Presbyterian Church in America
pcpc “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in My name, He may give it to you.” —John 15:16
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Seeing the Lord’s face in time of need 5 6
Train up a child ...then what?
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What does a call to missions sound like? 8.
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For every need there’s a gift to fill it 10 Project keeps Christ in Christmas 12. Hope and joy emerge from despair 14 Staff parties in West Dallas at Christmas 15 Carolers bring cheer to elderly 16
Session seeks widening circles of heart transformation
From the time of the book of Acts, church elders have focused on prayer and the ministry of God’s Word. On January 18 and 19, the elders of PCPC gathered at Lake Texoma for their winter retreat to do just that. The men spent meaningful time in fellowship, prayer, and reflection on God’s Word. They looked intently at the role of the shepherd and how it shapes their roles in caring for our body. From this time together, our elders have fanned the flame of the simple, yet profound calling to shepherd the flock entrusted to them. Our body
The priorities of life for a busy woman 4
Christmas concert fills the house
Vol. XIX, No. 1 • Park Cities Presbyterian Church • FEBRUARY 2008
remains strong because of the love and care these men have for the PCPC family. Jack Denman, Moderator of the Session, commented, “The retreat was a wonderful time for our elders to come together to fellowship and to study the truths of Psalm 23, Ezekiel 34, and John 10. We
Above, elders and ministry leaders break up into small groups for discussion of several passages of scripture. Left, Harry Hargrave (l) and David Burgher consider the role of the shepherding elder.
studied these passages individually and together, and sought to discern what the Holy Spirit would say to us regarding shepherding the members of PCPC. It is the heartfelt desire of our elders to lead our people into an ever-deepening relationship with Christ and, as shepherds, to passionately
pursue the transformation of the hearts of our people.” So how does the goal of pursuing transformed hearts, not just in our church, but in our city and world as well, play out in a time of transition for our church? Here are a few examples of new efforts to extend the ripple effect of Christ’s work in us and for us right here at PCPC. continued on page 2
Session
continued from p. 1
Executive Commission named In October, the Session established an Executive Commission to lead ongoing and new ministry opportunities while the Pulpit Search Committee continues its important work of determining whom God will call to us as our senior pastor. The purpose of the Commission is to lead the Session in a strategic direction, provide guidance in worship, and to give a common voice to our congregation on behalf of the Session. (Members of the commission are pictured below.) Mark Davis, Pastor of Spiritual Life Another significant development at PCPC is the new role for Mark Davis. As you know, Mark has served our body well in his ministry to our youth and their families. In January, Mark moved into the newly defined role of Pastor of Spiritual Life, where he will focus on helping us grow in our calling as disciples of Christ. His first priority is building upon the foundation of PCPC as a praying community. Mark will also focus on new members becoming involved in our church body, and he will oversee Women’s Ministries, the 20+ Community, and Youth and College ministries. When asked why he was excited about this new role, Mark said, “As disciples of Christ, it is to our Father’s glory and our joy that we grow, bearing much fruit. This fruit is proof that we are His disciples. I look forward to the joy we will know as our Father produces such fruit.”
Preaching from the Book of Acts As we are led through the book of Acts in our Sunday morning worship and as we study the Holy Spirit in our Sunday evening worship, we trust that God will be pleased to use his Word through the work of His Spirit in each of our lives. May we see our body continually transformed into the image of Christ so that we might be His effective instruments for Kingdom extension throughout the world. Pinkston High School, West Dallas What began as a simple appeal to provide pregame meals for the L. G. Pinkston High School football team has evolved into an unprecedented show of compassion, commitment, availability, and connection for the Shepherd of Souls Sunday School Community. Last August, the class banded together to serve meals to the coaches and young men of that school. Since then, the SOS class has become engaged in the numerous needs of this public school in West Dallas, which is on the verge of academic failure. Many SOS class families have supported Pinkston by meeting with the team members individually, praying for and assisting the students’ families, and instilling a sense of confidence in the administration, staff, and students.The class is learning how to work with one of our West Dallas ministry partners in meeting the numerous needs of this school. It has even provided 20 golf sets (clubs, bags, and balls) for
the golf team and plans to provide transportation for the debate and golf teams. A major cook-off for the athletic department and providing mentors, readers, and tutors are envisioned for this spring. Under Julian Russell’s leadership as PCPC’s Pastor to Urban Ministries, the possibilities for how this ministry can be expanded throughout the Metroplex are coming more and more into focus.
