NEW
APRIL 29, 2012
MEMBERS
NEW Communicants
Jenny and Tim Martin
Taylor Mason
Megan and Kyle Manley
Lauren Nix
Of the number of those who were baptized in infancy as members of the Church of God by birthright, and as heirs of the covenant promises, the session has examined and approved (these individuals), who come now to assume for themselves the full privileges and responsibilities of their inheritance in the household of faith.
NEW
APRIL 29, 2012
MEMBERS
O
Morgan Jones
Whit Roberts
Rainey McBride
Sally Shaw
Elli Overton
Abby Snelling
Jake Pogue
Joan Ackley
Emma and Reid Price
Daniel and Olivia Rognstad
Erik and Tayler Sandvick
Heather and Chris Shannon
Marilyn and Ken Smith
Scott Stone
Carl Suillivan
Nate Sung
Rebekah and Landon Vaughan
Shana and Jarrod Vaughan
Scott and Lauren Ward
Laura Warwick
4A
PERIODICAL POSTAGE PAID AT DALLAS, TEXAS
Wesley Rentz and Wendy Holman
JUNE 9, 2012
Jenny Jones
VOL. XXII, NO. 12 | JUNE 9, 2012
THIS WEEK (007-362) is published biweekly except once in December by Park Cities Presbyterian Church, 4124 Oak Lawn, Dallas, TX 75219. Periodical postage paid at Dallas, Texas 75219. POSTMASTER: send address changes to THIS WEEK, 4124 Oak Lawn, Dallas, TX 75219-3152.
Lindsay Peters
Coleman Jones
MAY 20, 2012
— Book of Church Order 57–5
Drew Peabody
Talmadge Hicks
VOL. XXII, NO. 12 | JUNE 9, 2012
Whitney Long
David Lynn
Jennie Lou Haughton
Park Cities Presbyterian Church JD Lemming, editor 4124 Oak Lawn Avenue Dallas, Texas 75219-3152 214-224-2711 • fax 214-224-2711 www.pcpc.org
O
Ty and Amy Anderson
Scott and Heath Beasley
Paul GOEBEL
Caitlin Benning and Thomas Laughlin
Will Bowersox
Tyler and Alyssa Butcher
Martin Gill
Hallie Graves
Jessica and Chuck Griege
David and Rebecca Guilbeault
Lance and Rebecca Gurley
Ryan and Dana Hankins
Greg Higgins
Ashley and Joe Januszewski
Faith Jennings
Claire Jennings
Emma Jennings
William and Abby Jones
Amanda Kelly
K’Lea Lisenby
This Week sits down with PCPC’s newly minted pastor to ask him about his ordination. What is the journey that got you to this point? I grew up in a Christian home just outside of Waco, TX. My family faithfully attended church every Sunday, but I became frustrated with Christianity and disillusioned with the church. I had become frustrated because I had tons of questions about Christianity that I felt were not being answered by the church. I was disillusioned because I felt that most Christians were judgmental and hypocritical. So by the time I got to high school I wrote off Christianity—not out of anger or bitterness. I simply decided that God was not real, Christianity wasn’t true, and that I didn’t need religion. On the outside I seemed like a good Christian kid, but on the inside I was full of deep doubt. Toward the end of high school, I had some friends who lived out their faith in Jesus honestly and authentically. The Lord used those friendships to grab my heart. He changed my doubt to faith, and I truly trusted in the Gospel for the first time. As a new believer, I knew that I didn’t want to become a lukewarm Christian. I knew that my entire life had to change. And I knew that God was going to have to change it. Early in college I felt the Lord calling me away from premed to full-time vocational ministry. However, my motivation for ministry wasn’t right. I thought I was going to change the world, I thought I was going to change the church. But Jesus changed me. In those early days of ministry, God broke my arrogant heart and revealed to me how far away I was from the Gospel. It was not the church that needed to change—I needed to change. We are all broken people in need of a Savior. This is Christ’s church, and the fact that it is full of fallen people is good news for a sinner like me. It was at that moment Jesus gave me a profound love for His church. I believe the Lord brought me to PCPC because of my love for the church and my love for the city. Around four CONTINUED ON 4B
Park Cities Presbyterian Church exists to extend the transforming presence of the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ in Dallas and to the world.
OUR FAMILY
EVERYONE
BIRTHS
! Asher Ramsey Estes son of Kenley and Foster Estes, on May 29, 2012 SYMPATHY
! Heather and James Holmes (CC#03) on the loss of her grandmother; Jimmy, Livi, and Quentin Holmes (CC#03) on the loss of their great-grandmother, Eddie Faye Thornton, on May 14, 2012 ! Jane and Tom Werkema (CC#17/Good News) on the loss of her sister, Wilma Sue Lagerwey, on May 22, 2012 ! Elizabeth and Syd Hurley (CC#02) on the loss of her father; Sawyer and Victor Salvino (CC#02), Sydney and Margaret Hurley (CC#02) on the loss of their grandfather, Samuel Stollenwerck, on May 22, 2012 ! Aye-Tee and Daniel Monaco (CC#05) on the loss of her mother; Lauren and Kathryn Monaco (CC#05) on the loss of their grandmother, Lay-Kheng Soh, on May 22, 2012 ! Sara and Cass Robinson, Jr. (CC#08) on the loss of her mother; Hailey Ann and Cass Robinson (CC#08) on the loss of their grandmother, Ann Louise Hailey, on May 25, 2012
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING FOR OFFICER ELECTION The session has called a congregational meeting for Sunday, June 10, 10:40 am for the purpose of electing new deacons and ruling elders for the class of 2016. The candidates have completed nine months of training with pastors and officers on the Westminster Confession of Faith, the Book of Church Order, the Bible and other officer-specific readings, and have received session approval. Visit pcpc.org/ officer-nominees to view the officer candidates. Contact sally.rogers@pcpc.org or 214-224-2775.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS OUTREACH The World Missions Ministry invites you to join us for our second international students outreach, Thursday, June 28, 6:00–7:30 pm, Burleson Park. Be part of a fun, family-friendly, casual evening as we seek to practice Leviticus 19:33–34 and welcome a new crop of SMU international master’s level students to our neighborhood. We’ll seek to get to know these students from all over the world and consider how we might minister to them beyond this welcome party. We need help providing some light snacks and drinks. RSVP to anna.graber@pcpc. org or 214-224-2551 by Tuesday, June 26.
