Spire April 2016

Vol. 164 • No. 4 • April 1, 2016

WHAT IF... BECOMES WHAT IS!

StLukesMethodist.org | 713-622-5710

2015 BY THE NUMBERS we study the bible

we pray

5,000+

100

Unbinding your Heart

prayer leaves prayed for and hung on the Prayer Tree

small groups

1,200

participants

we make friends

282

students participated in service projects and mission trips

we tell our stories

298 171 73

new members

baptisms

professions of faith

2

we give ourselves away in generosity and service

$8.9M $9.3M

54

2015 Actual

2016 Budget

community partners through outreach

IN THIS ISSUE

2

ST. LUKE’S “BY THE NUMBERS”

WRAPPED IN PRAYERS: THE STORY OF THE PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

8

7

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH JOHN FARRELL AND JEFF CREEL

SUMMER’S COMING! FEEDING HEART AND MIND WITH A FULL PLATE OF SUMMER ACTIVITIES

12

ON THE COVER: Jeff Creel (left) and John Farrell (right) review blueprints for our three new buildings. See story on page 8.

Parking Garage Update At a church conference held February 28, 2016, St. Luke’s members voted to construct a three-story shared parking structure with St. John’s School.

Construction will begin at the end of the school year.

3

Waitin’ and Prayin’ This period after Easter is not usually a big deal in the life of the church. We build up to a big splash on Easter Sunday, and then we kind of coast into the summer. In the Scripture, the days after that first Easter were to be a time of waiting. Jesus appeared to the disciples after the resurrection, and told them to go into the city and wait in the city “until you are clothed with power from on high.” (Luke 24:49) Dr. Tom Pace They didn’t know how long they were to wait, but they were just to wait.

But what do you do while you wait? Acts 1 says that while they waited, “they constantly devoted themselves to prayer.”

(Acts 1:14) Turns out they waited 50 days, until the feast of Pentecost, and then the Holy Spirit came rushing down upon them.

The word “opportunity” comes from a Latin phrase “ob portus,” which was used in navigation to designate a ship that was waiting just offshore for the right combination of tides and winds to sail into a port or harbor. There are clearly times in our lives for waiting – waiting for the right time or conditions to take certain steps forward.

But what do you do while you wait? Don’t just sit around.

“And they constantly devoted themselves to prayer.” It is a great time to juice up your prayer life.

Remember inside-out habit #1: we pray. Let’s let these 50 days between Easter and Pentecost be a time in which we, too, constantly devote ourselves to prayer. Who knows what God will do through that.

4

getting to know you...

three questions with The Story Houston worship leaders (and newlyweds!) Jonny and Brianna Reeves You two got married five months ago. How would you describe the first time you met? Was it love at first sight?

Jonny: I first met Brianna at her home church. She was one of the worship leaders and I was filling in on guitar for a Sunday (I was actually working at a different church at the time). She was quite late so she arrived bursting through the church doors, running towards the stage hurling apologies at everybody. We connected and I fell pretty quick for her. (No, her timeliness has not improved but she has made several valiant attempts!)

What about marriage has surprised you the most so far?

Jonny: Oh goodness, a lot. Mostly all of it.

We, as a couple, raised the economy with the total amount of money we spend on coffee every week. More seriously, I thought that when people got married the spouse would get to “look behind the curtain” and really see who the other is every now and then. So we got married and suddenly the “curtain” was completely gone and I found Brianna making her home backstage. And this was really startling to me because I knew that she could now see all my flaws all the time. So everyday there’s this choice before us: “Can you surrender your whole self to your spouse and trust them to love you through, and even past your flaws?” Being married is a choice you make every single day. (And it is frighteningly beautiful.)

Every week, you guys encourage people at The Story Houston to sing with you. Why do you think singing in worship is better than just watching worship?

Brianna and Jonny: Singing in worship is an act of surrender, and there is something beautiful about the collective body of Christ coming together to surrender together and exalt the name of God. God commands us to sing in His word (Psalm 96:1-2; Psalm 47:6), and scripture tells us to have “corporate worship” (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). So we know that we should sing, but why? When we step past being a spectator in worship and engage in singing we have taken a step of surrender that ministers to God’s heart, and because He is a relational God, He ministers to our hearts right back. It’s important to audibly lift

our individual voices because when we sing together as a body, we remind each other of our immeasurably great God. We need to be encouraged by the voices around us. Every voice matters because every voice is connected to a different story and a different heart, but each is loved by the Creator in the same radical way. How beautiful it is to lift all of those hearts and stories together.

Sunday morning is our time to come together and collectively say “You are God and we are not and we want to wholeheartedly engage with you as your people.” Worship on Sunday morning is vertical, in relation with God, but it’s also lateral, in relation with each other. Every voice is important in that equation.

“Audibly lifting our individual voices reminds us of our immeasurably great God.”

5

sending the gospel out into the world TAKE HOME COMMUNION BOXES AT GETHSEMANE A Holy Week tradition began a few years ago called “Love Feast Boxes.” These boxes, filled with grape juice, a small loaf of bread and a prayer booklet, are blessed by Pastor David before they are distributed on Palm Sunday to each family. Families invite whomever they would like to their home or front yard or favorite restaurant to share a Love Feast (communion) together with family, friends and even strangers. The Love Feast is a Christian fellowship meal recalling the meals Jesus shared with disciples during his ministry. Testimonies and prayers are the focal point in most love feasts. Over the last few years, this Love Feast, or communion, has been shared in so many places around the Sharpstown/Gulfton community from homes to malls to restaurants to bus stops. Taking communion inside out is just what Jesus taught us to do.