PCPC’s DivorceCare Ministry At the heart of our calling is not only Kingdom extension, but also heart and life transformation as the Word of God impacts our community of believers. This past fall, PCPC began its DivorceCare ministry on Wednesday nights in Oak Lawn West. It is quickly becoming a place of care and healing for the pain and shame experienced in divorce. As newcomers become acquainted with their fellow group participants, they find that pain is not a surprise to anyone. Those who share their lives together in DivorceCare no longer feel alone and isolated now that they are surrounded by the body of Christ. The DivorceCare program provides a safe place where each participant or leader is personally acquainted with the pain of separation or divorce. At the same time, they also know
As Mark moves into his new role, we continue our search for a new minister to our youth. With our exceptional youth interns and staff, our youth ministry continues to engage and disciple students in our church and community.
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FEBRUARY 2008
the healing that can begin when one admits the pain, faces it, identifies its sources, and takes it all to the Lord for redemption. When DivorceCare participants begin to realize that God is not surprised at their current situation, and that He is willing and even eager to walk alongside them, the light begins to return to their eyes. Hopelessness begins to subside. By the time participants end the series, many realize that as bad as things are, it is not the end; God is with them. The joy for the DivorceCare facilitators lies in watching people actively transform from hurting, angry people to individuals with hope of a future and with true forgiveness in their hearts. Who but Jesus could do such a thing? A new world mission outreach The ripple effect continues to spread even beyond our own hearts and those in our immediate community. World Missions Director Curt Dobbs tells this story: Last October, a group of us were in Indonesia looking at church planting opportunities and visited the Grand Mosque in Banda Aceh, the town that lost 100,000 people to the December 2004 tsunami. In that terrible time, Banda’s population dropped to 250,000! As we approached the gate, I noticed some movement in the courtyard out of a corner of my eye. I glanced over to see
Inside this mosque women can be caned for no reason and with no recourse to their law or religion.
a little girl, maybe 12 years old, who ran away as soon as I looked in her direction. As we continued to approach the mosque, I noticed that she continued to watch us. Any time one of us looked in her direction she smiled and ran off.
Christian missions cracked the door open. Now all of us wonder if this little girl will hear the gospel of Jesus Christ. How will she, in a land under strict Muslim law, where in this very mosque women can be caned without challenge?
Finally, we entered the grounds of the mosque and, sure enough, there she was again. As we looked in her direction, she again smiled shyly and ran off. After a few minutes, I saw her sitting with two older women (later to find out they were her mother and grandmother). I held up my camera and nodded with a smile, and they nodded back that it was okay to take pictures (see above).
In February, several of us from PCPC are returning to see if God wants us to work to expand His gospel in this challenging part of the world. I plan to take her picture with me in the unlikely chance that I might see her again and be able to give it to her. Please pray with us that, through God’s love, this little Muslim girl will know the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Before the tsunami, no one knew of a single Christian in Banda. In fact, our group would not have been allowed to go there. But massive aid from
The ripple effect Acts 1:8 says, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” How grateful we are to see how, through the Spirit’s enablement, His presence is being extended. May God be pleased to continue His transforming work in us and work mightily through us for the glory of His gospel to the ends of our world. —Jeff Barber
The members of the Executive Commission include (l to r) David Gowdey (ruling elder), Frank Bullock (ruling elder), Jeff Barber (PCPC Executive Director), Tim Tinsley (teaching elder), Jack Denman (Moderator of the Session), and Mark Davis (teaching elder).
FEBRUARY 2008
PCPC WITNESS • 3
ord, Lteach us
Jill Briscoe speaks at fall luncheon
to listen
J
Jill Briscoe knew just what we busy women needed to hear when she spoke to us last October. We were thrilled when she agreed to come amid her active speaking and writing ministry that has taken her all over the world. She has written more than 40 books, study guides, devotional materials, and children’s books. Her beautiful British accent added to the joy of listening to her words of wisdom and encouragement.
Families, time, and perfectionism
The morning began with this message to women in ministry leadership: “Your leadership will only be as effective as your personal spiritual life with Jesus.” She reminded us that it is how well we know Him, enjoy Him, pray, and let the Word of God speak to us that people care about. Her personal study of the gospels gave her insight on how Jesus did ministry. He had no boundaries and was often interrupted. People mattered more than schedules. The only time Jesus retreated from people was to spend time with His Father or His disciples. He considered all of His life as ministry. She encouraged us to tell the Lord, “All my time is Yours. All interruptions are Yours. I’ll assume this person who interrupted me was sent by You.” Jill considers herself a member of two families: her own and the church. On a daily basis she seeks God’s guidance on how to spend time with each. She reminded us that we cannot please everyone, so just listen to God and seek to please only Him. During a Q&A time she was asked what she had noticed 4 • PCPC WITNESS
about American women in particular after meeting so many women around the world for many years. Her answer was interesting: “American women are very gifted, poised, together, driven—but insecure. Most are perfectionists. If they can’t do it well, they don’t do it.” She encouraged us to be willing to serve whether we can do it perfectly or not.
