We give ourselves away in generosity and service
ST. LUKE’S OUTREACH BY THE NUMBERS
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Prayer partners supporting KIDS HOPE mentees
People cut the ribbon at Gethsemane's Canterbury Hall Grand Opening
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Books given to KIDS HOPE students for summer reading
32,100 Sandwiches made each year for hungry preschoolers through Kid's Meals
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Sunday school classes co-sponsoring refugee families new to the United States
we make friends WRITING A NEW CHAPTER AT THE STORY
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IN THIS ISSUE
we study the bible DAVID: THE SAGA OF A MAN AFTER GOD'S OWN HEART
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we give ourselves away BREAD THAT SATISFIES: KID'S MEALS we tell our stories UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH CRAIG LAFOLLETTE
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we pray ST. LUKE'S PRAYER MINISTRY
ON THE COVER: A sacred place for prayer can be found in the Chapel at St. Luke's United Methodist Church. This month features the Five Inside Out Habits at St. Luke's. Spire (USPS 7190) is published monthly by St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 3471 Westheimer Road, Houston, TX 77027-5334. Periodicals postage paid at Houson, TX and additional mailing offices. No Spire in July...See you in August!
Coffee with the Pastor UPCOMING DATES: Sunday, June 5, 4-5:30 p.m.; Sunday, August 7, 4-5:30 p.m.; Wednesday, September 7, 5:30 - 7 p.m. Please join us for an engaging class with Senior Pastor, Dr. Tom Pace, entitled Coffee with the Pastor. This gathering is for visitors who would like to learn more about St. Luke's. This is also the first step in our Path to Membership. Enjoy a smaller setting and get to know our pastor and hear 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 part of the life and mission of the church. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org. 3
Reflections on the 2016 General Conference The General Conference of the United Methodist Church met in Portland, Oregon from May 10-20, 2016. The Conference is held every four years, and is the legislative body of the global UM church. (Annual Conference, which is the gathering of those from the Eastern part of Texas is held each year, and will be at the end of May) I was able to be present for much of the plenary portion of the conference. I was, as always, in awe of the discussions and deliberations, as well as the behind the scenes machinations and work on getting legislation passed or defeated. A number of impressions and moments were significant for me. First, the young people present, some elected as delegates, but Dr. Tom Pace most just there to be a part of God’s work in the church, were inspirational. They stood together and made a plea for unity in the church. I personally found it to be powerful. Second, the continued growth of African delegations was evident. About 40% of the delegates to General Conference are from the central conferences, which are those outside the US, and most of these are from Africa. The UM church is growing faster in Africa than anywhere else. While there are clearly cultural and theological gaps between these delegates and delegates from the United States and elsewhere, they continue to bring a sense of vitality and energy to the church. And the music they bring to the worship is amazing. Because of this growth, the conference approved five new bishops to be added in Africa in the upcoming four years. Third, the church celebrated the work we have done in Africa through the Imagine No Malaria campaign, and moved forward on a similar campaign with an initiative aimed at health for young children. Fourth, the General Conference took some action on other social issues, such as directing the church to withdraw from a pro-choice advocacy group, the Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice, and called on the Board of Global Missions to withdraw from the U.S. Campaign to End the Israeli Occupation. Finally, the conference spent time discussing issues of human sexuality, particularly around same sex marriage and ordination of gay men and women. While there continues to be significant divide on this issue, the conference voted for the Council of Bishops to appoint a special commission to bring a proposal to a called session of General Conference in two years to address issues of human sexuality. I know you will pray for the United Methodist Church across the world. Most importantly, I hope you will continue to be focused on the work we do right here at St. Luke’s, gathering people to Jesus, and enacting our faith in love.
