Spire June 2017 by St. Luke's UMC

IN THIS ISSUE

SIX DIFFERENT ANGLES by Julie Ellerbrock

WHAT WILL THEY TAKE WITH THEM? by Rob Dulaney

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A COMPLETE NEIGHBORHOOD by Amy Kelley

CHURCH CONFERENCE

The Spire will be on vacation the month of July but will be back on August 1. ON THE COVER: Dedicated Sunday School Teachers, Shepherds and other Volunteers like Leah and Brooks Elliott are finding that not only are they making a difference in children's lives, but children are making a difference in their lives. Spire (USPS 7190) is published monthly by St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s United Methodist Church, 3471 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77027-5334. Periodicals postage paid at Houson, TX and additional mailing offices.

Easter Offering 2017

Thank You for your gifts to Easter Offering 2017 Methodist Chuildren's Home Thanks to the remarkable generosity of our congregation, St. Luke's was able to surpass our $30,000 goal and raise $35,172.77 for Methodist Children's Home through this year's Easter Offering. Because of you, MCH will be able to add a brand new bedroom and bathroom to their space and give vulnerable youth a place to call home.

22 Easter Offering 2017 will be used to support the building of a new

Leaving a Legacy

27,375 days. 657,000 hours. 39,420,000 minutes in an average life.

e have one and only one life. How now shall we live? And then, how shall we be remembered? What mark will we leave? As Christians, how do we advance the Gospel after our time on earth has passed? How will those that follow us experience the faith community that is St. Luke’s? The St. Luke’s Methodist Church Foundation provides the opportunity for church members to leave a legacy for the future of St. Luke’s UMC. Created in 1961, just sixteen years after the church was founded, the St. Luke’s Methodist Foundation provides a way to give a gift that keeps on giving.

“What is most amazing is that these funds come year after year… forever. It is the “forever” part that makes Foundation giving so helpful.” Dr. Tom Pace The Foundation makes quality investments with the funds, the proceeds of which benefit St. Luke’s ministries or membership, or provide long term real estate assets that the church would not be able to purchase on its own. Each year, the church receives donor designated funds from the Foundation to help pay for maintenance of the facility as well as music ministry, senior adult ministry, scholarships for students and other programs. Gifts to the Foundation are invested, managed and administered with careful oversight by the Foundation’s Board of Directors. As of March 31, 2017, the Foundation has approximately $8 million in real estate holdings and approximately $13.6 million in endowment investments. The structure of a

foundation is not to touch the corpus of the funds, but instead to distribute the earnings as directed by designation to different ministries of the church. Sr. Pastor, Tom Pace said, “What is most amazing is that these funds come year after year… forever. It is the 'forever' part that makes Foundation giving so helpful.” The How-To: If you already have a will and would like to add The St. Luke’s Foundation in your estate planning, there is no need to start over with a new will. St. Luke’s can provide language that one can use to create a codicil to an existing will. You are encouraged to consult with your attorney when making a change to your current will. Members can also turn their annual gifts into forever gifts by perpetuating their annual pledges. A fund can be set up in the Foundation to which you or your estate can contribute. The revenue of the fund supports the church while keeping the corpus of the endowment intact forever. When you remember St. Luke’s in your estate plans or through a planned gift, the church acknowledges your gift of any amount by recognizing you as a member of St. Luke’s legacy giving group, The Fellowship of the Spire. If you have included the Foundation in your estate plans, we invite you to notify us in writing. We’d like to say “thank you,” and welcome you into The Fellowship of the Spire. If you prefer, you can be listed as an anonymous member. If you would like to learn more about the Foundation, The Fellowship of the Spire or making a gift through your estate, please contact Sally Gray, Director of Generosity at 713-402-5006 or by email, sgray@stlukesmethodist.org. 3

Six Different A by Julie Ellerbrock

Children’s Ministries' purpose is to build a spiritual foundation in each child that will last a lifetime. The two most important components of the Sunday School hour are building faith-filled relationships with the children and sharing the Bible story. The Children’s Ministry team writes our own curriculum and uses a variety of activities to bring clarity to the scripture and strengthen its impact on children's lives.

The Rotation Model

Our 3rd-5th Grade Sunday School uses a rotation model. Think of it as a 6-week Bible study. We take one focus—a scripture or Bible story, and dig deep into it through six different angles in six different classrooms, each called a rotation. Our six rotations are Art, Cooking, Culture, Games, Science and Service. As the children explore each rotation during the six weeks, they begin to put the smaller details and the big picture together, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of scripture. Let’s explore our Calling the Disciples unit together.

Art

Jesus Calls Less than Per fect People.

The disciples were all different but they had one thing in common – all of them were less than perfect. They all made mistakes. We read the story of Saul’s conversion. Paul teaches us that we do not need to be perfect to do amazing things with God. Paul had a shield – a Bible and a sword to represent the 13 books in the New Testament that he wrote and he called the word of God the “sword of the spirit.” The children created their own shields out of tin that represented who they are as followers of Jesus.

Cooking

Jesus, Our Teacher - Following His Plan as Disciples.

As Jesus began his ministry, he called his team, the disciples, to follow him, to know him, to learn from him, to practice with him, then to go take his love and word out into the world. We have that same recipe to follow. This recipe is the Bible. In Matthew 5, 6 and 7, Jesus gives us many ingredients to help us turnover our life to God. So, what did we make in our cooking class? A turnover! The children chose between apple or chocolate chip.

Culture

Fascinating Facts about Jesus’ First Twelve Disciples.

We learned about the twelve disciples, their culture during that time period and compared it to our culture today. We did some activities to learn their names and who they were, then listened to rhymes and a rap to memorize the twelve, and why Jesus called them disciples, then apostles. Can you name the twelve apostles?

Science

The First Disciples were Ordinary Fisherman.

Andrew, Peter, James and John were ordinary fisherman. They were ordinary people, just like you and me. Through our experiments of a Bubbling Lava Lamp (oil, water, food coloring and Alka-Seltzer combined in a test tube) and expanding Ivory soap, we learned that basic ingredients, when combined, can change into something awesome. Through Jesus, he can expand our hearts and minds so we can do extraordinary things.

