Katy Christian Magazine | December 2013 / January 2014

Inside this Issue: Katy Christian Magazine’s 2014 Christian School Directory

Faithfully Serving West Houston and Katy

K AT Y

Fa m i l y Fr i e n d l y Ne w s w i t h a n E t e r n a l Pu r p o s e December 2013 / January 2014 • Complimentary

Recommended Reading: The Night the Animals Talked

A Christmas Chat with Rick Santorum Pastor Profile: Pastor Phillip Clements

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Letter From The Publisher

K AT Y Volume X, Issue 1 4

Letter From The Publisher & Editor

7

Aristoi Classical Academy

11

Pastor Profile: Pastor Phillip Clements

12

A Christmas Chat with Rick Santorum

16

Dear Doctor: Polypharmacy in Elderly

19

A Katy Family in Law Enforcement

23

Paul Harvey’s If I Were the Devil

31

Meet Daniel Ferguson, Director of Jerusalem

34

Recommended Reading: The Night the Animals Talked

37

A Chat with Food Network’s Melissa D’Arabian

41

Local Christian Student Highlights

43

The Buzz About Katy

47

Calendar of Events

48

Do You See What I See?

55

Scrapbooks as “Tools 4 Life”

58

2014 Christian School Directory

65

Indonesia is Calling

Our Mission Statement:

“Our mission is to have a magazine devoted to His glory, provide cutting-edge stories important to today’s Christian, promote Christian-Judeo values we find important, and editorial content that your entire family can enjoy.”

President/Publisher Joseph Menslage joseph@katychristianmagazine.com Editor Melanie Saxton melanie@katychristianmagazine.com

For advertising information, contact Joseph Menslage at (281) 741-8317 or email joseph@katychristianmagazine.com

© 2013 KATY CHRISTIAN MAGAZINE. All rights reserved. No part of this publication or website may be distributed or reproduced without prior written consent of the publisher. Advertisements and or editorial content published in Katy Christian Magazine does not necessarily reflect the views of Katy Christian Magazine.

To SUBSCRIBE: send a check or money order for 30.00 for a 12-month subscription to Katy Christian Magazine, 650 West Bough, Suite 150-170, Houston, TX 77024. For EDITORIAL or calendar submissions, please mail them to Katy Christian Magazine, 650 West Bough, Suite 150170, Houston, TX 77024.

Merry Christmas! What a blessed season this is as we celebrate the miracle of Christ’s birth. May the meaning of mankind’s greatest gift remain with us throughout 2014.

Congratulations to the Brawner family and their tradition of law enforcement in our area. Sergeant Brian Brawner was recently honored and awarded his commencement pin by his father, Chuck Brawner. Read all about it!

In this issue we feature our school directory, filled with the best parochial and charter schools our community has to offer. We interviewed Aristoi Classical Academy about their campus and curriculum. You’ll find some of their students on our cover.

We are happy to debut our social column courtesy of SuburbanBuzz, filled with people of faith who are doing exciting things in the community. Enjoy the buzz about Katy — and be sure to submit your community photos and captions to editor@katychristianmagazine.com for consideration.

Blessings to our readers and Christian advertisers, who are so appreciated in our community.

May You Be Richly Blessed, Joseph R. Menslage President/Publisher Katy Christian Magazine www.KatyChristianMagazine.com joseph@katychristianmagazine.com | (281) 741-8317

Letter From The Editor Happy 2014! We hope you enjoy our Christmas chat with former Senator Rick Santorum, who now heads EchoLight Studios and produces family-valued films. The Christmas Candle drew Katyites to the local Cinemark, and we interviewed him about the faith-based film starring singing sensation Susan Boyle and other notable actors. Read all about it!

Want to attend a big screen experience over the school break? Jerusalem is airing at the Museum of Natural Science and takes audiences on an inspiring and eye-opening tour of one of the world’s oldest and most beloved cities. Enjoy our interview with director Daniel Ferguson.

With holiday meals on the horizon, perhaps you have a few picky eaters to please. Our interview with Melissa D’Arabian of The Food Network covers “family, food and faith” — and ways to help children become more adventurous eaters during the holidays.

Enjoy this and so much more as we celebrate Christmas and a brand new year. May God bless us all as we strive to be all we are called to be in 2014 — not perfect by any means, but saved through His grace.

Melanie Saxton Editor Katy Christian Magazine www.KatyChristianMagazine.com melanie@katychristianmagazine.com

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650 West Bough, Suite 150-170, Houston, TX 77024.

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December 2013 / January 2014

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Aristoi Classical Academy

By Ann Baker

Nestled in the heart of Katy is a charter school unlike any other. Our cover shows some of the happy students at Artistoi Classical Academy, which will hold its Community Open House on Saturday, January 25 from 12:00 – 2:00 P.M. The campus invites you to attend and welcomes you to experience a sample of what a Classical Education will offer

your child!

Open enrollment begins Monday, March 3 – Monday, April 7, and there is plenty of exciting news about campus growth. If you are curious about alternatives to traditional public school instruction, read ahead! Aristoi provides rigorous academics in an environment that nurtures strong and virtuous character, emphasizes responsible citizenship, and develops a love of learning.

About the Campus

As an open campus, Aristoi welcomes students from the Katy area, Houston and surrounding communities. The student to teacher ratio capacity is 22:1 for grades K-5 and 25:1 for grades 6-8.

Charter schools offer a free, quality, non-traditional, public education option intended to improve student learning, increase the choice of learning opportunities within the public school system, create professional opportunities that will attract new teachers to the public school system, establish a new form of accountability, and encourage

different and innovative learning methods.

Aristoi’s charter allows them to offer a Classical Education, where students are not merely taught “subjects;” rather, they are invited to pursue a broad range of intellectual interests and learn the art of thinking and discernment. A Classical educational model taught in a modern context equips young minds for their future.

Rich history and timeless classical literature are taught in all grades, and Latin is taught from grades 4-8.

About the Curriculum

The curriculum is rigorous but rewarding. ACA students are encouraged to “discover for themselves” throughout all stages of clas-

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Lego Robotics, Chess Club, Chorus, JH Theatre, Private Schools Interscholastic Association academic competition, JH Girls Volleyball, Flag Football, and JH Girls and Boys Basketball. This year, in its second year, their Flag Football team finished 2nd in the East Texas Charter School Academic Athletic League.

sical education, and student discipline is based on Love and Logic.

Classical Education is based on a centuries-old approach known as the Trivium, consisting of 3 stages: 1.) Grammar Stage (grades K-4) — students absorb facts that lay the foundation for advanced study. 2.) Logic Stage (grades 5-8) — encourages students to think deeply, reason carefully, and argue logically to understand and explain cause and effect. 3.) Rhetoric Stage (grades 9-12) — allows students to apply the rules of logic to their factual foundation in order to articulate eloquently their own conclusions, both verbally and in writing.

Extracurriculars

Among the extracurricular activities offered at ACA are: National Elementary Honor Society, National Junior Honor Society,

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Aristoi is Growing!

Currently, Aristoi consists of 440 students grades K-8, but they are growing! The Texas Education Agency has recently granted them permission to instruct 9th graders, which means they are planning now for that new growth.

The campus is located at 5618 Eleventh Street, Katy, TX 77493.

Call 281-391-5003 and please visit their website at www.aristoiclassical.org to find parent resources, view the faculty, staff and board, and see the benefits of a Classical education.

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Pastor Profile: Pastor Phillip Clements

By Ann Baker

officially began serving the Trinity Apostolic Faith congregation in February 2013.

Located in the heart of old town Katy is a special church that has been in the community for over 100 years.

“We are a traditional congregation with deep historic spiritual roots,” says Pastor Clements, who leads Trinity Apostolic Faith Church. “We teach a doctrine that prepares our congregation for the journey through life into the balconies of heaven.”

Trinity Apostolic Faith Church As a conservative Pentecostal church, the primary purpose is to share Christ and to welcome worshippers. This gathering of believers stands for Christian principles without compromise. “You won’t find us following the latest trend or spiritual fad,” says Pastor Clements. “We sing out of songbooks and have traditional Pentecostal services much like our forefathers did 80 years ago.”

About Pastor Phillip Clements

Pastor Clements has been married to co-pastor Jill Clements for 48 years. He was credentialed in 1974 by the Assemblies of God and served in Oklahoma. He and his wife have a son in Tulsa and a daughter in Katy, and a total of six wonderful grandchildren.

While visiting their daughter last year, Pastor Clements heard that Trinity Apostolic Faith Church was looking for a pastor. “We felt like it was big blessing, and that God was leading us,” he says.

Not only would he answer the call, but now could spend time with his grandchildren in Katy. He and Mrs. Clements relocated and

The Community is Welcomed!