“The Holy Week Communion boxes will be consecrated at the altar. But what makes them holy? Is it the touch of my hands that makes something holy? Not really. I am no more holy that anyone else. A Holy Week Communion box is what it is because it is what it does. It carries the presence of Christ outside the church walls and into the home so a family can partake of Christ’s presence in their normal, messy, beautiful lives. A box is not holy because I made it so. It is holy it is what is does: it blazes a trail for Jesus to leave the church and to enter the home on the most important week of the year.” Rev. David Horton

A joyful ribbon cutting celebration of the new Canterbury Hall at our Gethsemane Campus!

6

wrapped in prayers

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY A loving touch…it reminds our hreats that we are not alone when we grieve. Another’s embrace is a healing balm, and sometimes that healing embrace can come from a warm shawl wrapped around you.

Bettina Hill, a staff member at St. Luke’s, remembers a time when the Prayer Shawl ministry offered a tangible representation of hope to her during a difficult and dark time.

“It’s backwards, you know.

We are meant to bury our parents; never our children.”

Bettina muses about the loss of her daughter, Steffanie who died ten years ago. “Much of the time in that first year I was numb but I do remember Tom Pace and Sally Matthews coming to the hospital to be with us, and the kindness of so many. I received a prayer shawl from Sally Penning that she had made. I wrapped up in it often. Recently, I attended a conference for mothers who have lost children where we were given a prayer shawl. As one of the speakers started up, they said, “Alright everyone. Wrap those prayer shawls around you.” It was a tangible way to feel comfort. I imagine I will continue to come in contact with other mothers who endured a loss of a child and perhaps comfort them. I will let them know that I don’t believe God causes these things to happen but I know he’s there to see you through.”

St. Luke’s Prayer Shawl Ministry creates beautiful handcrafted shawls and blankets to give as a tangible expression of the love and concern of a community of faith.

Sally Penning, a staff member and participant in the Prayer Shawl ministry explained how the work of the prayer shawls impacts recipients, by forging prayer-filled friendships and fostering healing and hope to everyone involved with them. “As the first anniversary of her daughter’s death approached, I could not stop thinking about Bettina,” Sally remembered. “I wanted her to know that Stephanie was not forgotten and neither was she.

I didn’t know how to tell her, so I knitted a prayer shawl and gave it to her. Every time I see Bettina with that shawl, I remember Steffanie and I say a little prayer for both of them.”

“A healing embrace can come from a warm shawl wrapped around you.”

Prayer shawls are available for St. Luke’s members to share with friends and neighbors. Recently 19 prayer shawls from our church were given to participants at the Journey of the Heart Conference at the Hope and Healing Center and Institute. This conference was for women who have experienced the loss of a child. The Hope and Healing Center and Institute is dedicated to transforming lives and restoring hope through education, awareness, training and supportive services. Learn more at hopeandhealingcenter.org.

Do you know someone who could use some encouragement? If you would like a prayer shawl to share with someone, contact Shelley Quillin at 713-402-5033. If you would like to join this group, they meet to knit, crochet and bless completed shawls from 1-2:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. Contact Shelley Quillin at 713-402-5033. Beginners are welcome.

7

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL... with Jeff Creel and John Farrell

John and Sue Farrell came to St. Luke’s with their children in 1976. In fact, their son was in youth group with a dynamic youth minister named Tom Pace. Later, their daughter would be married here and Sue would serve on the staff as Wedding Coordinator and then in Women’s Ministries. All the while, John, a veteran local architect, served the church. From the Houston Project to chairing the Board of Stewards, he has spent most of his time sharing his expertise in Buildings and Grounds. He was part of the 1995 building program and other master planning efforts. He retired from 44 years of practice in 2012, and took over as the Chair of the Building Committee that same year, and serves as Program Manager. When Mark Hawkins came in as Chair of the Board of Stewards recently, it occurred to John that it was his fifth chairman since the building project started! “It’s been a long, yet gratifying haul and definitely a labor of love.”

When considering What if... he wondered if the campaign goal could be attained and was so thrilled to see the generosity of the congregation as they rose to 8

the challenge. Incredibly touched at the reopening of the Sanctuary, John is delighted to see each building and renovated space on both campuses come to life. “I am amazed at the patience and resilience of the staff and congregation as everything has been turned upsidedown. It’s remarkable how faithfully they’ve come through.”

“What If...?

Jeff and Leslie Creel came to St. is about to be Luke’s in 1998 via the love of Their daughter, Rebecca “What is!” Thanks music. learned about Pure Sound and joined, followed by Leslie in the be to God.” Chancel Choir. Jeff is a “supporter

of the Choir” and notes that their closest friends at St. Luke’s are from the choir. Professionally, Jeff has been a Construction Engineer for 40 years. He has served the church since 2008 in developing the Master Plan for both campuses, and is the Vice Chair of the Building Committee and serves as Owner’s Representative for construction. He is also incredibly pleased with the generosity of the congregation whose giving exceeded his expectation. Jeff was especially moved at the Gethsemane celebration at the opening of the new Canterbury Hall on March 6.