"My hope and prayer is that this will be a place that they will remember fondly as they grow older. I know that I will." Jill Young 5th grade Sunday School Teacher

Angles Games Ways to Follow Jesus at Home and School. Jesus calls us, his disciples, to put him first in our lives and to be the ones to pass on the Good News of Jesus Christ. We played games like “Pass It On” with ping pong balls, pails and straws, that challenged us. Just like these games, we drop the ball in our lives and don’t always put Jesus first. Often, we must choose between doing what Jesus wants for us and doing what we want to do. Yet, our faithful response is to always have the courage to keep trying. “If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow me.” Luke 9:23

Service Ways to Share Jesus’ Story with Others. We read how Philip helped an Ethiopian learn about Jesus. How do children all around the world share Jesus’ story with others? We learned from 21 children from 10 different countries how they share Jesus with others. Two friends from United Kingdom and Bahamas both said they share Jesus by inviting family and friends to church. So, we made a craft stick puzzle invitation to share with others. Together, over these six weeks, we explored Jesus’ first twelve disciples, who they were and what they did as they followed Jesus. We grew in our knowledge of scripture as our recipe for living, and we focused on ways that we can faithfully serve Jesus by passing on the Good News of Jesus to others. Together, all of these rotations helped us dig deeper into what it means for us to be disciples of Jesus Christ.

"Throughout this year, there have been many moments where I have witnessed the children connect spiritually. Not only connect with me but with the whole classroom. This is sort of like the formation of a team—God's team if you will. The classroom rotation has played a vital part in this transformation. Friendships have been formed as well as relationships between the Shepherds, Teachers and Volunteers. There have been some real shining moments where I have walked out of there reflecting back that the children have taught me more than I have taught them. The confidence and joy that this position has given me is a lot like the true sense of the word Shepherd. One who watches over a group so that it stays safe and unified." Brooks Elliott, Sunday School Shepherd

5B5

What will they take with them? by Rob Dulaney

A few Sundays ago, St. Luke's confirmed 70 students. It has been amazing to journey with these young people and their families over the past three years. But what is next for them? In four short years these students will graduate and likely leave St. Luke's. The question for us is "what will they take with them?" Our hope is for them to leave with a rich love for Christ and an eagerness to serve. Wherever they live in five years, we want them to be prepared to plug into a new community of faith. So how do we as a church help to keep students engaged and growing in their faith through their high school years and beyond? Here are a few of our keys:

Service

My youth ministry mentor Mark Devries once said of High School students, "If they aren't leading they are leaving." This is why I am so excited about our Servant Leadership Team. The Servant Leadership Academy (SLA) is a process of deeper discipleship and intentional training. This group gives leadership opportunities to high school students eager to put their faith into practice. SLA students lead teams of volunteers on Sunday mornings, plan our Middle School fall retreat, lead a weekly youth worship band and serve in various areas around the church. They also learn how they can use their gifts outside the church. The Servant Leadership Team is a phenomenal way for young people to go deeper with their faith journies. We have seen amazing fruit come from this program.

Family

Over the past 20 years that I have been involved in youth ministry, I have worked with thousands of young people and their families. I have seen a clear connection between parent involvement and student involvement. Ultimately, faith is caught as much as it is taught. Parents that are plugged into a small group, parents that have a serving role within the church, parents that have a relationship with the volunteers and staff among a youth ministry are much more likely to see their young people continue to grow in their faith.

Ultimately, faith is " caught as much as it is taught."

Community

Today's young people often have hundreds and hundreds of "friends" on social media. However, deep community among people they can trust and depend upon is priceless. At the end of the day, youth ministry is about relationships. Our small group ministry is a huge focus. We have over a hundred High School students that participate regularly in one of our 12 different High School small group Bible studies. Each group contains eight or so students with two leaders. They provide an amazing environment for students to be themselves while they grow deeper in their faith. I talk with families who say that their student would "move heaven and earth" to make sure they make it to their weekly small group.

Experiences

Students are busy and they lead fast-pace lives. This makes taking time away for their faith journey even more important. Our High School CIY trip is often cited as a transformational moment for students. As students go on week long trips they get a chance to disconnect from the day to day and connect deeper to their own souls. They also develop life-long bonds with their friends. We are excited to see what God is going to do this summer as students travel to Michigan and Kentucky for our High School camp and service project. These are not just youth "trips," but they are experiences where students encounter God in a whole new way. Their lives in Houston are forever impacted by these journeys away.

Congratulations to the Class of 2017

Westheimer Campus Malek Abbassi William Alcorn Eloise Arnold Ed Bayouth Sydney Beckham Lauren Biegel Harrison Black Caitlin Boeker Elizabeth Bond Peyton Brown Gwyneth Bryan William Butler Chase Cambra Cameron Chan Grayson Christ Evelyn Clark Sean Cleland Catherine Cody Chelsea Collmer Kate Copeland Carson Copeland Maggie Coulter Catherine Craft Viola Dagher Ethan Davis Walker Davis Anna Demecs Laura Dennison Ellee Dukes J.D. Dyer

Liam Ellinger Cleo Epley Jackson Farmer Natalie Farrell Thomas Fatjo Sarena Gaddy Grace Geib Gavin Geib Landon Gloaguen James Goettee John Goettee Lena Goodman Anne Gsell Elliot Hammon Lexie Heim Ethan Henry Campbell Hinrichs Parker Hughes Blair Johnson Caroline Johnson Katharine Juden Emma Kenna Jack Killelea Jeanne Marie King Lawson Lamme Grayson Lassiter Charlie Marix Ellen Matthews Louise McCartney Maddie McZeal Kaylie Mings Patrick Moore Maxwell Nathan

Rebecca Noel Sam Nordloh Grace O'Leary Margaret Palmer Abbey Parks Thomas Parks Austin Paull Tess Peterson Avery Claire Prasher Corbin Priest Sidney Primm Whitaker Proll-Clark Logan Radtke Emery Roach Emma Rowe Robert Schnitzer Rebecca Scully Peter Stone Ashlyn Wagert Maggie Wallis Erin Wick Grace Wimbish Topher Zieske Gethsemane Campus Abraham Cipriano Rangel Chloe Faith Sledge Diana Dalima Portillo Mwangaza Gloire Kamengele Kevin Farid Martinez Yulissa Yasmin Luna

