrender to the mission of Jesus. They wanted to see a greater number of people come to faith and deepen their walk with God. In 2026, our church will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of this same mission with great vigor and emboldened faith. To that end, our elders have been dreaming a way forward to celebrate the centennial of our church with a bold vision, called Vision 100 (hppres.org/vision). As a part of this Impact Report, you’ll hear stories of five signature goals that unite us in becoming a flourishing church. We invite you to join us as we look back at the past 12 months through stories of God’s movement in every corner of our church, city, and world. As you read, remember that every number has a name, every name has a story, and every story matters to God. Thanks for being a shareholder in the story that God is writing through HP Pres. Together, we are accomplishing the mission of Jesus!
JAY LEE
Executive Pastor
BY OUR 100TH ANNIVERSARY IN 2026, THESE MILESTONES WILL BE REACHED:
100% OF OUR COVENANT PARTNERS GROWING AS FOLLOWERS OF JESUS. 10,000 NEW FOLLOWERS OF JESUS. 10 NEW CHURCH PLANTS.
100 LEADERS RAISED FROM THE NEXT GENERATION FOR CHRISTCENTERED MINISTRY. 1,000,000 HOURS OF PRAYER.
VISION 100 GOAL
1
100% OF OUR COVENANT PARTNERS GROWING AS FOLLOWERS OF JESUS. Because a church where every person is maturing and more fully surrendering to Jesus can change the world.
BRANDI HULL Anchor
IN SHARING THESE HIGHS AND LOWS, PRAYER BECAME THE HEARTBEAT OF THESE FRIENDSHIPS.”
ANCHORED IN CHRIST Brandi Hull was in a season of serious instability, but she felt a nudge from God to take the risk of stepping out of her comfort zone and into community. When she heard about Anchor, she decided to follow the Lord’s leading and try out this women’s Bible study. Upon arrival, she immediately felt a wave of peace—the hospitality of the women encouraged her to feel comfortable. She was seated at a table with women of all ages and backgrounds, and she quickly learned that each had pieces of wisdom they were willing to share. Throughout the semester, this table group would be a place of refuge. “Vulnerability breeds vulnerability,” Brandi says. They were able to share everything from their greatest passions to their deepest hurts. In sharing these highs and lows, prayer became the heartbeat of these friendships. “They showed me, taught me, demonstrated to me, led me, encouraged me, and spoke into me what it means to be a woman of prayer.”
The table group continues to be an encouraging community to Brandi. Anchor exceeded her expectations, and she thanks God daily for the nudge he placed on her heart. “My hope,” Brandi says, “is that this won’t be just my story, but that each woman at HP Pres has the chance to experience this community so that we can go out and reach more people for the Kingdom of God.” ■
908
PEOPLE GROWING IN DISCIPLESHIP ENVIRONMENTS LIKE ANCHOR AND ASCENT.
HOW HAVE OUR COVENANT PARTNERS BEEN GROWING?
151
PEOPLE COMPLETED STARTING POINT AND COMMITTED TO GROWING AT HP PRES.
375
PEOPLE MET IN SMALL GROUPS, A 75% JUMP OVER TWO YEARS.
375 214
2016
NE T STEPS
2018
982
PEOPLE DECIDED TO TAKE NEXT STEPS IN FOLLOWING JESUS BY FILLING OUT COMMITMENT CARDS LAST FALL.
1
Take the Spiritual Life Survey to discover areas where you can grow as a follower of Jesus. You can then talk about your results with a growth coach to help you discern your next steps at hppres.org/survey.
2
One way God transforms us significantly is through being in community with other followers of Jesus. Get connected with a group at hppres.org/groups.
VISION 100 GOAL
2
10,000 NEW FOLLOWERS OF JESUS. Because the greatest gift we could ever give anyone is to help them find, follow, and fall in love with Jesus.
MINGQI
Mandarin Church
THEY WERE IN AWE AT THE LORD’S CONSISTENT PURSUIT OF THEIR HEARTS AS HE ANSWERED THEIR PRAYERS.”
JESUS IS KING Mingqi was born into a Buddhist home. Striving to be a good daughter, she pursued the faith and religion of her parents as a devoted Buddhist. This was challenged for the first time in her life when her new husband expressed an interest in Christianity. Reluctantly, she agreed to check out the Chinese Family Fellowship at HP Pres. Mingqi and her husband quickly began to seek a deeper understanding of Christianity. Their family, worried that they would abandon their traditional faith, pressured them to stop attending the weekly Friday night gatherings that they had come to love. When Mingqi's grandfather fell ill, her family was overwhelmed with grief. They fervently prayed to Buddha, asking for immediate healing, but nothing worked. Yang, Mingqi’s husband, encouraged her to pray to Jesus to see what would happen. In desperation, she asked Jesus to help heal her grandfather. As soon as the prayer left her
lips, her grandfather’s health began to improve. He started to recover from his illness, and Mingqi rejoiced that God had answered her prayers! She explained to her family that the power came from the God of Christianity, not from Buddha. Many other circumstances proved that God listened to Mingqi’s pleas. It became obvious that God is a provider that fulfills our emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. Mingqi and Yang
were in awe of the Lord’s consistent pursuit of their hearts as he answered their prayers. With such clear evidence in their lives, they knew they were encountering the one true king: Jesus. Together, they accepted Christ as the Lord of their lives and were baptized on Thanksgiving weekend. The couple now attends our Mandarin Chinese Church Plant faithfully and continues to see evidence of God’s faithfulness in their lives. We are so thankful for all God is doing in and through his people! As Mingqi and Yang continue in their faith, let us pray that they may be a bright light to their family, and Jesus may be known as king. ■
322
CUBANS DECIDED TO FOLLOW JESUS THROUGH OUR CUBAN CHURCH PLANT PARTNERS.