The biggest challenge of Jeff ’s involvement was matching each ministry’s programming needs with the budget. “The team worked to prioritize and defer some things, but thanks to the cooperative and innovative spirit they molded the concepts into the scope of work.”

As things finish up, they are delighted to be able to add some of these things back into the plan. “It’s a pleasure working with the staff and volunteers. I have always had an appreciation for them but that has increased as they do their very best with what they have been given.”

Both of these talented servants have great expectations for what God will do with these buildings and renovated spaces. Who will come in and learn of the love and grace of God? How then will they live and change our city and state and country? What If...? is about to be What is! Thanks be to God.

“I have been a part of five building programs in my life, and have never had leadership like we do here at St. Luke’s. John Farrell and Jeff Creel make a perfect team, giving themselves away with huge amounts of time and energy, expertise and commitment.

They are making sure we have a great facility, and watching every penny of expenditure. It isn’t just working with the contractors, but communicating with staff and congregation along the way. God always seems to send the right person at the right time, and this time, God has made sure St. Luke’s has the best.” Dr. Tom Pace

“What will God do with these renovated spaces?

Who will come in and learn of the love and grace of God? How then will they live and change our city and state and country?”

projected substantial completion date Student Ministry facility June 1, 2016 Contemporary Worship Facility June 22, 2016 Johnson Education Bldg. and Fellowship Walk August 31, 2016 Rework of Sanctuary East porte cochere paving May 4, 2016 Interior Renovations September 15, 2016 SL/SJS Joint Parking Structure January 2017 9

It’s only April, but summer’s coming! It’s a season to rest from routine and try something new - whether it’s a class or a mission trip. Check out activities at St. Luke’s this summer that will feed your mind, soul and heart.

Returning to St. Luke’s this summer is The Bible in 90 Days with Dr. Linda Christians, Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University and a colorful itinerary of mission trips, including the annual trip to the Dominican Repulic (pictured).

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” Mark 12:30 (NIV) 10

1

11

GET PLUGGED IN THIS SUMMER

BY SID DAVIS AND DAVID GOW, SENIOR AT NORTH CAROLINA SCHOOL OF THE ARTS A favorite aspect of this job at St. Luke’s is that the church has always taken the intersection of arts and faith very seriously. We regularly offer the congregation opportunities to express their understanding of God in creative ways; whether that means the actual creative process, or as audience/appreciators of the outcomes of that process. Recently, I asked David Gow (the younger) to write a few words describing how our theater productions had helped to shape him:

When I first joined Pure Sound and began doing their theater productions, it came at a time where I was at my most insecure: I was in a textbook middle school phase of someone still figuring himself out.

Pure Sound theater gave me three things during this uncomfortable growing stage: First, I got to pretend to be someone else. I didn’t have to worry about how I was “supposed” to be, because I got to play someone else. This gave me the opportunity to discover all the things I wanted to be and do. My voice and opinions may not have carried any weight as a 130 pound 14 year-old, but as Harold Hill in “The Music Man,” I could adamantly convince an entire town of something in one four minute song. Second, it introduced me to my finest passion and love. Acting with Pure Sound opened the door to what has proven to be God’s calling, and I have not looked back. Not only did I find what was most fulfilling for me, I had people whom I loved and respected encouraging me to pursue it. I’m not sure what I would be doing at this point without having discovered my love for acting, but I am certain it would be a far less joyful, rich life.

Third, I continue to have a home at St. Lukes. The Tapestry Players have welcomed me back with open arms for the last six years since graduating from Pure Sound; as an actor, a producer, and a director. My peers marvel that I have the continued luxury of such a creative outlet and venue at St. Lukes, so much so that I have brought a dozen fellow actors from around the country to participate with me. Not only are they grateful for the chance to perform, but they have made the most unlikely, wonderful friendships with the St. Lukes community.

“Acting with Pure Sound opened the door to what has proven to be I’m thrilled to say that there are any number of young out in the world pursuing careers in the arts, God’s calling... people who have enjoyed St. Luke’s walking beside them as and I still have they discovered who they are and how their careers might unfold. If you think you might be interested in a home at St. singing, acting, ringing or any behind the scenes part of our wonderful Fine Arts family, email me at sdavis@ Luke’s.” stlukemethodist.org. I’ll help you get plugged in!

11

SUMMER’S COMING FINANCIAL PEACE UNIVERSITY

Financial Peace University This life-changing 9-week class taught by Dave Ramsey and the FPU teaching team on video will help you achieve your financial goals by showing you how to eliminate debt, save for the future, and give like never before. Cost for materials is $93 and includes access to the online resources and tools.

Dates and time to be determined – Contact Adrianne McGee at amcgee@stlukesmethodist.org if you are interested in attending.

MOSAIC MUSIC CAMP Mosaic Music Camp at our Gethsemane Campus is a fun-filled week (July 18-22) that teaches children about singing, playing percussion, guitar, and piano. Children will learn individually and work together towards a group performance at the end of the week. This camp is open to children entering grades K-5 for fall 2016. Cost for the camp is $15 per child with a maximum cost of $45 per family (siblings only).

Bible in 90 Days | Tuesdays, June 7 through August 30 7-8 p.m. | Hines Baker Room It was very transformative to see the comprehensive story of God’s unrelenting love – from Genesis to Revelation. Join me as we journey together beginning in the Garden of Eden in the Book of Genesis and ending in Revelation. Dr. Linda Christians $15 registration includes the participant book (scholarships are available). Register at StLukesMethodist.org/biblein90days or contact Adrianne McGee at amcgee@ stlukesmethodist.org for more information.