"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." Proverbs 22:6 7

A Complete Neighborhood by Amy Kelley St. Luke’s Gethsemane is nestled in the midst of the Gulfton community that has been selected as one of the Mayor’s “Complete Communities.” This neighborhood, with its first generation immigrants and refugees, is considered to be one of the most diverse in the city of Houston. The Mayor’s "Complete Communities" is a pilot program designed to revitalize under-resourced areas while allowing residents to stay in their neighborhoods. This is exciting news and something that has been needed for a very long time. The initiative will work towards creating “complete” communities: neighborhoods that are safe, affordable, and healthy; have access to quality options for affordable housing, education, and healthcare; have wellmaintained infrastructure; and safe, affordable transportation options. For more information on Mayor Turner’s initiative, please visit www.houstontx.gov/completecommunities/ How amazing to be in the middle of something life-changing for thousands of people in this community. Currently Gethsemane is proud to be part of the CONNECT Partnership along with the YMCA, Kipp Connect, Legacy Healthcare and Houston Center for Literacy. CONNECT’s vision is: Every

child and adult in Sharpstown/Gulfton will lead a healthy, prosperous life, in a safe and vibrant neighborhood in which residents choose to live, learn, work, worship and play. St. Luke’s vision is to gather a community of faith and know each neighbor so intimately that we know the names of their pets, which Metro bus they ride (the 2 or 46 or 63), and shoe sizes of their children. To that end, we have the honor of serving as their faith friends, worship leaders, Bible teachers and more. As the faith leaders of the CONNECT partnership, we are grateful for the opportunity and responsibility to offer a worship community in which people can connect to God and neighbor. Starting August 27, we will launch The Belonging, a new worship community at Gethsemane for diverse people longing for radical relationship with God in an inclusive family. The Belonging will strive to invite all, include all and serve all. While the service time will be 11a.m. on Sunday morning, we believe God is putting together much more than a service; God is birthing a new community where strangers in southwest Houston may experience true belonging to their Creator and church family.

What We Can Do Last week, Gethsemane led a couple of community youth focus groups to gather thoughts, concerns and dreams regarding this community. One of them said “I hope we can REALLY change things around here. People promise this and it never happens. Some of us have given up hope.” Well, not on our watch. Not on St. Luke’s Gethsemane’s watch. Not on CONNECT’s watch. Not on God’s watch. With God’s guidance we are going to restore hope and peace. Please continue to pray for each other as we: We pray to build a closer relationship of love with Jesus Christ in Sharpstown/Gulfton. We study the Bible to dig deeper and learn everything we can about God’s love with the people of Sharpstown/Gulfton. We make friends because lives are changed in this Sharpstown/Gulfton community. We tell our stories to share with others how God is still at work in Sharpstown/Gulfton. We give ourselves away in generosity and service as apostles, sent by Jesus to be the good news in Sharpstown/Gulfton.

Looking Fellowship Hall Proposed Renovation

by Kimberly Van Belle-Porterfield The Fellowship Hall Building Study Committee has been working collaboratively over the past several months. The committee is comprised of leaders from St Luke’s Executive Committee, staff, clergy, volunteers, Encounter band, Building Committee as well as Design, Acoustical, Audio/Video/Lighting, and construction consultants. Our goal has been to bring forth a design that not only takes into account the interior of Fellowship Hall, but beyond that, includes the infrastructure and acoustical needs of a space that will be a multipurpose room that could welcome and host events, meetings, receptions, performances, small groups, Children’s Ministry events, as well transform into a worship space for Encounter on Sundays. This space was St Luke’s first sanctuary, and over the years the room has been modified into Fellowship Hall, which was renovated back in the 80’s. It has always been our committee’s commitment to honor the space and allow it to come to life for the purpose of growing the Kingdom, while remaining true to St. Luke’s Georgian style, heritage and architecture. Our focus has taken into account the past, present and future of Fellowship Hall. The specific areas included in the design components are; ceiling, back wall, proscenium wall, stage, side walls, refurbished floors, upgrade mechanical, electrical, fire alarm, wood work, audio, visual and lighting. The renderings pictured here will help you see the space and look beyond. We look forward to hearing from you and any questions that you may have. Contact Larry Moore at lmoore@stlukesmethodist.org 10

Ahead Long Range Planning Committee Aims at Ambitious Goals

New Governance Structure Proposed

t. Luke’s Long Range Planning Committee has been at work seeking God’s preferred future for St. Luke’s ministry. The committee has established eight initiatives as part of our vision for the next five years. By the end of 2022, St Luke’s will:

• Expand strategic communications for traditional worship and all of St. Luke’s ministries

s part of the plan for the next five years, the Structure sub-committee of the Long Range is proposing a new governance structure for St. Luke’s. The purpose of the change is to move more people into ministries of “doing” on teams, and fewer people on committees, whose primary function is simply oversight. The specific recommendations are that St. Luke’s: • Replace our current Board of Stewards with two all-church conferences each year, for the purpose of communications

• Enlarge St. Luke’s outreach ministry, including our work in the Gethsemane parish

• Create a new Church Council with 17 members, serving the same function as our current Executive Committee

• Grow The Story Houston as an integral part of St. Luke’s mission

• Create an Executive Committee of seven officers of the Church Council

• Reduce standing committees to four—Lay Leadership, Human Resources, Finance & Operations and Advancement; all have nine members

• Overhaul systems for hospitality, engagement and leadership development

• Strengthen and grow our Encounter worship community

• Build a strong financial foundation for growing ministries • Improve technology, including a new church management system • Restructure our governance for more doing and less reporting Specific strategies are being developed for each of these initiatives, along with objectives and ministry owners. The plan will be presented at a church conference on June 25 at 6:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. All are welcome! If you have questions or comments, please contact committee co-chairs Kristin Tillman (ktillman@greenwoodking.com) or Nick Erwin nicklerwin@gmail.com.

