DECEMBER 2020
@MemorialDriveUMC @mdumc
T HE CHRISTMAS CAVE Both of our children, John and Kate, are very precious to us and in our love for them Laura and I have done our best to teach them the stories of the faith. Before Christmas back in 2009 when we were preparing to decorate, our daughter Kate began telling Laura where everything should be placed. “Mom, we can put the nutcrackers on the shelves, we can put the tree in the corner, and oh, don’t forget. The Christmas cave. We need a Christmas cave.” Laura and I were both kind of dumb struck… “Christmas cave, what Christmas cave” Kate replied knowingly, “The Christmas Cave, where they laid Jesus. It had the big stone in front of it. On Christmas morning they rolled the stone away and he was alive.” Well not exactly. But, maybe Kate understood an important connection that we smarter grown-ups often miss. The connection between the birth of the savior and the resurrection almost seems forgotten at this time of year. Adrift in a world full of business, us grown-ups become preoccupied with all of the details and endless expectations which lead us to give so much time and effort, yet yields so little. Maybe we need a Christmas Cave. Maybe we need to really explore the connection between the manger and empty tomb. Christ enters the world as a child. The very Lord, in whom and through whom all was created, becomes a baby. What a mind boggling concept. A thought so difficult to express that words are often stretched to their limits. The God, eternally begotten, becomes flesh and dwells among us. Light enters the world of darkness. What an unlikely start to a story of salvation that will reveal an empty tomb. Such a radical set of ideas and thoughts that it is often found offensive to the rest of the world. The incredible claims we Christians make are found in our Christmas Cave. The child born God remains with us today. This Jesus of Nazareth was none other than the Lord. The fully human, fully divine risen Christ who remains in relationship with us to this day. We live today looking again to that manger for hope and direction. Please point us toward that empty tomb. Oh yeah, don’t forget that we need a Christmas cave. Happy Advent!
Grace and peace,
DR. BRAD MORGAN SENIOR PASTOR
IN THIS
MESSENGER DECEMBER 2020 FEATURES
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ADVENT AT MDUMC
Find a list of all Advent opportunities like Concerts, special worship, and Christmas Eve services.
MISSIONS
Serve our neighbors this season by becoming a Holiday Helper! Pick up a tag in person, or shop online.
KIDS’ SCAVENGER HUNT
Journey through the nativity story this Christmas.
SACRED SPACE
Spend some quiet time in prayer this Advent season.
UPCOMING EVENTS
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CHRISTMAS CONCERTS
Celebrate the season with a variety of concerts by our MDUMC choirs and music groups.
LIVING ROOM
Learn more about becoming part of a small group in the new year.
WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS ADVENT?
We hope you’ll join us for these upcoming opportunities to celebrate the Christmas season.
Learn more about all events and find links to register or stream online at mdumc.org/advent.
Upcoming Opportunities December Duets | December 13 at 6 PM | Main Campus Sanctuary Hear your favorite Christmas carols, as well as some fun holiday songs, played by Ann Ables and Stephen Distad at the piano and organ. Admission is free, but seating is limited. Pre-registration and masks will be required. Register for December Duets at mdumc.org/advent or stream online at mdumc.org/stream mdumc.org/stream.. Live Nativity | December 15 at 5:30, 6:15 and 7 PM | MDUMC Field Experience the story of Christmas performed by MDUMC youth. Cost is $5 per family. Register for Live Nativity at mdumc.org/advent mdumc.org/advent.. Agape Youth Choir Concert | December 20 at 5 PM | Main Campus Sanctuary Enjoy a concert of Christmas music by our youth singers, accompanied by instrumentalists and directed by Terry Tullos. Pre-registration and masks will be required. Register for the Agape Concert at mdumc. org/advent or stream online at mdumc.org/stream mdumc.org/stream..
Worship Travelers' Eve Christmas Worship | December 16 at 6:30 PM | Main Campus Sanctuary A Christmas Eve service with candlelighting and Communion for anyone heading out of town for Christmas. Register for Travelers Eve at mdumc.org/advent mdumc.org/advent.. Service of the Longest Night | December 21 at 6:30 PM | The Journey A service of hope and remembrance for those experiencing loss and sadness this season. Register for Service of the Longest Night at mdumc.org/advent or stream online at mdumc.org/stream mdumc.org/stream..