PERSPECTIVES RETURNS Perspectives is a 15-week discipleship course that takes students five miles deep into the Bible and helps them get a clearer picture of the church’s role in God’s grand plan, August 30–December 13, Thursdays, 6:30 pm—9:00 pm, Oak Lawn West Meeting Room. Contact marzena.dunham@pcpc.org or 214-224-2523.
OAK LAWN WEST BIBLE STUDY This weekly Bible study of singles in their 20s and 30s meets every Tuesday, 7:00 pm, in the Oak Lawn East High School Room. Join us for worship, teaching, and fellowship afterwards. Contact mckenzie.griffin@pcpc.org or 214-224-2728.
URBAN MINISTRIES CHILDCARE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
“Scripture considers repentance a path to liberation, not condemnation.” —Edward T. Welch
2
THIS WEEK
JUNE 9, 2012
CALENDAR
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Volunteers are needed at Union Gospel Mission and Center of Hope every Monday and Tuesday, 5:30— 6:45 pm, to watch children four years and younger while their mothers are in parenting development classes. Contact Irenee O'Reilly, ioreilly@ugmdallas. org or 214-638-2988.
ESL VOLUNTEERS NEEDED We need volunteers to build relationships and share the Gospel with English-language learners. Teacher training is August 26 after church. We also need volunteers to minister the Gospel to the children of our ESL students during both the morning and evening sessions. Contact Elizabeth Cunningham to volunteer, esl@pcpc.org or 214-224-2528.
CONVERSATION PARTNERS NEEDED Help our ESL students practice their English this summer. Volunteer as a conversation partner/friend. You would meet regularly (when and where is up to you) to chat with a student one-on-one. Contact elizabeth.cunningham@pcpc.org or 214-224-2528.
READING CAMP VOLUNTEERS Mercy Street needs volunteers, June 11–13 and June 18–20, 10:00 am–12:00 pm. Volunteers do not need to commit to both weeks or every day. However, you must provide your own transportation. Middle school age and older may volunteer. We also need volunteers to make and deliver 50 sack lunches for each day during the first session only. This is a wonderful and fun opportunity to serve. Contact carrollturpin@yahoo.com or 214-289-3929.
DLF CELEBRATION OF HOPE On Saturday, June 23, 7:00 am–3:00 pm, serve with Celebration of Hope, a ministry of the Dallas Leadership Foundation working in partnership with needy communities to rehabilitate the low-income houses, particularly the elderly and disabled, so that they may continue to live in proper conditions. Service neighborhoods: Hamilton Park, Jubilee Park, Wynnewood Heights, and Westmoreland Heights What will volunteers be doing? Painting houses; registering volunteers; distributing workday supplies, food and beverages; landscaping yards; and general community clean-up Volunteers should wear cool and comfortable lightweight clothing. Continental breakfast, lunch, water, and soft drinks will be provided. Register onsite. Contact Cora Billingsley, rocobill67@sbcglobal. net or 214-882-1230.
FULL-TIME JOB OPPORTUNITY ACT is seeking a Community Relations Liaison. This individual will be responsible for organizing, educating, counseling, and equipping local residents in fighting offending owners of drug houses and abandoned properties in order to reclaim crimeridden neighborhoods. For more information, contact Renee Gertson, rgertson@actdallas.org or 214-951-9151.
JULY
JUNE 4–14 10
12–30
Walk Where Jesus Walked, Israel, 224-2741 Congregational meeting for officer election, 10:40 am, 224-2775
Hurricane Harbor (Middle School), 224-2762
Ben and Ann Carolyn Williams
22–8/4 PCPC Family Camp: Colorado, Sky Ranch at Ute Trail, 224-2762
6–7/30 Women’s summer Bible studies, 224-2725 11–13
Mercy Street Reading Camp, 10:00 am–noon, 289-3929
11–14
VBS, PCPC School of Rock, 9:00 am–noon
18–20
Mercy Street Reading Camp, 10:00 am–noon, 289-3929
19
16
Youth Ministry Asia mission trips, Asia, 224-2766
23–27
Doulos leadership retreat (7th/8th), Galveston, TX, 224-2762
AUGUST 30
Virginia Yip
Paul Goebel
Perspectives, Thursdays, 6:30 pm—9:00 pm, Oak Lawn West, 224-2523
Six Flags (Middle School), 224-2762
CONTINUED
19–7/31 Musikgarten classes, 10:30–11:15 am, Musikgarten Room, 224-2633 20
Ladies’ missionary luncheon, noon–1:30 pm, Oak Lawn West, 224-2551
21
60+ Nancy Ashley book review, 10:00 am–12:00 pm, Oak Lawn West, 224-2771
23
DLF Celebration of Hope 2012, 7:00 am–3:00 pm, 882-1230
28
SMU international students outreach, 6:00–7:30 pm, Burleson Park, 224-2551
WORLD MISSIONS LADIES’ MISSIONARY LUNCHEON On Wednesday, June 20, noon–1:30 pm, Oak Lawn West, enjoy some food and fellowship while hearing about the lives of PCPC women who serve the Lord around the world. A suggested donation of $7 would be welcomed. RSVP to anna.graber@pcpc. org or 214-224-2551 by Monday, June 18.
WOMEN WOMEN’S SUMMER BIBLE STUDIES 1. Rethinking Relationships, Sexuality, and the Christians’ Voice of Good News: What do we say about homosexuality? Tuesdays, June 19–July 10, 7:00–8:30pm. For more information, e-mail Shannon Geiger, joshgeiger@aol.com. 214-405-0147 2. Is Your Home Out of Order? Mondays, July 9–30, 7:15 pm. RSVP to Nancy Turner, rom8v38to39@aol. com. 3. Thinking Now. Thinking True. Wednesdays, June 6–27, 10:00–11:00 am, Oak Lawn West. RSVP to Linda Weaver, lindaweaver@charter.net. Question? Contact mary.haberkorn@pcpc.org or 214-224-2725.
YOUNG FAMILIES
Did you miss an issue of This Week? You can download past issues in PDF format at www.pcpc.org. Just click on “resources” on the menu bar at the top of the page.
years ago I was introduced to Mark Davis and Tim Tinsley. We began to dream what it would be like to reach Downtown and Uptown Dallas with the Gospel through this church. I believe that the Lord has given me a passion for the City Center District of Dallas, where thousands and thousands of people desperately need the Gospel. PCPC has an incredible opportunity due to our location in the middle of such cultural diversity. You can drive a few miles in any direction and engage an entirely different culture. So I originally came to PCPC to be a part of reaching the city of Dallas with the Gospel, and that’s why I believe the Lord has called me to be a pastor at PCPC.