• Merge Audit Committee into Finance & Operations; merge Executive Nominating into Lay Leadership • Replace Discipleship, Worship and Outreach Commissions with enhanced participation in ministry teams • Involve representatives from all worship communities in governance bodies The committee believes that these changes, consistent with United Methodist Book of Discipline, along with specific charters for each of our committees, will make volunteering at St. Luke’s far more productive, and increase volunteer participation across the whole life of the church. If you would like to talk more about this new structure, please contact structure subcommittee chair Vicki Keiser at vkeiser@swbell.net.

Church Conference

Sunday, June 25 | 6 p.m. | Fellowship Hall Congregation will vote on proposed renovations to Fellowship Hall and St. Luke's 5-Year plan. 11

ST. LUKE’S

LIFE

Here at St. Luke’s, 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, so check out the following events! Join our church family and find a small group and Sunday morning class that truly fits. To learn more about all of our ministry groups, visit StLukesMethodist. org/ministries.

SUMMER BIBLE CHALLENGE Download the Scripture+Shared App from the App Store or at StLukesMethodist.org/bible

Scripture + Shared Summer Bible Reading Design your own experience (choose your own day and time) and invite a friend or co-worker to be your “Bible Buddy” as you journey through Paul's epistles this summer. Daily readings and reflections are available in the Scripture + Shared app. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/GroupFinder.

Summer Journey to Jerusalem The Journey to Jerusalem study with weekly lessons and accompanying video is available for small groups or Bible Buddies to start at any time. Download the Scripture + Shared app to get started. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/ GroupFinder. The Book of Acts June 7-June 28 | Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Gethsemane Campus, Room 1306 Led by Rev. David Horton Christ is Risen! Christ is Risen Indeed! So now what? How was the church in the aftermath of the resurrection? Where did the disciples go? How did church become church? We'll tackle these kinds of questions in a four-week study on the book of Acts. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/GroupFinder. 12

Bible 101 June 7-August 9 | Room ES313/314 Led by Rev. Thomas Harper and Katie Montgomery Mears What is the Old Testament all about? Who wrote it? Have you heard of Esther, Habakkuk, and Nehemiah and wondered who they were, but were too afraid to ask? Join us for a 10week study of the Old Testament, during which you will gain a deeper understanding of the birth of Israel, its rulers and prophets, the exile and return of the Israelites, and the way that God was with them the whole time. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/GroupFinder.

The Bible in 90 Days June 6-August 29 | Tuesdays, 1-2 p.m. | Room ES301 June 6-August 29 | Tuesdays, 6-7 p.m. | Hines Baker Room Led by Dr. Linda Christians and Ken Jacobson Have you ever wanted to read the entire Bible? Yes, the whole thing, cover to cover. Every word that God has shared with us from Genesis to Revelation? Each participant reads on his or her own, then gathers once a week with other participants. The weekly meetings include small group discussion, activities, and a video lesson. The registration fee of $15 includes the participant book. Any Bible will suffice, but an “official” Bible in 90 Days Bible is available for $15. Limited childcare is available. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/GroupFinder.

SUMMER LEARNING GROUPS

SENIOR ADULTS Senior Adult Ministries at St. Luke’s is dedicated to creating opportunities for fellowship through meaningful programs and activities for active adults aged 60 and better. Activities are open to church members and community friends. For more information contact Mary Schuler, Coordinator of Intergenerational and Senior Adult Ministries, at 713-402-5008 or mschuler@stlukesmethodist.org. Day Program and Lunch, Journey to the Holy Land Thursday, June 1 | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Room ES313/314 Fresh from a visit to the Holy Land, several St. Luke’s members will reflect on their experiences. Buffet lunch ($10) following the program. Reservations 713-402-5087 or reservations@ stlukesmethodist.org.

Financial Peace University June 4-July 30 | Sundays, 4-6 p.m. | Room ES 313/314 Led by Brian and Katy Cox Financial Peace University (FPU) is a nine-week class on money taught by America’s most trusted financial guru, Dave Ramsey. Through video sessions, Dave and his teaching team will walk you through the basics of budgeting, dumping debt, planning for the future, and much more! You will be challenged and motivated to make a plan for your money and change your family tree forever. This class is for everyone: young or old; single or married. The average family pays off $5,300 in debt and saves $2,700 in the first 90 days. The materials cost $93 and include membership for you and your spouse, access to the online resources, a copy of Complete Guide to Money, FPU Class workbook, Envelope System, and more. Register for Financial Peace University online at daveramsey.com/fpu/classes/1039617. Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus June 5-July 31 (no meeting July 3) | Mondays, 6:30-8 p.m. Room ES 301 Led by Doug Christians and Jana Gaddy In this 8-week video study, we will explore the powerful story and arguments of author Nabeel Qureshi found in his book Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus. This study will explore Muslim culture, the most common Muslim objections to Christianity, and the core doctrines upon which Islam stands or falls, going deeper into apologetics and evangelism among Muslims. Join in this engaging and thought-provoking class of the clash between Islam and Christianity in one man’s heart—and of the peace he eventually found in Jesus. Optional study guide $11. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/GroupFinder. Half Truths by Adam Hamilton May 24 – June 28 Wednesdays, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. | Gethsemane Campus Room 1304 | Led by Amy Kelley "Everything happens for a reason." "God helps those who help themselves." "God won't give you more than you can handle." Do these simple phrases sound familiar? Young adults will dive into just how much truth there is to these popular phrases. Contact Amy Kelley at 713-357-4464 for more information.

