The Messenger | November 2019

STON TEXAS THE

MESSENGER SKY NOVEMBER AUGUST 2019

MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

@MemorialDriveUMC @mdumc

SERIES BEGINS

NOVEMBER 10

HOUSTON TEXAS

ANNOUNCE

//

WITNESS

//

INVITE

SKYL

LINE

IN THIS

MESSENGER NOVEMBER 2019

FEATURES

05 06

HOLIDAY HELPERS

Opportunities to share God’s love throughout the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

CELEBRATE CROSSWALK

Be part of all that’s taking place in our community through Crosswalk Houston.

UPCOMING EVENTS

03 04 11 13

UPCOMING CONCERTS

Join us for these musical opportunities as we celebrate fall and move towards Christmas!

RESTORATION TEAM

There is still work to be done to rebuild after Harvey. Join a team and serve our community.

BLOOD DRIVE

Thank you for giving the gift of life if you are able!

BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS Pets of all shapes and sizes are invited to receive a special blessing from our pastors.

M D UMC KIDS

For more information contact AllysonGeorge@mdumc.org.

WONDERFULLY MADE

JANUARY 24 - 25 | WESLEY HALL PARENT MEETING | JANUARY 21 | 7 - 8:30 PM | WESLEY HALL Registration is open for this two-day Christian-based sexuality education workshop for 5th and 6th graders led by MDUMC Children’s Director, Allyson George. Students will gather from 7 - 9 PM on January 24 and from 9 AM - 2:30 PM on January 25. All parents are invited to an informative meeting before the workshop. Visit mdumc.org/register to RSVP. Space is limited.

8:15 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL AT THE JOURNEY WEEKLY

We’re making room for more to worship at The Journey with new 8:15 AM worship, and children’s Sunday School will be offered during all three services. Contact LaurenBedevian@mdumc.org for more information or to volunteer to teach.

KINDERGARTEN & 1ST GRADE MISSION AND FUN NIGHT NOVEMBER 1 | 6:30 - 8:30 PM | THE JOURNEY

Join us for a night of fun with crafts, games, indoor playground, friends, and a mission project! Pizza will be provided.

Register online at mdumc.org/register.

4TH & 5TH GRADE MISSION AND FUN NIGHT NOVEMBER 15 | 7 - 9 PM | THE REFUGE

We’ll work on a mission project together followed by games, pizza, fun, and friends! All are welcome - invite a friend and plan to join us!

ADVENT WORKSHOP AND CANDY CHURCHES DECEMBER 1 | 4 - 5:30 PM | GYM

Help your children prepare for the Christmas season! All are invited to this family Advent event with crafts and candy church decorating. A $10 offering is suggested.

CHILDREN’S CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERT DECEMBER 8 | 3 PM | SANCTUARY

Our children’s choirs and handbells will present their annual Christmas pageant. All are invited!

2

THEMESSENGER

MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH NOVEMBER 2019

YOUTH MI N ISTRY

For more information contact MarkBogart@mdumc.org.

FAT TUESDAYS

7.8 NOVEMBER IMPACT

Join us for weekly dinner and time with friends!

Be ready to run around outside for a game of Capture the Turkey (Flag). Meet in the East Lobby at 6 PM for Snack Supper ($3). Parent pick up at 7:30 PM.

TUESDAYS | 5:30 - 7 PM | THE REFUGE

November 5 – Honey BBQ Chicken Strip Sandwiches November 12 – Philly Cheesesteaks November 19 – Bonker-bowls

HIGH SCHOOL BIBLE STUDY

NOVEMBER 6 & 20 | 7 - 8 PM | YOUTH OFFICE An opportunity for fellowship and study.

WORKCAMP REVISITED

NOVEMBER 8 -10 | CAMERON, TX

All high schoolers are invited to return to Workcamp to serve our neighbors. Register and learn more at mdumc.org/workcamprevisited.