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5 ways
We make friends Community and
friendship is spurring participants on in writing a new "story" at The Story Houston
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Go where the people are Create an unassuming atmosphere
Offer fearless, biblical worship and sermons
Help people make friends
Commit to serve the world
Our first Chapter at the Story Houston began with a group of 9 people gathered for dinner at someone’s home in the Heights to talk about the last message of a sermon series. I could tell some people were feeling apprehensive about the group, but it didn’t take long for the group leaders to begin sharing their stories. They shared about their highs and lows, and they showed great vulnerability about the hard times they were going through. Then I prayed for the group and cast a vision for what this Chapter could become. We could not have predicted how much of a blessing this new group, named “Wine and the Word,” would become. The people in this group have been the catalyst of several new ministries at The Story, and they have impacted the lives of hundreds of people. Through the process of loving Jesus and serving the world together, they’ve also cultivated friendships that will last a lifetime. That first Chapter began a little more than a year ago, and since then, new Chapters have taken shape and are spreading like wildfire. I’m blessed to have witnessed the launch of twenty Chapters so far—more than one new Chapter per month! Some groups are based on life stage, while others are interest based. Some groups study the Bible together and others take a closer look at recent sermons, while some groups gather based on shared passions (cooking, biking, wine tasting, etc.). No matter what our Chapters choose to do, they all keep Jesus at the center through prayer and devotion, and this is what sets Chapters apart from other kinds of groups. As The Story’s Pastor of Discipleship, my primary responsibility is to encourage Chapter leaders to remember that Chapters are not just about having people to hang out with, but about following Jesus together. Having this sharp focus on Jesus is what has allowed our groups to be transformational, and it’s why these groups have grown so quickly. Every week, The Story is bringing Jesus to homes, lofts, bars, restaurants, and parks all across Houston. No matter where Chapters meet, their commitment to following Christ together allows people in the group to be more vulnerable, and it helps members discover that they were created for more than just work and play. If you’ve been attending The Story on Sundays, and you are searching for this kind of community, we hope you’ll consider joining a Chapter, or even better, we hope you’ll help us write a brand new chapter by stepping up to lead a new group. You can find more information about our current Chapters at www.thestory.church/connect or email me for more ways to connect: geovannahuffman@gmail.com. by Geovanna Huffman, TSH Pastor of Discipleship and Associate Pastor, St. Luke’s UMC 5
We study the Bible A CONVERSATION WITH DR. TOM PACE...
David, a saga of a man after God's own heart One of the things that is so powerful about Jonathan and David’s friendship was the length of it. Although physically they were only together for a short period of time in Saul’s house, their covenant was forever, even after Jonathan’s death. There is this theme of intense loyalty and the Hebrew word “Hesed” which is translated to “lovingkindness.” Hesed is understood to mean that because we belong to each other, I’m going to treat you a certain way. David and Jonathan’s friendship is covenantal. It is a love that says, you are my family and no matter what, I am going to love you, not for anything you have done or anything that you are, but just because we are family and we are bound together, “knitted as one soul.” We also see the idea of hesed throughout the Old Testament. When the Lord says, “my steadfast love endures forever,” this is something we can understand through David and Jonathan’s relationship. Let’s talk about worship since David is the most famous worship leader ever. Did David really worship naked and why? Should we (in a way?)
What fascinates you most about David? I find David to be particularly fascinating because he is so complex. He is full of mixed motives, he is driven by passions, he feels things incredibly deeply, he overreacts to most things, and yet, he is clearly shrewd. He earnestly wants to please God. We see that he really is a man after God’s own heart, but he seems so driven by his passions that he often gets in trouble. He also lives at a very high volume. David is the one, remember, who we see kill the messenger who comes to tell him his son Saul was killed in battle – in fact, that’s where the phrase we use now “don’t kill the messenger” comes from. He is not very good at mitigating his feelings and he often is exaggerated in his emotions. When he grieves, he grieves deeply, and when he loves, it is the love to end all things. His love for Jonathan is described as a love greater than the love for a woman.
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Early on, Jonathan and David were the best of friends. Is this a model for platonic love and relationship devotion?