On the morning of December 22, the community is cordially invited to the church’s Christmas program. That same evening, the Mathis Trio will sing in concert. Pastor Clements will share the message of Christmas during services and welcomes all to participate.

Connect

Are you searching for a family-friendly church home? Trinity Apostolic Faith Church is located at 5900 Tenth Street in Katy. The church phone number is 281-391-3310. Visit online at http://katytafc.com.

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A Christmas Chat with Rick Santorum

By Melanie Saxton

Rick Santorum may be best known as a former U.S. senator and presidential contender, but he’s also involved in faith initiatives. In June 2013 he announced his new venture as CEO of EchoLight Studios to make familyvalued movies.

He visited Lakewood Church on November 17 to promote the The Christmas Candle, a major motion picture based on best-selling author Max Lucado’s same-titled book. The full-length feature film debuted at the Katy Cinemark on November 22. It also played at 19 theaters around the Houston area and 400 theaters nationwide.

Susan Boyle, who stars in the movie, is famous for her perfect rendition of “I Dreamed A Dream” on Britain’s Got Talent. She also visited (and sang) at Lakewood Church, to the delight of throngs of fans.

“This major motion picture marks a milestone at the studio,” says Santorum of the film project, which was 10 years in the making.

Even in the preliminary stages of film production, Santorum recognized that the plot and quality of acting made the movie something very different and very special.

Although it debuted against competing films such as The Hunger Games, he believes it fills a special need for family audiences. “This

film hearkens back to the heartwarming and uplifting movies of yesteryear. The story inspires renewed hope in the miracle of Christmas and illustrates that this holiday is not just about reindeer and receiving gifts,” he says. The mission of The Christmas Candle is to remind audiences of the spirit and sense of wonder of the season – something that is often lost as Christmas becomes commercialized.

A Notable Cast

Susan Boyle plays the character of Eleanor Hopewell and sings the anthem for the film, “Miracle Hymn.” The cast is filled with highly recognizable talent who bring the story to life.

Also starring: Hans Matheson (Clash of the Titans, Sherlock Holmes), Samantha Barks (Les Miserables), Lesley Manville (Disney’s A Christmas Carol), and Sylvester McCoy (The Hobbit Trilogy, Doctor Who), John Hannah (The Mummy, Four Weddings and a Funeral), Barbara Flynn (Miss Potter) and James Cosmo (Game of Thrones, Braveheart).

A Reminder of God’s Bountiful Love

“Surprisingly, a Christmas movie releasing for the holidays is a unique event, as there have been very few in recent years,” says Santorum, noting that The Christmas Candle will remain in theaters as long as it draws viewers. Shot in Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and in the Isle of Man, the setting takes viewers back to a fictional 19th-

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Wishing You and Your Family a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6-7, NIV

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century village of Gladbury, deep in the heart of the English countryside. Legend has it every 25 years an angel visits the village candlemaker and touches a single candle. Whoever lights this candle receives a miracle on Christmas Eve.

But in 1890 at the dawn of the electric age, a progressive young minister arrives in Gladbury and begins to modernize the village.

The miraculous and human collide when the candle goes missing in this timeless Christmas tale.

Commentary from Max Lucado

The Christmas Candle includes quotes from Jesus and the Gospels, and is an alternative to violent movies during this season of peace and joy. Max Lucado, himself, says of the novel and film, “This tale has lifted spirits for seven Christmases, and now, thanks to producer Tom Newman and EchoLight Studios, the Candle story will touch a whole new generation... I couldn’t be more pleased. What an honor to be a part of capturing a slice of this golden era of British history...the light of the candle still flickers.”

Family and Faith

Santorum and his wife Karen are devout Catholics and have raised their six children in the faith: Elizabeth, John, Isabella, Sarah, Gabriel and Daniel. We thank him for his service to the nation, his focus on family-friendly films, and for taking time out of his busy schedule to discuss the The Christmas Candle.

Learn more about The Christmas Candle movie at www.thechristmascandlemovie.com. Visit EchoLight Studios at http://echolight.com.

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Dear Doctor: Polypharmacy in Elderly and Aspirin—are available over the counter. These medications can contribute significantly to drug reactions in the elderly if used for a long period of time without medical supervision.

Generally, the more drugs a person takes, the greater the risk of adverse reactions and drug interactions.

By Dr. Moiz Ahmed

Geriatric patients seek answers to a common question: Dear Doctor: How can I get rid of my medication? Do I really need all of these medications? For answers, read below.

What is Poly-pharmacy?

The use of multiple medications is often referred to as polypharmacy. Another definition is the use of one medication to correct the adverse effect of another medication, totaling up to greater than 5-6 medications.

Elderly people require specific attentions to all their medications because they may have multiple medical disorders. In addition, special attention to patient’s medication list is important if they also take over the counter medications and herbal supplements. In some cases, medications may be prescribed by specialists without reviewing other medications used by the elder patient. Drugs are excreted mostly by the kidneys or the liver, which in an elderly patient, one or both of these organs may be impaired due to aging. Thus, side effects of the medication can be different depending on age, kidney and liver function. As a result, the medication dose may need adjustment to avoid toxicity.

Common Drugs

Most common drugs used—Tylenol, Advil, Motrin, Benadryl

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Polypharmacy is Preventable

As a geriatric physician, I always recommend patients to talk to their doctor about any medications they are taking including herbal supplements or any over the counter medications.

Patients should always read the instructions on the medicine bottle and verify with the nurse or doctor if they are not sure how to take the medication. Try to be aware of the medical issues you have. Learn what and why medications are prescribed to you. Always keep in writing of your entire past medical history, allergies, and medication list.

Dr. Moiz Ahmed is a Geriatric and Family Medicine Physician for the UT Health Science Center at Houston and provides patient care at UT Physicians at Cinco Ranch located at 23923 Cinco Ranch Blvd. in Katy. To schedule an appointment, please call 713-486-5300.

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One Practice Per Week. Visit FFPS.org for more practice information.

Games:

All 8 Games on Saturday are played in Katy at Bush Park located on Westheimer Parkway and Fry road. FFPS has 22 locations in the Houston area. To locate a league near you go to www.FFPS.org

History: • Founded in Katy with 150 players in 1986.

• FFPS has grown to 22 locations and 15,000 players all over Houston!!!

Spring: End of March to Early June Fall: End of September to Early December

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Testimonials: “This is what we have been looking for in team sports. Good positive people who care about kids, not scores.”

Cas Frost, Clear Lake “FFPS lives up to its name. FFPS has the right philosophy.”

Phil Bradshaw, The Woodlands “This was my son’s first season and he is deaf. FFPS not only taught him soccer, but accepted him for who he is.”

Tiffany Quick, Cy-Fair

For more info or to register go to www.FFPS.org or call 800.828.7529 (PLAY) December 2013 / January 2014

For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com • 17

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December 2013 / January 2014

A Katy Family in Law Enforcement

By Ann Baker

You may know Chuck Brawner as our City Councilman (who invited the Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott to visit Katy in July), but also as chief of the Spring Branch ISD police department where he has served for 18 years and counting. He and his wife Marcy moved to Old Town Katy in 2001 with their three nowgrown children, Paige Yates, Brian Brawner and Kendall Willis.

It is their son, Sargeant Brian Brawner, who has followed in the professional footsteps of his father. He received his promotion badge at the Harris County Sheriff ’s Office Promotion Ceremony on August 16, where his father not only witnessed the occasion, but proudly and personally pinned on his son’s badge.

Boots on the Ground

Interestingly, Brian is a 2004 graduate of the Harris Country Sheriff ’s Office Academy, where his father graduated in 1971.

Sheriff Adrian Garcia, who oversees 4,000 employees committed to the safety of the nearly four million Harris County residents, spoke of the longtime friendship between himself and the Chief, and the pride he feels in being a part of this family legacy.

Brian initially served in the Marine Corp and has been sta-

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December 2013 / January 2014

For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com • 19

tioned all over the world. He served on President Bill Clinton and Collin Powell’s security detail when they went overseas. Although various government agencies tried to recruit him, he told his dad, “All I want to do is come back to Katy and enter law enforcement.” He is a SWAT team member and has a lead role (he calls it “boots on the ground”) at TranStar, the agency overseeing emergency and transportation management for the greater Houston area.

These duties involve critical instances that evolve on the roadways. For instance, Brian responds to hazardous materials spills and interfaces with Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).

Serving the Katy Community

The Brawner tradition in law enforcement is especially meaningful (and local), as Brian, his wife

Candace, and their young two sons reside in Katy. Both Brian and Candace are Katy High School graduates. Candace is the Director of Advancement at Pope John XXIII High School and has also worked as a Katy ISD teacher and Lone Star College instructor.