MU SI C MI NISTRY

NOVEMBER 10 | 6 PM | EAST LOBBY

7.8 IMPACT FRIENDS-GIVING

NOVEMBER 17 | 6 PM | THE REFUGE

We love to eat, and it’s time to share a Thanksgiving meal! Meet at the Refuge at 6 PM. Don’t forget to bring $3 and the following according to your last name: 7th Grade Last Name A - H: Appetizer 7th Grade Last Name I - Z: Favorite Thanksgiving Side 8th Grade Last Name A - K: Dessert 8th Grade Last Name L - Z: Favorite Thanksgiving Side

For more information contact AnnAbles@mdumc.org.

ECNHM FALL CONCERT: CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS NOVEMBER 24 | 3 PM | MAIN CAMPUS SANCTUARY

Energy City New Horizons Music Symphonic Band and String Orchestra invites you to our Fall concert; Celebrate The Holidays! Join us for this free concert as we celebrate holiday music including Valentines Day romance, patriotic 4th of July tunes, and Irish charm for St. Patrick’s Day!

CHILDREN’S CHOIRS | ROOM FOR CHRISTMAS DECEMBER 8 | 3 PM | MAIN CAMPUS SANCTUARY

The Children’s Choirs (STARS Choir, Sonshine Singers, and STARS Handbells) present Room for Christmas, a musical about a musical, complete with a bossy angel, wisecracking shepherds, unruly sheep and know it all wisemen.

CHANCEL CHOIR CHRISTMAS CONCERT | HANDEL’S MESSIAH DECEMBER 15 | 7 PM | MAIN CAMPUS SANCTUARY

The Chancel Choir and Concert Singers will sing Part I, the Christmas section, of the classic masterwork, Messiah by G.F. Handel. The 90+ voices will be accompanied by a string ensemble and Stephen Distad, organist, and feature MDUMC soloists.

AGAPE SINGERS | THE SOUNDS OF CHRISTMAS

DECEMBER 22 | 7:30 PM | THE JOURNEY WORSHIP CENTER

Our youth musicians, The Agape Singers and Covenant Carillon, present music of the season through The Sounds of Christmas. Come at 7 PM to enjoy fellowship and a dessert buffet.

3

MI SSI ON S A N D OU TRE AC H

For more information contact KandiceKirby@mdumc.org.

THE RESTORATION TEAM: FAR FROM FINISHED NOVEMBER 9 | 9 - 3 PM

Volunteers are needed to help our rebuild work teams restore homes flooded by Harvey. No experience is required, and training is provided on site. Typical work will include installing sheetrock, insulation, or painting.

There are roughly 80,000 homes still awaiting assistance, leading FEMA to anticipate a ten-year rebuild. As more and more organizations run out of funding and close their doors, The Restoration Team remains committed to Houston and its families in need. We will continue to engage the local church, expand partnerships, develop sustainable and resilient building practices, and serve as the hand and feet of Jesus Christ. Contact KandiceKirby@mdumc.org if you are ready to serve!

HOLIDAY HELPERS

OCTOBER 27 – DECEMBER 8 You can help make someone’s holiday season brighter by providing meals for families in partnership with East Spring Branch Food Pantry and Backpack Blessings this Thanksgiving, or by picking up a tag and fulfilling a wish for a child and their family in our community this Christmas. Opportunities include providing toys and blankets through Memorial Assistance Ministries, connecting a child with their parent behind bars and offering joy and hope to a prisoner’s family through our Angel Tree, purchasing gifts for a family in need through Raise Up Families, providing gift cards for local teachers, and more. Stop by the display on either campus, or visit mdumc.org/ holidayhelpers to learn more.

Interested in helping us deliver meals and gifts? Contact KandiceKirby@mdumc.org.

JAMAICA TEAM MEETING

NOVEMBER 18 | 7 PM | MAIN CAMPUS ROOM D100 This yearly trip creates space to experience the Holy Spirit in such a powerful way through prayer, sharing Christ’s love with students, and building relationships with our neighbors. There are opportunities for people of all skills to serve the children and families of Jamaica. Learn more about this ministry at our interest meeting, or by contacting Sandra Roberson at shopper1220@gmail.com.

4

THEMESSENGER

MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH NOVEMBER 2019

HOLIDAY

Learn more at mdumc.org/holidayhelpers.