Well, David had a loincloth, so he wasn’t actually dancing completely naked. But speaking of having your volume on high – David dances and sings and worships passionately. When you see how David was uninhibited in his worship, you might describe that as a kind of spiritual “nakedness.” It’s vulnerability in meeting God in worship. We tend to be inhibited in our worship experiences. We are afraid of what others might think. We are a people who never want to get carried away. We often tend to think of worship as an intellectual experience, that is not engaging our bodies as much as our minds. But I think it can be both – and neither experience is wrong, there are just different things to gain from each. What can we learn from David’s worship style? Be open to where the Spirit leads you. Feel God’s presence. There were many victories and failures in David’s story, tracking a “saint to sinner to saint to sinner” path. The word “saga” comes to mind. What do you think about that? Often we want to create, both for ourselves and for other
people, a defining moment so that how they respond in that moment becomes their identity. And I don’t think you can do that. We might want to define David by the Bathsheba incident. Or you might want to define David by his forgiveness of Saul and Jonathan. There are so many things you could define David by but you choose not to because he’s so complex and you can’t. Is a zebra a white horse with black stripes or a black horse with white stripes? I think it’s just striped. So it is with David. We’re all like that. In the great Greek stories, there were these epic heroes with tragic flaws, and the only thing that made it a tragedy or a comedy was whether that flaw led to their downfall. We can all identify with David. We have that part of us that we think, “Oh God, you couldn’t use that part of me. You could never do anything with that. Don’t you see who I am?” I think David’s life was a comedy. But nonetheless, God made him the great king of Israel and as kings go, he was pretty good. He was the most loved human king Israel ever had. And his flaws didn’t define him in the end.
covenant is a deal between people in which the essence of the covenant is relationship, not law. The difference between a covenant and a contract is that a contract is defined by the stipulations of the contract. In a contract, you have a set of expectations that if followed by both parties, results in success and well being for both involved. But in a covenant, it goes the opposite way. A covenant is based on the foundation of relationship, a deal that says “you are mine and I am yours, and no matter what you do, no matter what happens, we are in this together.” You don’t give up on a covenant because the stipulations – which can shape the covenant for sure – aren’t followed. God’s law is not written on stone but on the heart. I really think that it wasn’t an issue of the law for David, but it was a matter of the heart. David is a very complex character, but he’s also a bit of a caricature. I find that fascinating, given what God does for him and through him. He’s not a steady character, and yet God remains steadfast in his promises to David. But the one thing that we can take away from David is exactly that – the steadfast love of the Lord endures forever. God blesses those who love him and keep His covenant.
“God's law is not written on stone but on the heart.”
We’ve seen some commentaries that call David a “type:” he is from Jesse’s root, he is of low estate, he’s a shepherd, he’s persecuted, he’s a king. What can you say to that comparison of David to Jesus? By type, we mean David is a precursor to Jesus, and we can see a lot of what they had in common. One of the most important, I think, was that he was the Shepherd King. He is the king who cares for his people. But David is also clearly a human king, and Jesus is not. Jesus is a divine king. The Israelites believed David was divinely ordained, and that Jesus is actually divine himself. You have the same idea with Jesus as the high priest, that he supersedes the former high priests by being the ultimate high priest. You’re calling this sermon series “David, a Saga of a Man After God’s Own Heart.” Do you think this is true, that David really got it in the end, despite that he was so bloody and extreme and passionate? God has always cared about the heart. The
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BREAD THAT SATISFIES 55 loaves of bread, minus the heels. That’s
exactly how much bread it takes to make 600 sandwiches each Monday night for Kids Meals, a Houston organization dedicated to ending childhood hunger by delivering free, healthy meals to children five years old and younger facing hunger due to poverty. Kids Meals delivers 2,500 sack lunches a day to Houston’s hungriest children. But these numbers wouldn’t be possible without hundreds of volunteers, donors, vendors and partners who work hard and serve often behind the scenes.
At St. Luke’s, Kids Meals has long held a special place in many volunteer's hearts. Different teams of faithful volunteers meet each week to make sandwiches, pray over the lunches, fellowship together and actively serve the body of Christ.
"These lunches, packed in decorated brown paper bags, are feeding the stomachs of hungry children and they are also feeding their hearts," Alice King, Director of Outreach at St. Luke's, said. "Something as simple as a sack lunch reminds these children
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they are taken care of and loved, and there is no better description of 'why do you do what you do' in any volunteer position."
Although it is a simple job, it is a big one. Kids Meals serves six Houston-area routes that target zip codes all located within the Beltway 8, where they find the need to be most crucial. And while St. Luke’s volunteers construct turkey or ham sandwiches with loving precision (it can take anywhere from 45 minutes to a few hours to finish the job,) others across the city are doing the same thing, preparing sandwiches, partnering with vendors to supply other snacks, fruit, chips, and juice or milk. Once each part is assembled and the meals are packed, 6 Kids Meals vans deliver the meals 5 days a week to children enrolled in the program. HEB stocks a brand of bread they don’t carry in stores just for
We give ourselves away in generosity and service Kids Meals and sells it to St. Luke’s for an affordable price that makes making 600 sandwiches doable. All over the city, volunteers, organizations, churches, and businesses like HEB are practicing generosity and service in a very tangible way. And that’s where the real heart of the mission emerges.