Christmas Eve - December 24 1 PM | Children’s Christmas Eve | Outdoors on Main Campus Christmas Eve worship specially designed for families with young children. 3 & 8:30 PM | Classic Christmas Eve - Candlelighting and Communion | Outdoors on Main Campus 5 & 6:30 PM | Journey Christmas Eve - Candlelighting and Communion | Outdoors on Main Campus 5 PM | Classic and Journey Christmas Eve Streamed Online at mdumc.org/stream mdumc.org/stream..
FA M I L I E S A N D YO U N G ADU LTS
For more information contact CarrieNeal@mdumc.org.
SAVE THE DATE - FAMILY & YOUNG ADULT CHRISTMAS TRIVIA DECEMBER 10 | 8:30 PM
Trivia has been a highlight for our Families and Young Adults. Join us as we answer some challenging questions, laugh, and find community with one another. You can sign up with a team or as an individual. Contact CarrieNeal@ mdumc.org with any questions and for the Zoom link! “We have loved trivia with the Families and Young Adults. It has truly filled a large part of our empty ‘social bucket.’ We also really enjoy the breakout rooms with our team. They have allowed us to have all kinds of conversations we otherwise might not be having right now. Everything from Beyonce to Jesus and in between. It has also been nice seeing so many of the faces we used to see on Sunday mornings and getting to put a name with a face. Join us! - Lauren and Adam Oblath
CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS ON THE SOCCER FIELD SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6 | 5:30 PM
We are starting a new Family & Young Adult tradition of watching the holiday favorite “A Charlie Brown Christmas” on the soccer field. Doors open at 5:30 and we will start the movie at 6 PM. Please bring a blanket or chairs for your seating. We are going to be collecting new blankets to donate to Memorial Assistance Ministries. If you want to participate, you can bring one to the event or you can make a donation and we will buy them. Contact CarrieNeal@ mdumc.org with any questions.
FAMILY & YOUNG ADULT ONE-NIGHT ADVENT STUDY AND SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16 | 8:30 PM | VIA ZOOM
Life is busy...Christmas time is almost always busier. On December 16, we are going to gather together for a onenight Advent study and discussion with our Family & Young Adult community. The evening will be on Zoom and will be a mix of some teaching/Advent devotionals and breaking into small groups. Let Carrie know if you want to participate so I can start getting people in groups.
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12 Days of Giving MEAL IN A BAG
December is here and we’re committed to helping families in our area celebrate Christmas by providing the groceries needed for a holiday meal. Below is a list of groceries for you to purchase. After filling one bag or two, please return them by December 13. 13. They will be combined with fresh produce, eggs, bread, and milk. These bags will be given to a family at our December 19 community food distribution. You can return bags to any of the following locations during the times listed: Sunday Mornings on Either Campus or Adult Ministries Center (West Campus) December 1 - 3 | 10 AM - 2 PM December 8 - 10 | 10 AM - 2 PM When purchasing items please avoid glass jars.
Day One: 3 Cans Vegetables Day Two: 1 Pkg Pasta and Pasta Sauce Day Three: 1 Pkg Cake Mix/Frosting Day Four: 1 Can Chili Day Five: 2 Boxes Macaroni and Cheese Day Six: 2 Cans Fruit or Fruit Cups
Day Seven: 1 Jar Grape Jelly Day Eight: 1 Pkg Flour Day Nine: 2 Cans Soup Day Ten: 2 Cans Chicken or Tuna Day Eleven: 1 Pkg Chicken/Vegetable Broth Day Twelve: 1 Jar Peanut Butter
Small bonus items (coffee, sugar, olives, jalapenos, etc.) can be added.
M I SSI O N S A N D OU TREAC H
For more information contact KandiceKirby@mdumc.org.
HOLIDAY HELPERS
SERVE THIS CHRISTMAS Each year, we serve our community by joining together as Holiday Helpers! Take a look at the projects below and click each ornament to learn more about how you can serve this Christmas. Questions about Holiday Helpers? Contact KandiceKirby@mdumc.org.