She organizes and leads student trips to Europe through EF Tours and looks forward to visiting Rome this summer. Candace is also on the Katy Heritage committee, the Katy Chamber Women’s Leadership Steering Committee, and is a volunteer with the Katy Contemporary Arts Museum. Inspired by her father-in-law’s political service, she is contemplating aspirations in local government “in the far-distant future.”

Congratulations to Sargeant Brawner and all his family, and may God richly bless him as he continues to serve the community.

Serving Infants-12 years old Serving Katy for 20+ years Providing before and after school care to Faith West Academy and West Houston Charter School in addition to these KISD elementary schools: Katy • Hutsell • King • Wood Creek • Winborn 5315 E. 5th St. • Katy, Texas 77493 281.391.8750 • www.TigerLandPreschool.com 20 • For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com

December 2013 / January 2014

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For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com • 21

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December 2013 / January 2014

Paul Harvey’s If I Were the Devil

By Bill Kneer

States.

Interesting how something old becomes new again. Although beloved columnist and radio personality Paul Harvey died in 2009, his message remains. Take, for instance, the oldest circulating version of his famous piece, “If I Were the Devil.” Printed in his 1964 newspaper column, it remains valid 50 years

I would begin with a campaign of whispers.

later.

Juxtaposed against the negativity we face in America today is the great message: Jesus came to save the lost. His birth, which we celebrate this month, gives hope to a new year, and we can rest assured that the Devil will ultimately be defeated. God bless our nation and may our efforts as Christians reach the lost and struggling worldwide.

If I Were the Devil

by Paul Harvey

If I were the Prince of Darkness I would want to engulf the whole earth in darkness.

I’d have a third of its real estate and four-fifths of its population, but I would not be happy until I had seized the ripest apple on the tree.

So I should set about however necessary, to take over the United

December 2013 / January 2014

With the wisdom of a serpent, I would whispers to you as I whispered to Eve, “Do as you please.”

To the young I would whisper “The Bible is a myth.” I would convince them that “man created God,” instead of the other way around. I would confide that “what is bad is good and what is good is square.”

In the ears of the young married I would whisper that work is debasing, that cocktail parties are good for you. I would caution them not to be “extreme” in religion, in patriotism, in moral conduct.

And the old I would teach to pray — to say after me — “Our father which are in Washington.”

For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com • 23

And the symbol of Christmas a bottle.

Then I’d get organized.

I’d educate authors in how to make lurid literature exciting so that anything else would appear dull, uninteresting.

I’d threaten TV with dirtier movies, and vice-versa.

I’d infiltrate unions and urge more loafing, less work. Idle hands usually work for me.

I’d peddle narcotics to whom I could, I’d sell alcohol to ladies and gentlemen of distinction, I’d tranquilize the rest with pills.

If I were the Devil I’d take from those who have and give to those who wanted until I had killed the incentive of the ambitious. Then my police state would force everybody back to work.

Then I would separate families, putting children in uniform, women in coal mines and objectors in slave-labor camps.

If I were Satan I’d just keep doing what I’m doing and the whole world go to hell as sure as the Devil.

If I were the Devil, I would encourage schools to refine young intellects, but neglect to discipline emotions; let those run wild.

I’d designate an atheist to front for me before the highest courts and I’d get preachers to say, “She’s right.”

With flattery and promises of power I would get the courts to vote against God and in favor of pornography.

Thus I would evict God from the courthouse, then from the schoolhouse, then from the Houses of Congress.

Then in his own churches I’d substitute psychology for religion and deify science.

If I were Satan I’d make the symbol of Easter an egg

Bill Kneer is the founder of the Patriot Statesman (patriotstatesman.com), 0593 precinct chair, a member of the Harris County Republican Party Vacancy Committee, and owner of Bill Kneer Marketing and Business Development (billkneer. com). He and his family attend Woodland Trails Baptist Church. Connect with him at facebook.com/BillKneerOnline.

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December 2013 / January 2014

Travers & Travers Attorneys • MediAtors

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The attorneys and staff of Travers & Travers are Family Law Leaders offering clients a diversity of skills and utilizing an effective teamwork approach to every family matter.

Family to Family Adoptions is a licensed child-placing agency and foster care agency in the State of Texas. If you are interested in becoming a foster parent or adopting a child please contact Family to Family Adoptions.

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For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com • 25

For all your Heating and Air Conditioning Services & Installations call the experts at Blowin’ Cold A/C Serving West Houston, Katy, Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg, and surrounding areas “We take our business seriously, and place a high value on the trust that’s placed in us. Each of our customers will receive a written quote which lists the procedures and standards to be followed, exact equipment we plan to use, and warranty coverage; payment options; and a service completion date.”

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December 2013 / January 2014

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For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com • 29

Westlake Prep is a private Christian school where your child is more than just a number.

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30 • For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com

December 2013 / January 2014

Meet Daniel Ferguson, Director of Jerusalem

By Melanie Saxton

Who hasn’t dreamed of traveling to Jerusalem? For those who haven’t yet made the pilgrimage, director Daniel Ferguson brings us the next best thing—Jerusalem, an IMAX film.

“Through the unrivaled beauty, visceral nature and incredible technology of the giant screen format, you feel as if you are experiencing Jerusalem up-close and first-hand,” he says.

Christmas break is the perfect occasion to visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science, which will air the movie through the holidays and into 2014. National Geographic Cinema Ventures has distributed Jerusalem worldwide and shares Ferguson’s breathtaking aerial access to no-fly zones and exclusive entrance to iconic holy sites and little-known parts of the region—something most tourists never experience.

The film explores why the ancient city is sacred to half the people on earth. “It’s a cultural rather than a political film, but there are realities,” says Ferguson. Although the region now is relatively peaceful, up until 2005 there were suicide bombings. Ferguson and his wife relocated from Canada to Jerusalem for the project and enrolled their three year old in a Hebrew and Arabic daycare, which

made a lasting impression. “My daughter still asks if we can go to Tel Aviv for the weekend,” he says.

Ferguson says his heroes growing up were filmmakers and musicians. He enjoyed a classical education, started a filmmaking group in college, and also became a theology student. In 2010 he became a line producer for the documentary Roads to Mecca. Through that experience he became fascinated with the phenomenon of Jerusalem, a city filled with Christians, Jews and Muslims who rarely intermingle.

The Jerusalem project became a commitment to promote co-existence between the three Abrahamic faiths on an unprecedented scale.

To gain behind-the-scenes access, Ferguson earned the trust and goodwill of key political, religious, law enforcement, military and diplomatic authorities well before filming began. His on-the-ground and in-the-air perspective immerses audiences into the cultures within earth’s holiest city, as well as the three major religions that intersect within four walls. Jerusalem shares a historic snapshot spanning 5,000 years of conquest, destruction and renewal. Mixed in are ancient rituals still performed today: Easter, Passover and Ramadan.

For Christians, Jerusalem is a one-of-a-kind glimpse into a tiny area where Jesus spent his last days on earth. “It gives us an idea of what it must have been like to walk in his footsteps,” says Ferguson.

Audiences “enter” the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, identified as the place where Jesus was crucified and entombed, and viewers also

Matt Schomburg Your Good Neighbor Agent.

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32 • For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com

December 2013 / January 2014

witness the Ceremony of the Holy Fire (one of the longest running miracles in Christianity). To capture the footage, Ferguson gained permission from Greek Orthodox, Armenian Apostolic, Latin Catholic, Syrian Orthodox, Egyptian Coptic, and Ethiopian Orthodox churches, who all share custodial authority.

Throughout the film a narrator documents the city’s rich history and an archeologist unveils littleknown facts about the sites, while three teenage girls share their perspective of what it means to live as Christians, Jews and Muslims in modern day Jerusalem.

Interestingly, the girls were discovered in counter-intuitive locations. Nadia Tadros (the Christian) responded through an ad Ferguson put up on the film’s Arabic Facebook page. “She played guitar and sang her own composition for the audition. We were amazed. She had so much charisma and energy.

Her family is Greek Orthodox and

Catholic, so she could speak to both of the main Christian traditions in Jerusalem,” says Ferguson.

Ferguson found Farah Ammouri (the Muslim) at the Catholic Rosary Sister’s School when a nun walked into her class and asked all the Jerusalemite girls to raise their hands. “Many of her classmates had no idea her history in Jerusalem went so far back. Farah was 15 at the time and she seemed so mature and thoughtful.”

Revital Zacharie (the Jew) came to the group just a few weeks before filming began.

“She was interviewed at her grandparents’ home and the rapport between them was really special. You could really see a love of history passed down from generation to generation. We’re grateful to have been able to film a scene with Revital’s grandfather, who is an avid historian of Jerusalem.”

This is a must-see film for people who long to learn more about the Holy Land.