“I found Bible in 90 Days so rewarding,” 2015 participant Faith Eichler says, “ that I have done it on my own each year since!”

Surf Shack Vacation Bible School will hit the waves June 6-10 from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. at our Westheimer Campus. This year’s adventure includes music with Yancy that will wow your ears, interactive Bible fun, super science, cool crafts, delicious snacks, great games, and more. Registration for campers entering grades K-5 this fall and teen staff is open at StLukesMethodist.org/vbs.

12

MISSIONS AND MUSICALS

Coming soon Tapestry Players present Into the Woods a musical twist on the the beloved Brothers Grimm fairy tales including Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Rapunzel.

Performances are Thursday, June 9 through Saturday, June 11 at 7:30 p.m., plus a matinee on Sunday, June 12 at 2:30 p.m. in the Rotunda Theater. Admission by donation.

Bridges Academy presents the Jerry Eckles Music Theater Camps for children and youth. This year both groups will write, compose, and star in their own fairy tale musicals as they learn new techniques and hone their acting and singing skills.

2016 Summer Trips School will be out before you know it, and we have some exciting trips and retreats for Middle and High school students this summer! Take a look at the opportunities below: June 1-4 | Operation Blueprint takes our students to San Antonio to serve the community through light construction projects and house painting. It’s a great opportunity to practice living out our faith through serving and loving others. The trip concludes with a trip to Schlitterbahn! Cost is $450.

June 12-18 | CIY:Move | High School Students will spend five days in Knoxville, Tennessee and are challenged through interactive worship, dynamic speakers, small group study, and community building.

Each student returns home with a personal and unique challenge for the upcoming year. Cost is $700.

July 5-12 | Dominican Republic Mission Trip | High School Students will travel to Santiago and partner with G.O. Ministries on construction projects, sports camps, and leading Vacation Bible School. Whether this is your first time going or your fifth, each trip brings unique opportunities for challenges and growth - both physically and spiritually. Cost is $2,000.

Once Upon a Time for grades 2-5 June 13-17 | final performance June 17 at 12 p.m. $175 registration fee (10% discount for siblings).

Ever After for grades 6-12 | June - 24 final performance June 24 at 5 p.m. $225 registration fee (10% discount for siblings).

Visit StLukesMethodist.org/jerryeckles to register.

Tapestry Players present The Music Man. This six-time, Tony Award winning musical comedy has a family-friendly story to be shared with every generation. Thursday, July 28 through Saturday, July 30 at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, July 31 at 2:30 p.m. in the Rotunda Theater. Admission by donation.

Interested in being in the show? Singing in the chorus? Contact Monica Griffin for more information at mgriffin@stlukesmethodist.org or 713- 402-5110.

The Big Fish (A Whale of a Tale) We’re pleased to announce that Ken Medema will join with Children’s Music Minstry in this production of the story of Jonah and the Whale!

The cost for camp participants is $75/child (3rd sibling is free-ofcharge.) Rehearsals are Monday, August 1-Friday, August 5 with a final performance at 6 p.m. on Friday. Register at StLukesMethodist.org/bigfish.

13

SUMMERS IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

BY ALLISON ELDER, SENIOR AT THE HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE PERFORMING AND VISUAL ARTS

14

GET OUT THERE

The past four summers I have gone with St. Luke’s to the Dominican Republic. The first summer I went I fell in love with the community in Santiago and the organization we partner with, G.O. Ministries. Each trip is better than the last.

The standard of living in the Dominican Republic is far lower than home.

Garbage is tossed into the street and animals fill the streets rummaging through it. Most of the urban infrastructure in the Dominican Republic has been left unfinished due to a lack of financial resources, and the running water and electricity also frequently stop because a large number of citizens illegally tap into the pipes and wires and overstress their system. However, I go on the Dominican trip year after year because I have, like many students who go on the trip, completely fallen in love with the culture there. I love the way most locals’ commute to work is walking a few blocks down the street and pedestrians are greeted with a “Hola!” from everyone they pass when walking down the street, a stark contrast to the bumper-to-bumper traffic I know too well in Houston. I love the way Dominican communities are open and trusting, and children run freely in the streets. Mostly, I love the Dominican Republic because their culture is built around spending time with others, where, I believe, our focus should be.

G.O. Ministries’ vision is not to be the wealthy American who comes and saves the day, but rather to simply empower local leaders who are already there serving within their own communities. G.O. is completely invested in the communities they serve and partner with others to run schools, nutrition centers, sports camps, and clinics, in addition to seminaries and churches. While I realize the buildings or sport fields that I have helped build, while they are being used for a great cause, will eventually weather and wear down, and anyone, including Dominicans, could have built them probably better and faster, the relationships we have built doing so endure. Every year I return to the Dominican Republic I learn more about God and about myself, and every year is a different adventure.

The trip always concludes with a night’s stay at a nearby resort, a chance to snorkel and swim in crystal clear water while debriefing the week. Last year at the resort, a small group of students and I were up so late talking on the beach that we decided that, it made the most sense to just go ahead and spend the night on the beach. We sat bundled up for a few hours, determined to keep each other awake, waiting for the sun to break through the clouds and appear. As the sun finally did begin to rise from the shoreline, I have never been in such breathtaking awe of God’s creation. I will forever have the picture of that sunrise in my mind.