MAM CHRISTMAS SHARE TOY DRIVE DUE DECEMBER 6
Your toy donations + parents shopping = holiday joy for children. MAM collects donations of new toys, blankets, and gift cards to stock their toy shop. Pick up a gift tag on Sunday mornings, or view a shopping list online at mdumc.org/ holidayhelpers.
CHRISTMAS BLANKET DRIVE DUE DECEMBER 6
New and unwrapped blankets can be donated and will be provided to each child in the MAM Christmas Share program. Blankets can be dropped off on Sunday mornings on either campus, or during the week at our Main Campus front office through December 6.
ANGEL TREE
DUE DECEMBER 13 Angel Tree is a program of Prison Fellowship, which reaches out to the children of prisoners with the love of Christ. Through Angel Tree, volunteers are mobilized to deliver a gift and a personal message of love to children on behalf of their mom or dad in prison. Pick up a gift tag on Sunday mornings, or sign up to support a family online at mdumc. org/angeltree.
CROSSWALK HOUSTON UPDATE CrossWalk Houston would like to thank The Caring Forever Foundation, Sunday school classes and individuals who generously donated to our Thanksgiving outreach. Over 40 students received bags stuffed with groceries and a gift card. One student said, “If we had more people like you, the world would be a better place.” Well, we do and it’s all of you. CrossWalk continues to meet a variety of needs for families in our community. Because of your support, families are fed, minds are sharpened, citizens are sworn in and hearts are touched. Thank you for bringing the love of MDUMC and Christ into our neighborhood.
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M D UMC KIDS
For more information contact AllysonGeorge@mdumc.org.
ON THE WAY TO BETHLEHEM | SCAVENGER HUNT DECEMBER 20 - 25
Travel along the road to Bethlehem on a family scavenger hunt and collect your nativity as the as the Christmas story unfolds. Stay tuned for a map of the stops.
CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP
1 PM | DECEMBER 24 | OUTSIDE ON THE MAIN CAMPUS
Join us for this special Christmas Eve worship service specially designed for families with young children.
LOVE GOD, LOVE NEIGHBOR, SPREAD KINDNESS ONGOING
MDUMC Kids are spreading kindness in our community with home baked treats, thank you cards for our postal service, and even treats for the pets at home! We love seeing our kids Loving God, Loving Neighbors and spreading kindness. If you would like to help us spread more kindness, contact LaurenBedevian@mdumc.org for your sign.
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THEMESSENGER
MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH DECEMBER 2020
OL D E R ADULTS ( BO O M E RS , S E N I O R S , A N D S I N G L E S )
For more information contact SheriKelley@mdumc.org.
PHONE ANGELS ONGOING
As soon as the city and our church went into stay-at-home mode due to the virus, a Phone Angel Calling Team of 45 members was assembled to periodically call our members in the 75+ age category. Many of the Angels and recipients became friends and are looking forward to one day meeting face-to-face. Thank you to the devoted Angels who committed to calling regularly, and thank you to the call receivers for graciously accepting the calls and sharing their everyday joys and concerns as well as their stories! Being the church is all about connecting! If you’d like to join the Phone Angel Team, contact SheriKelley@mdumc.org.
SUNDAY DINNER DATE
SUNDAYS | 5 - 7 PM | MAIN CAMPUS COURTYARD
Everyone is asked to bring their own fast food or individual meals from home and a lawn chair. During our time together, there will be opportunity for fellowship and an Advent devotional. Remember to bring your mask in the event we can’t safely socially distance.
BODY, MIND, AND SPIRIT
DECEMBER 10 | 11:30 - 12:30 | WESLEY HALL
Lunch, prepared by the kitchen staff, is provided for $7 per person after which we visit and share a devotional. Face masks are required except while eating. Make your reservation and pay online by going to www.mdumc.org/register, or you can email SheriKelley@mdumc.org to reserve a seat and pay at the door. Payment at the door should be either a check or cash in a sealed envelope with your name on it. Invite someone new!
SERVE WITH SOUPMOBILE THURSDAYS
Many thanks to all who have dropped off food donations and/or volunteered to sort groceries and help assemble grocery bags at the Adult Ministries Center. Two drivers are needed to deliver Soupmobile lunches on Thursdays Please contact SheriKelley@mdumc.org to sign up to serve.
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S PI RI TUA L F ORM ATION
For more information contact VickyHarris@mdumc.org.