Questions? Contact KandiceKirby@mdumc.org.

Shop for a

Thanksgiving Meal THROUGH NOVEMBER 17

Shopping bags with an attached list and instructions are available on Sunday mornings on either campus.

Return your filled bag by Sunday, November 17, to share with a family in need this Thanksgiving.

Pick up a holiday h elpers gift tag Partnerin g with M AM, Angel Tre e, local s chools, and more Opportinit

ies close December 8

Thanksgiving shopping Pack a meal bag in partnership with East Spring Branch Food Pan try and Backpack Blessings Return to MDUMC by November 1 7

Give This

Christmas NOVEMBER 17 - DECEMBER 8

Visit the Holiday Helpers display on either campus and choose a gift tag representing how you will serve this season.

Follow the instructions on your tag to help us share God’s love this Christmas!

5

CELEBRATING: CROSSWALK HOUSTON CrossWalk Houston continues its outreach in the community by providing pizza for Thornwood’s event for fathers. Thornwood invited fathers and father figures to participate in the WATCH D.O.G.S., (Dads of Great Students) program which asks these men to volunteer one full day at the school. Fathers are present everywhere from monitoring outside traffic to helping with homework or on the playground.

The pizza night was a huge success for Thornwood bringing over 100 dads to the school. CrossWalk Houston would like to thank you for your continued support which allows outreach to happen in West Houston.

Please pick up one of our new trifolds on both campuses to find out more about all the outreach, classes and community happening at CWH.

6

THEMESSENGER

MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH NOVEMBER 2019

WO ME N’S M IN ISTRY

For more information contact JudyBrewer@mdumc.org.

THE RADIANCE OF LOVE: A PRAYERFUL DAY FOR WOMEN JANUARY 11 | 9 AM - 3 PM | WESLEY HALL

We hope you’ll take time after the rush of the holidays to join us for a prayerful retreat with guest speaker, Lori Anderson. Lori nurtures sacred connections on retreats and in small groups. After 25 years of ministry in the local church, she transitioned to an intentional season of Sabbath and listening. Lori’s passions include exploring the contemplative spirit of the Gospels and discovering God’s presence in the created world. Lori lives with her family in Houston, Texas. Cost for the retreat is $35. Register at mdumc.org/women beginning December 1.

MDUMC MOMS

UMW DECEMBER PROGRAM

This year we’ll study the power of God. In Miracles of Jesus: A Study of What Jesus Makes Possible, you will spend time exploring all four gospels of the Bible and discovering the ways Jesus healed, provided, calmed, and resurrected. Cost is $25 + $20 for childcare.

We’ll enjoy brunch followed by the installation of new officers and our holiday program featuring Christmas music by Drew Essen. Devotional and brunch by the Ann Ables Music Circle.

MOTHERS OF PRESCHOOLERS (MOPS)

DECEMBER 8 | 9 AM – 12:15 PM | FRIENDSHIP COURT

TUESDAYS THROUGH MAY 19 | 9:10 AM | C201

2ND AND 4TH TUESDAYS | 9 AM | C200

MOPS is open to all moms of young children. Come join other Christian women on the mom journey. Cost for the year is $40 + $20 for childcare. For more info, contact AllysonGeorge@mdumc.org.

DECEMBER 3 | 9:30 – 11 AM | WESLEY HALL

MISSION STITCHERS CHRISTMAS SALE

Support missions through the purchase of beautiful handmade items that make great gifts.

SAVE THE DATE: WOMEN’S DINNER 2020 MARCH 30, 2020 | 6 PM | WESLEY HALL

Join us for a Women’s Dinner with guest speaker Darla Baerg. Registration will open January 1, 2020 at mdumc. org/women.

YOU N G A D U LT S & YO U N G FAMI L I ES

For more information contact CarrieNeal@mdumc.org.

FRIENDSGIVING

YOUNG FAMILIES | NOVEMBER 17 | 4 - 6 PM | WESLEY HALL YOUNG ADULTS | NOVEMBER 21 | 7 - 9 PM | CARRIE NEAL’S HOUSE Join us for good food and friends as we celebrate Thanksgiving together! Sign up to bring a side or dessert at mdumc.org/youngadults. Contact CarrieNeal@mdumc.org with any questions!