Immersed in the Word
After speaking to the leaders, hundreds of women gathered for a delicious lunch with beautiful table decorations. Brian Piper and Kristen Roberts provided special music before Jill spoke about listening to God. She likes to meet with the Lord early along with a cup of tea, but when her husband traveled and she had children at home the best time to meet with Him was late at night. She urged us to make time alone with the Lord and warned of burn-out if we don’t. She believes “sleep-deprivation is better than God-deprivation.” Jill reminded us that we get to know God the same way we develop other relationships. It takes spending time together, talking, listening, and trusting. We cannot have an intimate life with God without reading His Word. Jill likes to read a passage and imagine the Lord Himself reading it to her. Then scripture pops out with just what she needs to hear, maybe a promise, a warning, or a word of encouragement or comfort. Then she has a conversation in prayer with Him about what she has read. Jill took us to the familiar story in Luke 10 of Mary and Martha. Mary’s example of sitting at the Lord’s feet giving Him her full attention encourages us to do the same. Martha’s example reminds us how easy it is to have our attention drawn away from the Lord by the burdens of our duties. While it is OK to be busy, Jill encouraged us to set our priorities so we will be busy about the right things. Being reminded that God Himself invites us to spend time with Him is motivating. How wonderful that He wants our fellowship and promises to speak through His Word. “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10), we are told. He will do for us what He did for the Emmaus road disciples: “He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures” (Luke 24:44). —Dana Barber Above, Kristen Roberts (l), vocalist, with Waverly Wilson Left, (l to r) Melody Dockery, Alice Wilcox, and Jane Mulberry FEBRUARY 2008
One Dayin the Life I
t had been, up until then, a lovely day. Dinner was in the oven, the baby was napping, the little ones had finished their schoolwork, and my eleven-year-old pianist was filling the house with music. I had just shipped a CARE package to dear family friends recently transplanted to England. My heart was glad thinking of them in warm clothes in cold, old England. The Spirit said, “Good work, child. They need more.” My husband Chris was off to Home Depot with visions of a home ever more lovely. All was well. Then I hear it—a scream different from ordinary screams: not the I-want-my-way scream, nor the happy, startled scream, nor the beingchased-by-an-older-brother scream. This is a bloody scream, quickly followed by the older sister’s worried, “Mom! MOM! M-O-M!” scream. Carmen, my three-year-old, has fallen in the backyard and gashed her forehead open on a rock. Carmen runs to me, her face and hands already covered, red. Quickly, I assess the damage. “Not too bad,” I think, but the cut is deep and will not stay closed. It needs stitches. The Spirit says, “It’s going to be OK, child.” I murmur a quick prayer as I wash and tape the wound. Soon, the five children and I are in the van, leaving only a note for Chris to find us at the closest ER. The Spirit says, “Go to the best hospital, child, not the closest.” But I don’t listen. Chris meets us, where we find the ER packed with police and people. A surly admitting nurse informs us that it will be four hours before we are seen. Again the Spirit says, “Leave now, child. And make the call.” The call is to Dr. Sorokolit, our dear friend who patched up Chris’s injured hand several years ago. Dr. Sorokolit is a prominent plastic surgeon in Fort Worth, but to us he is now just “Dr. Bob,” who comes over FEBRUARY FEBRUARY2008 2008
of a Mom
for Thanksgiving, frets over the children running up and down the stairs, and nags Chris about eye protection in the woodshop. Dr. Bob returns our call instantly. He is on a hiatus from practicing, but he calls his brother, also a prominent plastic surgeon in Fort Worth. Dr. Bob’s brother arranges to meet us at Cook Children’s ER. We drive to Fort Worth feeling blessed there is no traffic, although it is 5:00 pm on a weekday. But when we enter the ER, we find it packed. It looks again to be a four-hour wait, but almost immediately we are whisked to an examining room. Apparently, prominent plastic surgeons are not made to wait. We divvy up the children. Chris takes the other four to Sir Eatsalot, the hospital grill. I stay with Carmen and prepare her for what is about to happen, and she agrees to be brave—no screaming or moving. Just a loud, “Owwwie!” when she receives the anesthetic shot.
The other Dr. Sorokolit examines Carmen, and a nurse explains to her what is about to happen. According to hospital procedure, she will not be strapped down; instead the nurse will place her in a headlock. The nurse is very kind, but she takes my place in Carmen’s limited field of vision. Carmen will have none of it and screams, “I just want to hold Mommy!” The more the nurse tries to soothe her, the more Carmen screams. Aware that I am breaking the rules, I gently push the woman away, place myself before Carmen’s face, and kiss her. Quickly she settles down. The needle does its thing and the doctor begins. It is only while I am touching her face and while she can see me that Carmen allows the stitching to proceed. I talk to her about her favorite book, No Fighting, No Biting, and sneak in kisses between stitches. Soon she is taped up and we are released.