PCPC SCHOOL OF ROCK (VBS) Registration is full for School of Rock. We are no longer accepting applications for participants or volunteers. Thank you for your interest, please be watching for VBS 2013 registration to begin next March. Questions? E-mail vbs@pcpc.org.
STUDENT MINISTRIES YOUTH MINISTRY ASIA MISSION TRIPS This summer the Youth Ministry has the opportunity to take two separate mission trips to Asia. There will be a trip for ninth and tenth grade students to East Asia, Thursday, July 12–Thursday, July 26. The other trip is for eleventh and twelfth grade students to Hong Kong, Thursday, July 12–Monday, July 30. Contact carrie.jussely@pcpc.org or 214-224-2766.
Why did you want to be ordained? Simply put, ordination is an incredible display of the grace of God. Being a pastor is a heavy burden that I could never carry on my own. So there’s definitely a sense of gravity to it. I recognize that my ordination is not about me. It’s about Jesus calling me to serve His church. That’s why I want to be ordained. I’m in awe because being ordained as a pastor in Christ’s church is about God’s grace. I haven’t earned it. Jesus gets the glory in my service as a steward of His flock.
Park Cities
P R E S B Y T E R I A N C H U R C H ( PCA)
4124 Oak Lawn Avenue Dallas, TX 75219 214-224-2500 www.pcpc.org www.facebook.com/parkcitiespca www.twitter.com/pcpcnews
What is your ministry passion at PCPC? My ministry passion at PCPC is threefold. First, I have a passion for my generation, adults who are now in their 20s and 30s. Today, we are seeing an unprecedented number of men and women who grew up in a Christian family and yet are quitting the church. I want to see PCPC pour into the next generation who will lead His Church. Second, I have a passion for discipleship. Jesus gave us one job: “Go, and make disciples.” This includes people who have never heard the Gospel, and people who have heard the Gospel a thousand times. Lastly, I have a passion for the city of Dallas. In many ways, we live in an over-churched and under-Gospeled city. We live in one of the largest cities in the United States. Dallas is a city filled with wonderful people, but also a city filled with desperation and brokenness. These are our neighbors, our co-workers, our family, and our friends. It is a city that is characterized by hospitality, hard-work, home-values, and yet there is so much heartache. Despite being called the “buckle of the Bible Belt,” Dallas is a city in desperate need of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
DOULOS LEADERSHIP RETREAT The Doulos leadership retreat is five sunny days of great teaching, beaching, and leadership training in Galveston, TX, July 23–27. The trip is open to all incoming seventh to eighth grade students. Students must apply for this trip and applications are due by July 12. Those who are a part of this trip will be part of a leadership team during the school year that will meet on a monthly basis and participate in various service opportunities. RSVP to kendall.hines@pcpc.org or 214-224-2768
60+ COMMUNITY
SUNDAY WORSHIP
8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 am COMMUNION
Sundays, 8:00–9:00 am Wednesdays, 5:30–6:00 pm 24/7 PRAYER HOTLINE
214-224-2680 or 24/7prayer@pcpc.org
What is your dream for PCPC? My dream for PCPC is that rather than growing big, we would grow deep—that our people would grow deeply in Jesus Christ. I would love for us to look back and say that God did something so profound here that it can only be explained by the power of the Gospel. I want our people to be so moved by the cross of Christ that they ordinarily live radical lives for the sake of Christ in our city.
GENERAL FUND BUDGET
SUMMER MUSIKGARTEN CLASSES
NANCY ASHLEY BOOK REVIEW
Looking for some musical fun for your kids? Join our Musikgarten classes for an exciting way to build your child’s knowledge and love of music June 19–July 31, Tuesdays, 10:30-11:15 am, Musikgarten Room. Visit www.pcpcartsacademy.org or e-mail frances.cope@pcpc.org or 214-224-2633.
Don’t be cruel and join us for a delicious brunch and loads of laughter on Thursday, June 21, 10:00 am–12:00 pm, Oak Lawn West, as Nancy Ashley explores how Elvis changed the world and mastered four genres of music. RSVP to Jane Beasley by June 18 at jane.beasley@pcpc.org or 214-224-2771.
2011/2012 operating budget
$11,100,000
July 1–May 27, 2012 budget
$10,464,342
July 1–May 27, 2012 giving
$10,871,431
Budget variance
$407,089
JUNE 9, 2012
THIS WEEK
3
4B
JUNE 9, 2012
OUR FAMILY
EVERYONE
BIRTHS
! Asher Ramsey Estes son of Kenley and Foster Estes, on May 29, 2012 SYMPATHY
! Heather and James Holmes (CC#03) on the loss of her grandmother; Jimmy, Livi, and Quentin Holmes (CC#03) on the loss of their great-grandmother, Eddie Faye Thornton, on May 14, 2012 ! Jane and Tom Werkema (CC#17/Good News) on the loss of her sister, Wilma Sue Lagerwey, on May 22, 2012 ! Elizabeth and Syd Hurley (CC#02) on the loss of her father; Sawyer and Victor Salvino (CC#02), Sydney and Margaret Hurley (CC#02) on the loss of their grandfather, Samuel Stollenwerck, on May 22, 2012 ! Aye-Tee and Daniel Monaco (CC#05) on the loss of her mother; Lauren and Kathryn Monaco (CC#05) on the loss of their grandmother, Lay-Kheng Soh, on May 22, 2012 ! Sara and Cass Robinson, Jr. (CC#08) on the loss of her mother; Hailey Ann and Cass Robinson (CC#08) on the loss of their grandmother, Ann Louise Hailey, on May 25, 2012
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING FOR OFFICER ELECTION The session has called a congregational meeting for Sunday, June 10, 10:40 am for the purpose of electing new deacons and ruling elders for the class of 2016. The candidates have completed nine months of training with pastors and officers on the Westminster Confession of Faith, the Book of Church Order, the Bible and other officer-specific readings, and have received session approval. Visit pcpc.org/ officer-nominees to view the officer candidates. Contact sally.rogers@pcpc.org or 214-224-2775.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS OUTREACH The World Missions Ministry invites you to join us for our second international students outreach, Thursday, June 28, 6:00–7:30 pm, Burleson Park. Be part of a fun, family-friendly, casual evening as we seek to practice Leviticus 19:33–34 and welcome a new crop of SMU international master’s level students to our neighborhood. We’ll seek to get to know these students from all over the world and consider how we might minister to them beyond this welcome party. We need help providing some light snacks and drinks. RSVP to anna.graber@pcpc. org or 214-224-2551 by Tuesday, June 26.