7

ME N’S MIN ISTRY

For more information contact MichaelJarboe@mdumc.org.

MEN’S LIFE

TUESDAY MORNINGS | 6:30 - 7:30 AM | THE REFUGE

Join us for breakfast, a short lesson from The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis, and fellowship with other men. We’ll have you out the door by 7:30 AM to get on the road to work as better men, dads, husbands, and disciples of Christ!

MEN OF ACTION BREAKFAST

TUESDAY MORNINGS | 8 AM | WESLEY HALL

Join us for a delicious $5 breakfast followed by a brief devotional. You’ll hear from speakers on various topics from current ministries in the church to politics, health, and social issues. First-time guests are welcome to a free breakfast!

SI NGL E S M IN ISTRY SINGLES SUNDAY SCHOOL

SUNDAY MORNINGS | 9:30 AM | DANCE ROOM

The Singles in Action class meets from 9:30-10:30 AM in the Dance Room. They are now studying Jim & Jennifer Cowart’s Hand Me Downs: Leaving a Legacy.

All single adults are invited to attend.

REGULAR ACTIVITIES

Sundays | Singles Sunday lunch Mondays | Zumba at 5:45 PM in the Scout House and Street Hikers at 7 PM at Rummel Creek Elementary Tuesdays | Tennis at 7 PM at Plaza Oaks Club courts Wednesdays | Zumba at 5:45 PM in the Scout House and Texas HR Pros Jobs Ministry from 6:30 - 9:30 PM at The Adult Ministries Center Thursdays | Grief Share at 6 PM in Room D206 and DivorceCare at 6 PM in Room D205 Fridays | Fabulous Fridays at 7 PM Saturdays | Walk in the Park at 8:30 AM (2nd Saturdays)

8

THEMESSENGER

MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH NOVEMBER 2019

For more information contact SheriKelley@mdumc.org.

SPECIAL OCTOBER ACTIVITIES

There are many upcoming Singles activities throughout November. For a full schedule, visit mdumc.org/singles.

November 1 – Soupmobile Lunch-Making November 1 – First Friday Movie Night & Potluck Dinner November 3 – Lunch at Alicia’s Mexican Restaurant November 3 – Trisha Yearwood at Smart Financial Center November 9 – Renaissance Festival November 9 – Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back November 10 – Single Vision Council Meeting November 16 – Prepare food for the Neighbors in Action

Thanksgiving Feast November 17 – Food for Thought Used Book Sale November 17 – Serve a Thanksgiving Feast at Neighbors in Action

A D ULT SPI RITUA L F ORM AT ION

For more information contact VickyHarris@mdumc.org.

To register, contact VickyHarris@mdumc.org, register online at mdumc.org, or sign up in Friendship Court on Sunday mornings.

ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASS ASSEMBLY

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10 | 9:30 – 10:30 AM | WESLEY HALL | REGISTER BY NOVEMBER 4 Rev. Colin Bagby will lead all of our adult Sunday school classes in Practicing the Way of Jesus: Discipleship-focused teaching on bridging the gap between learning about Jesus and following Jesus.

DR. ROBBINS’ WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY THE GOSPEL OF MARK

MORNING STUDY AT 10 AM, DINNER AT 5:15 PM, AND EVENING STUDY AT 6:30 PM All are welcome at this churchwide opportunity for fellowship and study as we join together to read the Gospel of Mark! Dr. Robbins incorporates humor and stories along with sound biblical interpretation.

Mornings are study only, and evenings include weekly dinner (find the menu on page 12) for $8 per person ($5 for children ages 4 - 10 and free for children under 4 - no more than $25 per family). All anyone needs to bring is a Bible. Invite a friend and plan to join us!

THE UNIVERSAL CHRIST PODCAST AND BOOK STUDY

MONDAYS BEGINNING NOVEMBER 4 (6 WEEKS) 6:30 – 8 PM | D201 LEADER: REV. VICTOR RESENDIZ | $18

Drawing on scripture, history, and spiritual practice, Richard Rohr articulates a transformative view of Jesus Christ as a portrait of God’s constant work in the world.