THE BOOK OF ROMANS WITH DR. BRAD MORGAN
WEDNESDAYS, DECEMBER 2 & 9 | RESUMES ON JANUARY 13 | 10 - 10:50 AM OR 6:30 - 7:20 PM IN PERSON IN WESLEY HALL OR VIA ZOOM | ID: 987-1936-3709
Pastor Brad will teach a verse-by-verse study of the Book of Romans. He incorporates humor and stories along with sound biblical interpretation. Feel free to bring your questions and your Bible to this interactive study! Wednesday Night Dinner is served from 5:15 – 6:15 PM each week for $8 per person, ($5 for children 4 -10 and free for children under 4) no more than $25 per family. You can register to attend the study and place your order for dinner each week at mdumc.org/register.
MEDITATION FOR CHRISTIANS
TUESDAYS | 3 – 3:50 PM | VIA ZOOM | LEADER: BETTY CARTMELL
This class is for entering into the practice of Christian meditation. We have short contemplative times before our meditation. There is time for questions and responses plus suggestions for reading and practice. Think of it as heartfulness and listening for God. All it requires is an open heart and a desire to learn this ancient practice.
WALK TO EMMAUS: A JOURNEY WITH CHRIST MEN’S WALK - APRIL 22 - 25, 2021 WOMEN’S WALK - APRIL 29 - MAY 2, 2021
The Walk to Emmaus is an experience of Christian spiritual renewal and formation that begins with a three-day short course in Christianity. The objective of Emmaus is to inspire, challenge, and equip local church members for Christian action in our homes, churches, communities and places of work. MDUMC has over 100 people who have participated and about 40 people who meet weekly in small groups to talk about their spiritual life. Countless members have served in many of the Emmaus activities over many years. If you are interested, please contact VickyHarris@mdumc.org.
CARING FOREVER FOUNDATION CARING FOREVER PATRONS
For more information contact StacyStepler@mdumc.org.
We invite you to consider supporting the life-giving work of The Caring Forever Foundation by becoming a Caring Forever Patron. This new group of supporters will help underwrite the annual operating costs of the Caring Forever Foundation, thus directly increasing the amount the Foundation gives to ministries and programs at MDUMC and in the Houston community. To join in our work, please enroll online at mdumc.org/cff. If you have any questions, contact Stacy Stepler at 713-468-8356 or stacystepler@mdumc.org.
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THEMESSENGER
MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH DECEMBER 2020
C A R I N G F O R E V E R F O U N DAT I O N
Patrons
Each year, The Caring Forever Foundation (the supporting organization of Memorial Drive United Methodist Church) provides MDUMC with grants to fund ministries and programs that the church’s regular budget does not cover. The Caring Forever Foundation has a General Fund that allows the CFF Board to award grants at their discretion as well as eleven different funds for specific needs such as student and clergy scholarships, missions, landscaping, media ministries, music, and other specific ministries and programs at MDUMC. We invite you to consider supporting the life-giving work of The Caring Forever Foundation by becoming a Caring Forever Patron. This new group of supporters will help underwrite the annual operating costs of the Caring Forever Foundation, thus directly increasing the amount the Foundation gives to ministries and programs at MDUMC and in the Houston community. To join in our work, please enroll online at mdumc.org/cff. If you have any questions, contact Stacy Stepler at 713-468-8356 or StacyStepler@mdumc.org.
Thank you to those who have already joined The Caring Forever Patrons* Patty and Ken Albers Pam and Joe Argue Patricia Brice Peg and George Byers Marli, Chris, Connor, and Caden Couch Beverly and Steve Cragg Kim and Gerry Elphingstone Jane Fieldcamp Betsy and Henry Hope Mary Yeoman Jackson Kandice Kirby * as of November 15, 2020
Karen and Harlon Martin Lindsey and Jud Martin Katie and David Miller Katie and David Miller Debbie and Jack Moore Laura and Brad Morgan Linda Morgan Carol and Scott Neal Libbie and Greg Nelson Lisa and Greg Nelson Joy and Gary Noble
Pat and Ed Noel Jeffrey Oldham Michelle and Brian Payne Christie and Jim Petrie Janice Rubin Beth and Greg Shaw Becca Skelly Stacy and Ryan Stepler Sarah and Troy Utz Dot Vinyard Bob Zurik 9
M USI C MIN ISTRY
For more information contact AnnAbles@mdumc.org.