PERSPECTIVES RETURNS Perspectives is a 15-week discipleship course that takes students five miles deep into the Bible and helps them get a clearer picture of the church’s role in God’s grand plan, August 30–December 13, Thursdays, 6:30 pm—9:00 pm, Oak Lawn West Meeting Room. Contact marzena.dunham@pcpc.org or 214-224-2523.
OAK LAWN WEST BIBLE STUDY This weekly Bible study of singles in their 20s and 30s meets every Tuesday, 7:00 pm, in the Oak Lawn East High School Room. Join us for worship, teaching, and fellowship afterwards. Contact mckenzie.griffin@pcpc.org or 214-224-2728.
URBAN MINISTRIES CHILDCARE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
“Scripture considers repentance a path to liberation, not condemnation.” —Edward T. Welch
2
THIS WEEK
JUNE 9, 2012
CALENDAR
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Volunteers are needed at Union Gospel Mission and Center of Hope every Monday and Tuesday, 5:30— 6:45 pm, to watch children four years and younger while their mothers are in parenting development classes. Contact Irenee O'Reilly, ioreilly@ugmdallas. org or 214-638-2988.
ESL VOLUNTEERS NEEDED We need volunteers to build relationships and share the Gospel with English-language learners. Teacher training is August 26 after church. We also need volunteers to minister the Gospel to the children of our ESL students during both the morning and evening sessions. Contact Elizabeth Cunningham to volunteer, esl@pcpc.org or 214-224-2528.
CONVERSATION PARTNERS NEEDED Help our ESL students practice their English this summer. Volunteer as a conversation partner/friend. You would meet regularly (when and where is up to you) to chat with a student one-on-one. Contact elizabeth.cunningham@pcpc.org or 214-224-2528.
READING CAMP VOLUNTEERS Mercy Street needs volunteers, June 11–13 and June 18–20, 10:00 am–12:00 pm. Volunteers do not need to commit to both weeks or every day. However, you must provide your own transportation. Middle school age and older may volunteer. We also need volunteers to make and deliver 50 sack lunches for each day during the first session only. This is a wonderful and fun opportunity to serve. Contact carrollturpin@yahoo.com or 214-289-3929.
DLF CELEBRATION OF HOPE On Saturday, June 23, 7:00 am–3:00 pm, serve with Celebration of Hope, a ministry of the Dallas Leadership Foundation working in partnership with needy communities to rehabilitate the low-income houses, particularly the elderly and disabled, so that they may continue to live in proper conditions. Service neighborhoods: Hamilton Park, Jubilee Park, Wynnewood Heights, and Westmoreland Heights What will volunteers be doing? Painting houses; registering volunteers; distributing workday supplies, food and beverages; landscaping yards; and general community clean-up Volunteers should wear cool and comfortable lightweight clothing. Continental breakfast, lunch, water, and soft drinks will be provided. Register onsite. Contact Cora Billingsley, rocobill67@sbcglobal. net or 214-882-1230.
FULL-TIME JOB OPPORTUNITY ACT is seeking a Community Relations Liaison. This individual will be responsible for organizing, educating, counseling, and equipping local residents in fighting offending owners of drug houses and abandoned properties in order to reclaim crimeridden neighborhoods. For more information, contact Renee Gertson, rgertson@actdallas.org or 214-951-9151.
JULY
JUNE 4–14 10
12–30
Walk Where Jesus Walked, Israel, 224-2741 Congregational meeting for officer election, 10:40 am, 224-2775
Hurricane Harbor (Middle School), 224-2762
Ben and Ann Carolyn Williams
22–8/4 PCPC Family Camp: Colorado, Sky Ranch at Ute Trail, 224-2762
6–7/30 Women’s summer Bible studies, 224-2725 11–13
Mercy Street Reading Camp, 10:00 am–noon, 289-3929
11–14
VBS, PCPC School of Rock, 9:00 am–noon
18–20
Mercy Street Reading Camp, 10:00 am–noon, 289-3929
19
16
Youth Ministry Asia mission trips, Asia, 224-2766
23–27
Doulos leadership retreat (7th/8th), Galveston, TX, 224-2762
AUGUST 30
Virginia Yip
Paul Goebel
Perspectives, Thursdays, 6:30 pm—9:00 pm, Oak Lawn West, 224-2523
Six Flags (Middle School), 224-2762
CONTINUED
19–7/31 Musikgarten classes, 10:30–11:15 am, Musikgarten Room, 224-2633 20
Ladies’ missionary luncheon, noon–1:30 pm, Oak Lawn West, 224-2551
21
60+ Nancy Ashley book review, 10:00 am–12:00 pm, Oak Lawn West, 224-2771
23
DLF Celebration of Hope 2012, 7:00 am–3:00 pm, 882-1230
28
SMU international students outreach, 6:00–7:30 pm, Burleson Park, 224-2551
WORLD MISSIONS LADIES’ MISSIONARY LUNCHEON On Wednesday, June 20, noon–1:30 pm, Oak Lawn West, enjoy some food and fellowship while hearing about the lives of PCPC women who serve the Lord around the world. A suggested donation of $7 would be welcomed. RSVP to anna.graber@pcpc. org or 214-224-2551 by Monday, June 18.
WOMEN WOMEN’S SUMMER BIBLE STUDIES 1. Rethinking Relationships, Sexuality, and the Christians’ Voice of Good News: What do we say about homosexuality? Tuesdays, June 19–July 10, 7:00–8:30pm. For more information, e-mail Shannon Geiger, joshgeiger@aol.com. 214-405-0147 2. Is Your Home Out of Order? Mondays, July 9–30, 7:15 pm. RSVP to Nancy Turner, rom8v38to39@aol. com. 3. Thinking Now. Thinking True. Wednesdays, June 6–27, 10:00–11:00 am, Oak Lawn West. RSVP to Linda Weaver, lindaweaver@charter.net. Question? Contact mary.haberkorn@pcpc.org or 214-224-2725.
YOUNG FAMILIES
Did you miss an issue of This Week? You can download past issues in PDF format at www.pcpc.org. Just click on “resources” on the menu bar at the top of the page.
years ago I was introduced to Mark Davis and Tim Tinsley. We began to dream what it would be like to reach Downtown and Uptown Dallas with the Gospel through this church. I believe that the Lord has given me a passion for the City Center District of Dallas, where thousands and thousands of people desperately need the Gospel. PCPC has an incredible opportunity due to our location in the middle of such cultural diversity. You can drive a few miles in any direction and engage an entirely different culture. So I originally came to PCPC to be a part of reaching the city of Dallas with the Gospel, and that’s why I believe the Lord has called me to be a pastor at PCPC.