Visit www.hmns.org and click on the “Giant Screen” tab on the navigation bar to find show times. See the trailer at www.youtube. com/watch?v=tejeDb_5WWs.

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For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com • 33

Recommended Reading: The Night the Animals Talked

By Ann Baker

Interested in contemporary Christian fiction for the whole family? The Christmas book, The Night the Animals Talked by Patricia Barry Rumble, received a Silver from the Mom’s Choice Awards® (MCA) for Juvenile fiction (9-12 years old) in the Religion and Spirituality category. This heart-warming modern Christmas story is about three generations in a blended family. Featured with the book is a CD of two original Christmas songs by Rock Barry and Sammie Ammons: :The Night the Animals Talked” and “Merry Magical Christmas to You.” Synopsis

Two days before Christmas, the Martinez family has been busy getting ready for the holidays. The mother Sarah is frantically making cookies, wondering why Christmas has to be so hard and worrying about her environmentalist husband who is out in the Gulf of Mexico, doing an underwater video shoot.

Fifteen-year-old Rob Martinez is like any typical teenager. Yes, he even writes songs. And when he gets bored, he likes to tease and play jokes on his sister, seven-year-old Katie. Their dog, a big golden Labrador named Charlie, seems oblivious to everything around him

and sleeps most of the time, but when Charlie does awaken, he will make a difference!

Rob continually monitors the computer, waiting for a live video feed that their father, Jim, will be sending from his underwater video shoot in the Gulf of Mexico. Jim wants to show the importance of preserving abandoned oil rigs, to save the ecosystems of marine life -- which include endangered species, like sea turtles -that have developed around these rigs.

The family plans to put on a play on Christmas Eve their second annual production -- The Night the Animals Talked -- in their front year. The grandmother, Mammaw, who wrote the play, based it on the Norwegian legend that on the night Christ was born, the animals talked. In the midst of all this holiday fun and craziness, getting ready to practice the play, a crisis occurs in the Gulf, which could spell tragedy and a very sad Christmas for the family.

Will there be a happy ending? Can miracles really happen? And if so, will there be a miracle that relates directly to the title of the book, The Night the Animals Talked? The book can be purchased on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

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34 • For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com December 2013 / January 2014

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December 2013 / January 2014

For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com • 35

Trinity Apostolic Faith Church “A traditional church”

Hoping Christ is the center of your

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36 • For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com

December 2013 / January 2014

A Chat with Food Network’s Melissa D’Arabian

By Melanie Saxton

With Christmas meals and holiday snacks upon us, who better to interview than Melissa D’Arabian? This wife and mother of four, television host and New York Times bestselling cookbook author believes in the power of the home-cooked family meal. Her four young daughters inspired her to create The Picky Eaters Project — an online experience that provides family viewing over the Christmas break.

Family, Faith and Food

Katy Christian Magazine readers may recognize Melissa as the fifth-season winner of The Next Food Network Star and be familiar with her series and cookbook, both entitled Ten Dollar Dinners.

With the goal of nourishing both body and soul, Melissa connects closely to her Christian faith and strives to live her life with meaning and purpose. Faith, family and food are her focus in her Picky Eaters web series, which offers a highly personal glimpse into her home and kitchen.

Why The Picky Eaters Project?

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Aristoi Classical Academy is a tuition-free charter school serving grades K-8 in the heart of Katy Proper. “Aristoi” is an ancient Greek word meaning the best, noble character, and a right nature.

The name communicates our commitment to provide our students the best in academics while encouraging them to become young men and women of virtuous character. We provide the individual attention and support of a private school at no cost.

December 2013 / January 2014

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December 2013 / January 2014

Melissa may be professional cook, but nevertheless has finicky offspring. “I have my share of struggles and days when I wish parenting were easier,” she says of her house full of picky eaters. In fact, picky eating is something many parents blame on themselves. “I wanted a program — a step-by-step approach — to help my family.

So I researched and confirmed that pickiness can be quite complex.” From physiological differences in taste to lack of nutritional context and factors such as human nature, power assertions, habits, and negative associations or experiences with certain foods, many families face picky eater issues. Melissa pitched The Picky Eater concept to the Food Network with a mission to “tackle it together” — her and the viewing audience.

Filmed in her home, it offers a first-hand glance into the lives

of Melissa, her husband Phillipe, and her daughters Valentine (8), Charlotte (7), and twin girls Océane and Margaux (both 6). There’s also Roxy, their 8-year-old rescue Lab. “These are my kids, my house and our real problems,” says Melissa. “We had a video camera hovering over our dinner table all summer long.” The project debuted this fall and is an online resource available to everyone.

From Picky to Adventurous Although her husband and Labrador will eat anything, Melissa’s daughters are another story. While her eldest, Valentine, is an adventurous eater, Charlotte and the twins are inclined toward pickiness. After going through the Melissa’s program, all have improved their eating habits and are more willing to try new foods. Purposeful parenting, limiting junk food, cooking with her children, and introducing new foods not once, but dozens of times, is her key to success.

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unfamiliar dishes, which opens them up to new culinary experiences. Chances are, they’ll find something they really enjoy.

“What do I hope to accomplish?

My number one goal when it comes to food and my kids is I want them to have a healthy relationship with it. In my mind that means my kids celebrate food for its ability to nourish their bodies and for the role it plays in bringing people together, sharing lives over a meal. It means my kids growing up unafraid to try new foods, knowing that their opinions count (they are allowed to not like something!), and it means a peaceful, joyful dinner table.”

For Christmas and the Holidays

With Christmas just around the corner, families often travel and mingle with grandparents, relatives and friends. Melissa suggests an idea for challenging kids to try new foods: a taste-testing contest. Whoever samples the most new dishes, wins! The goal is to have children step outside their comfort zones and experiment with

Connect with Melissa

We thank Melissa for the interview and invite our readers to learn more at www.foodnetwork.com/picky-eaters-project/videos/index.html, www.foodnetwork.com/melissa-darabian, and www.MelissadArabian.net. Her tried-and-true techniques, budget strategies and superior resource management skills help viewers create family-friendly recipes as flavorful and elegant as they are affordable.

w Us o n K To Us! r t To... e v o L ea Is To our H Follow

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Mission Bend Christian Academy

After school academy for students with special needs through age 22.

3710 Hwy. 6, South • Houston, TX 77082

Weekdays 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Now Enrolling for Fall - Toddlers through 7th Grade

Enroll now for Summer Camp Toddlers through 2nd Grade Extended Day Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

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Our school was born out of a need to bring a higher standard and an increased expectation to our children with “special needs”. We believe each child has a capacity to learn, and it is our responsibility to find a way to tap into that child’s potential.

Located in Brighton Church

11925 SW Freeway | Stafford, Texas 77477

www.trueknight.org

40 • For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com

December 2013 / January 2014

Local Christian Student Highlights Andrew Nelson

Janine Klar

Classification: Senior Faith West Academy

Classification: Senior Faith West Academy

If you have been to a play at Faith West Academy in the last 3 years you probably have seen thespian Andrew Nelson. He has been cast in The Miracle, Red, Harvey, Seussification of Romeo and Juliet, and most notably for his lead role in A Christmas Carol Experience as Ebenezer Scrooge. He said it was never difficult to learn the lines and get into character, but admitted that Scrooge was the most challenging. “I had to speak with somewhat of a British accent with lower pitch causing me to lose my voice twice,” he said. Fortunately, he was able to regain his voice and deliver flawless performances. Audiences will be able to see Andrew in his last two performances for FWA in 2014. He will play Dr. Charles Elliot in the Texas premiere of Jam Jar Sonnets, January 17-19, and a lead role in The Miracle, April 14, 16, & 18. Actors Mel Gibson, Johnny Depp, and Benedict Cumberbatch have inspired Andrew to work in the craft and take on challenges of each character presents.

Recently Janine was selected as a 2013-2014 National Hispanic Recognition Program (NHRP) Scholar for academic achievements and her high score on the 2012 PSAT/ NMSQT/PAA. Janine was one of about 5300 Hispanic students selected from a pool of over 259,000 who took the PSAT. When asked if she was proud of receiving this award she replied; “I am honored, but what I am proud of is my brother, who has shown remarkable endurance fighting Crohn’s disease.”

Advice from this scholar to her underclassmen is to “listen in class and go over your notes (not only before a test) everyday.”

Favorite thing to do after school: Relax and do homework.

Involvement with school and/or in the community?

Member of the West Houston Venom Softball (pitcher) Team, National Honor Society, International Club (Secy), Class Secretary, and Mu Alpha Theta. Janine is a volunteer at the Katy Library where she shelves books and assists patrons in finding books.

Favorite class or subject: History from the period between the American Revolution to the Civil War, AP Government, and AP English Literature.