Our Father’s face in ours
Carmen
As we drive home, Chris and I speak of how it pays to have friends in high places. I think of my daughter’s refusal to accept anyone, even a nice someone, in my place. There will be no substitute for Mom in my Carmen’s eyes. I have earned my place in her heart, and my face is all she knows of comfort and love. I loved her before she knew she existed. I too must accept no substitutes for my Father’s face. He loved me before I knew I existed. He is all I know of comfort and love. He has a room waiting for me. He will lovingly repair me. He is in the highest of places. He steers me through the course to the destination that He has chosen. I am the elect, beloved child who needs only to keep His face in my field of vision to have all that I need of comfort and love. May I be enabled, through the Spirit, to do just that. —Sasha Adkins PCPC WITNESS PCPC WITNESS • 5• 5
“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.”—John 1:14
Larry and Terri Sengbush, photographers
Lessons and Carols On Sunday evening, December 17, the overflowing PCPC Sanctuary hosted our annual Christmas concert. This year we featured the traditional Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols, presented by the children’s, youth, and adult choirs of PCPC with the Festival Brass of Dallas and other guest musicians. Many visitors from the area attended the program, including invited guests of PCPC members. This outreach provided the opportunity for Christ’s redemptive message of joy and hope to reach tangibly into the community. Further impact of the service will be felt well beyond the evening through the generous offering of $55,769.26, which is being given entirely to local urban ministries.
d Top, the Chancel Choir sings by candlelight. Above, (l to r) Jose Chavez, Rebekah Adkins, and John Harper and read scripture. Middle, the Covenant Choir sings “Away in a Manger.” Below, Jared Saunders watches for his cue. The Festival Brass of Dallas add rich accompaniment to choirs and organ. Carolyne Nielson and Elizabeth Figari (r) ring the bells. 6 • PCPC WITNESS 6 • PCPC WITNESS
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all’s crisp weather warned me of the wintry winds that would soon blow, freezing the remains of my kaleidoscopic mums, dahlias, and daisies. Freeze they did, but I know many of my favorite plants and flowers will return in the spring. Nevertheless, their browning stalks remind me that some plants will die by design, and some will perish due to my gardening skills—or lack of them! So, as the foliage begins to shrivel, I begin to fret. For the next few months, I must wait through the winter, guessing which will survive the cold and which won’t. Did I tend these plants well, or did neglect or ignorance impair my hardy perennials? My gardening apprehensions mirror some fears I have now that our children are just about grown. Will they prevail in the world’s cold weather? Just as it is now too late to overhaul the garden, I must bide my time and watch the children weather many seasons. The Bible says our children are like plants (Psalm 128:3, 144:12). God promises parents with young children who are overwhelmed with prospect of long growing seasons, ”The seed will grow well, the vine will yield its fruit, the ground will produce its crops, and the heavens will drop their dew. I will give all these things as an inheritance to the remnant of this people” (Zechariah 8:12 ). The same promise holds for parents who now brave winter gardens. The wise gardener waits, trusts, and plans, because she trusts the gardening book. So, too, parents of young adults must wait, trust, and pray because they trust their heavenly Father and His Word. Worrying about my children does as much for them as it does for my perennials. Worrying won’t grow even the heartiest plant, nor mature child, either; the harvest is up to God. Solomon said, “Sow your seed in the morning, and at evening let not your hands be idle, for you do not know which will succeed, whether this or that, or whether both will do equally well” (Ecclesiastes 11:6). FEBRUARY 2008 2008 FEBRUARY
Gardening tips for empty-nesters
How will your family garden grow?
and breaks. Yet we can work alongside, remembering God is the Lord of all the harvests. We stay ready in and out of season, doing and speaking with great patience and instruction (2 Timothy 4:1-2). Whatever happens in our gardens, we conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel, standing firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel, especially for our maturing children (Philippians 1:27). And we must not be frightened in any way by those wintry storms (1:28)! We, like Paul, are confident that it is God who works in them—and “He who supplies How will our young us—to will and to act seed to the sower and adults do? Will bread for food will supply according to His good materialism freeze purpose (Philippians and multiply your seed their generosity? Will 2:13 ). for sowing and increase knowledge puff them Possibly you are the harvest of your up and stifle their pasfeeling an early blast righteousness.” sion for Bible study? of changing seasons as 2 Corinthians 9:10 Will unwise friendships, you lay aside once familself-indulgence, or apathy iar duties. Gardeners may chill their passion for Christ? cease from their chores in winSome parents find their “gardens” ruter, but parents of older children must ined in spite of their best efforts. Even continue one important task: persisconscientious gardeners cannot foretent, fervent prayer. Many a man or stall the pummeling of a harsh winter woman walks upright today because upon their plants. So, too, sometimes parents bent their knees. Sometimes we parents must see the ravages of the only thing young adults have our children’s choices. In the midst of going for them is the prayers of their these storms, wise parents of young parents! adults wait, trust, and pray: “Though When we can’t be hands-on in our the fig tree should not blossom, and there children’s lives, we can persistently be no fruit on the vines, {though} the fold our hands in prayer for them. yield of the olive should fail, and the fields Pray and work for a garden that produce no food, though the flock should glorifies God, and He will bring you be cut off from the fold, and there be no through the winter! cattle in the stalls, Yet I will exult in the —Barbara Smith LORD, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation (Habakkuk 3:17). Ed. note: Barbara recently e-mailed Just as no gardener can undo the these thoughts to members of the damage of winter storms, we parents small group she co-leads in the cannot undo our children’s bruises Thursday Morning Bible Study. A clever gardener also aims on planning a garden that, in time, will have large self-tending areas. So, too, wise parents concentrate on producing self-sufficient, independent children. How? By planting them in the Son’s light. As our gardens are vulnerable in winter, so are our newly grown children who are usually away from home and church. As a savvy gardener plans for winter’s challenges, so should prudent parents. Few chores remain for the gardener when December winds sweep through.