“It’s a great starting place for new volunteers,” Alice said. “It’s hard not to be captured by the joy and fun of loving kids who love–and I mean really love and look forward to–getting these lunches. They know the bus is coming and they run out to meet it. Making a sandwich is a bit of an ordinary everyday task, but that’s exactly where God is most glorified through this ministry: in the everyday, in the ordinary yet God-glorifying things that come out of serving others.”
Long-time Kids Meals volunteer Pat Deckert looks on as a group makes sandwiches on a Monday night.
If you'd like to get involved with Kids Meals through St. Luke's, more volunteers are always welcome! Their next gathering will be on Monday, June 6 at 6 p.m. The Kids Meals volunteers meet to make sandwiches and fellowship every Monday night weekly, with varying groups taking turns. For more information on opportunities to serve with this ministry, contact Meredith Davis at mdavis@ stlukesmethodist.org to sign up. Children are welcome to attend with adult supervision.
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We tell our stories
MY STORY:
Craig LaFollette
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As a young child, I was blessed to have a mother with strong Christian beliefs and faith. She taught Sunday school at the First Christian Church in McKinney, Texas. My mother's consistent emphasis on Jesus and prayer and attending Sunday school (missing was not an option) gave me a solid foundation in Christ. As many young people experience, I drifted away from my Christian practices later in high school and college at UT. However, God placed another strong Christian woman in my path at the end of those college days. My wife, Chris, and I will soon celebrate 39 awesome years of marriage. I have told many people that she saved me. Well, God saved me, but used Chris to whack me over the head and lead me back to his path. She is my inspiration, role model, mentor, coach and partner in Jesus Christ. I am forever thankful to God for allowing me to live my life with such a strong Christian believer.
of "Victory Through Integrity". That motto was on every piece of our marketing materials and permeated the thought process of each team member. Every team member but one was a Christian, and he was baptized approximately four years ago. I trusted my teammates and was finally able to let go and let God. It was a wonderful time. My career and life in general was much better after consciously trying to let God in all the time. There is little doubt that my control freak tendencies were indications of weaker faith. Letting go required more prayer time, freed up time to read and study the scriptures and serve Christ. These are all faith builders.”
“Want to strengthen your faith? Just say yes.”
Chris and I joined St Luke's in 1988. We had visited other churches but decided the children's programs at St. Luke's were better suited for our daughter Lauren. After joining, we visited several Sunday school classes before settling in with the Goodwill Class. Ron Morris was a creative teacher, and the wide range of member ages appealed to Chris and me. We are still members of the class and have made many good friends over the years.” “The last 30 years of my business career were serving as a commercial real estate broker for CB Richard Ellis, The LaFollette Co., CBRE and HFF. It was long hours, fast paced and very competitive. I had to constantly remind myself that God is in control. It is so easy to forget God is always with you, when the daily demands and stress take over your thought process. The second half of those 30 years was the most enjoyable and rewarding. We established an interdependent team with a motto
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“The church has strengthened my faith. Opportunities to serve and experience Christ's love abound at St. Luke's. Attending church and Sunday school increases my faith by being in the St. Luke's community. Our faith is built up by witnessing Christian examples and being a good example for others to see.