PCPC SCHOOL OF ROCK (VBS) Registration is full for School of Rock. We are no longer accepting applications for participants or volunteers. Thank you for your interest, please be watching for VBS 2013 registration to begin next March. Questions? E-mail vbs@pcpc.org.
STUDENT MINISTRIES YOUTH MINISTRY ASIA MISSION TRIPS This summer the Youth Ministry has the opportunity to take two separate mission trips to Asia. There will be a trip for ninth and tenth grade students to East Asia, Thursday, July 12–Thursday, July 26. The other trip is for eleventh and twelfth grade students to Hong Kong, Thursday, July 12–Monday, July 30. Contact carrie.jussely@pcpc.org or 214-224-2766.
Why did you want to be ordained? Simply put, ordination is an incredible display of the grace of God. Being a pastor is a heavy burden that I could never carry on my own. So there’s definitely a sense of gravity to it. I recognize that my ordination is not about me. It’s about Jesus calling me to serve His church. That’s why I want to be ordained. I’m in awe because being ordained as a pastor in Christ’s church is about God’s grace. I haven’t earned it. Jesus gets the glory in my service as a steward of His flock.
Park Cities
P R E S B Y T E R I A N C H U R C H ( PCA)
4124 Oak Lawn Avenue Dallas, TX 75219 214-224-2500 www.pcpc.org www.facebook.com/parkcitiespca www.twitter.com/pcpcnews
What is your ministry passion at PCPC? My ministry passion at PCPC is threefold. First, I have a passion for my generation, adults who are now in their 20s and 30s. Today, we are seeing an unprecedented number of men and women who grew up in a Christian family and yet are quitting the church. I want to see PCPC pour into the next generation who will lead His Church. Second, I have a passion for discipleship. Jesus gave us one job: “Go, and make disciples.” This includes people who have never heard the Gospel, and people who have heard the Gospel a thousand times. Lastly, I have a passion for the city of Dallas. In many ways, we live in an over-churched and under-Gospeled city. We live in one of the largest cities in the United States. Dallas is a city filled with wonderful people, but also a city filled with desperation and brokenness. These are our neighbors, our co-workers, our family, and our friends. It is a city that is characterized by hospitality, hard-work, home-values, and yet there is so much heartache. Despite being called the “buckle of the Bible Belt,” Dallas is a city in desperate need of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
DOULOS LEADERSHIP RETREAT The Doulos leadership retreat is five sunny days of great teaching, beaching, and leadership training in Galveston, TX, July 23–27. The trip is open to all incoming seventh to eighth grade students. Students must apply for this trip and applications are due by July 12. Those who are a part of this trip will be part of a leadership team during the school year that will meet on a monthly basis and participate in various service opportunities. RSVP to kendall.hines@pcpc.org or 214-224-2768
60+ COMMUNITY
SUNDAY WORSHIP
8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 am COMMUNION
Sundays, 8:00–9:00 am Wednesdays, 5:30–6:00 pm 24/7 PRAYER HOTLINE
214-224-2680 or 24/7prayer@pcpc.org
What is your dream for PCPC? My dream for PCPC is that rather than growing big, we would grow deep—that our people would grow deeply in Jesus Christ. I would love for us to look back and say that God did something so profound here that it can only be explained by the power of the Gospel. I want our people to be so moved by the cross of Christ that they ordinarily live radical lives for the sake of Christ in our city.
GENERAL FUND BUDGET
SUMMER MUSIKGARTEN CLASSES
NANCY ASHLEY BOOK REVIEW
Looking for some musical fun for your kids? Join our Musikgarten classes for an exciting way to build your child’s knowledge and love of music June 19–July 31, Tuesdays, 10:30-11:15 am, Musikgarten Room. Visit www.pcpcartsacademy.org or e-mail frances.cope@pcpc.org or 214-224-2633.
Don’t be cruel and join us for a delicious brunch and loads of laughter on Thursday, June 21, 10:00 am–12:00 pm, Oak Lawn West, as Nancy Ashley explores how Elvis changed the world and mastered four genres of music. RSVP to Jane Beasley by June 18 at jane.beasley@pcpc.org or 214-224-2771.
2011/2012 operating budget
$11,100,000
July 1–May 27, 2012 budget
$10,464,342
July 1–May 27, 2012 giving
$10,871,431
Budget variance
$407,089
JUNE 9, 2012
THIS WEEK
3
4B
JUNE 9, 2012
NEW
APRIL 29, 2012
MEMBERS
NEW Communicants
Jenny and Tim Martin
Taylor Mason
Megan and Kyle Manley
Lauren Nix
Of the number of those who were baptized in infancy as members of the Church of God by birthright, and as heirs of the covenant promises, the session has examined and approved (these individuals), who come now to assume for themselves the full privileges and responsibilities of their inheritance in the household of faith.
NEW
APRIL 29, 2012
MEMBERS
O
Morgan Jones
Whit Roberts
Rainey McBride
Sally Shaw
Elli Overton
Abby Snelling
Jake Pogue
Joan Ackley
Emma and Reid Price
Daniel and Olivia Rognstad
Erik and Tayler Sandvick
Heather and Chris Shannon
Marilyn and Ken Smith
Scott Stone
Carl Suillivan
Nate Sung
Rebekah and Landon Vaughan
Shana and Jarrod Vaughan
Scott and Lauren Ward
Laura Warwick
4A
PERIODICAL POSTAGE PAID AT DALLAS, TEXAS
Wesley Rentz and Wendy Holman
JUNE 9, 2012
Jenny Jones
VOL. XXII, NO. 12 | JUNE 9, 2012
THIS WEEK (007-362) is published biweekly except once in December by Park Cities Presbyterian Church, 4124 Oak Lawn, Dallas, TX 75219. Periodical postage paid at Dallas, Texas 75219. POSTMASTER: send address changes to THIS WEEK, 4124 Oak Lawn, Dallas, TX 75219-3152.