Favorite class or subject: Chemistry/Physics. “I like physics because it is a mixture of math and science.”

What are your ambitions after high school? “I would love to go to one of the big three military schools (U. S. Military Academy at West Point, Naval Academy in Annapolis and U. S. Air Force Academy). I like political science, (but) if Gods wants me to go into politics, I will. If He wants me to be an actor, I will. I have been given special gifts and I want to use them to glorify Him.”

What are your ambitions after high school? “I want to attend Texas A&M to become a doctor in medical psychology. I am interested in studying and mental disorders, particularly those (people), that have depression.”

Katy Christian Magazine will be highlighting local Christian students each issue and we need your help! We’re currently accepting nominations for outstanding elementary, middle school, and high school students to be featured in Katy Christian Magazine. To nominate yourself or someone else, please send an email to joseph@houstonchristianmagazine.com with a short bio and photo. The students bio should include their name, school, grade, church, and life goals. If applicable, please include information about sports, hobbies, and activities as well.

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December 2013 / January 2014

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December 2013 / January 2014

The Buzz About Katy Our December/January Social Column is brought to you by SuburbanBuzz, a website development and online marketing company. Contact them at info@suburbanbuzz.com or call 281-615-9032.

Dr. Daniel Roubein spoke to the C3 Networking group in October about his groundbreaking mobile mammography unit, Mammosafe.

L-R: Dr. Roubein and Kirk Rightmire.

Photo courtesy of SuburbanBuzz.

Katyites enjoyed the Clean Guys of Comedy live screening at the Cinemark in September, starring Dave Coulier. L-R: Paige and Randy Holsapple, Melanie Saxton, Mel and Linda Garrett, Christi and Danny Borden. Photo courtesy of SuburbanBuzz.

Congratulations to the Pope John Boys Golf Team and their 2nd place finish in the 19 team Deer Park Invitational. Pictured: Philip Nijoka, Case Garrison, Jake Garrison, Mark Nijoka, Philip Grandjean.

Supporters of KVPAC enjoyed an October evening at Agave Road as their Masquerade Tango benefited the arts. Ageless Med Spa was a generous sponsor of the event. Photography courtesy of Paige Holsapple Photography.

The 2013 Rice Harvest was fun, despite the rain-shortened weekend. Stan and Patsy Stanley served as the Parade Marshall duo.

Photo courtesy of Covering Katy.

Congratulations to SIRE! They received a generous check in the amount of $10,000 from PetSmart. L-R: Robert Green with Cody Hogue, president of SIRE’s board of directors.

December 2013 / January 2014

For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com • 43

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December 2013 / January 2014

A Passion for Justice.

A Passion for Public Service.

“The team at Katy Christian Magazine has grown this publication through hard work, faith and commitment. I strive every day to operate with these same principles in the pursuit of justice. Thank you for your support.” – Judge Linda Storey

www.JudgeLindaStorey.com www.JudgeStorey.com Pd. Pol. Ad Judge Linda Storey Campaign in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act, Itze Soliz-Matthews, Treasurer.

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For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com • 45

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46 • For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com

December 2013 / January 2014

Katy Christian Magazine Calendar of Events December Journey To Bethlehem Dec. 13 | 5:30 - 9:00 p.m., Dec. 14 | 4:30 - 9:00 p.m., Dec. 15 | 4:00 - 10:00 p.m.

Current - A Christian Church, 226600 Westheimer Parkway Katy, TX 77494 Bring your whole family to enjoy this unique walk-thru experience that includes live animals, ancient settings come to life, and many lively characters, all pointing the way to the newborn Savior!

Business Seminar – “Boss Like God – Leaving Well” Dec. 15 | 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.

The Bible Seminary 2655 S. Mason Rd. Katy, TX 77450 Everybody leaves. How can you make good transitions? Gain leadership and personnel management insights from the best Employer ever in this look at the Old Testament from the perspective of God as an employer! For bosses, managers, supervisors, or aspiring leaders. Only $10 per person.

Register online at TheBibleSeminary.org.

Christmas Luncheon Dec. 19 | 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

The Club at Falcon Point 24503 Falcon Point Dr. Katy, TX 77494 The Katy Christian Women’s Connection Invites you and your friends to A Christmas Luncheon Mark your calendars, our next luncheon will be Thursday, December 19, 2013 11:00 am—1 pm The Club at Falcon Point 24503 Falcon Point Dr, Katy, TX 77494 $16.00 inclusive per person.

Christmas Eve Celebration Dec. 24 | 3:00 - 7:00 p.m.

CrossPoint Community Church, 700 S. Westgreen Blvd.

Katy, TX 77450 Family Christmas Eve Celebration, join us at any of our 3 services; 3pm, 5pm or 7pm.

Christmas Day Worship and Prayer Dec. 25 | 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Great Southwest Prayer Center 2655 S. Mason Road Katy, TX 77494 Christmas Day we will worship and pray celebrating the birth of our savior. Come start a new Christmas Day tradition with us!

New Years Eve Worship & Prayer Dec. 31 | 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Great Southwest Prayer Center 2655 S. Mason Road Katy, TX 77494 Worship and Prayer to end the year well; 10am-noon, Traditional Hymns, 12-2pm Devotional set, 6-10pm Contemporary Worship and Prayer.

New Years Eve Celebration & Worship Night Dec. 31 | 10:00 p.m.

Glory House 2020 Katy Hockley Cut Off Rd., Ste C Katy, TX 77450 A moment of celebration for you as you usher in 2014 with powerful testimonies of God’s goodness, deliverance prayer, prophetic release for 2014, and Holy Communion into the New Year. Come, and receive a word from the Lord to prepare you for 2014.

January

for Kids, Fellowship for Mom! The Church in North America today finds itself living in an increasingly post-Christian context.

The Hendricks Center of Dallas Theological Seminary is pleased to host Mission to the City – Houston.

Explore with us how the Church can faithfully embrace its exilic nature and recover the original essence of discipleship. Together we can intentionally follow Jesus as compelling, Spirit-filled communities on a mission.

Recurring Events C3 Networking Group

New Years Day Worship and Prayer Jan. 1 | 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.

Great Southwest Prayer Center 2655 S. Mason Road Katy, TX 77494 Begin the new year well by joining us in worship and prayer! “See, I am doing a new thing!” Isaiah 43:19.

February Mission to the City – Houston Feb. 24 | 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Bridgepoint Bible Church 13277 Katy Fwy. Houston, TX 77079

The C3 Networking Group serving Katy / West Houston meets twice a month for food, fellowship, and business networking. Visit www. c3networking,org for our next meeting times and locations.

PreSchool Playhouse Mondays | 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Chick-fil-A - Mason Road 369 S Mason Rd Katy, TX 77450 cfarestaurant.com/masonroad Join us for arts & crafts, singing, dancing, story time, and play dough each week. Complimentary coffee while your little ones play. It’s Fun

KidzConnection Wednesdays | 6:30 p.m.

Faith West Academy 2225 Porter Rd. Katy, TX 77493 KidzConnection is an evening that includes worship, games, live characters, object lessons, and tons of fun for children in Kindergarten through 5th grade. Pizza provided for a $3 charge. Contact Allen Strickland at astrickland@faithwest. org for more information or visit www.fwakidzconnection.blogspot. com.

Family Fun Night Wednesdays | 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Chick-fil-A - Mason Road 369 S Mason Rd Katy, TX 77450 cfarestaurant.com/masonroad Join us for a night of family fun at Chik-fil-A on Mason Rd. Fellowship Friday Second Friday of each month Bear Creek UMC 16000 Rippling Water Dr. Houston, TX 77084 281-463-2330

dementia or other disabilities, while giving their caregivers some time off. No charge. For details, call Dot McLaren at 713-466-1898 or Sue Edwards at 281-463-7894.

Hour of Prayer Third Friday of each month Bear Creek UMC 16000 Rippling Water Dr. Houston, TX 77084 281-463-2330 Hosted by the Prayer and Care Team the third Friday of each month, this event offers a time for reflection and meditation through prayer, scripture and music.

West Houston Women’s Bible Study Tuesdays | 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

BridgePoint Bible Church 13277 Katy Freeway • Houston Please join the women at BridgePoint Bible Church as we study God’s Word on Tuesday mornings.

Our purpose and desire is: Teaching the Word of God. Reaching the community for Christ. Uniting together in a loving and supportive environment.

Social activities and lunch provided for persons who require daily care due to Alzheimer’s disease,

Feature Your Event in Katy Christian Magazine To feature your community calendar listings in Katy Christian Magazine, visit www.katychristianmagazine.com/calendar and submit your event using our convenient web form. Please keep all listings to under 50 words and include date, cost, times, location, etc.