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe AD Players theater tour Wednesday, June 21 | 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. $10 and lunch on your own at an area restaurant. Transportation available from St. Luke’s or meet at AD Players Theater at 5420 Westheimer. Reservations 713-402-5087 or reservations@stlukesmethodist.org. Summer Afternoon at the Theater Summer Chills at the Alley Theater, The 39 Steps Sunday, July 23 | 1:30 p.m. Spend a cool afternoon with this classic Alfred Hitchcock mystery. Tickets are $23 payable in advance. Transportation available from St. Luke’s or meet at the Alley Theater. Reservations required by July 6. Call 713-402-5087 or reservations@stlukesmethodist.org A Matter of Balance Tuesdays beginning August 1 | 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. An 8-week program emphasizing practical strategies to avoid and manage falls. Call 713-402-5008 or email mschuler@stlukesmethodist.org for information. AARP Safe Driver Course Monday, September 25 | 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. A refresher course specifically designed for drivers age 50 and older. Depending on the insurance company, drivers may benefit from a discount on their auto insurance premium upon completing the course; and, you will learn something new along the way. Cost for the course is $15 for AARP members and $20 for others, payable by cash or check at class (please bring current driver’s license). Registration required. Call 713-402-5087 or email reservations@stlukesmethodist.org. Monday Bridge Group 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Room EN204 (R25) All are welcome at this growing, informal group interested in learning or brushing up on bridge played by Goren rules. For more information, please call Kathy Austin, 713-252-6727. No reservations necessary, just come join in. 13

PRAYER Service of Healing | June 7, 6-7 p.m. | Westheimer Chapel Join us the first Wednesday of every month for a Service of Healing. This month, Rev. Thomas Harper will lead a time of prayer and communion where we ask God for spiritual and physical healing for you or a loved one. For more information contact Rev. Thomas Harper at tharper@stlukesmethodist.org

UNITED METHODIST WOMEN UMW Games Group Mondays, June 5, 19 and 26, 10-11:30 a.m., Room EN204 For more information contact Lori Wilson-Reynolds, 713-665-3553.

Summer Survival Tips for Parents by April Henderson, MA, LPC Nick Finnegan Counseling Center

Summer is here! After all the hard work you and your children put into this school year it’s time for a break! Or so you think. If the looming return of Houston’s sweltering heat and the constant chime of, “I’m bored,” has you in a panic, here are a few tips to help you survive (and thrive) this summer.

1. It’s all about balance. Whether your children are in

summer camps or spending the majority of their days at home, try to find a balance of providing structured activities and unstructured free time.

Make a “Bored Jar.” Work with your children to create a list of fun activities and age appropriate chores and put each in a jar. Each time your child says, “I’m bored,” have them pick something at random out of the jar.

3. Create meaning. Find a way to give back to the

community by volunteering. It’s a wonderful way to bond with your children and encourage empathy and compassion.

Give yourself a break. Work with friends and family to find time to recharge without your children. Making time for self-care will better equip you to help those you love.

Prepare for the new school year one month in advance. Settle back into your family routine and begin discussions about school, teachers and homework. Ensure that your children have what they need physically and emotionally to prepare for a great school year.

UMW Westheimer Book Group June 12, 10 a.m., Johnson Education Building ES306 We will choose 12 new titles for next year! For more information, contact Dorothy Voss, 713-660-7243.

DOCENT TOURS Historical Walking Tour of the Westheimer Campus June 25 | 12:05 p.m. Connection Center in the Commons Tours will depart from the Commons approximately 5 minutes after the 11 a.m. worship service on the last Sunday of every month. While pointing out new and old features of all buildings, docents reveal history and little known facts in the almost 72 years in the life of St. Luke's.

STUDENTS There are tons of opportunities to get involved over the summer, and we hope your Middle and High School students will join us on some of these events and retreats:

Middle School Trips (for students who have completed grades 6 & 7): Operation Blueprint Mission Trip | May 31 - June 3 CIY: Mix Retreat | July 10-14

High School Trips (for students who have completed grades 8-12): CIY:Move Retreat | June 19-24 Regional Mission Trip to Kentucky | July 15-22 All Students: Vacation Bible School Teen Helpers | June 5-9 After-VBS Activities | June 5-8 Gethsemane Bubble Night | June 17 All Church Workday | July 9 For more information about these events, and to register your student, please watch for our weekly email on Mondays or visit our website: www.stlukesmethodist.org/students

of the hit Broadway musical Annie! The Junior series of musicals feature condensed versions of shows to allow for a shorter production time. Enrollment is open for students entering grade 2 through graduating seniors. Plenty of roles, lots of great chorus numbers, and a fun opportunity for your child to develop/expand their skills regardless of prior experience. Tuition is $250, with a 10% discount for each additional sibling you enroll. All camp activities will take place in the Rotunda Theater. Directed by St. Luke's alum and professional actress Chelsea McCurdy. Performance times on Friday, June 30 are TBA. Enroll online at www. bridgesfinearts.org/anniejr Tapestry Players present

Stay tuned for pop-up events planned by our summer interns coming soon!

MUSIC AND FINE ARTS Rotunda Gallery Artists for June and July We welcome back artist Marlo Saucedo to the Rotunda Gallery for the month of June. Her mixed media work uses microcalligraphy to form subjects from words — each painting’s appearance contains a message. In her words, “My pieces first present, then reveal.” You can follow her on Instagram — @artwritewonder — or stop by her studio, No. 231 at the Silos on Sawyer. Our July artists — Las Garzas Gallery — last exhibited in our gallery in the summer of 2015. A collective of artists from Panama, they exhibit their whimsical work around the world, with recent shows in Dubai, Bosnia, and Germany. To inquire about purchasing art, please contact Randy Murrow at rmurrow@stlukesmethodist.org or (713) 402-5122. A portion of all gallery proceeds directly benefits the fine arts at St. Luke’s and helps to maintain and build our permanent art collection. St. Luke’s Chancel Choir and First Presbyterian Church Choir in Concert Sunday, June 4 | 7:30 p.m. | Morris Cultural Arts Center at Houston Baptist University Our Chancel Choir joins forces with the choir of First Presbyterian Church to present composer Howard Goodall’s oratorio Every Purpose Under the Heaven. Also known as The King James Bible Oratorio, it is scored for soprano and tenor soloists, mixed voices and chamber orchestra. Free admission.

