NOVEMBER 2020
@MemorialDriveUMC @mdumc
IN THIS
MESSENGER NOVEMBER 2020 FEATURES
02 05 09 12
SERVE THIS THANKSGIVING
Partner with East Spring Branch Food Pantry to provide a meal in a bag for a family in our area.
HEARTS AND HANDS
A note of thanks from our Hearts and Hands Chairs - your purchases helped support misions!
CARING FOREVER PATRONS
A new way that your gifts can support the Caring Forever Foundation.
COMING UP
Make plans for these upcoming opportunities!
UPCOMING EVENTS
06 13
KIDS’ ADVENT WORKSHOP
Help your children prepare for the Christmas season with fun crafts and candy church decorating.
BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS
All furry friends are welcome at this unique, outdoor worship experience.
Thanksgiving MEAL IN A BAG
November is here and we’re committed to helping families recommended by Spring Branch ISD celebrate Thanksgiving by providing the groceries needed for a Thanksgiving meal. You can pick up a bag and list on Sunday mornings on either campus, find a digital shopping list at mdumc.org/missions mdumc.org/missions,, or use the shopping list provided below. All groceries are due by Sunday, November 15th so they can be distributed by East Spring Branch Food Pantry. Bags can be dropped off on Sunday mornings on either campus, or Tuesdays - Thursdays from 10 AM - 2 PM at the Adult Ministry Center on our West Campus. Please contact KandiceKirby@mdumc.org with any questions. Thank you for helping our neighbors celebrate Thanksgiving!
1 Can Green Beans 1 Package Jello 1 Package Cookies 1 Can Corn 1 Package Cornbread Mix
1 Can Tuna 1 Box Pasta 1 Package Cake Mix/Frosting 1 Can Fruit Cocktail 1 Lb. Dried Beans
1 Can Chicken Broth 1 lb. Bag Rice 1 Can Diced Tomatoes 1 Can Pinto Beans 1 Package Stuffing Mix
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.
THE RESTORATION TEAM WORKDAY NOVEMBER 14
TRT was formed by churches in West Houston to assist families in their recovery from Hurricane Harvey and coordinate volunteer response with families’ needs, focusing on bringing the damaged home to functional living condition. MDUMC has monthly Saturday work days for volunteers, and no construction experience is required. When you sign up make sure to put in the date you are going to help and “Memorial Drive UMC” as the congregation. Visit mdumc.org/missions to register or contact KandiceKirby@mdumc.org for more information.
HOLLIBROOK ELEMENTARY HOME CARE PANTRY
TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS | ADULT MINISTRIES CENTER | 10 AM - NOON Our Hollibrook Elementary ministry is continuing to collect home care items to help support children and families of the school. This home care pantry was created out of a need seen by teachers and school counselors. We will be collecting items year-round. Items that are needed include: Laundry detergent (small bottles or pods), toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning supplies, shampoo, bath soap (bar type), trash bags, and head lice kits.
CROSSWALK HOUSTON UPDATE In the past few years, CrossWalk Houston invited all of our students and volunteers to share in a fabulous Thanksgiving meal. Each year our numbers grew and last year over sixty people including church and community members sat across the table from one another sharing life stories as they enjoyed a delicious meal provided by MDUMC kitchen volunteers. We look forward to hosting another great Thanksgiving meal next year; however, this year CWH would like to give every student a holiday basket of non-perishables. Your financial support will allow us to be creative in our Thanksgiving meal and provide some basic holiday food items that our students can share with their families. Please support this holiday outreach by leaving your donations at the front desk of the church for CrossWalk Houston, Thanksgiving meal. Thank you for your faithful support of CrossWalk Houston. We continue to take the love of Christ and MDUMC into our community.
3
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
YOUNG ADULT BIBLE STUDY
WEDNESDAYS | NEW STUDY BEGINS NOVEMBER 11 | 7 PM Our weekly Bible Study will finish up Alpha the first week of November and will start a new study on the 11th! We hope you will consider joining us! Email Carrie with any questions.
FAMILY AND YOUNG ADULT BIBLE STUDY DETAILS COMING SOON
We are working to make small groups for our Families and Young Adults. They will meet online and in person depending on the group and you get to decide when you meet! Please contact CarrieNeal@mdumc.org if you are interested in being a part of a Family and Young Adult small group!