100
EVANGELISTS TRAINED IN THE PHILIPPINES BY HP PRES MISSIONARY ANDY SMITH.
NE T
125
ALPHA PARTICIPANTS.
300
MUSLIMS HEAR THE GOSPEL DAILY THROUGH OUR PARTNERS AT FOR THE NATIONS REFUGEE OUTREACH.
150
COVENANT PARTNERS TRAINED ON SHARING THE GOOD NEWS OF JESUS.
86
NEW FOLLOWERS OF JESUS AT HP PRES.
2
1
STEPS
Invite a friend to Alpha. It is an opportunity to explore life, faith, and God in a friendly environment. hppres.org/alpha
Read Questioning Evangelism: Engaging People’s Hearts the Way Jesus Did by Randy Newman, a fellow at C.S. Lewis Institute.
VISION 100 GOAL
3
10 NEW CHURCH PLANTS. Because new churches are the most effective way to reach new people with the hope of Christ.
BUFF AMIS
Peak Street Church
CALLED TO LEAD
SHE SOON LEARNED THAT GOD WAS DOING ALL THE LEADING AND SHE COULD TRUST THAT HE WAS IN CONTROL.”
When Buff Amis first heard about the plans for a church plant in Old East Dallas, her attention was immediately grabbed. Buff’s passion for Reconciliation Outreach, an HP Pres ministry partner in East Dallas, matched a central theme of Peak Street Church’s vision, and the fact that she was familiar with the neighborhood only confirmed that been to church in their lives. God was drawing her to the idea of helping with this church It is clear that God is showplant. ing up and answering the Soon after feeling the pull of the Holy Spirit in her heart, prayers of his people. Buff Buff and her husband, Tom, were invited to be on the lead- encourages anyone who is ership team. “The word ‘lead’ flipped me out,” Buff admits. contemplating taking on a “I have a hard time imagining myself in a leadership role.” leadership role in the church But despite her hesitation, she agreed to walk alongside to be comforted that God is the formation of Peak Street Church. truly the leader. We are so Amid the regular leadership meetings, she fell in love with thankful for all God is doing the other leaders—each person brought a different set of through the leadership he gifts to the establishment of the church, forming a place for has established, and contindeep community. Buff realized quickly that leading didn’t ue to pray that people in this mean what she thought it meant; she soon learned that transitional neighborhood God was doing all the leading and she could trust that he would be curious about God and be led to Peak Street was in control. Church. ■ So far, Peak Street Church has welcomed many people from around Old East Dallas including those who have never
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CELEBRATING ONE YEAR AT PEAK STREET CHURCH
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PEOPLE AT PEAK STREET ON SUNDAYS.
2
ADULT BAPTISMS THIS SUMMER.
Prayerfully consider joining the next team of people being sent out as church planters within Dallas. More information to come this fall.
VISION 100 GOAL
4
100 LEADERS RAISED FROM THE NEXT GENERATION FOR CHRIST-CENTERED MINISTRY. Because new communities need new pastors, missionaries, church plants, and leaders in every profession.
EVAN SMITH Alpha
EXPLORING ALPHA Evan Smith grew up in a family filled with pastors and missionaries, and faith was just something he accepted as true without much thought. As he grew older, questions started to develop and the usual church answers didn’t satisfy his curiosity. He went to a Christian college, but eventually he decided he didn’t want anything to do with his family’s faith. Over the next 10 years, Evan’s questions remained. While living in New York, a friend mentioned that Alpha may be a great place for him to explore his concerns about Christianity, but he shook off the invitation. When he landed a new job in Dallas, he had no community. All his friends lived elsewhere, so he went to a somewhat familiar environment in hopes to find some friends. In January of 2017, he attended HP Pres for the first time. When he was invited to HP Pres’s Alpha, he decided to go and see what there was to offer. He was pleasantly surprised that his questions were met with thoughtful dialogue and resources. The fact that people were able to discuss these difficult topics and admit that they did not know all the answers encouraged him. He developed relationships with people he could have honest, intellectual conversations with who didn’t preach, but listened intently. This fueled a faith that, while still wondering, is OK with the unknowns. Evan now is on the leadership team at Peak Street Church. He is passionate about those who have questions about
HE WAS PLEASANTLY SURPRISED THAT HIS QUESTIONS WERE MET WITH THOUGHTFUL DIALOGUE AND RESOURCES.” faith, and is involved in Peak Street Church’s Alpha program. “What’s so refreshing about Alpha is that it’s the first place at church where I could honestly ask questions,” Evan describes. Alpha’s talks are designed to encourage conversation and explore the basics of the Christian faith in a friendly, open, and informal environment. ■
HOW ARE WE MAKING LEADERS? LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION CORE CLASSES Begin your journey by taking the Leadership Foundation CORE class. CORE teaches: How leadership, in the biblical sense, is a calling from and a partnership with God. How the abilities and experiences God has given us can be used for the kingdom. How to discern what God is calling you to do in your life. Mentors help you make a plan to use leadership skills to influence the world around you for the kingdom.