Winter’s havoc
PCPC WITNESS PCPC WITNESS• •7 7
Journey Journey to to the the Field Field If you were called
a very primitive lifestyle. This gave
Becky and Andrew Bronson
to be a missionary,
me insight about the importance of
Growing up we never would have
carrying the gospel to all the peo-
told you we wanted to be mission-
ples on earth.
aries! It wasn’t until after college
would you know it? Would you hear the call?
that the Holy Spirit gradually gave
This was the beginning of my journey.
us an interest and a desire towards missions. Before we were mar-
Rick and Donna Buddemeier
ried Becky lived in Beijing for six
We were entrenched with family,
months teaching English and partic-
routines, and obligations for work
ipated in various ministry activities
and for church. Our plates were full;
with her church there. I (Andrew)
we were busy and productive with
worked in commercial real estate
For every missionary on the field,
useful, respectable activities and
in Bangkok, Thailand for two years,
God has narrated a unique story to
“discipleship.”
where I saw firsthand what MTW
Have you missed it? Maybe you haven’t been called, or maybe you just haven’t heard it yet.
get him or her out among the na-
was doing there and the
tions. The following stories tell of
But, as we started to visit a dense
God’s work among missionaries and
and ethnically diverse London
their journeys to the field.
neighborhood, we began to see
We knew the Lord was
like we are
both the world and ourselves a bit
working on both of our
Jessica
Christians” lik
more clearly. Seeing what God was
hearts, as we shared
I felt called to missions when I was
doing in another piece of His world
the same desire to “test
five years old.
became a magnet that drew us.
out” the mission field by
Why wouldn’t we go to them? He
serving Him where the
had given up so much to come to us.
needs are great. After we witnessed
Would it be so much for us to give
the need for Christ in places like
Corey
up house and pension and friends,
Bangkok and Beijing, we couldn’t
One day my pastor’s wife asked me,
considering all that He gave up?
ignore the conviction that God had
“What are you doing this summer?”
That sounds like a vision of the Holy
given us. “And how are they to
One. It was. We went.
hear without someone preaching
This was the beginning of my journey.
I said, “I don’t know.”
great need for laborers.
“During that w
they were just “
all missionar
—Mary Ann &
to them? And how can they preach This was the beginning of our journey.
She replied, “Go to China.”
unless they are sent?” (Romans 10:14b,15a).
Dave Veldhorst This was the beginning of my journey.
After attending an Urbana confer-
We continue to long to obey the
ence during my senior year of high
Lord wherever He would place us,
Seima Aoyagi
school, I believed God was calling
and for now He has called us to
When I was 20 years old, I spent
me to go into some form of missions.
Thailand.
This was the beginning of my journey.
This was the beginning of our journey.
two weeks in a village in the deep mountains of the Philippines with 8 • PCPC WITNESS
FEBRUARY 2008
Pam and Rick Box
In May, 1991, on a short-term
the Holy Spirit asking us, “Why
While working and attending a
mission trip to Kiev, Ukraine, I saw
have you never considered serving
missions conference, we sensed a
many people come to Christ in a
as long-term missionaries?” But nei-
definite call to go as missionaries.
week of ministry and that “sealed
ther of us wanted to bring it up out
We, though, had no clear direction.
the deal!” For the past 17 years,
of fear that we wouldn’t be taken
we have been privileged and bless-
seriously by the other. When I (Mary
ed to serve as missionaries.