4
THEMESSENGER
MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH NOVEMBER 2020
A
V I R T U A L
H O L I D A Y
M A R K E T
Thank you for your support! As our 2020 Hearts and Hands Holiday Market comes to a close, we would like to thank the volunteers and committees that made our transition to a virtual market so successful. We are thrilled that with the money we raised from the market this year we will continue to support missions that support women, children and youth. Special thanks go to our Vendor Committee—Kelly Vicente, Ashley Tondu and Kate Zost-- as well as our Publicity volunteers C.A. Williams, Cindy Hand and Stacy Stepler. Drew Essen and the Communications Team did an exceptional job transitioning our traditional market to an online virtual shopping experience. Many thanks to his committee for all their time and effort in building our new Hearts and Hands website. We are so grateful to Elaine White, Cathy Carter and the Mission Stitchers Inventory team for organizing the inventory and having it available for purchase online. We also appreciate Judy Brewer for being our helpful contact person. Many thanks to our generous sponsors — Blue Willow Bookshop, Cupic Custom Homes, LaRue Team, Lotus Hospice, P.C.Wiz, Scott’s Auto Repair and Village Veterinary Clinic. These are businesses in our community. As they have supported us, we are happy to support them. Thank you for making 2020 Virtual Hearts and Hands Market a success! Debbie Moore and Pat Noel Hearts and Hands Chairmen
M D UMC KIDS
For more information contact AllysonGeorge@mdumc.org.
ADVENT WORKSHOP AND CANDY CHURCHES
NOVEMBER 29 | 4 - 5 PM MAIN CAMPUS GYM AND WESLEY HALL REGISTRATION IS OPEN Help your children prepare for the Christmas Season! Individual kits given for candy churches and family Advent supplies. Reservations required with limited seating. Reservations can also be made for kit pick up to make your crafts at home. Reserve your space at mdumc.org/register.
MDUMC KIDS: STRONG AND COURAGEOUS T-SHIRTS AVAILABLE | $10
We are celebrating our strong MDUMC kids through this season! We love seeing these courgeous kids wearing their shirts. Youth shirts are still available and half of the proceeds support our MDUMC feeding ministries. Contact MelissaSimmons@mdumc.org for size availability and to order.
JOYFUL TIDINGS WITH THE CHILDREN’S CHOIR
DECEMBER 6 | 3 - 3:40 PM | MDUMC MAIN CAMPUS 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.
ON THE WAY TO BETHLEHEM SCAVENGER HUNT - SAVE THE DATE DECEMBER 20 - 25 | ONGOING
Travel along the road to Bethlehem on a family scavenger hunt as the nativity story unfolds. This activity is self-led and perfect for all ages. Keep an eye out for scavenger hunt maps in early December!
6
THEMESSENGER
MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH NOVEMBER 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.
NEIGHBORS IN ACTION THANKSGIVING FEAST NOVEMBER 14 & 15
Once again, the Singles will prepare a Thanksgiving feast Neighbors in Action, the agency that ministers to families at the Port of Houston Elementary School. If you’d like to volunteer, just email SheriKelley@mdumc.org. Saturday, November 14 | 10 AM | Food Preparation Sunday, November 15 | 1:30 PM | Box the Meals Sunday, November 15 | Leave 3 PM | Serve Meals at School Site from 4 - 6 PM Monetary donations are welcome to help pay for the groceries.
FACE MASKS & CROCHETED CAPS
TUESDAYS AND WEDNESDAYS | 10 AM - 12 PM | ADULT MINISTRIES CENTER
There are hundreds of beautiful face masks available for you to choose from. An anonymous donor has crocheted some colorful caps that are also available for your choosing at the same times as the masks. Love offerings for both masks and caps are accepted with proceeds funding our feeding ministries.
BODY, MIND, & SPIRIT LUNCH
NOVEMBER 12 | 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 mdumc.org/register. Invite someone new!
SUNDAY DINNER DATE
WEEKLY | 6 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 devotional. Remember to bring your mask in the event we can’t safely socially distance.
SINGLES AND TENNIS
THURSDAYS | 6 PM | PLAZA OAKS CLUB
The Singles have begun playing tennis on Thursdays at 6 PM at Plaza Oaks Club courts, 744 Brittmore. If interested, contact Ian at ian.goepfert@yahoo.com. All are welcome!
WEDNESDAY SINGLES COMMUNITY BIBLE STUDY
WEDNESDAYS | 7:45 PM | VIA ZOOM - MEETING ID: 91265095659
Everyone is welcome to attend the Singles Ministry’s Bible Study. The current study is entitled Anxiety: Finding Comfort and Reassurance from God.
7
S PI RI TUA L F ORM ATION
For more information contact VickyHarris@mdumc.org.