Lindsay Peters
Coleman Jones
MAY 20, 2012
— Book of Church Order 57–5
Drew Peabody
Talmadge Hicks
VOL. XXII, NO. 12 | JUNE 9, 2012
Whitney Long
David Lynn
Jennie Lou Haughton
Park Cities Presbyterian Church JD Lemming, editor 4124 Oak Lawn Avenue Dallas, Texas 75219-3152 214-224-2711 • fax 214-224-2711 www.pcpc.org
O
Ty and Amy Anderson
Scott and Heath Beasley
Paul GOEBEL
Caitlin Benning and Thomas Laughlin
Will Bowersox
Tyler and Alyssa Butcher
Martin Gill
Hallie Graves
Jessica and Chuck Griege
David and Rebecca Guilbeault
Lance and Rebecca Gurley
Ryan and Dana Hankins
Greg Higgins
Ashley and Joe Januszewski
Faith Jennings
Claire Jennings
Emma Jennings
William and Abby Jones
Amanda Kelly
K’Lea Lisenby
This Week sits down with PCPC’s newly minted pastor to ask him about his ordination. What is the journey that got you to this point? I grew up in a Christian home just outside of Waco, TX. My family faithfully attended church every Sunday, but I became frustrated with Christianity and disillusioned with the church. I had become frustrated because I had tons of questions about Christianity that I felt were not being answered by the church. I was disillusioned because I felt that most Christians were judgmental and hypocritical. So by the time I got to high school I wrote off Christianity—not out of anger or bitterness. I simply decided that God was not real, Christianity wasn’t true, and that I didn’t need religion. On the outside I seemed like a good Christian kid, but on the inside I was full of deep doubt. Toward the end of high school, I had some friends who lived out their faith in Jesus honestly and authentically. The Lord used those friendships to grab my heart. He changed my doubt to faith, and I truly trusted in the Gospel for the first time. As a new believer, I knew that I didn’t want to become a lukewarm Christian. I knew that my entire life had to change. And I knew that God was going to have to change it. Early in college I felt the Lord calling me away from premed to full-time vocational ministry. However, my motivation for ministry wasn’t right. I thought I was going to change the world, I thought I was going to change the church. But Jesus changed me. In those early days of ministry, God broke my arrogant heart and revealed to me how far away I was from the Gospel. It was not the church that needed to change—I needed to change. We are all broken people in need of a Savior. This is Christ’s church, and the fact that it is full of fallen people is good news for a sinner like me. It was at that moment Jesus gave me a profound love for His church. I believe the Lord brought me to PCPC because of my love for the church and my love for the city. Around four CONTINUED ON 4B
Park Cities Presbyterian Church exists to extend the transforming presence of the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ in Dallas and to the world.
OUR FAMILY
EVERYONE
BIRTHS
! Asher Ramsey Estes son of Kenley and Foster Estes, on May 29, 2012 SYMPATHY
! Heather and James Holmes (CC#03) on the loss of her grandmother; Jimmy, Livi, and Quentin Holmes (CC#03) on the loss of their great-grandmother, Eddie Faye Thornton, on May 14, 2012 ! Jane and Tom Werkema (CC#17/Good News) on the loss of her sister, Wilma Sue Lagerwey, on May 22, 2012 ! Elizabeth and Syd Hurley (CC#02) on the loss of her father; Sawyer and Victor Salvino (CC#02), Sydney and Margaret Hurley (CC#02) on the loss of their grandfather, Samuel Stollenwerck, on May 22, 2012 ! Aye-Tee and Daniel Monaco (CC#05) on the loss of her mother; Lauren and Kathryn Monaco (CC#05) on the loss of their grandmother, Lay-Kheng Soh, on May 22, 2012 ! Sara and Cass Robinson, Jr. (CC#08) on the loss of her mother; Hailey Ann and Cass Robinson (CC#08) on the loss of their grandmother, Ann Louise Hailey, on May 25, 2012
CONGREGATIONAL MEETING FOR OFFICER ELECTION The session has called a congregational meeting for Sunday, June 10, 10:40 am for the purpose of electing new deacons and ruling elders for the class of 2016. The candidates have completed nine months of training with pastors and officers on the Westminster Confession of Faith, the Book of Church Order, the Bible and other officer-specific readings, and have received session approval. Visit pcpc.org/ officer-nominees to view the officer candidates. Contact sally.rogers@pcpc.org or 214-224-2775.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS OUTREACH The World Missions Ministry invites you to join us for our second international students outreach, Thursday, June 28, 6:00–7:30 pm, Burleson Park. Be part of a fun, family-friendly, casual evening as we seek to practice Leviticus 19:33–34 and welcome a new crop of SMU international master’s level students to our neighborhood. We’ll seek to get to know these students from all over the world and consider how we might minister to them beyond this welcome party. We need help providing some light snacks and drinks. RSVP to anna.graber@pcpc. org or 214-224-2551 by Tuesday, June 26.
PERSPECTIVES RETURNS Perspectives is a 15-week discipleship course that takes students five miles deep into the Bible and helps them get a clearer picture of the church’s role in God’s grand plan, August 30–December 13, Thursdays, 6:30 pm—9:00 pm, Oak Lawn West Meeting Room. Contact marzena.dunham@pcpc.org or 214-224-2523.
OAK LAWN WEST BIBLE STUDY This weekly Bible study of singles in their 20s and 30s meets every Tuesday, 7:00 pm, in the Oak Lawn East High School Room. Join us for worship, teaching, and fellowship afterwards. Contact mckenzie.griffin@pcpc.org or 214-224-2728.
URBAN MINISTRIES CHILDCARE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
“Scripture considers repentance a path to liberation, not condemnation.” —Edward T. Welch
2
THIS WEEK
JUNE 9, 2012
CALENDAR
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Volunteers are needed at Union Gospel Mission and Center of Hope every Monday and Tuesday, 5:30— 6:45 pm, to watch children four years and younger while their mothers are in parenting development classes. Contact Irenee O'Reilly, ioreilly@ugmdallas. org or 214-638-2988.
ESL VOLUNTEERS NEEDED We need volunteers to build relationships and share the Gospel with English-language learners. Teacher training is August 26 after church. We also need volunteers to minister the Gospel to the children of our ESL students during both the morning and evening sessions. Contact Elizabeth Cunningham to volunteer, esl@pcpc.org or 214-224-2528.
CONVERSATION PARTNERS NEEDED Help our ESL students practice their English this summer. Volunteer as a conversation partner/friend. You would meet regularly (when and where is up to you) to chat with a student one-on-one. Contact elizabeth.cunningham@pcpc.org or 214-224-2528.
READING CAMP VOLUNTEERS Mercy Street needs volunteers, June 11–13 and June 18–20, 10:00 am–12:00 pm. Volunteers do not need to commit to both weeks or every day. However, you must provide your own transportation. Middle school age and older may volunteer. We also need volunteers to make and deliver 50 sack lunches for each day during the first session only. This is a wonderful and fun opportunity to serve. Contact carrollturpin@yahoo.com or 214-289-3929.