The Dominican Republic is a country so full of infectious beauty. Students return from the Dominican with their hearts filled with passion and drive and stories of how they have seen God using people in incredible ways. The Dominican trip opens the eyes of students like me and has changed how I see my role in the world.

Before high school, I was not very active at church and I only signed up for the Dominican trip because it was a chance to travel outside of the country. However, God used the Dominican trip to stir my heart, rekindling my passion for him and planting in me a passion for serving.

ST. LUKE’S

LIFE

At St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, we want you to have every opportunity to build authentic bonds with other Christians—just like you—who are striving to walk the Christian journey faithfully.

Discover new ideas and perspectives on how to live out your faith in your everyday life, and make some great friends along the way. Our desire is to provide resources, guidance and support for you to be a part of the life-giving relationship of the church, which includes joining our church family and finding a small group and Sunday morning class that truly fits. To learn more about all of our ministry groups, visit StLukesMethodist.org/ministries.

continuously between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Tickets for lunch are $10 for adults, $5 for children age 10 and under. Visit www.stlukesmethodist.org/spaghetti for a link to purchase. Make sure you save time to browse the auction items—open all morning from 9:30 a.m., with two live auction seatings with oneof-a-kind items at 11:30 and 12:30 a.m.

Chancel Choir presents Leonard Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms | April 17 | Traditional Worship St. Luke’s Chancel Choir and Orchestra, conducted

by Sid Davis will present Leonard Bernstein’s virtuosic “Chichester Psalms” during all three traditional worship services: 8:30, 9:45, and 11 a.m. in the Sanctuary.

MUSIC & FINE ARTS

Pure Sound Spaghetti Lunch & Silent Auction April 10 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Fellowship Hall To boldly go where no choir has gone before!

Trek over to the Fellowship Hall on April 10 to enjoy the best spaghetti in town at the annual Pure Sound Spaghetti Lunch and Auction. Your lunch purchase will help raise funds for our youth choir to go on their bi-annual concert tours. The lunch includes salad, bread, beverage and dessert, served

Rotunda Gallery Artist Vanita Doyle Watercolor artist Vanita Doyle returns to the Rotunda Gallery this month, with her orientalinspired works. “My watercolor training started with oriental techniques. I find they slip into most of my paintings with things like mist over the mountains, or simplifying my subject—less is more.” Vanita majored in art at San Diego State University but put her brushes away while raising a family. Since resuming her passion, she’s had her work purchased for use by the University of Texas Law School, the Cancer Center of the University of Colorado, and the Gateway Battered Women’s Shelter, as well as private owners at art shows. Since moving back to the Houston area, she has been active in the Baytown Art League and the Lake Houston Area Artists as an officer and instructor, and exhibiting work in local galleries. Stop by the gallery any time this month to view her work and leave a note in the guestbook. To inquire about purchasing art, please contact Randy Murrow at rmurrow@ stlukesmethodist.org or 713-402-5122. A portion of all gallery proceeds benefits fine arts at St. Luke’s.

15

NICK FINNEGAN COUNSELING CENTER A Different Type of Support Third Annual Tee Up for Counseling Tournament June 11 | 1-4 p.m. | TopGolf

God provides support in many ways as David shows us in Psalm 23. In life, spiritual support is crucial.

Equally as important are emotional and mental support. However, some people may not be able to afford this type of support because of job loss, divorce, medical bills or other life circumstances.

That’s where the counseling ministry of St. Luke’s can help. Known as the Nick Finnegan Counseling Center, NFCC provides emotional and mental support via high-quality counseling at affordable rates thanks to donations, grants, volunteers and fundraisers.

One way to support NFCC and its clients is at the third annual Tee Up for Counseling driving range tournament. Held Saturday, June 11, at TopGolf in west Houston, participants will help drive home the importance of affordable mental healthcare from 1-4 p.m. Since the Center operates separately from St. Luke’s budget, Tee Up proceeds enable NFCC to continue providing counseling and support groups at reasonable rates. Event sponsorships and ticket sales are still available; novice and avid golfers are welcome to come Tee Up for Counseling. Not a golfer? Come be a caddy (aka spectator)! Call 713-402-5127 or visit FinneganCounseling.org for details.

16

SENIOR ADULTS Mainstreamer Day Luncheon and Program Thursday, April 14 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Hines Baker Room A fascinating and thought-provoking program titled Science Rediscovers Religion: The Uncertainty Principle Implies the Certainty of God!, will be presented by Dr. Burr Furlong. Dr. Furlong’s program is based on the book God Is Not Dead by Amit Goswami. Dr. Furlong will illustrate the basic ideas bridging science and religion, including the growing conviction among scientists that God uses us to help co-create the universe. Lunch will follow the program ($10). Reservations are requested and may be made by calling the reservation line, 713402-5087. If you would like to volunteer to bring a dessert for sharing at the luncheon, please call 713402-5008.

Mainstreamer Day Trip Thursday, April 21 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Festival Hill at Round Top, Texas

We will travel to Round Top, Texas for a tour of the campus of Festival Hill, home to the Round Top Festival Institute. As part of the tour, we will be treated to lunch at the Menke House. Cost for the tour and lunch is $26. Please reserve your place by calling the reservation line, 713-402-5087.

Like to Play Bridge?