THE BOOK OF ROMANS WITH DR. BRAD MORGAN
WEDNESDAYS | 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. The deadline for enrollment is November 15, 2020. If you have any questions, contact Stacy Stepler at 713-468-8356 or stacystepler@mdumc.org.
8
THEMESSENGER
MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH NOVEMBER 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. The deadline for enrollment is November 15, 2020. 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* Patti and Ken Albers Pam and Joe Argue Patricia Brice Peg and George Byers Marli, Chris, Connor, and Caden Couch Kim and Gerry Elphingstone Jane Fieldcamp Betsy and Henry Hope Mary Yeoman Jackson * as of October 21, 2020
Kandice Kirby Lindsey and Jud Martin Karen and Harlon Martin Katie and David Miller Linda Morgan Laura and Brad Morgan Carol and Scott Neal Lisa and Greg Nelson Libbie and Greg Nelson
Joy and Gary Noble Pat and Ed Noel Jeffrey Oldham Michelle and Brian Payne Christie and Jim Petrie 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.
PRIVATE LESSONS AT THE MUSIC AND ARTS CENTER THIS SEPTEMBER
We offer private lessons on piano, guitar, voice, flute, clarinet, saxophone, French horn, trumpet, low brass, an ukulele. Lessons will be taught in the large rehearsal room with social distancing measures in place. For more information please contact Terry Tullos at TerryTullos@mdumc.org, or at 713-579-7651.
JOYFUL TIDINGS WITH THE CHILDREN’S CHOIR
DECEMBER 6 | 3 - 3:40 PM | MDUMC MAIN CAMPUS 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.
DECEMBER DUETS
DECEMBER 13 | 6 - 7 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. 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.
WO ME N’S M IN ISTRY
For more information contact JudyBrewer@mdumc.org.
UMW READING CIRCLE
NOVEMBER 17 | 10 AM | VIA ZOOM
Our UMW Reading Circle will meet virtually on November 17 at 10 AM. Bonnie Swantkowski will lead the discussion on the book The Life She Was Given written by Ellen Marie Wiseman. Please let Becky Finch at rjfinch@gmail.com, or Joan Garofalo at jegarofalo@sbcglobal.net know if you would like to join the discussion to receive the Zoom ID.
MDUMC MOMS OF CHILDREN IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TUESDAYS | 10-11:15 AM
We will gather for coffee and light snacks, then a devotional to discuss and we close with prayer concerns. Our topics are almost exclusive issues that surround ‘mommying.’ Our goal is to create a community of Christian moms just doing their best to raise little humans and help each other! Please contact Carrie Neal for more information.
10
THEMESSENGER
MEMORIAL DRIVE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH NOVEMBER 2020
YO UTH MIN ISTRY
For more information contact MarkBogart@mdumc.org.
YOUTH SUNDAY SCHOOL ONGOING
Sunday School is back for 7th – 8th grades! We hope you’ll plan to join us. Most Sunday’s we will enter the East Entrance and go through our safety protocols before meeting in the Gym.
CURBSIDE SLIDERS
NOVEMBER 10 | 5 - 6 PM | THE REFUGE Drive by the Refuge on Tuesday, November 10th, and pick up some delicious sliders for dinner. Available for $5 from 5 – 6 PM.
L IVI NG
For more information contact JenniferVS@mdumc.org.
LIVING ROOM - TRY A SMALL GROUP THIS ADVENT NOVEMBER 15 | 2 PM | VIA ZOOM
We hope you’ll take the opportunity to try a small group for Advent! Join your pastors and church staff for Living Room - hour-long introduction to small groups at MDUMC - at 2 PM on November 15th. We’ll also look at how Amplify Media - our new digital resource tool - can bring you greater meaning, comfort, and joy in this upcoming Christmas season. Please reserve a space at mdumc.org/register to receive the Zoom link and more details.
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.
11
In-Person and Via Zoom mdumc.org/study
TUESDAY, DECE M B E R 1 | 7 PM | TH E J OU R NE Y We hope you’ll attend our last Gathering of 2020. We’ll celebrate all that God has done this year and look forward to plans for 2021 at this churchwide meeting.
Reserve your space at mdumc.org/register. Stream the event online at mdumc.org/stream.
BLESSING
of The Animals
NOVEMBER 15 | 4 PM | MAIN CAMPUS SOCCER FIELD Come gather safely on the soccer field for a time of celebrating God’s creation, a performance by our children’s choirs, and a blessing of your pets by our clergy staff! All are welcome. Please bring a mask with you.
New Worship Series Begins Sunday, November 8
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
|
HOUSTON, TX
|
(713) 468 - 8356
|
MDUMC.ORG