Serving on the What If? Capital Campaign brought me closer to God. I was nervous about the amount of money to be raised, and if we were doing God's will with the plans to spend it. I prayed every day, fervently, for Jesus to guide us in his will. We exceeded the original goal. The Story Houston is way ahead of planned attendance. Membership and generosity is up, and the buildings are not yet complete. The congregation stepped up, God answered my prayers, and I am certain these new buildings will be God's tools to bring new worshippers to the St. Luke's community. Experiencing the Walk To Emmaus was incredible. Thanks to John Paukune for two years of consistent nudging before I relented. Meeting with my Walk brothers on Monday mornings is great fellowship and accountability. Making
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sandwiches for Kid's Meals doesn't sound like much, but it makes you feel good to know that you helped a child have something to eat. A Walk To Emmaus Monday meeting led to my most rewarding and fulfilling service. Two years ago Bill Denham told me the church was short two hospital visitors and asked me to try it. He said I could go with him the first time. I, reluctantly, said OK. So, now, on Monday afternoons, I joyously head to the Texas Medical Center to visit and pray with St. Luke's members or friends of members. On the way, I pray that God will guide me with what to say and what to pray. Patients can be at Woman's Hospital to the south, Herman Hospital to the north and institutions in between. Babies in need of a heart transplant or born with underdeveloped organs or very pre-mature, cancer patients with disfigurements or in isolation for chemo or bone marrow transplants, unconscious patients with undiagnosed illnesses, stroke patients that do not regain consciousness, these are examples. The joy of being healed and released, the disappointment of being released but knowing it is only temporary and the sadness of losing a loved one are just a few of the emotions being dealt with by the patients and their families.
The visits can be anywhere from two to 30 minutes. God has not let me down with the communication. Sometimes there is laughter and kidding. Other times there are tears and holding hands. Eyes will often times indicate the underlying emotions. Most of the time, I don't have to talk too much, just listen. It is very gratifying to see and hear appreciation for the visit, a hand coming up to hold during prayer and to thank God for allowing me to do a very small part of His work for people with real need, right now. Thank you Bill Denham. And, thank you St. Luke's and Dr. Tom Pace for the opportunity to serve this year as Board of Stewards chair elect. As such, being a member of the personnel and executive committees is very humbling as I gain a better and deeper understanding of all that St. Luke's does and the necessary resources, human and other, that are required to fulfill our promises to God and our community. What an awesome church God has founded and continues to bless. Want to strengthen your faith? Just say yes.�
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HE LEADS ME BESIDE STILL WATERS C.S. Lewis once said, “the
need for prayer flows out of me all the time. Prayer does not change God, it changes me.” Unbinding Your Heart, a churchwide study that placed an emphasis on personal commitments to pray, has given new life to the St. Luke’s Prayer Ministry. Kimberly Van Belle-Porterfield together with Jana Gaddy, and whole team of volunteers, clergy and lay people are part of the latest dreams for the Prayer Ministry. Their plans include a fresh vision for where God might take the ministry next. “We are dreaming God’s dreams. Where will he take the prayer
ministry next? Kimberly continues, “first and foremost, we will pray for his guidance.”
“I look to Jesus because Jesus taught us how to pray. He went to solitary prayer at times, but he also prayed with community. That speaks volumes to me. We need to take time to pray alone, but we also need to be vulnerable, to come together and fervently pray what is on our hearts in community. St. Luke’s is an amazing church full of heart and soul—it really is. We really dig deep and it shows. This place is an organic, spiritual, praying machine… you know it can only be because of God.” The Prayer Ministry at St. Luke’s consists of many parts, including the Prayer Room, online and telephoned prayer requests, leaves on the prayer tree, prayer shawls, the hospital visitation team, Stephen Ministers, monthly Healing and Prayer services, the prayer calendar and so much more. The Prayer Tree, covered in paper leaves with written prayers from the congregation and faithfully prayed over by the Prayer Team, was such a success during Unbinding Your Heart that it continues to this day.
“I look to Jesus because Jesus taught us how to pray.”
With with the addition of Laurie Noteboom as the dedicated Prayer Ministry staff leader, Kimberly shared her excitement after a recent planning meeting, “Stay tuned—God has some great things planned starting this fall!”
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Kimberly’s passion for prayer comes from a deeply rooted spiritual journey and love of knowing who people are and how God calls them to be special. In a way, just as prayer connects us with God, the prayer ministry is a connecting ministry – connecting people to people, connecting people with God, connecting people
We pray with a way to serve and love. “As a five- year old, I remember my grandfather praying. He would wrap his arms around me and I could hear him talking to God. From a young age, I was always comfortable with prayer. It was a real encounter with the Holy Spirit and I assumed everyone had that experience. As I grew up and had my own children, I wanted them to have that too. Through prayer I wanted them to taste and see that the Lord is good. I wanted that for the community that I loved. So my own story is that prayer is pivotal in my life, in good times and bad. I am helping to lead the Prayer Ministry because I want people understand what prayer is and what it can do.”