Ann) finally got up the courage to
This was the beginning of our journey.
mention it, we were amazed at how
Kurt Nelson
This was the beginning of my journey.
the Holy Spirit was simultaneously working on our hearts. It wasn’t
I believe that God’s calling to missions came like links in a chain
James (name withheld for security
something either of us had seriously
throughout my life. God first used
reasons)
considered before, but we felt called
my godly grandmother to prepare
During a trip to the Czech Republic
to pray and seek counsel for a year.
my heart for missions. She always
and Slovakia my heart was cap-
read biographies of missionaries,
tured for taking the gospel to the
At the end of the year, we felt the
told stories about missionaries, and
world.
doors were still open to go. We applied to two different missions
prayed fervently for them. God further spoke to my heart
This was the beginning of my journey.
agencies and were accepted by both. From the week that our missionary
week we realized
through UNC’s Inter-
“normal” people
Varsity Christian Fel-
Paul Taylor
friends visited until the point we left
e, not “super
lowship, where guest
While I was in college I went to
to begin our overseas missionary
ke we supposed
missionaries would
Mexico City at Christmas time for
training, it was four years. At the
ries must be.”
share their enthralling
two weeks on an Operation Mobili-
time, we did not know that this is
& Scott Nelson
stories. I was study-
zation literature distribution trip. I
very normal, but had thought we
ing towards a medical
spent three or four days under the
would just apply and be on the field
miserable influence of Montezuma’s
within a year. The Lord used those
God was steering me towards a
Revenge. Nevertheless, the Lord
four years to prepare us spiritually,
career as a missionary doctor.
used this trip to move me from my
emotionally, and physically for ser-
business administration major on to
vice overseas.
degree and thought that
God also allowed me to attend
seminary and the ministry.
This was the beginning of our journey.
Urbana in 1976 and 1979. I had the incredible experience of listen-
This was the beginning of my journey. You’ve reached the end of this arti-
ing to the personal testimonies of Elizabeth Elliott, Helen Roseveare,
Mary Ann and Scott Nelson
cle, but the journeys to the field con-
Billy Graham, John Stott, and Luis
Some good friends who are mis-
tinue every day. Is God leading you
Palau. In 1978, I took my first
sionaries in Romania spent a week
on your own journey to the field?
short-term mission trip to Benin,
with us. During that week we
West Africa, and then to Irian Jaya,
realized they were just “normal”
Indonesia. At that point, God clearly
people like we are, not “super
called me away from medical mis-
Christians” like we supposed all
sions into vocational church-planting
missionaries must be. In the course
missions.
of that week we independently felt
FEBRUARY 2008
—Corey Young PCPC World Missions Director 214-224-2525 corey.young@pcpc.org
PCPC WITNESS • 9
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Right, Wilson Waggoner listens with Nehemiah Jones relaxing on his lap. Below, (l to r) Katie Giese, Ashley Brannen, Trinity Rusk, Micah Tinsley, and Amanda Thatcher
Christmas time for missionaries This Christmas season PCPC 4th and 5th grade youth gathered and purchased dozens of gifts which were packaged and sent to three PCPC missionary families around the world. Here’s an excerpt from a thank-you letter from Masha Shepherd. She and husband Doug serve in the Ukraine: “It was so WONDERFUL to get your presents! We had so much fun opening the huge box. Doug saw the box of Oreos, took it, and was off fixing himself a glass of milk. He looked like a kid who just got his dream toy. Of course we gave the FEBRUARY FEBRUARY2008 2008
truck to Chaz right away (he couldn’t believe the size of it), and Nika kept hugging the doll, which was half her size. The gifts are so perfect and brought so much excitement from the kids. And all the books!!! I will give these out one at a time. “Thank you all so much. It was WAY more than we ever expected, and it made us feel so loved and cared for. May God bless you all richly, and may you know we’ll be reminded of your love when we enjoy our goodies. Thank you again. In His gracious name, Masha for the whole Shepherd family PCPC WITNESS • 11
Young Families Ministry
Baskets of blessing
Several dozen young families and several session members took Each person had a job part in a Christmas service project assembling baskets that were to do. People lined up distributed to the community around Fair Park Bible Fellowship on both sides of the Church. Every age was able to contribute as we worked shoulconveyor belt, ready der to shoulder, and with to place a can of peas wonderful volunteers or pudding package or from the B.C. Williams box of macaroni and “Through love, Companies staff, too. cheese into the care serve one another.” Several participants expackages as they moved —Galatians 5:13c pressed their gratitude to down the God for the great blessing line. Marina this was for them and their “If you pour yourself out for the worked at the children to serve God’s people beginning of hungry and satisfy the desire as a family. line, placof the afflicted, then shall your the ing the empty light rise in the darkness.” This special opportunity to boxes on the serve with our own family as conveyor —Isaiah 58:10 well as with our church family belt. Elena came to PCPC through our and Caroline members Anne and Campbell Williams, who grew up serving worked in the middle our Lord in the Christmas basket program in Memphis, TN. of the line, where Elena (This year the families of Second Presbyterian Church assemput a pack of flour into bled 8,000 Christmas gift baskets for the Memphis community!) each box, and Caroline added beans and ramen Here is a report from Chris and Tracey Frattaroli’s daughnoodles. Our mom ters: Caroline (12), Elena (11), and Marina (9). walked up and down the assembly line makThis year, our family decided to devote one day each ing sure that volunteers month to serving others. Our December project was had easy access to to pack Christmas care packages with about 150 other their food items. The people from PCPC’s Young Families Ministry. The care conveyor belt moved packages, full of food, were given to families who attend quickly, so we all had a church in South Dallas. The warehouse space and boxes to be ready! When the were donated by B.C. Williams Companies, and the large boxes reached the end quantity and variety of food was donated by many generof the line, our dad and ous suppliers. It took us only 2 ½ hours to pack 1,000 other men placed them boxes! on pallets, ready for delivery. We went to the warehouse Saturday morning, December 15. The first thing we saw was a very long conveyor belt. There were piles of boxes and people everywhere! Christmas music was blasting from the speakers, and everyone was really excited to be there helping. Families with kids of all ages were there. Even the very youngest volunteers were able to help. 12 • PCPC WITNESS
Top, Campbell and Anne Williams, with baby Campbell, continue a tradition they brought from Memphis. Above, Elder Brad Bradley lends a hand. Left, Caroline, Chris, Marina, Elena, and Tracey Frattaroli find a great way to keep Christ in Christmas.