Mondays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. | R25 All are welcome at this informal group interested in bridge played by Goren rules. A good opportunity to brush up your skills or if you are just learning or want to learn. For more information, call Kathy Austin, 713-252-6727.

Gethsemane Silver Circle | Wednesday, April 27 9:30 a.m. -1:30 p.m. | New Canterbury Hall, Gethsemane Campus Enjoy a morning of games and conversation, followed by lunch and celebration of birthdays at 12 p.m. Cost for lunch is $5. For reservations, call Betsy Evans, 281-565-0348.

Fall Prevention Classes Interest in the fall prevention classes has been very positive and plans are in the works for the class to begin the week of July 11 and continue through the last week of August (eight weeks.) If you have already signed up, you will be contacted with more detials. If you are intersted but have not yet signed up, we are working on scheduling a second class. For more information please call Marlys Barry at 713-402-5008.

UNITED METHODIST WOMEN Shalom Circle Tuesday, April 5 | 9:30-11:30 a.m.

Clarewood House, Board Room For more information contact Ermarie, 713-774-1415.

UMW Westheimer Book Group Monday, April 11 | 10:30 a.m. | Hines Baker The Girl You Left Behind by Jojo Moyes For more information, contact Dorothy Voss, 713-660-7243.

UMW Gethsemane Book Group Saturday, April 9 | 9:30 a.m.

The Lemoncholy Life of Annie Aster by Scott Wilbanks. For more information, contact Jo Ann Smith, 713-686-5859.

UMW Service Group Monday, April 18 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Bo’s Place (10050 Buffalo Speedway) For our annual Spring project, we will prepare squares for the children’s art quilts. Bring scissors!

Afterwards we will have lunch at Pei Wei. Contact

Teri Leigh Thompson, 713-623-6165 or teri@ houstonrealestatedesign.com.

UMW Night Circle Tuesday, April 19 | 6:30 p.m. | R24 Linda Burch will host the program, And Now for the Rest of the Story, which will bring thoughts of the previous month’s program of How God Works Through Tragedy. All women of the church are invited and warmly welcomed. Call 713-334-6848 for information.

UMW Afternoon Circle Tuesday, April 26 |12-2 p.m. | The Forum Lunch is provided and we will tour the facility. For more information, contact Kathy Austin, 713-252-6727.

UMW Games Group Mondays, April 4, 11, 18 and 25 | 10 a.m. | R25 For more information, contact Carole Wakefield, 713-899-4212.

If you want to become active in the UMW or have questions on how to join, please contact our UMW President, JoNell Beadle at jnpohl@yahoo.com or 614-736-2682.

STUDENTS Breakthru | Middle School Spring Retreat April 22-24 | Camp Pineywoods Our 6-8th graders are invited to our annual weekend retreat at Camp Pineywoods. We are so excited to hear Scott Crenshaw’s messages and jam out to music by the Wayne Kerr Band. There’s plenty of time for swimming, lake activities, frisbee, basketball, and just hanging out with friends. This is a great opportunity to meet other students in your grade, and feel free to invite friends!

Senior Sunday | Graduating High School Seniors May 1 We always look forward to celebrating with our graduating students and their families. Each graduate is recognized by name in the 11 a.m. traditional service, followed by a celebratory lunch.

Cost is $15 for friends and family, seniors are free.

Please email a photo of your senior to Katie Brown at kbrown@stlukesmethodist.org, along with their full name and plans after graduation.

17

Caring Ministries May the God of hope fill you with joy and peace as you trust in him. Romans 15:13 As Christians, we are called to care and pray for one another.

Congratulations to:

Todd Widell and Karen Wright on the birth of their son, West Owen Widell, on February 13.

Mike and Jordan Schupbach on the birth of their son, Cooper Schupbach, on February 22. Proud older brother and sister are Parker and Charlotte Schupbach and proud grandparents are Dale and Barbi Francis.

Congratulations to Ryan and Melissa Harrison on the birth of their son, Nathan Benjamin Harrison on March 4.

Ross and Elizabeth King on the birth of their daughter, Catherine Elise King, on March 8.

Shirley Aldridge Brown and Thomas Edward Horton, Jr., who were united in marriage on March 12.

Emily Louise Giesinger and Stewart Lambertson Byrd, who were united in marriage on March 12.

Kimberly Van Belle and Jack Marshall Porterfield, Jr., who were united in marriage on March 19.

Our Sympathy to:

Patrice and Richard Domercq on the death of Patrice’s father, Eldo Manning Jones, on January 7.

Michael, Lauri, and Emma Verhalen on the death of Michael’s mother, Elizabeth Hope Evans Verhalen, on February 7.

Family and friends of Bobbye Woodmansee, who died on February 14.

Evelyn Houstoun Chew, Pat and Bernice Houstoun, Rock and Tricia Houstoun and their families on the death of Sara Houstoun Lindsey on February 16.

Matt and Meredith Perkins on the death of Matt’s stepfather, Craig Farrelly, on February 19.

18

Patsy Kirk, Karol and Robert Bell, and Van Kirk on the death of Stanley Cain Kirk, Sr. on February 20.

Family and friends of Mattie Jo Thrasher, who died on February 20.

Gretchen Bebb on the death of her mother, Margaret Bebb Kyger, on February 22.

Joel and Carol Mohrman and Shannon Mohrman and Kat Statman on the death of Betty Jane Mohrman on February 22.