Bridges Academy’s Jerry Eckles Music Theater Camp presents Annie Jr. June 19-30 | M-F | 9 a.m.-5 p.m. For the first time in the history of our camp, the Bridges Academy of Fine Arts will present a one-hour "Junior" version

A ROWDY FARCE Tapestry Players presents The Matchmaker by THORNTON WILDER Friday and Saturday, June 16 and 17 at 7:30 p.m., and Directed Sunday, June 18 at 2:30 p.m. by David Gow "Loud, slap dash and uproarious..." See the Thornton Wilder play that inspired the musical Hello Dolly! set in Yonkers, New York at the turn of the 20th century. Described by the New York Times as "...extraordinarily original and funny,” the play weaves together a series of slapstick situations involving June 16 & 17 at 7:30 p.m. | June 18 at 2:30 p.m. | Rotunda Theater mistaken identities, secret rendezvous, and separated lovers, ending in a night that$10 finds everyone with a perfect admission at the paired door match. Directed by David Gow. $10 admission at the door. Presented by special arrangement with SAMUEL FRENCH, INC.

Tapestry Players presents My Fair Lady July 27-29 at 7:30 p.m. | Sunday, July 30 at 2:30 p.m. Frequently called "the perfect musical,” Lerner and Loewe’s My Fair Lady tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl who takes speech lessons from professor Henry Higgins, a phoneticist, so that she may pass as a lady. The musical's 1956 Broadway production was a notable critical and popular success, setting a record for the longest run of any show on Broadway up to that time. Come see our production, directed by Steve McCurdy, with musical direction by Sid Davis. $15 admission at the door / $10 students with ID. Interested in singing in the chorus? Info and sign up at goo.gl/4u0CPX. Children’s Musical Come To The Table with Ken Medema Rehearsals | Monday, July 31 to Friday, August 4 | 1:30-5 p.m. Performance | 6 p.m. | Friday, August 4. Ken Medema returns this summer for our children's musical that is open to children entering 1st through 5th grades. We will also have a special activity with Ken on Saturday morning August 5, and will sing in worship with Ken on the morning of Sunday, August 6. Faster than a speeding bullet: it’s Babes on Broadway! Friday through Sunday, August 18-20 Pure Sound youth return to the Rotunda Theater stage this summer to act and sing in their annual musical revue.

Welcome New Members! Meredith Brann unites by transfer from another United Methodist church. She is a financial analyst with BP and joins her grandparents, Gus and Agatha Brann, in the St. Luke’s membership.

Bob and Connie Oliphint transfer to our congregation from another denomination. They join their son and daughter-in-law, Guy and Meg Oliphint, and family in the St. Luke’s membership.

Barrett Von Blon unites with our congregation by profession of faith. He is an associate with Davis Commercial.

Michele Byington joins St. Luke’s by profession of faith. She is an attorney with Walker & Byington, PLLC.

Audra DeVantier and Webb Williams transfer to St. Luke’s from other United Methodist churches. She is a capital analyst with Deloitte and Webb is a consultant, also with Deloitte. They are engaged to be married.

Bill and Karen Ridgway unite with our congregation by transfer from another United Methodist church. Bill is an executive vice president with Green Bank and they join their daughter and son-in-law, Kevin and Kourtney Coffman, in the St. Luke’s membership.

Jonathan Schmaltz and Megan Marietta unite with our congregation by profession of faith. They are the parents of Jon Paul Schmaltz, age five months.

Mark Chalmers and Sally Chandler unite with our congregation by profession of faith. They are the parents of Lee Chandler-Chalmers, age 3 ½.

Greg and Lucy Williams join St. Luke’s by transfer from another United Methodist church.

Chris Smith transfers to our congregation from another denomination. He is a systems analyst with Yokogawa and joins his wife, Christina, and her parents and sister, Bob and Janet Bodin and Rosie Bodin, in the St. Luke’s membership.

Tyler and Melissa Risner join our congregation, he by profession of faith and she by transfer from another denomination. He is a manager with Mattress Firm and she is a teacher in HISD.

Dallas Hall unites with our congregation by profession of faith. Amanda Evans transfers to St. Luke’s from another United Methodist church. She is a financial advisor with UBS.

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Megan Chandler unites with our congregation by transfer from another United Methodist church. She is a floral designer and event coordinator with Lanson B. Jones & Company.

Paul Colquitt and Abby Demiano transfer to St. Luke’s, he from another United Methodist church and she from another denomination. Paul is a project manager with John Reed and Company LLC and Abby is a nursing student.

Kevin and Kourtney Coffman transfer to St. Luke’s from another United Methodist church. He is an executive vice president with Green Bank. Kevin and Kourtney are the parents of four sons: Will, age 11, Cole, age 8, Tyler, age 6, and Max, age 4.

Bob and Carol Hewell join St. Luke’s by transfer from another denomination. Bob is retired from the banking industry.

Spencer and Lauren Manley join St. Luke’s by transfer from another denomination. He is an engineer with Chevron and she is a graduate student at Baylor College of Medicine.

James and Anne Morgan Montgomery transfer to St. Luke’s, he from another United Methodist church and she from another denomination.

Not pictured: Megan Tronzo transfers to St. Luke’s from another United Methodist church. She is a member of the Good Will Class and is an office volunteer. Barclay and Janice Nicholson transfer to our congregation, he from another United Methodist church and she from another denomination. Barclay is a partner with Norton, Rose, Fulbright and Janice is employed by Innovative Management Services. They are the parents of Quentin Lenn Nicholson, age 9.

CWP is a casual gathering led by Sr. Pastor, Dr. Tom Pace. It is the perfect way to learn more about St. Luke’s and is the first step on the path to membership.

Schedule:

June 25, 4-5:30 p.m. | August 6, 4-5:30 p.m. | September 6, 5:30-7 p.m.