WHO SHOULD JOIN THE CENTER FOR LEADER FORMATION? The Center for Leader Formation is not just for pastors and missionaries. It is for people in any stage of life who want to discover how to intentionally follow God’s calling for their life. This is for anyone who wants to be formed in areas such as: Clarifying vision for yourself, your family, or for your organization. Developing and executing plans and strategy to achieve that vision. Providing vision-oriented servant leadership. Living in community with others pursuing God’s calling, being mentored by those with ministry experience, and investing in the development of new rising leaders.
NE T STEPS
THE COURSE GAVE ME A NEW WAY TO THINK ABOUT PAST THEMES IN MY LIFE AS A ROAD MAP TO FUTURE PATTERNS GOD HAS ESTABLISHED FOR MINISTRY.” JOSH GINSBORG
The Center for Leader Formation exists to develop Christ-centered leaders for the church and the world, people who respond to practical needs in a theologically reflective way. Learn more about the course online:
HPPRES.ORG/CLF
VISION 100 GOAL
5
1,000,000 HOURS OF PRAYER. Because none of this is possible without prayer.
VANCE SHULL
Deacon Ministry
THE SACRIFICES OF GOD ARE A BROKEN SPIRIT; A BROKEN AND CONTRITE HEART, O GOD, YOU WILL NOT DESPISE.” PSALM 51:17
IN THE NAME OF JESUS In a new leadership role as Deacon Moderator, Vance Shull was feeling the heavy weight of responsibility. He wanted to serve HP Pres well—this family meant so much to him considering they had been a sanctuary when tragedy struck his life years before. He was delighted to be trusted as the voice of the deacon ministry, but anxieties ran through his mind, along with the fear of letting people down. Vance decided to join the Prayer Cohort, a monthly class meant to deepen intimacy with God through learning more about what and how to pray. One particular class was about the prayer practice of laying hands. After learning all about it from their expert teacher, the class was encouraged to break out into groups and put it into action. Awkwardly bud-
dying up in a group of three, Vance was a little nervous. This was a new territory for him, but he went ahead and asked for prayer for his heightened anxiety as Deacon Moderator. Two men put their hands on each of his arms and began to pray. As soon as they said the words, “in the name of Jesus,” Vance was overwhelmed with the Holy Spirit. His legs
shook unexpectedly, and he could feel more hands on his back than just the two men present. “I immediately felt a relief that the responsibility of not messing up was not on me,” Vance described. Within that moment, his heart shifted from anxious and pressured to empowered to take on the difficult tasks ahead. He was reminded that God is the one in authority and the one in control. Since then, Vance’s prayer life has continued to transform. Vance finds solace in Psalm 51:17—“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” As he continuously offers this sacrifice, Vance is free from the expectation of perfection and confident in where God is leading him. ■
WHAT DOES PRAYER LOOK LIKE?
1,500 100 HOURS SPENT IN PRAYER FOR CHURCH PLANTING.
PARTICIPANTS IN KINGDOM COME PRAYER NIGHT.
200
5,000
PRAYER WALKS AROUND HP PRES AND PEAK STREET CHURCH.
HOURS OF PRAYER FOR THE SUFFERING, DESPAIRING, AND DESPERATE FOR GOD.
4,450 FOLLOWERS OF 90 DAYS OF PRAYER, A READING AND PRAYER PLAN THROUGH THE FIRST 90 PSALMS.
NE T STEPS
1
Join us for the next Kingdom Come Prayer Night: September 12, 7–8 pm, in Wynne Chapel.
2
Spend time praying for others, or let us know how our church can pray for you, on our Prayer Wall.
HPPRES.ORG/PRAYER
UPDATE
For over 90 years, HP Pres has been about God’s work of making all things new, of bringing heaven to earth, and of transforming lives. Just as those before us did, you are helping transform this campus so God’s work will go on here for another 90 years and beyond. East and west of the Sanctuary, Transform is in its second phase. After months of digging, concrete piers that will serve as the foundation for the new Hunt building have been placed 35' below ground level. To the east, construction on the connector between the Sanctuary and the Alexander Building began in May 2019 as well. It is almost complete. The moment school was out, the renovation of the Alexander Building, built in 1926, sprang to life. Kids gave way to an army of construction workers whose sole task is to complete this work before school starts this fall. As work on the new Hunt Building continues, other phases of the project will soon begin, such as the new gym and playgrounds. Next summer the southern portion of the Alexander Building will be renovated, including the Bell Center. The best way to keep up with Transform is by visiting transform.hppres.org, where you can read the latest news, make a gift, and view the live construction cam. ■
JUST AS THOSE BEFORE US DID, YOU ARE HELPING TRANSFORM THIS CAMPUS SO GOD’S WORK WILL GO ON HERE FOR ANOTHER 90 YEARS AND BEYOND.