DLF CELEBRATION OF HOPE On Saturday, June 23, 7:00 am–3:00 pm, serve with Celebration of Hope, a ministry of the Dallas Leadership Foundation working in partnership with needy communities to rehabilitate the low-income houses, particularly the elderly and disabled, so that they may continue to live in proper conditions. Service neighborhoods: Hamilton Park, Jubilee Park, Wynnewood Heights, and Westmoreland Heights What will volunteers be doing? Painting houses; registering volunteers; distributing workday supplies, food and beverages; landscaping yards; and general community clean-up Volunteers should wear cool and comfortable lightweight clothing. Continental breakfast, lunch, water, and soft drinks will be provided. Register onsite. Contact Cora Billingsley, rocobill67@sbcglobal. net or 214-882-1230.
FULL-TIME JOB OPPORTUNITY ACT is seeking a Community Relations Liaison. This individual will be responsible for organizing, educating, counseling, and equipping local residents in fighting offending owners of drug houses and abandoned properties in order to reclaim crimeridden neighborhoods. For more information, contact Renee Gertson, rgertson@actdallas.org or 214-951-9151.
JULY
JUNE 4–14 10
12–30
Walk Where Jesus Walked, Israel, 224-2741 Congregational meeting for officer election, 10:40 am, 224-2775
Hurricane Harbor (Middle School), 224-2762
Ben and Ann Carolyn Williams
22–8/4 PCPC Family Camp: Colorado, Sky Ranch at Ute Trail, 224-2762
6–7/30 Women’s summer Bible studies, 224-2725 11–13
Mercy Street Reading Camp, 10:00 am–noon, 289-3929
11–14
VBS, PCPC School of Rock, 9:00 am–noon
18–20
Mercy Street Reading Camp, 10:00 am–noon, 289-3929
19
16
Youth Ministry Asia mission trips, Asia, 224-2766
23–27
Doulos leadership retreat (7th/8th), Galveston, TX, 224-2762
AUGUST 30
Virginia Yip
Paul Goebel
Perspectives, Thursdays, 6:30 pm—9:00 pm, Oak Lawn West, 224-2523
Six Flags (Middle School), 224-2762
CONTINUED
19–7/31 Musikgarten classes, 10:30–11:15 am, Musikgarten Room, 224-2633 20
Ladies’ missionary luncheon, noon–1:30 pm, Oak Lawn West, 224-2551
21
60+ Nancy Ashley book review, 10:00 am–12:00 pm, Oak Lawn West, 224-2771
23
DLF Celebration of Hope 2012, 7:00 am–3:00 pm, 882-1230
28
SMU international students outreach, 6:00–7:30 pm, Burleson Park, 224-2551
WORLD MISSIONS LADIES’ MISSIONARY LUNCHEON On Wednesday, June 20, noon–1:30 pm, Oak Lawn West, enjoy some food and fellowship while hearing about the lives of PCPC women who serve the Lord around the world. A suggested donation of $7 would be welcomed. RSVP to anna.graber@pcpc. org or 214-224-2551 by Monday, June 18.
WOMEN WOMEN’S SUMMER BIBLE STUDIES 1. Rethinking Relationships, Sexuality, and the Christians’ Voice of Good News: What do we say about homosexuality? Tuesdays, June 19–July 10, 7:00–8:30pm. For more information, e-mail Shannon Geiger, joshgeiger@aol.com. 214-405-0147 2. Is Your Home Out of Order? Mondays, July 9–30, 7:15 pm. RSVP to Nancy Turner, rom8v38to39@aol. com. 3. Thinking Now. Thinking True. Wednesdays, June 6–27, 10:00–11:00 am, Oak Lawn West. RSVP to Linda Weaver, lindaweaver@charter.net. Question? Contact mary.haberkorn@pcpc.org or 214-224-2725.
YOUNG FAMILIES
Did you miss an issue of This Week? You can download past issues in PDF format at www.pcpc.org. Just click on “resources” on the menu bar at the top of the page.
years ago I was introduced to Mark Davis and Tim Tinsley. We began to dream what it would be like to reach Downtown and Uptown Dallas with the Gospel through this church. I believe that the Lord has given me a passion for the City Center District of Dallas, where thousands and thousands of people desperately need the Gospel. PCPC has an incredible opportunity due to our location in the middle of such cultural diversity. You can drive a few miles in any direction and engage an entirely different culture. So I originally came to PCPC to be a part of reaching the city of Dallas with the Gospel, and that’s why I believe the Lord has called me to be a pastor at PCPC.
PCPC SCHOOL OF ROCK (VBS) Registration is full for School of Rock. We are no longer accepting applications for participants or volunteers. Thank you for your interest, please be watching for VBS 2013 registration to begin next March. Questions? E-mail vbs@pcpc.org.
STUDENT MINISTRIES YOUTH MINISTRY ASIA MISSION TRIPS This summer the Youth Ministry has the opportunity to take two separate mission trips to Asia. There will be a trip for ninth and tenth grade students to East Asia, Thursday, July 12–Thursday, July 26. The other trip is for eleventh and twelfth grade students to Hong Kong, Thursday, July 12–Monday, July 30. Contact carrie.jussely@pcpc.org or 214-224-2766.
Why did you want to be ordained? Simply put, ordination is an incredible display of the grace of God. Being a pastor is a heavy burden that I could never carry on my own. So there’s definitely a sense of gravity to it. I recognize that my ordination is not about me. It’s about Jesus calling me to serve His church. That’s why I want to be ordained. I’m in awe because being ordained as a pastor in Christ’s church is about God’s grace. I haven’t earned it. Jesus gets the glory in my service as a steward of His flock.