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St. Lukeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2017 Confirmation Class

The 2017 Confirmation Class was received into church membership on Sunday, May 6, 2017. Welcome to these new church members! Elisabeth Grace Afseth Rachel B. Ahmad Marisa E. Angulo Katelyn Ann Bailey Emily Faith Biskamp Harrison Scurlock Blanton Emily Suzanne Burnett William Oliver Buttram Jacqueline Lee Canfield Jack Edward Carpenter Madeline Evans Christ Ellie Lucinda Clark Elle Ryan De Los Santos Joshua Dennison Zachary Adam Dimitroff Adeline Katherine Elmer Travis Cooper Fatjo Lillian Ruth Griggs Garrett John Halsell Emma Harper Hamilton Haley Claire Hammer Mallette Amie Havens Connor Boyd Heath 18

Tristan Matthew Heim Lola Marie Herndon Preston Robert Herrold William Barrett Hobbs Alice Elizabeth Hogan Finn Johnson Ford Cutler Johnson Camryn Alexa Kennedy Matthew David Kulkarni Wyatt Robertson Leathers Christopher McKeown Lewis Jack Link John Alexander Mafrige Natalie Grace Mafrige Georgianna Eden Mathews Paul Douglass McCleary, III George Millsaps McCormick, IV Sofia M McGreger Marie Elizabeth McLauchlin Parker Lee Menefee Caroline Elyse Miller Andrew Dillingham Moore Lillie Keen Morenz

Catherine Johnson Moriniere Camryn Mackenzie Noble Lauren Elizabeth Patton Amara Destiny Randle-Shearon Lawton James Reed Cooper Reed Regan River Noel Reinertsen-Forehand George Coselli Rentz Christopher Georgen Rives, II Lindsay Anne Rorschach Parker Hardy Rose Ryan Elizabeth Roylance Emily Frances Sauer Lauren Nicole Schank Keith Findley Sill Nicholas Alexander Sorak Harrison D Stallings William Toney III William Kyle Turlington Nathan Nguyen Vu Abigail Elizabeth Walker William Stewart Watson Rylan Paige Whitcomb

Celebrating Lives BUILDING FUND In Memory of: Vester Hughes by Bill and Laura Denham CARING MINISTRY In Honor of: Laura and Bill Denham by David and Barbara Henington FRIENDS OF MUSIC In Memory of: Brucks Hall by Wade and Betty Taylor NICK FINNEGAN COUNSELING CENTER In Memory of: Nick Finnegan on the occasion of his birthday by Andi Berkman GENE DECKER STUDY CLASS ENDOWMENT FUND In Memory of: Vicki Howe by Judy Bolling GETHSEMANE CAMPUS In Memory of: Jo Rene Schroeder by Kristin and Vance Tillman OUTREACH AND MISSIONS In Memory of: Bonnie Sapp by Bobbie Wisecup

THE STORY HOUSTON In Memory of: Jason Thiesfeld by David Walker CCSC GETHSEMANE FOOD PANTRY In Memory of: Jo Rene Schroeder by Jennifer and Rich Gould CHILDREN'S MINISTRIES In Memory of: Wanda De Graffenried by Bonnie Bryan Mayor STUDENT MINISTRIES In Memory of: Brucks Hall by Bill and Laura Denham ST. LUKE'S METHODIST CHURCH FOUNDATION In Honor of: Susan and Mac Dunwoody by Klinka and John Lollar In Memory of: Jo Rene Schroeder by Richard Brewer Brad and Diane Jackson J & H Fisher Ranch Bettye Dooley by Martha Lucas Barbara Ledbetter Britt by Carol and Barry Goodfriend Mr. and Mrs. J. Wade Taylor

Anne Duchman Jane and Jim Wise Jessie Davis Collier Blades William Head Donna Dawson Matt and Liz Rotan Virginia Arnold Elkins Elizabeth C. Walter Jim and Rebecca Krepper Les, Linda and Clay Allison Fizer, Beck, Webster, Bentley & Scroggins Mr. and Mrs. B. Walter Crain, III Janice Barrow Beverly and Dan Arnold Margene and Bill Lloyd Shirley and Mike Pearson Lucy Arnold Mrs. David M. Underwood Chrissy Tate Peter Jameson Fran Schoenvogel Susan Toomey Kendyl, Sonny, Paige and Courtney Richards

The altar flowers were dedicated to the glory of God and were given: May 7 in celebration of the baptism of Henry Emerson Lambert by Kathryn and Adam Lambert; and in celebration of the baptism of Andrew Wade Laird and in loving memory of his grandmother Cathy Rain (“GoGo”) Smith, by Whitney and Adam Laird; and in celebration of the baptism of Genevieve Carlisle Brock daughter of Carlisle and Cullen Brock by Carol and Dana Weaver; and in celebration of the baptisms of Frank William Harrison V and Eldon Bracton Harrison by Emily Anne and Will Harrison. May 14 in celebration of the baptism of Harper Elizabeth Hogan and in loving memory of Joann Hogan and Bryan Hogan by the Hogan Family; and in honor of Karen Ridgway and Kourtney Coffman and Kandace Moon by their children; and in celebration of the 90th birthday of Betty Kuhn Brouthers by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. May 21 The altar flowers were dedicated to the glory of God. May 28 in loving memory of those who have given their lives for the sake of others and in honor of those who continue to serve to protect our nation. 19

Congratulations Baptisms! Savannah Cate Ballard, daughter of Jeffrey Giles Ballard and Rachael Elizabeth Jones Ballard on April 30.

Andrew Wade Laird, son of Adam Wade Laird and Whitney Smith Laird, on May 7.

Susan Harms Seidel, daughter of Sam Hunter Seidel and Rachel Behrend Seidel on April 30.

Henry Emerson Lambert, son of Adam Emerson Lambert and Kathryn Elizabeth Awalt Lambert on May 7.

Audrey Ellen Shear, daughter of Michael Blackwood Shear and Laura Ruth Werner Shear on April 30.

Harper Elizabeth Hogan, daughter of James Allan Hogan and Nicole Ann Schwartz Hogan on May 14.

Genevieve Carlisle Brock, daughter of Cullen Norris Brock and Carlisle Weaver Brock on May 7.

James William Karwoski, son of Nicholas James Karwoski and Christina Elizabeth Clemer on May 14.

Eldon Bracton (Brac) Harrison and Frank William (Billy) Harrison, V, sons of Frank William Harrison, IV and Emily Anne Thoma Harrison on May 7.