GROUNDBREAKING Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018 as the HP Pres family gathered to consecrate Transform to the glory of God, Bryan prayed that this campus “continue to be a sacred place where people find and follow Jesus and are launched beyond these walls to join in his rescue mission.”
3,876 34,888 TRUCKLOADS OF DIRT HAULED AWAY.
2,120
LINEAR FEET OF CONCRETE PIERS INSTALLED IN NEW FOUNDATION.
750
CUBIC YARDS OF DIRT AND ROCK REMOVED FROM THE GROUNDS.
400
YARDS OF CONCRETE BETWEEN THE CHILDREN’S CONNECTOR AND THE HUNT BUILDING.
TONS OF REBAR.
HUNT BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
WIGHT GARDEN
NEW GYMNASIUM
CONNECTOR
HUNT BUILDING LOBBY
GENEROSITY At Highland Park Presbyterian Church, we are committed to making a transformative impact for Jesus in our church, our city, and our world. But transformation cannot happen without the generosity of many people. Generosity is not just a money transaction; it is a heart transformation. Generosity is like a prism through which God multiplies our gifts and sends them out to fulfill his commission to make disciples of all nations. The power of generosity enables us to partner directly with God himself and multiply his grace into a hurting and needy world. Generosity flourishes when we conform our hearts to God’s will through a deepening relationship with the living Christ. Thank you for partnering with us. We pray that you will continue to grow with us. ■
GENEROSITY FLOURISHES WHEN WE CONFORM OUR HEARTS TO GOD’S WILL.”
TRANSFORM GIVING
2018
$75,092,025
$11,723,613
TOTAL COMMITMENTS
2019
$46,722,061
$31,780,701
GIVEN TO DATE
NE T STEPS
You’ve been given the power to share the gospel, prepare leaders, shape community, and restore the city and the world. Transform lives for Christ by giving today. Set up giving online.
HPPRES.ORG/GIVE
2018–2019 BUDGET
11% PROGRAMS $1,076,000
20% SUPPORT
50%
$1,993,788
PERSONNEL $4,857,201
19% MISSIONS $1,800,000
TOTAL BUDGET
$9,726,989 2017–2018 GIVING TOTAL: $10,955,099
2018–2019 GIVING CURRENT TOTAL: $7,501,491
82%
83%
GENERAL
GENERAL
9%
7%
$6,228,850
$8,955,099
9% OTHER
$1,000,000
SPECIAL MISSIONS GIVING $1,000,000
10% OTHER
$750,000
SPECIAL MISSIONS GIVING $522,641
SERVE DOUG CRAWFORD
Third-Grade Sunday Class
TO LEAD ALL GENERATIONS
THE CHURCH
DOUG WITNESSES THE TRUE DEFINITION OF CHILDLIKE FAITH EACH SUNDAY HE LEADS THE THIRD GRADE CLASS.”
Through a time of open-handed prayer, Doug Crawford asked God for direction. Doug was ready to serve, but overwhelmed with possibilities, so he decided to allow God to show him where to invest his time. The next couple weeks were filled with God gently directing Doug toward volunteering with the Third Grade Sunday class. This chance seemed like a perfect puzzle piece in Doug’s life: with experience ministering to elementary-aged children through mentorship and his grandkids being around the same age, ingness to serve that young he was baffled at how personal and perfect God’s answer hearts are being transformed through the power to his prayer was. of Jesus, and valuable memDancing to choreographed songs describing the exodus of ories are being made as God’s people, Doug dove headfirst into the excitement that they sing, dance, and laugh comes with Sunday mornings in the Highland Kids ministry. to songs that describe the Each service includes rich Bible story videos that capture goodness of our Father. the attention and curiosity of the kids that lead to discussion HP Pres would not be what about who God is in our lives. “I love that these kids are all it is without volunteers that in,” Doug describes. Their excitement has encouraged him invest their time and energy to share the good news of Jesus to his grandkids and the to lead all generations to beexperience has left him feeling better equipped to do so. come transformed followers Doug witnesses the true definition of child-like faith each of Jesus for the flourishing Sunday he leads the third grade class. It is through his will- of our city and beyond. ■
HANDS AND FEET OF JESUS With tears in her eyes, Tanya Darcy described what she called her dream project. She had wanted to repaint her home, but with limited funds and mobility, TANYA DARCY she struggled to make this Handyman Ministry a reality. When someone Participant mentioned the Handymen Ministry to her, she thought she would give it a try. To her amazement, she was blown away by the servant-heartedness of the men that stepped forward to help her achieve the dream without asking for a nickel. Bill Asbury, a deacon leading the Handymen Ministry, was excited to have worked with Darcy and the other volunteers on this project. “There is a special opportunity to connect with others when you enter their space,” Asbury mentions. “It’s different than at church.” He has organized people from the congregation to assist in home repairs around the community. The volunteer teams have united different strands of the church to work together for the greater purpose of being the hands and feet of Jesus. Giddy in her newly painted home, Darcy wrote an expansive letter to HP Pres thanking the Handymen Ministry for “perfecting my dream project, plus blessing me with an experience to view friendship between men who are working for a greater good—doing the Lord’s work.” The Handymen Ministry has blessed many throughout the year as they assist in changing light bulbs, fixing faucets, and painting rooms. ■
SHE WAS BLOWN AWAY BY THE SERVANTHEARTEDNESS OF THE MEN THAT STEPPED FORWARD TO HELP HER ACHIEVE THE DREAM WITHOUT ASKING FOR A NICKEL.”