December 2013 / January 2014

For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com • 47

Do You See What I See? Dr. K. Lynn Lewis

When you reflectively gaze upon depictions of the babe in the manager, angels, and wise men this holiday season, what will you see?

Will you see the invisible God made visible? Will you see the Word that became flesh and dwelt among us? Will you see God, who was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in Jesus Christ?

Will you see the eternal, immortal, invisible, only God who stooped low, entered His own creation and lived for a season among His own created beings?

Will you see a Savior and Sustainer who greatly desires your presence in His Presence?

Jesus once told his disciples, “If you really knew me, you would know the Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”

When Philip responded, “Lord, show us the Father,” Jesus replied, “Don’t you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.”

Yet, many struggle with grasping this very essence of Christ.

Amidst an often deceitful and doubting world full of fabricates, fakes, and flukes, we wonder, “What, and who, is real?”

Interestingly, most realities we experience are invisible. Our most tangible certainties are rooted in subtle intangibles – we can’t grasp them. The ideas that populate our minds and fill our days and

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December 2013 / January 2014

December 2013 / January 2014

For Advertising Information, Call (281) 741-8317 • www.KatyChristianMagazine.com • 49

ADVERTISEMENT

“But i don’t FEEL normal!”

Carol’s Story I always thought I had a thyroid problem. Ever since the first set of symptoms started revealing themselves, which began right after the birth of our third child, I knew something was off.

Exhaustion began to slowly creep up on me until it finally consumed me. It was draining. I have never experienced anything quite like it.

No matter how many naps I took or how long I slept, it was still there.

At first I blamed the fact that I was raising three children and holding down a full time job…who wouldn’t be exhausted?

Then the next phase of symptoms began to roll in. I was cold all the time! It would be August in Texas and I’d be wearing a jacket to work. My hair and eyebrows began to thin out. Oh, and the brain fog. I honestly thought my memory loss was the first sign that I had Alzheimer’s.

Over coffee with a friend, something I was consuming way too much of, I discussed with her what was happening to me. She said that it sounded like a thyroid issue, something I had always thought.

Naturally, I went to my doctor, explained my symptoms and told him that I thought I was hypothyroid. He ran some tests, took blood work and scheduled my recheck. Two weeks later he told me that my blood work was normal. “But I don’t feel normal,” I told him. “Are you sure those results are right?”

His answer was “yes,” and he offered me a prescription for an antidepressant. I told him, “No way!”

While online, I stumbled upon the Hotze Health & Wellness Center website. It felt like it was written for me. I discovered that they used an innovative approach in diagnosing and treating hypothyroidism.

I scheduled my appointment and was blown away by their professionalism. They explained to me that my symptoms were very common in women in my age group.

They discovered that I had an imbalance in my female hormones that adversely affected my body’s ability to use thyroid hormones.

I was prescribed bio-identical progesterone, estrogen and natural thyroid medication.

Within two months, my life was transformed.

My energy was back. I can keep up with my kids, husband and job. My fading memory returned to normal and I was finally able to sleep soundly again. I got my life back!

If this sounds like something you or someone you love has been experiencing, it’s not “all in your head” and you don’t have to just deal with it as a part of getting older.

SignS & SymptomS of HypotHyroidiSm • Low energy/ fatigue • Decreased libido • Difficulty losing weight • Headaches • Brain fog • Joint and muscle pain • Difficulty concentrating • Hair loss/thinning hair • Constipation

• Depressed moods • Elevated cholesterol • Tiredness after a full night’s sleep • Cold hands and feet • Low body temperature • Dry or pasty skin • Fluid retention • Recurrent infections

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Get the facts on low thyroid.

If you’re ready to take charge of your health and get the answers you’ve been looking for, order your free copy of Dr. Steven Hotze’s newest book, Hypothyroidism, Health & Happiness today!

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December 2013 / January 2014

sleepless nights? Invisible. Dreams, daydreams, and visions? Invisible.

Emotions? Invisible. Opinions? Invisible.

The words we say, the prayers we pray, and the songs we sing – all invisible. Even the air we breathe, the sounds we hear, flavors we taste, and love we profess – all are invisible.

We communicate, eat, recreate, travel, and work surrounded by visible devices powered by invisible realities we collectively label “energy” or “power,” most of which cannot literally and tangibly be “seen” (electricity, heat/cold, wind).

Sure, we have methods by which we seek to quantify or discern many of these “things.” We measure quantities, fly flags, wear labels, exhibit tags, use code words and phrases, but the fundamental essences of our perceived realities are mostly invisible.

We think thoughts and seek to articulate them through words, pictures, or actions. But, the communication process is very indirect, and we have no guarantees that anything we say or write or produce will be correctly interpreted so that others understand exactly what we think we mean.

Similarly, we feel love and express it by engaging in some activity that is supposed to convey our feelings tangibly to someone else. And we do all of this in bodies and minds powered by an invisible force we call “life.” We measure elements that seem to indicate “life,” such as heartbeats, brainwaves, breathing rates, and muscle movement, but “life” itself is invisible.

So, why do we struggle with believing in a mostly invisible God? We live trustingly and vibrantly amidst a vast array of invisibilities that we do NOT question, and yet, we DO question the existence

of the most fundamental reality of all because we cannot “see” Him. Even though much, if not all, of what we experience with our senses and understand with minds truly does manifest the reality of God, amidst it all we wonder if God exists or cares.

Perhaps we are like those explorers who can’t see the giant because he is so big and they are so small. All the while, they are walking all over him and looking for him and wondering where he is.

Ironically, even our ability to think at all is derived from and dependent upon God. We are given a gift and use that gift as a weapon against the One who gave it.

This season, if you struggle with God’s invisibility, perceived distance, supposed silence, or seeming untouchability, know that you are not alone. But like a radio receiving radio waves, a cell phone receiving signals, a television receiving broadcasts, or your Wi-Fi connected to the Internet, seek to tune yourself in to God. For a secure connection use the password “Jesus,” and may you see Immanuel – “God with us” – for real.

(References: Matthew 1:23; John 1:1-34, 4:24, 12:44-45, 14:6-10, 16:28; Philippians 2:6-11; Colossians 1:15,19; I Timothy 1:17) Dr. K. Lynn Lewis is the Executive Vice-President and Provost of The Bible Seminary in Katy and author of “Meat and Potatoes for the Soul.” The Bible Seminary is located at 2655 S. Mason Road. You can reach Dr. Lewis at 281-6461109 (O) or 832-525-5244 (C). Email lynn.lewis@thebibleseminary.org. Visit www.thebibleseminary.org.

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December 2013 / January 2014

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December 2013 / January 2014

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Philip Placzek Candidate for the

311th District Court Philip Placzek Attorney at Law 3730 Kirby Drive, Suite 1165 | Houston, Texas 77098 Office: 713-807-7580, ext 201 Pol. Adv. paid for by Philip Paczek Campaign in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act. Audra Clark, Treasurer.

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December 2013 / January 2014

Scrapbooks as “Tools 4 Life”

By Brenda Carmichael

With roots in a home scrapbooking business, Kelly Litvak has grown a meaningful business over the last six years that ministers to at-risk teens and helps them witness their own transformation… in words and images.

Her enterprise, Tools 4 Life, creates digital books for incarcerated youth that incorporate scripture and serious topics into customized, personalized books. These books address peer and societal pressures (drugs, drinking, bullying, sex, gangs) and encourage teens to take a look at what was — lives doomed to runins with the law, stints in prison, or lives of dysfunction — to what can be.

It strikes a chord, this notion of metamorphosing by designing one’s own book. Empowered to create their futures, young people have been touched through the weaving of self-images around scriptures and resources that guide, encourage and focus them on a positive path.

Turning a Page

It really is a “fork in the road” moment when young people, often connected to the gang life, realize it is possible to abandon their negative past and embrace a new start. Creating these books helps troubled youth “turn the page,” both literally and figuratively. Litvak’s

December 2013 / January 2014

first eight-week program was launched at a middle school, where the student’s scrapbooks mirrored where they are, and where they aim to be. The results were remarkable as students learned how to see themselves in a positive light — and act accordingly. Grades, attendance and behavior improved, and Litvak knew she was on to something life-changing and God-driven.

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Republican

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December 2013 / January 2014

that it was time to restructure the contract with Harris County Juvenile Probation Department to include re-entry services for Tools 4 Teens graduates. In January 2014, Tools 4 Life will reach beyond prison walls and into the community, supporting Tools 4 Teens students with mentors, academic and vocational support. Upon release, each participant will formulate an Individual Service Plan that sets a course into manhood, unleashing his God-given potential.