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Throughout the morning, Pastor Bill Lamberth announced how many boxes had been completed. This kept the volunteers motivated! Our whole family had a great time. Marina said, “It was fun! The loud Christmas music gave us lots of energy. It didn’t take nearly as long as I thought it would.” Elena said, “I wanted to make sure that each box received its pack of flour, so the family could make something delicious to eat for Christmas.” Our mom said, “The best way to keep ‘Christ’ in Christmas is to serve others. This was an excellent service project for the whole family!” Our dad said, “This has been a great way to serve the body of Christ.” After the end of the morning, Pastor Julian Russell praised God for the volunteers and prayed for the families who
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would receive the care packages. We hope that the people who received them felt blessed and gave thanks to God for the food. We are really glad we had the chance to help them have a very Merry Christmas. Top, (l to r) 1 All ages helped! 2 Hudson Neuhoff 3 Jessica Young 4 Steve Tenpenny Right, a lot of food was packed, but a little got eaten as well. Emily Morrow enjoys a morning doughnut. Below, the scene at B.C. Williams Co. warehouse.
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Union Gospel Mission
Praising a God who runs after His children
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It was a blessed evening Saturday, November 17, at PCPC’s Fellowship Hall as we ate a sumptuous meal, fellowshipped with others around our tables, heard the testimonies of three participants in the Discipleship Programs at Union Gospel Mission’s Calvert Place (the men’s mission), and Center of Hope (the women and children’s mission), and heard a stirring message from Julian Russell, PCPC’s Pastor for Urban Ministries. As he referenced the story of the prodigal son, Julian reminded us of a God who is constantly running after His wayward children with open arms. His message was a fitting ending to three powerful testimonies of God’s unrelenting love for His children. The speakers told of their sinful lifestyles and how they came to be forgiven and are being changed—transformed in their hearts, minds, and bodies.
Harold’s hope
Harold confessed that he was a slave to sin for a very long time—drugs, alcohol, and sexual immorality. He had convinced himself he was a “good” person, but that led him into suicidal depression. His sin worsened to the point that he landed in prison. But on November 30, 1997, he prayed with a minister through a chain-link fence and surrendered his life to Christ. Sadly, the following day his wife asked for a divorce. While in prison, Harold studied God’s Word extensively, and after his release he was directed to the Union Gospel Mission. He wanted to work in the areas 14 • PCPC2008 WITNESS FEBRUARY
where he knew he needed help. He is now a full-time employee at the mission, serves faithfully at his local church, and has expressed a call to prison ministry. Harold believes, “God has a plan for my life, and I am not a cast-off because of my past.”