As guests drive up to HP Pres, three little girls jump up and down eagerly to show visitors where they should go. Their bright green bows bounce on top of their heads, and their favorite responsibility is placing welcome cards on the windshields of the guests’ cars. They giggle together when they see the looks as families find the special surprise. Kendall, Sheridan, and Lucy started serving when their parents signed up for the Start Here team. What began as a tag-along quickly turned into the best Sundays with the whole family serving together, greeting those who have never been to HP Pres before. “They will run visiting kids to their classes and show people where to get snacks,” their mom, Andrea King, describes. She admits that she didn’t plan for the girls to be involved, but they jumped right in on their own! This opportunity has shown each of the Kings the importance of serving. It has brought the family together in a way they didn’t expect. We are so excited to see families serving and leading together to help guests feel at home! Our church is blessed with a robust variety of gifts and callings. ■
THE KING FAMILY
WHAT STARTED AS A TAG-ALONG QUICKLY TURNED INTO THE BEST SUNDAYS WITH THE WHOLE FAMILY SERVING TOGETHER.”
ANGEL FOOD MINISTRY OLD CHURCH “This is Old Church,” the Angel Food Ministry laughs. Since the early years of Highland Park Pres, deacons have aimed to serve the physical needs of the church community. As we’ve grown in various ways, the Angel Food Ministry continues to be a pillar by providing meals for the congregants in times of celebration, recovery, or mourning. Nearly 100 homemade meals have been prepared, prayed over, and delivered in the past year in hope that recipients would feel the love of Christ and care of the church. Through assembling and praying for gift bags, the ladies describe their weekly gatherings as “a ministry within a ministry.” Together, they have learned to love, laugh, and encourage one another as they become the hands and feet of Jesus to the HP Pres community.
TOGETHER, THEY HAVE LEARNED TO LOVE, LAUGH, AND ENCOURAGE ONE ANOTHER AS THEY BECOME THE HANDS AND FEET OF JESUS TO THE HP PRES COMMUNITY.”
Marilyn McBride was so thankful after she received a delicious meal and sweet note of encouragement from the Angel Food Ministry. Expressing her gratitude, she writes: “Thank you so much for the time and service for others in such a worthwhile and loving ministry. My thoughts and prayers are that the Angel Food Ministry may continue to bless those in need.” ■
NE T STEPS
SIGN UP TO SERVE IN OUR CHURCH AT
HPPRES.ORG/SERVE-CHURCH
SERVE THE CITY MISSION PARTNERS
7
1. ADVOCATES FOR COMMUNITY TRANSFORMATION 2. AUSTIN STREET CENTER
635
3. BODY & SOUL 8
4. BONTON FARMS
75
5. DALLAS LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION
12
11 30
3
6. DUNBAR ELEMENTARY
2 45
7. FOR THE NATIONS REFUGEE OUTREACH
4
8. INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP PROGRAM AT SMU
MILL CITY PARTNERS 5
9. MILL CITY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
30
1
75
6
9
10
10. MILL CITY TEACHING FARM 11. RECONCILIATION OUTREACH
NEW HOPE IN A NEW LAND Hamid and Maryam walked off the plane anxiously. They held their four children, ages two to seven, tightly as they tried to trust that a safer life was ahead. Everything familiar was stripped away in search of a fresh start. As an engineer from Afghanistan, Hamid spoke English as well as five other languages while the rest of his family struggled to understand the new culture and tongue of America. He was apprehensive about whether opportunities would be available for him to provide for his family. Fortunately, HP Pres volunteers had gathered together in prayer and preparation as soon as they heard news of this family. The welcome team greeted them warmly at the airport and then brought them to a prepared two-bedroom apartment filled with furniture and food. Swift enrollment in educational and acculturation services made their difficult transition a little bit easier with support and tools to succeed. Hamid is now employed and his children are attending school. As much as For the Nations has blessed Hamid and Maryam’s family, the volunteer team has been immensely blessed as they learn about the challenges of navigating life in a new country away from family and friends. HP Pres partners with For the Nations Refugee Outreach to provide services like these. Our welcome teams prepare homes for DFW refugee families and help them acclimate to their new lives in the US. ■
THE WELCOME TEAM GREETED THEM WARMLY AT THE AIRPORT AND THEN BROUGHT THEM TO A PREPARED TWOBEDROOM APARTMENT FILLED WITH FURNITURE AND FOOD.”