Family and friends of Nathaniel Sims “Nat” Rogers, who died on February 22.

Family and friends of John Milton Buie, who died on February 28.

Family and friends of Lucy Evelyn “Ebbie” Smith, who died on March 4.

Melissa and Brett Brasher and Luke, Nick, and Elizabeth Brasher on the death of Melissa’s grandmother, Dorese Midgley Reid, on March 5.

Becky Rush and Tom Keeling, Richmond Keeling, and Vanessa Keeling on the death of Becky’s brother, Rick Rush, on March 9.

Kristen, Greg, and Ryan Hale on the death of Kristen’s mother, Dona Gurtler Holland, on March 10.

Helen Little and Trey and Lisa Little on the death of Helen’s husband, William “Bill” Little, Jr., on March 11.

Mike Garver, Gretchen and Alan Hilyard, Madelyn and Greg Hilyard, and Cynthia Sarver on the death of Susan Ann Barrick Garver on March 15.

We Care!

Are you or a loved one facing surgery or hospitalization? A crucial aspect of St. Luke’s Caring Ministry is prayers we have with members prior to surgeries and during hospitalizations.

Contact Laurie Kereluk with details at 713-4025004 or lkereluk@stlukesmethodist.org If you know of a concern or a joy that the church should know about, please contact Caring Ministries at 713-402-5004 or -5156

Celebrating Lives ANN & RANDY SMITH SCHOLARSHIP In Memory of:

Joyce I. Wagner by

Kim & Margaret Wheless BUILDING FUND In Memory of:

Randy Gorham by

Timothy P. Hart CARING MINISTRIES In Memory of:

Stanley Cain Kirk, Sr. by

Laura & Bill Denham

Sara Houstoun Lindsey by

Laura & Bill Denham Ed Gerlach

Bill Matthews by

Laura & Bill Denham In Memory of:

Eldo Manning Jones, M.D. by

Laura & Bill Denham

Mattie Jo Thrasher by

Rev. Don Thrasher FRIENDS OF MUSIC In Memory of:

Stanley Cain Kirk, Jr. by

Wade & Betty Taylor GENE DECKER OUTREACH ENDOWMENT FUND In Memory of:

Robert Thrasher by

Betty & Bob Geary

LIBRARY In Memory of:

Betty Mohrman by

Laura & Bill Denham NICK FINNEGAN COUNSELING CENTER In Memory of:

Tom Melo by

Berry & Gail Allen

Betty & J. Wade Taylor

Jean Edens Minor by

Camille & Grier Patton PRAYER MINISTRY In Honor of:

The marriage of Kimberly Van

Belle and J. Marshall

Porterfield, Jr. by

Dawn & Mark Fournier ST. LUKE’S METHODIST CHURCH FOUNDATION In Memory of:

John Milton Buie by

Beverly & Dan Arnold

Stanley Cain Kirk, Sr. by

Erich & Agatha Brann Karen Dunlap

Karen & Don Eldridge

Richard Dawson & Lawrence Estes

Betty & Ed Smith

Nancy & Perry Williams

Kenneth Cruse Minter, Jr. by

Timothy Patrick Costello

Franna & Ted Litton

Caroline & David Minter Tricia Tobin

Betty Mohrman by

Jo & George Brueggeman

Karen & Don Eldridge

Alice & Randy Helms Paul Hesson

Hugh & Fannie Parker

Dorothy S. Wynne

Jean Ferguson Minor by

Greg W. Galler, M.D.

Debbie & Frank Jones

Helen & R.D. Maxson, Jr.

Mattie Jo Thrasher by

Mary & David Evans

Cassie & David Gordon & Family

Jack & Anne Satterfield STUDENT MINISTRIES In Memory of:

Betty Aldridge Adair by

Laura & Bill Denham WYCLIFFE BIBLE MINISTRIES In Memory of:

Joyce Irene Wagner by

Erich & Agatha Brann Pat Deckert

Betty & Bob Geary

Dee & Ward Haggard, Jr.

Robert H. Hampton

Vicki & Bill Hitzhusen

Joanna M. Montgomery

& Nancy Montgomery

Capitol Home Health

Marillyn & Rex King

John & Mary Pound Paul Renner

Baptisms

The Sacrament of Baptism was received by: Bradley Fentress Bracewell IV, son of Bradley Fentress Bracewell III and Sarah Currie Bracewell on February 21.

Brynn Elise Welborn, daughter of Phillip Scott Welborn and Lori Leigh Hackler Welborn on February 21.

Luke Christopher Ross, son of Kyle Christopher Ross and Katherine Orellana Ross on February 21.

Merreck Smith Mertens, son of Dean Russell Mertens and Keleigh Kristen Elizabeth Beck Mertens on February 28.

Anderson Lee Smith, son of Andrew Lynton Smith and Ashley Durrett Smith on February 21.

Ella Anne Pool, daughter of Dustin Paul Pool and Kristen Seay Pool on February 28.

18

Baptisms continued

The Sacrament of Baptism was received by: Lyla Lindsay Moses and Savanna Louise Moses, daughters of Robert Harvey Moses and Erin Selke Moses on February 28.

Robert “Bobby� Lyle Plumb, Jr., son of Robert Lyle Plumb and Sheridan Smith Plumb on March 6.

William Avery Pyle and Lochlan James Pyle, sons of Benjamin Stuart Pyle and Kathleen Elizabeth Hoffman Pyle on February 28.