Jesus’ life was meant to declare that humanity has never been separate from God - except by its own negative choice. Learn to recognize the Creator’s presence all around us and in everyone we meet.

WALK TO EMMAUS: A JOURNEY WITH CHRIST

MEN’S WALK #113 | FEBRUARY 20 - 23 WOMEN’S WALK#114 | FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 1

The Walk to Emmaus is an experience of Christian spiritual renewal and formation that begins with a threeday short course in Christianity. It is an opportunity to meet Jesus Christ in a new way as God’s grace and love is revealed to us through other believers. Please contact VickyHarris@mdumc.org.

CHRISTMAS GIFTS THAT WON’T BREAK WEDNESDAYS BEGINNING NOVEMBER 13 (5 WEEKS) | 11 AM – 12:30 PM | D203 LEADER: SANDY EARTHMAN | $12

As we light the candles of our Advent wreath, reflect on the unbreakable gifts that God has given us: hope, love, joy, and peace, and be reminded of God’s greatest gift…a baby who leads us through all the days of our lives. Explore the spirit of Christmas with stories, Scriptures, and thoughts that warm our hearts.

CHRISTIANITY GOES GLOBAL: HOW AN UNLIKELY RELIGION MADE IT MONDAYS, DECEMBER 2 & 9 3:30 - 5 PM | D204 LEADER: MICHAEL HICK

This study is an interesting examination of Christianity throughout the years and throughout the world. Come and learn more about the Church!

MEDITATION FOR CHRISTIANS

WEDNESDAYS | 11 – 11:50 AM | D200 LEADER: BETTY CARTMELL

This class is for anyone who would like to know about Christian meditation and centering prayer.

We have time for teaching and learning, a question and answer period, plus experiential practice. All it requires is an open heart and a desire to explore this ancient practice.

9

OL D E R ADULTS

(BOOMERS & SENIORS)

BODY, MIND, AND SPIRIT

OPPORTUNITIES TO BE THE CHURCH

This mid-day opportunity is held each Thursday with a rotating schedule of activities. Join us every Thursday from 12 - 1 PM for lunch ($5 from the kitchen; add $2 for a salad) followed by a weekly program.

Funeral Guild – This is a way to help our clergy during a memorial service and to be there for the family at their time of grief and remembrance. It requires 2.5 hours of time and training is available.

Contact JudyBrewer@mdumc.org.

THURSDAYS | ONGOING

November 7 | Movie Day at 1 PM in Room D100 November 14 | Medical Moment at 1 PM in Room D100 November 21 | Games at 1 PM in Room D100 November 28 | Thanksgiving | No Meeting Contact Sheri at SheriKelley@mdumc.org or 713-4688356, ext. 119 for more information!

NOVEMBER ACTIVITIES

Body, Mind, & Spirit for Seniors & others (every Thursday), Monday Bridge (every Monday), Quilting Group (every Monday), Zumba (Mondays & Wednesdays), Memory Makers Singalong (every Monday), Mahjongg Groups (every Thursday), Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back (November 9), Japanese Gardens outing (November 9)

FUTURE EVENTS - SAVE THE DATE

Registrations are open for the following outings. Please invite your friends and neighbors. Register soon to ensure transportation availability!

Contact SheriKelley@mdumc.org.

Tour Columbus Courthouse and the Santa Clause Museum (December 6), Cher: Here We Go Again!

(December 15), Houston Symphony presents A Very Merry Pops (December 15), Trans-Siberian Orchestra concert (December 22), Bob Bullock Museum (January 18), The Oakridge Boys (January 19), Mollie B & the SqueezeBox Band (February 1), Lone Star Flight Museum (February 7), Caffeine & Chrome car show (February 29), Palestine Rusk Railroad, Redlands Hotel, & Dogwood Festival (March 21 - 22), A Hilarious Musical (April 19)

A BLUEGRASS CHRISTMAS - ADVENT BOOMER & SENIOR LUNCHEON DECEMBER 5 | 11:30 AM | WESLEY HALL

A delicious catered meal prepared by the MDUMC kitchen staff will be served by the MDUMC program staff. Entertainment will be provided by Almost Heaven, a well-known local bluegrass band. Everyone is asked to bring a new book to be given as a Christmas gift to a child (toddler through teens). The cost for this event is only $10 per person. If interested, register mdumc.org/ register or email peggystilwell@yahoo.com.