DECEMBER DUETS CHRISTMAS CONCERT DECEMBER 13 | 6 PM | SANCTUARY
Hear your favorite Christmas carols, as well as some fun holiday songs, played by Ann and Stephen at the piano and organ. From “What Child Is This?” to “Silver Bells,” you will enjoy a variety of music of the season on the Visser pipe organ and Steinway concert grand piano. Admission is free, but seating is limited. Pre-registration and masks will be required. Learn more and register at mdumc.org/advent. Stream the concert live online at mdumc.org/stream.
JOYFUL TIDINGS WITH THE CHILDREN’S CHOIRS DECEMBER 6 | 3 PM | SANCTUARY
Begin the month of December with our youngest church musicians. They will sing and ring, and celebrate the coming of Christ during this ‘short and sweet’ afternoon concert. Masks will be required.
“WELCOME TO OUR WORLD” - AGAPE SINGERS CHRISTMAS CONCERT DECEMBER 20 | 5 PM | SANCTUARY
Enjoy a concert of Christmas music by our youth singers, accompanied by instrumentalists and directed by Terry Tullos. Pre-registration and masks will be required. Register at mdumc.org/advent.
WO ME N’S M IN ISTRY
For more information contact JudyBrewer@mdumc.org.
UMW NEEDS YOU IN 2021
UMW needs YOU! We are still looking for women to fill the following positions: Program Resource Chair, Spiritual Growth, Yearbook, Newsletter, and Hearts & Hands Coordinator. If you are interested in serving our UMW, please contact UMW President, Georgia Kimmel at gwkimmel@juno.com. Thank you!
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THEMESSENGER
MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH DECEMBER 2020
YO UTH MIN ISTRY
For more information contact MarkBogart@mdumc.org.
LIVE NATIVITY
DECEMBER 15 | 5:30, 6:15, & 7 PM | MDUMC SOCCER FIELD Come experience the wonder of the birth of Jesus Christ when our 7th-12th grade students present a Live Nativity. Live Nativity will be held outdoors on the MDUMC Field. Please wear your mask, and if you show any COVID-19 symptoms the week of Live Nativity, please stay home and stay safe. If you have any questions, please contact MarkBogart@ mdumc.org.
ST EPHE N M IN ISTRY
For more information contact JenniferVS@mdumc.org.
STEPHEN MINISTRY ONGOING
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you need someone who understands? MDUMC’s team of trained Stephen Ministers are here to help you navigate these difficult times. Our confidential and pastor-supervised ministry has been helping people for decades. To find out more, go to mdumc.org/care or call the church office.
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2020 We invite you to contribute one or more plants to help decorate for Christmas Eve worship in honor or memory of loved ones. Please complete the fields below, attach your payment, and return both by Sunday, December 13. 13. Each poinsettia is $10 and may be picked up following the last service on Christmas Eve.
Place an online order at mdumc.org/advent mdumc.org/advent..
LIVING ROOM
Begin a Small Group in the New Year
J A NUA RY 3 & 4 Now more than ever before, we all feel the importance of finding community. Jesus called his disciples into such a community. They shared work, teaching, travel, and life. They worshiped together, they ate together, they observed self-care and Sabbath rest together.
Learn more about small groups at one of these hour-long informational meetings. Learn more at mdumc.org/living.
ADVENT SACRED SPACE
Prayer and Quiet Time
BY APPOINTEMENT | MDUMC SANCTUARY -
We know there is comfort and joy to be found in spending quiet time in our beautiful sanctuary, especially during the season of Advent. If you would like to set up an individual time slot for prayer, please contact Pastor Victor at VictorResendiz@mdumc.org, using the subject line “Sacred Space.”
Learn more and register at mdumc.org/advent.
Registration for in-person worship is open online! Make reservations and find answers to frequently asked questions at mdumc.org/welcomehome. WORSHIP WITH US EACH WEEK
Classic and Contemporary Worship | In-Person and Online at 9:30 & 11 AM Available throughout the week at mdumc.org/stream.
12955 MEMORIAL DRIVE
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HOUSTON, TX
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(713) 468 - 8356
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MDUMC.ORG