Tate Joseph Robison, son of Steven Scott Robison and Megan Marie Hricko Robison on March 6.

Alexander McKay Webster, son of Douglas McKay Webster and Angela Rowland Webster on February 28.

Oliver Wyatt Arriola, son of Christopher Lee Arriola and Goldie Afshar Arriola on March 13.

Ansley Brooklyn Carr, daughter of Austin Brent Carr and Sally Christine Beckett Carr on March 6.

John Warren Gamble, son of David Manning Gamble and Lindsay Elizabeth Taylor Gamble on March 13.

Robert Clark Fielder III and Lauralee Grace Fielder, children of Robert Clark Fielder, Jr. and Sara Jane Sondecker Fielder on March 6.

Henry Austin Stewart Pichot, son of Travis Riggle Pichot and Chrissy Stewart Pichot on March 6.

20

George Hutson Plumhoff, son of Charles Jackson Plumhoff and Corinne Hyde Plumhoff on March 13.

New Members Michael and Jessica Murphy join our congregation by transfer from another United Methodist church. He is a financial analyst for BHP Billiton and she is a family nurse practitioner. They are the parents of a daughter, Brooke, age 1.

Colton and Brooke Braud unite by transfer from another United Methodist Church. He is in finance and investments with Main Street Capital Corporation and she is an account manager for AT&T.

Vernon and Keri Henry transfer to St. Luke’s from another Methodist church. He is Vice President of Business Development & Land for Val Verde Minerals and she is a food stylist. They are the parents of Shelby, age 4, and Lanie, age 2.

Swee Leng Rapatz joins St. Luke’s by profession of faith.

Ed and Amy Anello unite with St. Luke’s by transfer from another denomination.

Ed is Vice President of Projects at Burns & McDonnell. He and Amy have two children, Austin and Abby.

Henson and Katie Barnes join St. Luke’s by profession of faith. He is a land manager with K3 Oil and she is HR Director for Snap Kitchen.

Whitney Bolling transfers to our congregation from another United Methodist Church. She is recruiting coordinator for Latham & Watkins and joins her husband, Harrison, and her mother-in-law, Judy Bolling in the St. Luke’s membership.

David and Annie Cook join our congregation, he by profession of faith and she by transfer from another denomination. David is general manager of Prego Restaurant. He and Annie are the parents of Ace, age 5, and Sam, age 2.

Jerry and Sheila Reese transfer to our congregation from another denomination.

Grant and Chris Sovereign unite by transfer from another United Methodist church. He is in Sales and Marketing for Shell and she is a licensed professional counselor.

Tom and Linda Weeks join St. Luke’s by transfer from another denomination. He is a retired stockbroker and she is a retired teacher.

Charlie and Donna Smith transfer to St. Luke’s, he from another denomination and she from another United Methodist church. He is a financial manager and she is a museum consultant.

21

New Members continued Charlene Rogers transfers to St. Luke’s from another United Methodist church.

She is the owner of Rogers Counseling & Play Therapy Center.

Alex Miller and Nicole Jawanmardi transfer to our congregation from another denomination. He is a project manager with Edge Engineering & Science and she is a project manager at Baylor College of Medicine.

Taylor and Kristin Leigh Jones join St. Luke’s by transfer, he from another denomination and she from another United Methodist church. He is an engineer with Schlumberger and she is in sales for Edelman Leather.

Stuart Wilhite and Amanda Morrill unite by transfer from other United Methodist churches. He is a project manager with D.E. Harvey Builders and she is a physician assistant at Houston Methodist Hospital.

Matt and Hallie Thompson, unite by transfer from another United Methodist church. He is an attorney with Cokinos, Bosien & Young and Hallie is a homemaker. They are the parents of Mamie Thompson, age 10 months.

Correction: Austen and Karen Morris transfer to our congregation, he from another denomination and she from another United Methodist church. He is a natural gas trader with Vega Energy Partners and she is a tax consultant for PWC. They are the parents of Kate, age 18 months.

Coffee with the Pastor Have you been visiting St. Luke’s? Would you like to learn more about our church? Please join us for Coffee with the Pastor, an engaging class with Senior Pastor, Dr. Tom Pace. You will enjoy getting to know our pastor and hearing parts of his spiritual journey, while being invited to examine your own. Learn more about St. Luke’s values and vision, and how to be a part of the life and mission of the church. For those interested, this is also the first step in our Path to Membership.

Upcoming Dates: Sunday, April 3 | 4-5:30 p.m. and Wednesday, May 4 | 5:30-7p.m.

22

Periodicals Postage Paid Houston, Texas

Westheimer Campus

Sanctuary 8:30 a.m. Sunday–Traditional Worship with Holy Communion 9:45 and 11 a.m. Sunday–Traditional Worship 9:45 a.m.–Sign interpreter provided Fellowship Hall 8:45 a.m. Sunday–Encounter Contemporary Worship Activity Center 9:30 a.m. and 11:05 a.m.–The Story Houston Modern Worship Chapel 12 p.m.–Holy Communion

Gethsemane Campus 9 a.m. Sunday – Traditional Worship 11:15 a.m. – Contemporary Worship

Sermon podcasts available at: StlukesMethodist.org/Sermons

Spire (USPS 7190) is published monthly by St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 3471 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77027-5334.

Periodicals postage paid at Houston, TX and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 3471 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77027-5334.