10

For more information contact SheriKelley@mdumc.org.

THEMESSENGER

MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH NOVEMBER 2019

Nursery Workers - There is a big need for nursery workers at The Journey on Sunday mornings. If you’d be interested in having the time of your life, contact Cecilia at CeciliaBellon@mdumc.org.

Media Team – Be a part of sharing the message on Sunday mornings! Our Media Ministry is expanding their volunteer team on both campuses and needs your help. From media novices to tech-savvy enthusiasts, all are welcome, and no experience is necessary. Whether you want to help facilitate worship, learn a new skill, or keep those creative juices flowing, the team has a place for you! You can volunteer on your schedule. Contact Media@ mdumc.org for more information or stop by the control rooms between services on either campus.

Chess Anyone? – We are looking for adults who would like to play/teach chess to children from 2:30 - 4:15 PM on Tuesday and Thursday at Nottingham Elementary and from 3 - 5 PM on Monday at Spring Forest Middle School. Working/playing with the kids is more important than a strong knowledge of chess. Contact Christine & Gale Jenkins at chrisjenkins1536@gmail.com.

Day School Donations – The day school continues to need paper towel rolls, toilet paper rolls, sheets of bubble wrap, clear empty water bottles, applesauce cups, wallpaper books, home magazines, ribbon, extra-large buttons, and 18-count egg cartons. Please – no plastic bags!

Bring items to Sheri’s table in Friendship Court on Sundays or to her office during the week. Let’s help them collect the supplies they need!

Different Strokes – Our stroke support group is looking for MDUMC members who would like to lovingly volunteer on Tuesday mornings. It might involve leading chair exercises or other activities with the attendees or just being hospitable & present! Contact Virginia at vmsmith6979@ sbcglobal.net.

CA RI NG M IN ISTRY

For more information contact SheriKelley@mdumc.org.

BLOOD DRIVE

NOVEMBER 3 | MAIN CAMPUS GYM

We’re so thankful for all who are able to make time in their busy schedules to give the gift of life! You can make an appointment on Sunday mornings or register to give at giveblood.org using donor code 4308. Be sure to eat, drink plenty of water, and bring an I.D. before donating. Thank you!

STEPHEN MINISTRY | CANCER RESOURCES ONGOING

Stephen Ministry offers resources to help navigate a cancer diagnosis. The Stephen Ministry of MDUMC, in partnership with our Health & Wellness Ministry, has several copies of a new and useful book to lend to anyone battling any type of cancer, or their caregivers. The book was written by psychologist, researcher, pastor, and Stephen Ministry founder Kenneth C. Haugk after his wife’s three-and-a-half-year battle with ovarian cancer, with the goal of helping those with cancer and their loved ones navigate the medical, emotional, relational, and spiritual challenges that a cancer diagnosis brings. Stephen Ministry at Memorial Drive was started nearly 20 years ago and since then has helped to support hundreds of people in our community who feel overwhelmed due to some life circumstance such as illness, divorce, loss of a job, grief, or other difficulties. Copies of Cancer, Now What? are available to all who need it. To find out more, call the church office or contact Rev. Jennifer Veres-Schrecengost at JenniferVS@mdumc.org.

OPEN HEARTS

NOVEMBER 14 | 7 - 9 PM

This caring ministry for family and friends of LGBT+ persons meets on the second Thursday of January - April and September - November. Because God has created us as we are, we seek to accept all people. We welcome diversity as we become an inclusive part of a church with open hearts, open minds, and open doors. For more information, please call Dick or Norma Graves at 281.920.9555, or contact SheriKelley@mdumc.org.