Gavin Sean McLeod, son of Sean Clifford McLeod and Kandice Yvonne Kaylor McLeod on May 14.

"See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" 1 John 3:1 20

To schedule your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s baptism, or to arrange to attend the required baptism class, please contact Noralyn Carpenter at 713-402-5028.

Caring and Sharing

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

Shelby Lane Bastin and Courtlan Lieber Janik, who were united in marriage on May 20.

Taylor and Kristin Leigh Jones on the birth of their son, Owen Thomas Jones, on April 25.

Steve and Laura Hilgers on the birth of their daughter, Sarah Elizabeth “Sally” Hilgers, on May 12. Proud older sisters are Abigail, Anna Claire, and Marguerite Hilgers. Proud grandparents are Bill and Laura Wheless and proud greatgrandparents are Meade and Nancy Wheless.

Cole and Johana Broskay on the birth of their daughter, Esper Nicole Broskay, on April 10. Proud older sister is Rowan Broskay and proud grandparents are Marilyn Greer and Alan Nash. Hollie Wells and James Edward Dorsett, who were united in marriage on April 22. Kathryn Patricia Hageman and Patrick Benjamin Holmes, who were united in marriage on April 22. Ben and Katharine Peterson on the birth of their daughter, Peralta Belle “Birdie” Peterson, on April 23. Proud older brother is McKinney Peterson and proud grandmother is Anona Karnaky. Duane and Haley Smith on the birth of their daughter, Beryl Brooke Smith, on April 27. Rachelle Ann Willis and Jeffrey Alan Ball, who were united in marriage on April 28. Lena Gayoun Park and Min Bo Shim, who were united in marriage on April 29. Patricia Frances Hamilton and Michael Patrick Blalock, who were united in marriage on May 5. Amanda Bethany Morrill and Stuart J. Wilhite, who were united in marriage on May 6. Leticia Lucio Mijes and Hai Tien Vu, who were united in marriage on May 6. Laura Nash and Justin Lieber, who were united in marriage on May 7. Stefan and Laura Schulenberg on the birth of their son, Ezra McShane Schulenberg on May 7. Proud grandparents are Judy Schulenberg and Mike McCardle. Sameer and Christy Kumar on the birth of their son, Ved Brian Kumar on May 10. Proud grandmother is Pam Martin. Jordan Marie Garrett and Russell Wade Coffin, who were united in marriage on May 13. Nicole Jawanmardi and Alex Victor Miller, who were united in marriage on May 13.

Our Sympathy to: Martha Washington Vaughn on the death of her son-in-law, John Davis, on April 13. Samantha Mitchell and Jack, Kara, and Anastasia Patterson on the death of Samantha’s father, William Beauregard Mitchell III on April 13. Kyle and Marion Woerner and Austin and Andrew Woerner on the death of Kyle’s father, Daniel Rudy Woerner, on April 17. Family and friends of Sandra Ann “Mimi” Smith Dompier who died on April 25. Doug and Linda Christians, Zach Christians, and Emily Christians on the death of Doug’s father, Dale Christians, on April 28. Amy and Kevin Holmes and Hadley and Henley Holmes on the death of Amy’s grandmother, Nadine Runyan, on April 30. Cheryl Kramer on the death of her mother, Mae Lorene Kramer, on May 1. Family and friends of Brucks Ent Hall, who died on May 2. David and Audrey Gow, Lawson and Lauren Gow, David Gow, Jr., Christopher and Katie Gow, Sarah Gow, and Wesley Gow on the death of David’s father, Robert “Bob” Gow, on May 2. Family and friends of Lois Nell Wilson Conwell, who died on May 2. Elaine and Steve Gartrell and Kate Gartrell on the death of Elaine's mother, Agnes Lucille Bennett, on May 5. Jennifer Johnson on the death of her grandmother, Louise B. Polk, on May 11. Robert and Carolyn Elliott, D.J., Tessa, Maddy and Vivie on the death of Robert's mother, Nona Marie Elliott, on May 12.

Andrea Catherine Edgley and Ethan Allen Setina Speakman, who were united in marriage on May 20. 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 713-402-5004 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.

Saturday Ser ve Workdays

Saturday, June 17 | Sole Hope Shoe Cutting Party | 9:30 –11 a.m. Westheimer Campus - Fellowship Hall You’re invited to party with a purpose! We will be turning recycled old blue jeans into shoe uppers. Shipped to Africa, the uppers are sewn and attached to soles made from locally recycled tires. Local tailors and shoemakers carefully craft the Sole Hope shoes that are given out at medical clinics. Grab your scissors and come party with a purpose!

Sunday, July 9 | Beans and Rice | 1–3 p.m. | Gethsemane Campus – Canterbury Hall

We will be packaging beans and rice for CCSC and local food pantries. All ages welcome! Lunch and ice cream will be served!

Saturday, August 12 | AniMeals | 9:30–11 a.m. | Interfaith Ministries of Greater Houston | 3303 Main St., Houston Come help bag dog/cat food for the pets of Meals on Wheels recipients. All ages welcome!

Christian Community Service Center (CCSC) Back to School

Sunday, July 9 | Sunday, July 16 | Sunday, July 23 St. Luke's is collecting money to help send children back to school with the supplies and uniforms they need so they will be successful and ready for a great year. To volunteer for CCSC Back to School, call 713-961-3993, ext. 215 or seasonal@ccschouston.org

Give Blood, Save a Life

Sunday, July 30 | Sunday, September 24 | Sunday, November 19 | Westheimer Campus Put the following dates on your calendar and be a regular St. Luke's donor. Blood Drives are from 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. You can schedule an appointment online at CommitForLife.org/donor/schedules/drive_schedule/250713, or just come by.

We read the Bible. "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart." "Love is patient, love is kind... love believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." "I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength." Did you know that all of these scriptures were written by the Apostle Paul and are some of his "greatest hits?" Join us this summer as we read through Paul's epistles. Going out of town? Not a problem. The daily readings are available on your Scripture+Shared app or online at StLukesMethodist.org/bible. A passage of scripture, commentary, and reflection question is posted for each weekday.

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