Out habits (We pray, We read the Bible, We make friends, We tell our stories, We give ourselves away in service and generosity) so, I offered to create the prayer calendar that is printed in the bulletin insert each week. People who read the prayers are often touched by them, and the people who write the prayers experience a spiritual time with God. It always amazes me to see how God is at work in this process. The prayers are written a month ahead of time, yet somehow, God puts the prayers in the right order at the right time to speak to people who need to hear him.”
“I want people to understand what prayer is and what it can do.”
Jana Gaddy, works side by side with Kimberly and has found that compiling and writing the Prayer Calendar is much more than an administrative task. “It’s not just writing prayers—it is truly communicating with God. After Unbinding, Dr. Linda Christians asked us to remain in the Prayer Ministry. Dr. Pace wanted members to continue building the Five Inside-
For both Jana and Kimberly, prayer means something a little different, but for each of them, just as it is for anyone who gets involved in the Prayer Ministry or just goes a little deeper in their own prayer lives, it all feeds back to the same place— it brings us closer to God in a real way.
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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.
MUSIC AND FINE ARTS
Painting by Bea Stanton. Her work is on display this month in the Rotunda Gallery.
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Painting by Bea Stanton. Her work is on display this month in the Rotunda Gallery.
Rotunda Gallery Artist Bea Staton | June The art of Bea Staton reflects her personality and versatility as a painter. In her forty years as an artist, she has continued to improve her artistry by taking many classes and workshops from numerous well known artists. While her favorite medium is oil, she also excels in watercolor and pastels. Bea shares her talents through teaching at the Maxwell Senior Center in Deer Park, where she has helped many to discover their own love of painting. Stop by the gallery any time this month to view their work and leave a note for her in the guestbook. To inquire about purchasing art, please contact Randy Murrow at rmurrow@stlukesmethodist.org or 713-4025122. 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. Into the Woods | June 9-11 Tapestry Players present Into the Woods, a musical twist on 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.
The Music Man | July 28 – 30 Tapestry Players present The Music Man. This sixtime, 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.
Jerry Eckles Music Theater Camps | June 13–24 Rotunda Theater Each summer the Bridges Academy of Fine Arts hosts two music theater summer camps for children and youth: a one-week program for 2nd through 5th graders and a two-week program for 6th through newly graduated 12th graders. This year both groups will write and star in their own fairy tale musicals as they learn new techniques and hone their acting and singing skills. Once Upon a Time - Grades 2-5 meet from 9 a.m. 12 p.m. Monday June 13 through Friday June 17 in the Rotunda Theater, with a performance at 12 p.m. on the 17th. $175 registration fee (10% discount for siblings). Ever After - Grades 6-12 meet from 1-5 p.m. on weekdays Monday, June 13 through Friday, June 24 in the Rotunda Theater, with a performance at 5 p.m. on the 24th. $225 registration fee (10% discount for siblings. Visit www.StLukesMethodist. org/jerryeckles to register. Houston Symphony Chorus Concert | June 19 4 p.m. The Houston Symphony Chorus, directed by Betsy Cook Weber, shines on its own in this free concert of choral classics. Sunday, June 19, 2016 in the Sanctuary at 4 pm. No tickets are required to attend this concert. General admission seating will be available on a first come, first served basis. Doors open at 3:30 p.m.
The Music Man Chorus | July 28 – 31 Rotunda Theater Tapestry Players seeks singers of all ages and voice types interested in a fun, low-commitment musical theater experience this summer! Rehearsals begin in mid-June, with performances July 28-31 in the Rotunda Theater. Sign up online: www. StLukesMethodist.org/chorus. The Big Fish–A Whale of a Tale | August 1–5 Rotunda Theater Register your elementary age child(ren) for The Big Fish (A Whale of a Tale)- this summer’s musical with composer Ken Medema, who will join the children in the production! The cost for camp participants is $75/child - 3rd sibling is free. Visit www.StLukesMethodist.org/bigfish to register. The children rehearse Monday, August 1-Friday, August 5 from 1:30 to 5 p.m. in the Rotunda Theater, with a performance at 6 p.m. on Friday. It is free and open to the community, but arrive early to find a seat! Camp participants and their parents are also encouraged to attend a social gathering on Saturday, August 6 as well as worship on Sunday morning, August 7, where Ken and the children will perform one of the songs.