BODY & SOUL FEED THE BODY FEED THE SOUL The line starts forming early Saturday morning at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church in downtown Dallas. Hungry men and women patiently wait for the basement door to open as they anticipate the hearty, hot breakfast that will be served up inside. For the past 20 years, volunteers from HP Pres have come not just to prepare a meal for many of the homeless people in our city, but to try to satisfy a hunger of the heart by sharing the Gospel too. Part of the Body & Soul team warmly greets people while others are busy cooking in the kitchen. Many visitors are already settled in their seats for the pre-breakfast Bible study. After music and a time of devotion and prayer, guests are served breakfast and then given essential toiletries and reading glasses. Billye Shafer, a longtime team member, notes that a number of Bible study attendees have enjoyed giving back by becoming part of the volunteer clean up crew. The homeless in our community are often forgotten but Body & Soul volunteers live by Jesus’ words in Matthew 25: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” ■
TRULY I TELL YOU, WHATEVER YOU DID FOR ONE OF THE LEAST OF THESE BROTHERS AND SISTERS OF MINE, YOU DID FOR ME.” MATTHEW 25:40
HOW ARE WE SERVING THE CITY OF DALLAS?
3,389 HOURS SERVED IN DALLAS.
5,400 MEALS SERVED TO THE HOMELESS.
25
KIDS WHO DRAMATICALLY IMPROVED THEIR READING SKILLS IN OUR READING BUDDIES PROGRAM.
14
CRIME-RIDDEN PROPERTIES SHUT DOWN BY ACT.
NE T STEPS
SEE THE IMPACT OF YOUR GIFTS AT
HPPRES.ORG/SERVE-CITY
SERVE BEYOND MISSIONARIES 3
9 5
1
2, 8, 14, 15
12
6 4
16
1. TERI & ANDREW ADAIR
10
11
13 7 17
United States
2. JUDY BECKER Dallas, Texas
3. JOEY & HEEA CHANG Alaska
4. SONIA & STEVE DETTWEILER Africa
5. CAROL DOUGLAS Kansas
6. MARY JANE FANDRICH Lebanon
7. FAITH & GREG HURST Bolivia
8. LORI & K.J. KENFIELD
Dallas, Texas
16. MARTHA & DON 9. CARLTON AND WEHMEYER DOTTIE MEREDITH Brussels, Belgium
10. NANCY Europe
11. LAURA & CRAIG MURRAY Latin America
12. DZIU & GARRICK ROEGNER
Yucatan, Mexico
17. JAVIER & ROXANA ZUBIETAS Bolivia
Missionaries that cannot be identified by last name or where they serve:
BEN & LINDA CRISTAL & MIKE ELIZABETH & WILL 13. ANDY SMITH Philippines ELLEN KURT & DOLORES 14. HALLIE LAURIE & KEVIN TOWNSEND Fort Worth, Texas MICHELLE & KEVIN 15. MATTHEW “TROG” PAM & DAVID PEGGY & DANIEL TROGDEN WENDY & RICHARD Dallas, Texas Spain
SPAIN MISSION TRIP 2018 JESUS IS THE WAY Taking time away from the busyness of everyday life, a group from HP Pres traveled to a small village in Spain where pilgrims of the Camino de Santiago rest from their soul-searching journey. They invite voyagers in to have a hot meal in the midst of the 500-mile long trek. One night a couple of Frenchmen stumbled into the dinner a few minutes late—Valerie and Kent Krause took note of these men, but assumed that they missed the opportunity to have a valuable conversation with them. To their surprise, these men dove into deep discussion immediately. One of the men spoke only French—this was his fourth time walking the Camino de Santiago looking for fulfillment, for an answer to a question he couldn’t quite articulate. His friend was a bit younger and spoke some English, so he acted as a translator throughout the conversation. After speaking for a while, the Krauses realized these men had very little understanding of who Jesus is. They shared with their new friends John 14:6, which describes Jesus as the way, the truth, and the life. The younger man struggled to translate this to his companion—the three English speakers looked for a Bible but could only find ones in English and Spanish.
THIS WAS HIS FOURTH TIME WALKING THE CAMINO LOOKING FOR AN ANSWER TO A QUESTION HE COULDN’T QUITE ARTICULATE.”
ers from around the world remark on the comforting ambiance. Voyagers on the Camino de Santiago are searching, and this hospitable service opens opportunities for hurting souls to There is something peaceful and joyous in the atmosphere hear the healing Gospel of of the little town where the HP Pres team serves—walk- Jesus. ■ Something then clicked in the translator’s mind. He shuffled through his backpack until he pulled out a small, paperback French Bible he had never opened. Kent and Valerie were amazed at the Holy Spirit’s work to bring the Word to these Frenchmen and were humbled to be a part of this incredible conversation.
250
ADULTS AND STUDENTS ON MISSION TRIPS.
$70K+ RAISED FOR INTERNATIONAL JUSTICE MISSION.
28
MISSIONARIES IN 15 DIFFERENT COUNTRIES WORLDWIDE.
$25K
HIGHLAND STUDENTS Jamaica 2018
THE POWER OF HOPE In the summer of 2018, a group of our Highland Students traveled to Jamaica to help with home construction. During their time there, they visited an infirmary—a place that held the ill outcasts of the parish. Many of the students were apprehensive about this visit, but their anxieties were immediately put to rest when the patients greeted them with wide smiles and vulnerability as many patients shared their life stories. Blake Hudspeth talked with a man named George, a taxi driver who was shot in the leg. This injury took him out of work, but gave him time to think about his faith. Before the accident, George admitted he was distracted from God. Between work, friends, and just being busy, there was little time to invest in a relationship with Jesus. It wasn’t until he was struck by tragedy that he was able to dwell on the importance of knowing the One who saved his soul.