ALTAR FLOWERS

NOVEMBER 14 | 7 - 9 PM

MDUMC has a great history of taking flowers from the altar arrangements to our homebound members. Volunteers are needed to deliver the altar flowers after the 11AM services. It takes 1.5 hours to deliver the vases of joy to our shut-ins. Flowers are to be delivered on Sundays (not Communion Sundays since there are no altar flowers); and on the day after Christmas and Easter to distribute the poinsettias and lilies. Sunday delivery will be only to 3 to 4 of our home-bound members who live in close proximity to each other. Please call Jim McPhail, Judy Brewer or George Byers if you are willing to be an angel for this ministry.

CARE GROUPS

Part of living in community means caring for and supporting one another in a variety of ways. Care and Support at MDUMC includes many programs that meet consistantly throughout the week. For more information about opportunities for support during life’s challenges, please visit mdumc.org/care or contact SheriKelley@mdumc.org.

11

WHAT’S WEDNESDAY DINNER 5:15 PM | WESLEY HALL

$8 PER ADULT $5 PER CHILD (AGE 4-10) $25 MAX PER FAMILY Share in a weekly meal before partipating in a study or other Wednesday night activity!

Cooking

THIS WEDNESDAY?

November 6

Pork Chops, Scalloped Potatoes, Green Beans, Butternut Squash Soup, and Waldorf Salad

November 13

Chopped Beef Sandwiches, Baked Beans, Potato Salad, and Coleslaw

November 20

Lasagna, Broccoli, Caesar Salad, Tomato Basil Soup, and Garlic Bread

November 27

No Dinner | Thanksgiving

GI VI NG

For more information contact NinaDavis@mdumc.org.

TAX PLANNING - QUALIFIED CHARITABLE DONATION

Owners of an individual retirement account (IRA) should be aware of a popular tax planning strategy. Under IRS rules, an owner of an IRA must begin taking an annual required minimum distribution from the IRA starting in the year in which the owner reaches age 70 ½ and include the required minimum distribution in his/her taxable income. The failure to follow the required minimum distribution rules subjects the owner to a tax penalty.

Church members should know that there is a way to (1) satisfy the IRA required minimum distribution rules, (2) avoid tax on all or a portion of the required minimum distribution and (3) help Memorial Drive United Methodist Church.

Instead of having the required minimum distribution paid to the owner, the owner can direct that the IRA pay all or a portion of the required minimum distribution to MDUMC (up to $100,000). Following that strategy the owner’s IRA stays in compliance with the required minimum distribution rules and the payment to MDUMC is not included in the owner’s taxable income. Further, the rules are also not “all or nothing” – some of the required minimum distribution may be directed to MDUMC and the balance may be paid to the owner. In that instance, the owner only pays tax on the payment that the owner receives from the IRA. If you are interested in implementing this tax planning strategy, direct your questions to NinaDavis@mdumc.org or (713) 468-8356.

CARING FOREVER FOUNDATION THE MEMORIAL GARDEN

For more information contact NinaDavis@mdumc.org.

The Memorial Garden on the east side of the MDUMC Courtyard offers a quiet, comforting space to draw close to God, give thanks, and to remember. It is a columbarium with niches in a wall of polished granite engraved with personal markers for the deceased. If you are a church member and want to learn more about inurnment in The Memorial Garden, contact the CFF office at (713) 468-8356 ext. 241 or e-mail StacyStepler@mdumc.org.

12

THEMESSENGER

MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH NOVEMBER 2019

BLESSING of the

ANIMALS Sunday, November 3 | 4 PM MAIN CAMPUS SOCCER FIELD

Bring your furry friends, kenneled or on a leash, to be blessed.

The Children’s Choir will sing and blessings will be offered by our pastors. All are welcome!

Pet Food Donations Accepted Bring dry pet food to be donated to AniMeals on Wheels, benefitting the pets of senior citizens in our city.

Thank you!

13

WORSHIP WITH US ON SUNDAYS

Classic Worship | Main Campus Sanctuary | 8:15, 9:30 & 11 AM Contemporary Worship | West Campus - The Journey | 8:15, 9:30 & 11 AM

12955 MEMORIAL DRIVE

|

HOUSTON, TX

|

(713) 468 - 8356

|

MDUMC.ORG