Jasmine’s joy
Jasmine tearfully shared with us her rocky relationship with her mother and how she had gotten pregnant at age 15. Like Homer, she also heard the gospel and gave her life to Christ. However, faced with numerous temptations, and with no strong family support system, Jasmine “gave up and started doing wrong. I got pregnant again.” In her desperation she returned to live with her mother. Unfortunately, the situation there became abusive and escalated into a violent confrontation. Jasmine had to leave and became homeless with two little children. Desperately, she turned to the Center of Hope’s emergency housing. After a series of stressful events, Jasmine cried out to the Lord: “God, You are going to have to do something if You want me in the discipleship program!” The Lord heard her cries. Jasmine’s needs are all being met now, and she and her family are growing closer to the Lord. Her relationship with her mother is being healed by the One who has become her mother’s Lord and Savior, also. Praise the Lord! Harold, Jasmine, and Homar
Homar’s heart
Homer, who now drives the bus for the mission, began drinking alcohol at age 12 and had gotten married by 18. At age 27, he responded to the gospel message and gave his life to Christ. Sadly, his wife opposed his newfound faith, and after three years of discouragement from her, he stopped attending church. Worse, they were divorced shortly thereafter, and his life took a further downward spiral into drugs, followed by homelessness. On March 7, 2006, he entered the doors of the Union Gospel Mission, out of a desire “to have a personal relationship with Christ and to become the Christlike man He challenged me to be.” Homer says he is learning to live one day at a time, and his goal is to live for Christ. To the praise of God’s glorious grace, Homer has reconnected with his family, and the Lord has been working in their hearts, also. Pray that this family will be reunited as one committed to Christ. Our thanks to our volunteers from Fellowship Bible Church and PCPC’s youth staff and interns. God was truly glorified in or midst! Without Him, we would not have heard of these changed hearts nor witnessed the love of those who gave up their Saturday night to serve. Certainly, without the Lord, we would not have heard a message that spoke to all of our hearts about a God who loves us absolutely and unconditionally. He does not wait for us to come back to Him—He runs to meet us! —Diane Steele
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th, Lily Bambrick, Amanda Lamber Owe roline ns, B a C , ess ard Ca n o ve e L ily Em
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One team headed to West Dallas Community School to deliver
The third group stayed at Mercy Street and helped prepare for Thursday’s Vision Club. The staff came prepared to make this party one to remember. Two eight-foot tables were r Be a filled with cookies and treats. The i l Ju b y, g gym was transformed into a game a B h S ar a room. Fast, silly relays were held outside. Everywhere laughter abounded. l Lamberth, Elaine ton, Bil n Listening to the children sing songs M a l ont ie B ag bb ue like “Go Tell It on the Mountain” e D filled the room with joy and made lasting memories for all who were in attendance.
Christmas gifts to the teachers and administrative staff and lay out a table full of homemade treats. As the PCPC staff toured the school, the second grade class recited Psalm 139 from memory. It was such an encouragement to see what God is doing there.
On this day, PCPC reached out to more than 400 students in these three ministries. What would happen if 400 people from within the community were to “tell it on the n Va d l i moune h r P m , e m er, Bo unha nnie aD tain?” n M e
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The day kicked off with a tasty BBQ lunch at Mercy Street. Leaders from the community were invited to join the celebration and were introduced by Julian Russell, who shared how they are impacting the community. Hearing that Arrvel Wilson’s father prayed for years that ministries would come to share Christ with West Dallas impacted us all. We realized we were all a direct answer to Arrvel’s father’s prayer. What a clear revelation that God’s plan is bigger than any of us can ever imagine! The fellowship closed with a warm rendition
be a part of something bigger than what any one individual could have done alone. Those who delivered the supplies were able to see the facilities and hear how God is using Voice of Hope to help the children and the community around them. Every day children from West Dallas neighborhoods participate in the after-school program which includes activities, tutoring, and a healthy meal.
of favorite hymns. Excitement filled the room as teams prepared to go out and guide fun-filled activities for the afternoon.
ry ,C aty C o ff e y
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On December 13, the PCPC staff celebrated its annual Christmas party as it encouraged and worked alongarty, Gale Eme side the id H rso av n D brothers and sisters at Mercy Street, West Dallas Community School, and Voice of Hope. We choose these three ministries with the goals of supporting community outreach, rt Gaitan Albe encouraging leaders, and joining others to inspire and motivate the next generation.
Staff celebrates by serving
Another team headed to Voice of Hope with a Suburban packed full of school supplies that had been gathered by the PCPC staff for the after-school program. It was a wonderful way for the church staff to
This is what it is all about; raising up the next generation to seek after the King of Kings. May we all continue to serve and pray that His transforming presence will change this city where God has sent us. —Christina Spruill PCPC WITNESS • 15
Here we go a’caroling
Young Families brought good tidings to the residents of the Monticello West retirement community on a blustery Sunday in December. With great joy and musical giftedness, Jill and Jonathan Smith led in carol singing and accompanied the setting of a manger season full of preschool “angels” and a special dance performance by Rebecca Howland. Claire and Grace Dillahunty also delighted the group with their piano duet. The faces of the residents glowed all the more when the children greeted them individually after the musical fellowship.
FEBRUARY 2008 • Vol. XIX, No. 1 Park Cities Presbyterian Church 4124 Oak Lawn Dallas, Texas 75219 www.pcpc.org
Above, Sam and William Lipper Left, Savannah Davidson greets a resident. Below left, Rebecca Howland Below, angel Jenna Smith, and shepherds Brighton Smith and Savannah Davidson
Periodical Postage Paid at Dallas, Texas