GIVEN TO DOMESTIC AND INT’L CRISES. This story left a huge impact on Blake as he saw God’s
500
KIDS RECEIVED EDUCATION THROUGH OUR PARTNERSHIPS IN HAITI AND KENYA.
grace amid the pain George went through. They formed a relationship, sharing some of their favorite pieces of Scripture. Every verse and story that was shared between them seemed to always reflect one theme: hope. Each student brought home a widened perspective of the Kingdom of God. They were challenged to serve those around them and share the good news of hope wherever they were. We are so thankful for a God who constantly points his children to a greater hope in him! As these students continue to grow in relationship with God, we pray that he opens their eyes to opportunities to serve and share what he has done. ■
KAKE, AK POP. 557
GO AND MAKE DISCIPLES Kake, Alaska is a small town with no restaurants or grocery stores, only accessible by ferry or small plane. With a population of less than 600 people, Kake is extremely isolated. Upwards of 70 percent of the town is of Tlingit heritage, largely surviving through hunting, fishing, and gathering plants and berries. While rich in culture, the community suffers with extreme economic hardship.
CHANG FAMILY
WHILE RICH IN CULTURE, THE COMMUNITY SUFFERS WITH EXTREME ECONOMIC HARDSHIP.”
NE T STEPS
When South Korean pastor Joey Chang and his wife, Heea, heard about Kake, Alaska, they felt God calling them to surrender their life to minister to this town and pastor Kake Memorial Pres. But with few resources, the church was unable to provide the pastor’s salary or funds for church programs. Joey found income doing maintenance at a local school and through building relationships outside of Kake for financial support. Kake Memorial Pres currently has an active outreach program for children and students, the elderly, and those struggling with addictions. Separately, God had placed the indigenous people of Alaska on the hearts and minds of David and Kyle Hunt, HP Pres Covenant Partners. Our Missions Staff met Joey at the National ECO Conference and learned about his ongoing work taking place in Kake. Upon returning from the ECO Conference the Mission Team was approached by the Hunts: with their hearts focused on Alaska and with clear evidence of God’s guidance, a partnership was formed. HP Pres is excited to welcome Kake Memorial Pres into our family of churches and support the Changs financially and spiritually. A team from HP Pres is taking the opportunity to bring the light of Christ to Kake by running a Vacation Bible School for the children of the island and spending evenings engaging in fun activities with the young adults. ■
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CHURCH LIFE
BECKY & RICH PATERIK Re|Engage
TRANSFORMATIVE LOVE As Becky and Rich Paterik waved their youngest son off to college, they looked around at their empty nest and thought, “What do we do now?” Involved in the church in their own individual ways, they realized that there was scarcely anything they did together, so they decided to register for Re|Engage, a course for couples to examine God’s design for marriage and apply biblical principles to grow in their relationship with each other. The 16-week experience proved to be worthwhile so much so, they signed up to be leaders so they could go through the course yet again! With the biblical and practical study questions, rich teachings, and multi-generational group discussions, Becky and Rich found that their marriage had grown immensely through learning and leading as a couple. Their perspectives shifted as they realized how much God was for their marriage. “We’re not alone,” Becky described. “God loves you and wants the best for you and your spouse.”
IN MEETING OTHER COUPLES, THE PATERIKS GREW IN GREATER LOVE FOR GOD, EACH OTHER, AND THEIR COMMUNITY.” In meeting other couples, the Pateriks grew in greater love for God, each other, and their community as they dedicated time to pray for other couples daily. “Healthy marriages make for a healthy church,” Rich said, emphasizing that the two areas of life are not distinct from one another. It is through Re|Engage that Becky and Rich have experienced and witnessed God transform marriages in the power of his love. ■
SUSANNA OGDEN Elder
SERVANT LEADERSHIP Ever since Susanna Ogden was in third grade, her parents served in leadership roles at HP Pres. For many years they were involved in various ministries, and she quickly learned by their example. Her father served as an elder, and to Susanna at the time, this meant he wore a dark suit, served communion, sat in the front row with the other older men, and went to a lot of meetings. When woman elders started to be elected, it was a welcome change to the Session as women were invited to be a part to be a part of the leadership team.