The Authors of Their Futures

Litvak and her staff began marketing the concept to area hospitals and organizations, and were soon serving at-risk populations through the Harris County Leadership Academy. “I found myself working with children as young as 11-years-old… babies in orange jumpsuits,” says Litvak. The notion of kids as prisoners initially shocked her, and she knew she was called to make a difference.

The children — basically juvenile inmates — show an avid interest and passion in their scrapbooking projects, and are aware that Litvak and her team care deeply and believe in their spiritual and emotional restoration. Underneath their tough exteriors beat the hearts of children who had not previously understood their own worth, or their own promise, until they became the authors of their futures.

Connect!

Tools 4 Life is currently training mentors, partnering with community organizations and securing sponsors to support student enrollment. Visit www.tools4lifebooks.org to plug in to this lifechanging ministry. Email info@tools4lifebooks.net or call 832-6066026 to speak with Kelly Litvak.

New Chapters in Life

Each book is a life lesson — a project and presentation shared in small groups. Litvak and her team serve as mentors and hear the yearnings, aspirations, and hopes of the children, who often for the first time are able to process the thought of new path, successful future, and a new normal. “Why they are incarcerated isn’t our focus,” says Litvak. “What matters is how they plan to move forward.” The point is to envision new chapters, full of possibilities. “I tell the students that previous “chapters” don’t define their whole novel, and that they have the choice to turn the page.”

When Christ is the Co-Author

It is especially meaningful to Litvak that many teens have accepted Christ as they processed the Tools 4 Teens Program. Those who gain a fresh perspective and new purpose are better positioned to transition into contributing members of society. “What’s remarkable is that the recidivism rate for kids in the program is 29.9%, versus the 70% average in Harris County overall,” says Litvak. What the teens accomplish on the inside affects their journeys on the outside.

An Answered Call

For the past three years, students have requested ongoing support in “the free” — meaning their lives in society. It became clear

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Katy Christian Magazine’s 2014 Christian School Directory We’ve compiled a list of some of the top Christian schools and after school programs in Katy and the Greater Houston area. For a complete listing of schools and additional information, visit our website at www.KatyChristianMagazine.com.

Aristoi Classical Academy 11th St. Katy, TX 77493 281-391-5003 www.aristoiclassical.org

Our mission is to provide students with an academically challenging Classical Liberal Arts education that encourages them to develop a passion for learning and that gives them the means to become responsible citizens of virtuous character.

ACA aims to graduate young men and women who seek the truth in all

things; who understand that learning is a life-long pursuit; and who listen carefully (grammar), reason critically (logic), communicate clearly, and write persuasively (rhetoric). We desire them to be honorable citizens who seek to improve their communities and the world rather than passively traveling along the road most followed. We desire to cultivate in our students the virtues of courage, moderation, and wisdom. We aim for them to be humble and magnanimous when dealing with others. We seek to help each student become who he or she is meant to be.

College of Biblical Studies

muter college, this training is accomplished through Biblical curriculum, diversity, accessibility and affordability.

7000 Regency Square Blvd.

Houston, TX 77036 713-785-5995 www.cbshouston.edu

Dallas Theological Seminary

Truth. Training. Transformation.

The College of Biblical Studies was developed to provide college-level training in Bible and theology for those individuals who had little or no opportunity to receive such training by conventional means (resident, full-time). As a com-

The mission of Dallas Theological Seminary is to glorify God by equipping godly servant-leaders for the proclama-

Qualified.

Experienced.

6000 Dale Carnegie Ln. Houston, TX 77036 713-789-7771 www.dts.edu/houston

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Monday - Friday by Appointment Only. Saturday & Sunday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

• Husband, father of two, married to Rita for 27 years • Conversant in Spanish • Pledges honesty, integrity, efficiency, competency and to follow the Law as written • Justice of the peace since January 1, 2011 • Presided over thousands of cases

Endorsed by Dr. Steven Hotze; The “C” Club, Katy Christian Magazine, Jewish Herald Voice, The United Republicans and TX Conservative Review

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December 2013 / January 2014

tion of His Word and the building up of the body of Christ worldwide. In other words, we want to help men and women fulfill the Great Commission and the Great Commandment, or more simply: Teach Truth. Love Well.

chapel our students are encouraged to express their uniqueness.

Faith West Academy

Memorial Lutheran Preschool

2225 Porter Rd Katy, TX 77493 281-391-5683 www.faithwest.org

Faith West Academy is the oldest and largest private school in Katy. Faith West Academy, has an enrollment of over 550 students in preschool through 12th grade. The school operates on the principles of the Christian faith and incorporates these principles in its purposes, goals, procedures and operations.

The interdenominational student body is rooted in Christianity representing over 130 area churches.

FWA is fully accredited through International Christian Accrediting Association. The teaching staff is fully degreed in academic disciplines from elementary to high school. Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools State Teacher of the Year 2005 and State Coach of the Year 1996 & 2006 are on staff.

FWA students enjoy a full range of academic, extracurricular, and spiritual needs. From athletics to academics, from music to missions, from clubs to

December 2013 / January 2014

have completed Kindergarten through the age of twelve that includes up to three field trips per week to exciting entertainment destinations like roller skating, bowling, swimming and the movies.

Grandma’s Houston Child Development Center & West Oaks Private School 14840 Branch Forest Dr. Houston, TX 77082 281-496-3105 www.westoaksprivate.com

Grandma’s House Child Care Center and West Oaks Private School has been West Houston’s premier child care center for almost 30 years. We are situated on three beautiful acres and also have our own gymnasium. We are conveniently located off of Highway 6 near West Oaks Mall with easy access from Katy, Richmond, Sugar Land and West Houston. We provide care for infants through school age children and provide before and after school transportation to a number of Alief and Fort Bend ISD schools. We also have a summer camp program for children who

5810 Third St. Katy, TX 77493 281-391-0172 www.mlckaty.com

Memorial Lutheran Preschool is located in the Heart of Katy at the corner of 4th St & Avenue “D”. We have been serving the Katy community by providing preschool opportunities for Toddlers through Pre-K since 1993.

We strive for the children to Grow in God and Learn in Love. We believe that: every child is a gift from God; regardless of circumstance, every child should know Jesus loves them; every child has the potential to learn and to develop spiritually, emotionally, cognitively and physically; and Jesus is the foundation of everything we teach.

Memorial Lutheran School 5800 Westheimer Rd. Houston, TX 77057 713-782-4022 www.mlchouston.org

Memorial Lutheran School, located in the Galleria area at 5800 Westheimer @ Bering Drive, has been educating Houston-area families for 33 years. Building a strong foundation with a love of learning is our main purpose.

Memorial Lutheran School offers a challenging and rewarding curriculum at all grade levels. Learning begins early at MLS, with developmental curriculum being introduced in our Infant and toddler programs. The computer lab, foreign language, and reading, writing and math readiness are introduced in our Pre-school 3 program. Phonics, handwriting, and Kindergarten Saxon Math are part of the Pre-K 4 curriculum. Interactive white boards are part of every classroom in Pre-K 4 to 8th grade, providing enrichment and hands-on learning. Orchestra is offered beginning in 1st grade, and Latin and Logic round-out the Classical curriculum in middle school.

Weekly Chapel and daily Christian teaching foster caring, respect, and love for one another. Music and fine arts add to the well-rounded curriculum, and extended childcare hours are available before and after school.

Memorial Lutheran School offers a summer program that begins in June and goes through mid-August. Contact Admissions at 713-782-4022 and visit www.memoriallutheranschool.org.

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Mission Bend Christian Academy

3710 Highway 6 South Houston, TX 77082 281-497-4057 www.missionbendchristianacademy.org

Located on Highway 6, South close to the Westpark Tollway, Mission Bend Christian Academy is dedicated to serving children. The school began as a vision to create a place within the community where children could grow and learn in a safe, nurturing environment and experience Christian love.

Our program throughout is designed to broaden a child’s repertoire of knowledge and skills, increase self-confidence and promote curiosity and initiative. An academically sound curriculum challenges our Early Childhood students and our Elementary and Middle School students with a wide range of concepts and skills. Our school strives to provide a loving environment enabling our students to grow spiritually, academically, socially, and physically while developing good character, strong moral values and a love for learning.

Mission Bend Christian Academy is a diverse environment, which recognizes its diversity as a valued educational resource. Mission Bend Christian Academy is currently enrolling toddlers through seventh grade students and is a loving ministry of Mission Bend United Methodist Church of Houston, Texas.

In partnership with parents and the church, Mission Bend Christian Academy strives to provide a quality, affordable education. Supporting a Christian worldview, students are equipped and empowered to become leaders in their communities. We believe children are the most important investment in the future…our #1 resource.