Park Cities
P R E S B Y T E R I A N C H U R C H ( PCA)
4124 Oak Lawn Avenue Dallas, TX 75219 214-224-2500 www.pcpc.org www.facebook.com/parkcitiespca www.twitter.com/pcpcnews
What is your ministry passion at PCPC? My ministry passion at PCPC is threefold. First, I have a passion for my generation, adults who are now in their 20s and 30s. Today, we are seeing an unprecedented number of men and women who grew up in a Christian family and yet are quitting the church. I want to see PCPC pour into the next generation who will lead His Church. Second, I have a passion for discipleship. Jesus gave us one job: “Go, and make disciples.” This includes people who have never heard the Gospel, and people who have heard the Gospel a thousand times. Lastly, I have a passion for the city of Dallas. In many ways, we live in an over-churched and under-Gospeled city. We live in one of the largest cities in the United States. Dallas is a city filled with wonderful people, but also a city filled with desperation and brokenness. These are our neighbors, our co-workers, our family, and our friends. It is a city that is characterized by hospitality, hard-work, home-values, and yet there is so much heartache. Despite being called the “buckle of the Bible Belt,” Dallas is a city in desperate need of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
DOULOS LEADERSHIP RETREAT The Doulos leadership retreat is five sunny days of great teaching, beaching, and leadership training in Galveston, TX, July 23–27. The trip is open to all incoming seventh to eighth grade students. Students must apply for this trip and applications are due by July 12. Those who are a part of this trip will be part of a leadership team during the school year that will meet on a monthly basis and participate in various service opportunities. RSVP to kendall.hines@pcpc.org or 214-224-2768
60+ COMMUNITY
SUNDAY WORSHIP
8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 am COMMUNION
Sundays, 8:00–9:00 am Wednesdays, 5:30–6:00 pm 24/7 PRAYER HOTLINE
214-224-2680 or 24/7prayer@pcpc.org
What is your dream for PCPC? My dream for PCPC is that rather than growing big, we would grow deep—that our people would grow deeply in Jesus Christ. I would love for us to look back and say that God did something so profound here that it can only be explained by the power of the Gospel. I want our people to be so moved by the cross of Christ that they ordinarily live radical lives for the sake of Christ in our city.
GENERAL FUND BUDGET
SUMMER MUSIKGARTEN CLASSES
NANCY ASHLEY BOOK REVIEW
Looking for some musical fun for your kids? Join our Musikgarten classes for an exciting way to build your child’s knowledge and love of music June 19–July 31, Tuesdays, 10:30-11:15 am, Musikgarten Room. Visit www.pcpcartsacademy.org or e-mail frances.cope@pcpc.org or 214-224-2633.
Don’t be cruel and join us for a delicious brunch and loads of laughter on Thursday, June 21, 10:00 am–12:00 pm, Oak Lawn West, as Nancy Ashley explores how Elvis changed the world and mastered four genres of music. RSVP to Jane Beasley by June 18 at jane.beasley@pcpc.org or 214-224-2771.
2011/2012 operating budget
$11,100,000
July 1–May 27, 2012 budget
$10,464,342
July 1–May 27, 2012 giving
$10,871,431
Budget variance
$407,089
JUNE 9, 2012
THIS WEEK
3
4B
JUNE 9, 2012
NEW
APRIL 29, 2012
MEMBERS
NEW Communicants
Jenny and Tim Martin
Taylor Mason
Megan and Kyle Manley
Lauren Nix
Of the number of those who were baptized in infancy as members of the Church of God by birthright, and as heirs of the covenant promises, the session has examined and approved (these individuals), who come now to assume for themselves the full privileges and responsibilities of their inheritance in the household of faith.
NEW
APRIL 29, 2012
MEMBERS
O
Morgan Jones
Whit Roberts
Rainey McBride
Sally Shaw
Elli Overton
Abby Snelling
Jake Pogue
Joan Ackley
Emma and Reid Price
Daniel and Olivia Rognstad
Erik and Tayler Sandvick
Heather and Chris Shannon
Marilyn and Ken Smith
Scott Stone
Carl Suillivan
Nate Sung
Rebekah and Landon Vaughan
Shana and Jarrod Vaughan
Scott and Lauren Ward
Laura Warwick
4A
PERIODICAL POSTAGE PAID AT DALLAS, TEXAS
Wesley Rentz and Wendy Holman
JUNE 9, 2012
Jenny Jones
VOL. XXII, NO. 12 | JUNE 9, 2012
THIS WEEK (007-362) is published biweekly except once in December by Park Cities Presbyterian Church, 4124 Oak Lawn, Dallas, TX 75219. Periodical postage paid at Dallas, Texas 75219. POSTMASTER: send address changes to THIS WEEK, 4124 Oak Lawn, Dallas, TX 75219-3152.
Lindsay Peters
Coleman Jones
MAY 20, 2012
— Book of Church Order 57–5
Drew Peabody
Talmadge Hicks
VOL. XXII, NO. 12 | JUNE 9, 2012
Whitney Long
David Lynn
Jennie Lou Haughton
Park Cities Presbyterian Church JD Lemming, editor 4124 Oak Lawn Avenue Dallas, Texas 75219-3152 214-224-2711 • fax 214-224-2711 www.pcpc.org
O
Ty and Amy Anderson
Scott and Heath Beasley
Paul GOEBEL
Caitlin Benning and Thomas Laughlin
Will Bowersox
Tyler and Alyssa Butcher
Martin Gill
Hallie Graves
Jessica and Chuck Griege
David and Rebecca Guilbeault
Lance and Rebecca Gurley
Ryan and Dana Hankins
Greg Higgins
Ashley and Joe Januszewski
Faith Jennings
Claire Jennings
Emma Jennings
William and Abby Jones
Amanda Kelly
K’Lea Lisenby
This Week sits down with PCPC’s newly minted pastor to ask him about his ordination. What is the journey that got you to this point? I grew up in a Christian home just outside of Waco, TX. My family faithfully attended church every Sunday, but I became frustrated with Christianity and disillusioned with the church. I had become frustrated because I had tons of questions about Christianity that I felt were not being answered by the church. I was disillusioned because I felt that most Christians were judgmental and hypocritical. So by the time I got to high school I wrote off Christianity—not out of anger or bitterness. I simply decided that God was not real, Christianity wasn’t true, and that I didn’t need religion. On the outside I seemed like a good Christian kid, but on the inside I was full of deep doubt. Toward the end of high school, I had some friends who lived out their faith in Jesus honestly and authentically. The Lord used those friendships to grab my heart. He changed my doubt to faith, and I truly trusted in the Gospel for the first time. As a new believer, I knew that I didn’t want to become a lukewarm Christian. I knew that my entire life had to change. And I knew that God was going to have to change it. Early in college I felt the Lord calling me away from premed to full-time vocational ministry. However, my motivation for ministry wasn’t right. I thought I was going to change the world, I thought I was going to change the church. But Jesus changed me. In those early days of ministry, God broke my arrogant heart and revealed to me how far away I was from the Gospel. It was not the church that needed to change—I needed to change. We are all broken people in need of a Savior. This is Christ’s church, and the fact that it is full of fallen people is good news for a sinner like me. It was at that moment Jesus gave me a profound love for His church. I believe the Lord brought me to PCPC because of my love for the church and my love for the city. Around four CONTINUED ON 4B
Park Cities Presbyterian Church exists to extend the transforming presence of the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ in Dallas and to the world.