WE EACH COME TOGETHER WITH OUR OWN EXPERIENCES AND STRENGTHS TO FOLLOW GOD’S LEADING FOR THIS BODY AND SPEAK AS ONE VOICE.”
ple. More than anything, she says that being an elder has been stretching for her spiritual life and humbling as she’s had the privilege to Our church is governed by the Session, twenty-four men serve our church in its vision and women who are elected by the congregation to proto grow God’s kingdom. vide spiritual and visionary oversight of our ministries and mission. When Susanna was first elected two years ago, Her involvement in the handshe was pleasantly surprised that the six-week elder train- bell choir, Women's Ministry, ing was centered around servant leadership and humility and Sunday classes allows rather than administration and authority. The course deep- her to enjoy interacting with ened her love for Jesus as she saw how he led through lots of members outside of the leadership team. She’s service. excited for all God has in “I expected more sitting around a table making manageristore for HP Pres and cannot al-type decisions,” Susanna describes. “It’s been so much wait to see members grow more creative and reflective than I’d imagined. We each in their relationship with him come together with our own experiences and strengths to along the way. follow God’s leading for this body and speak as one voice.” Seeing each individual contribute themselves has been a Find a complete list of our elgift to her, showing her how God works among his peo- ders at hppres.org/elders. ■
STANDING IN THE GAP God always had a plan for Cyprian Guchienda’s life, a plan that was different than what he could have ever hoped or imagined. From serving as a youth Sunday school teacher in Kenya, to being asked to plant a church 100 miles from his hometown, Cyprian was consistently astonished by the doors God continued to open for the advancement of the Gospel. As pastor of a new church plant, he decided to attend seminary in the United States, leaving behind his wife, kids, and community for an environment completely foreign to him. Cyprian ventured off to Dallas, where he would study at SMU. Despite this difficult and scary transition, he knew this was where God was calling him. Cyprian was far from all that was familiar, but he quickly found a home at Highland Park Pres. The community made him feel like he wasn’t alone, despite being the only African in the congregation. One day, former Senior Pastor, Ron Scates shared with Cyprian a dream that God had placed on his heart. Aware of the struggles of moving to a foreign and distant land, Ron hoped to create a space where people from different countries could be loved, have a place to call home, and encourage one another in a new, sometimes
GOD HAS USED CYPRIAN TO REMOVE BARRIERS AND REMIND EVERYONE THAT THE GOOD NEWS OF THE GOSPEL IS FOR PEOPLE OF ALL NATIONS.
overwhelming environment. Cyprian loved hearing about Through Cyprian’s obedithis and was honored they were seeking his wisdom. ence and faithfulness, All What he didn’t expect was to be asked to take the lead Nations has enabled the on this bold mission. Letting go of his plans to move back love of Christ to bring toto Kenya, Cyprian said yes to the All Nations dream and gether people of different tribes and tongues to celmoved his family to Dallas to plant new roots. ebrate and praise the one This aspiration was about more than having a safe haven who saves. We thank Cyprifor new residents of Dallas—it was about investing in the an and his wife, Hellen, for city by breaking down ethnic and cultural barriers. The All the past 20 years of commitNations gatherings started out small—only six people at- ment to this eternity-building tended that first Sunday. But over five years, they have out- dream and for reflecting the grown three rooms, eventually reaching over 200 African heart of Jesus who broke immigrants joining together for worship and community. down barriers for the sake Since saying yes to the vision of All Nations, Cyprian has of love. ■ had a huge impact not only on our church family, but on the nationwide Presbyterian community as well. God has used Cyprian to remove barriers and remind everyone that the good news of the Gospel is for people of all nations. Currently twelve African countries are represented in our All Nations congregation: twelve different cultures, twelve distinct tribes, twelve separate nations united, breaking down barriers under the banner of God’s love.
JED & JEN MELSON Marriage Prep
THE MEANING OF MARRIAGE About two years ago elder Jed Melson and his wife, Jen, started thinking and praying about how they could be mentors to newlyweds at HP Pres. In the early years of their marriage, they had always wanted someone to look to for mentorship, a couple a step ahead to guide them as they waded their way through the triumphs and hardships of this new stage in life. Now, 11 years into marriage, they are challenged to walk with younger couples who are working through life experiences have already navigated. The Melsons had hosted a table group at Marriage Prep, the six-week premarital class at HP Pres. After seeing its impact, they decided to actively invest in the relationships formed along the way. “We offered a year-long follow-up small group to meet weekly in our home and had six couples sign up to join us,” Jen describes. “It has been incredibly rewarding for Jed and me to mentor these young couples. We remember the stage of life, and we’re so grateful for the ways they are stretching and growing us through their questions and desire to impact the kingdom with their new marriages.”
WE’VE SEEN THAT THE CHALLENGES WE’VE FACED AREN’T UNIQUE TO US, AND WE’RE BEING PREPARED TO FACE NEW ONES THAT COME ALONG.”
Married just months ago, Holly and Caleb Hardy have found rich community and solace through this group. “It has made a huge impact to start off our married life hearing what Jen and Jed have learned over the years about living out the Gospel in their marriage and spending time with other couples who are trying to do the same thing,” Holly says. “We’ve seen that the challenges we’ve faced aren’t unique to us, and we’re being prepared to face new ones Gospel message all the that come along.” more, guiding each individGod’s design for marriage is beautiful, sacrificial, difficult, ual and couple to greater and filled with joy. Studying what the Bible describes and awe of God’s unconditional instructs in the context of marriage has only affirmed the love. ■
WE SERVE OUR CHURCH, THE CITY OF DALLAS, AND THE ENTIRE WORLD. Our fiscal year end is August 31. Please help us strongly launch into future ministry both locally and globally. GIVE ONLINE AT HPPRES.ORG/GIVE LEAVE AN ENVELOPE AT THE INFORMATION DESK USE ENVELOPES IN THE PEWS