Texas Christian School 17810 Kieth Harrow Blvd Houston, TX 77084 281-550-6060 www.texaschristianschool.org

Texas Christian School (TCS) provides top notch academic programs that prepare our students for the next level, but our reach goes beyond the classroom. Our faculty and staff engage students in service to our community and our Lord. We provide leadership opportunities, athletics and fine arts that build confidence and skills to assist in developing a focus and teamwork.

Texas Christian School was established as a college prepatory school with an advanced curriculum that would challenge eager minds, based on a character development program that would nurture the individual. TCS trains young people not only academically, but also in character traits which prepares them as leaders in the workforce with values that will enable them to be an asset to their employer, the community, state and nation.

The Bible Seminary 2655 S Mason Rd. Katy, TX 77450 281-646-1109 www.thebibleseminary.org

The Bible Seminary exists to glorify God by training Christian believers in a context of biblical community in all 66 books of the Bible so that they can serve the local church and fulfill the Great Commission by the power of God’s Spirit. A foundational commitment to distinctively clear doctrinal and ethos statements, and 7 core values – the Lordship of Christ, the Bible as the fully true Word of God, Prayer, Unreached Peoples, the Local Church, Community, and Compassion.

We emphasize in-depth training in all 66 books of the Bible, plus a comprehensive curriculum that integrates the biblical books into instruction in the standard historical, theological, and practical disciplines critical to developing professional skills for 21st century ministry. Our campus environment and degree program directly engages students in mentored local church ministry throughout their degree program. We offer Special Master of Divinity degree elements that include a Holy Land trip for all students (and spouses), free ministry tools, a number of distinctive experiential and best practice ministry experiences integrated throughout the program, and a commitment to help

our students graduate with no seminary debt.

The Learning Center 3700 S. Mason Rd Katy, TX 77450 281-392-2273 www.tlcatlivingwordkaty.com

A ministry of Living Word Church, The Learning Center seeks to provide a safe place where children are nurtured and shown God’s love. We are committed to offering the best possible preschool program, with Christian faith and values, to our church and community. Our center offers a developmentally appropriate program focusing on the growth of the whole child: physically, socially, emotionality, cognitively, and spiritually. Well-qualified teachers, low teacher turn-over, small teacher-to-child ratios, nutritious home cooked meals, and weekly chapel make The Learning Center unique and a great family choice.

We are thankful to be partners with parents in raising healthy, happy and faith filled children. We are accredited by the National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education Programs Association for Early Learning Leaders.

The school is open year round Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m to 6 pm. Preschool classes are available for 2, 3 and 5-day enrollments serving 12 month through 5 year olds. A Before/

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December 2013 / January 2014

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December 2013 / January 2014

After School Program is also available for local elementary schools. For specific class times and rates please tour our facility from 9:30 am - 11:30 am or 2:30 − 4:30 pm. Our office number is 281-392-2273.

Tiger Land Preschool 5315 E 5th St. Katy, TX 77493 281-391-8750 www.tigerlandpreschool.com

School District, we also provide opportunities for 16 children from Katy’s PPCD program to be integrated into our Pre-School and Pre-Kindergarten classrooms.

6840 S. Mason Rd Katy, TX 77450 281-599-3331 www.fortbendtkd.com

True Knight Home School Academy

www.trueknight.org

True Knight Home School Academy was born out of a need to bring a higher standard and an increased expectation to our children with special needs. It is our intention to bring an innovative approach in education, utilizing a strong curriculum and supporting it with brain training activities. Our vision is to offer the best available educational opportunity for your children by staying up to date with the latest in brain research and teaching methods.

We believe in strong fundamentals – reading, writing, and arithmetic.

Further, we focus on neurodevelopmental activities and social skills training.

Interactive metronome will be added next year. Highly skilled teachers and small group sizes ensure our students get the attention they need. We believe each child has the capacity to learn and it is our responsibility to find a way to

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Tiger Land has been Katy’s Child Care Center for more than 28 years with many of our teachers and staff having been here for more than 10 years.

Located in the heart of Old Katy, Tiger Land is situated in a large stand-alone building with separate age-appropriate playgrounds.

Tiger Land is easily accessed from I-10 (the Katy Freeway) or Highway 99 (the Grand Parkway) and our families come from many of the communities in the immediate area such as WoodCreek Reserve, Cinco Ranch, Williamsburg, Firethorne and as far away as Sealy, Brookshire, Fulshear and Columbus.

We offer full-time care for infants from six-weeks-old through twelve-years-old.

Tiger Land also provides before and after school care for children attending many of the Katy ISD elementary schools as well as to Faith West Academy and Aristoi Academy. Through a partnership with the Katy Independent

Westlake Preparatory Academy 23300 Bellaire Blvd.

Richmond, TX 77406 281-341-9910 www.westlakeprep.org

This is an exciting time for private school education in the West Houston area! Westlake Academy is a private Christian school where your child is more than just a number. We believe that each student is special and unique and most of all, a beloved child of God.

Each of our teachers sees their vocation as a true calling, not just a job.

They know that every child is a gift from God and that He has entrusted them to provide a faith-based education that promotes spiritual growth and academic excellence.

We are a full time martial arts school unlike any other. You will train your body, focus your mind, and have a great time!

We opened in April, 2010 and offer the highest level of Martial Arts training. Martial Arts teaches important life skills and is a great way to get physically fit and stay in shape. We are located in Katy, Texas and serve the Richmond, Mission Bend, and southwest Houston communities.

Our program is great for all ages.

Whether you just want to get in shape or be a serious competitor, come check us out today. Classes are divided by age and skill level. From SuperHeroes (4-5 1/2), Kids (6-10), Teens (11-15), and Adults (16+), we offer a versatile program and flexible schedule that is great for all families.

We are a proud member school of Taekwondo America, one of the nation’s leading martial arts associations. We follow Taekwondo America’s national curriculum and standards to insure the best instruction for our students.

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Katy Elite Star Studios 1334 Pin Oak Rd. Katy, TX 77494 281-394-2970 www.katyelitestar.com

Elite Star Studios is a contemporary performing arts center that provides comprehensive individual and group training in various art forms, including vocal performance and dance.

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ence and exposure. Elite Star Studios is a place where careers begin and stars are born.

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At the Y, we’ve always known that positive change only comes about when we invest in our kids, our health and our neighbors. All of our programs and community initiatives fall into one or more of the following focus areas: youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

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December 2013 / January 2014

Indonesia is Calling

By Brenda Carmichael

We can count ourselves among the blessed to practice our faith in America. This freedom is not always evident elsewhere. Persecution is rampant, as reported by Pastor Marcus Rumampuk of Indonesia. He is the chairman of the department Multimedia in Malang and married to wife Sisca. They have three children, Ira, Melisa, Rhesa, who have been raised in the Christian faith (atypical in their region of the world). He shares an update below about the state of Indonesia, plus some facts about the region: A Letter from Pastor Rumampuk

Indonesia is an archipelago composed of 13,000 islands and is the fifth largest country in the world. Of a population of 240,000,000 souls, 200,000,000 are Muslim, making Indonesia the largest Muslim country in the world.

With Islam as the major religion, other religions (including Christianity) are often treated unfairly by the government and by the majority. It is very difficult to get permission to build a church, and even worse, many church buildings that have existed for years are banned and closed by the authorities or Islam fundamentalist groups.

This is why many Christian hold services using public places such as hotels, restaurants, etc., at a high cost. These meeting places are temporary, and new locations have to found periodically.

It is even more difficult to have an open Revival Meeting.

Sometimes the government will give permission to hold a public

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revival, but the community of the major religion will try to stop it by force. In the midst of this situation, evangelism as the Great Commission of our Lord Jesus is still carried out in Indonesia using different tools and approaches. So far, multimedia ministries via TV, radio, and the Internet are wide open venues to share the Gospel, since there is no prohibition yet from the government. We can preach and evangelize freely via multimedia.

Christians involved in this multimedia ministry have established a foundation called “Yayasan Pekabaran Injil Indonesia Shekinah,” or Shekinah Indonesian Evangelism Foundation, which has established with more than 100 radio stations all over Indonesia as well as several local and national TV stations. The Lord has blessed our ministry by reaching so many new believers through multimedia.

Thanks to our multimedia ministry, we have an effective approach and can reach out to more than 200,000,000 unbelievers who live all over Indonesia. We hope that this article gives you an insight about the spiritual condition in Indonesia, and may you will lift us in your prayer. We are also waiting for people who are called to serve in Indonesia.

Connect

Let’s pray for Christian organizations in Indonesia this Christmas season and throughout the new year. You can connect with Pastor Rumampuk at ministriesshekinah@gmail.com, surendo@gmail. com, www.facebook.com/marcusrumand, and at www.gpdi.or.id.

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December 2013 / January 2014

December 2013 / January 2014

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December 2013 / January 2014