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SENIOR ADULTS
costumes, skits, songs and a general good time that you won’t want to miss! For our picnic lunch, we will provide the fried chicken (and some grilled too) and the rest is potluck. Bring a salad, a side dish or a dessert to share. Cost is $5. Make your reservation by calling the reservation line, 713-402-5087. This is a great time to bring a friend! Senior Adults Summer Theatre Outings Born Yesterday at the Alley Theatre | June 18 $20 plus lunch. Call 713-402-5008 for more information and availability.
A Matter of Balance Fall Prevention Classes July 11–August 31 Interest in the fall prevention classes has been very Mainstreamer Day Trip | Thursday, June 9 positive and plans are in the works for the class to begin 9 a.m.–4 p.m. the week of July 11 and continue through the last week Our tour will include the 90-minute tram tour of NASA plus a visit to the newly installed high-fidelity of August (8 weeks.). This class is a free 8-week fall shuttle replica, Independence, and the shuttle carrier prevention course presented by Harris County Area aircraft NASA 905 on which it is mounted. You will Agency on Aging. If you have already signed up, you will be contacted with more details. If you are interested but also have the opportunity to see other exhibits and have not yet signed up, we are working on scheduling a films as you wish, and lunch at your leisure in the on-site café. Reservation deadline is June 1. Call the second class. For more information please call Marlys reservation line, 713-402-5087 to reserve your place. Barry at 713-402-5008. Cost for the tour and lunch is $24. Senior Adults Summer Theatre Outings Spider’s Web at the Alley Theatre | July 23 Stress Busting for Family Caregivers $20 plus lunch. Call 713-402-5008 for more information Thursdays, June 16–August 11| 9:30–11:30 a.m. and availability. Stress Busting for Family Caregivers is a nine-week program focused on education, support, problemsolving and stress management for family members Like to Play Bridge? Mondays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. | R25 caring for aging or chronically ill loved ones. The program is a holistic approach to address emotional, All are welcome at this informal group interested in bridge played by Goren rules. A good opportunity to physical and spiritual needs of caregivers. Class brush up your skills or if you are just learning or want to size is limited and advance registration is required. learn. For more information, call Kathy Austin, 713-252Meetings are at Amazing Place, 3735 Drexel, 6727. Houston, TX 77027 For more information, contact Carol Cooper, 713660-1375 or ccooper@amazingplacehouston.org. Inside the NASA Space Center. Photo courtesy of Space Center Houston.
Mainstreamer Day Luncheon and Program June 16 | Fellowship Hall | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Our annual summer “picnic” will be in June this year so that we might welcome the Primetime Singers from West University Baptist Church, This lively, large group of older adults, under the direction of Rev. Ronnie Barner, will entertain us with their latest musical review complete with 16
UNITED METHODIST WOMEN UMW Westheimer Book Group | June 13, 10:30 a.m. Hines Baker Room We will meet in June to choose the books that will read and discuss for the next 12 months. For more information, contact Dorothy Voss, 713-6607243.
STUDENTS College Summer Series | June-August Do you know a college student home for the summer? Whether they're here for two weeks or two months, we would love to see them and catch up! There is a Sunday morning class just for them, taught by Mike Stroman and members of Student Ministry staff, meeting at 9:45 in the Youth Loft. Contact Kimberly at kpinckney@stlukesmethodist. org with any questions. Operation Blueprint Mission Trip | June 1-4 7th-8th grade students This summer, our middle school students return to San Antonio to partner with Operation Blueprint Ministries. We will serve the San Antonio community through light construction projects and house painting. The trip is finished off with a fun day at Schlitterbahn and dinner at the Gristmill! Cost is $500. After Vacation Bible School Activities | June 6-9 | Grades 7th-12th After a busy day volunteering with Children's Ministries at VBS, we look forward to eating lunch and enjoying activities just for students in the afternoon. Join us Monday through Thursday for Sky High, Rock Climbing, Laser Tag, and Roller Skating. Cost is $25 for each day's lunch and activity, and we return to the church promptly at 4:30 p.m. Register online to reserve a spot! CIY:Move | High School Students | June 12-18 We will spend five days in Knoxville, Tennessee learning what it means to be a Kingdom Worker. Students 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. Dominican Republic Mission Trip | High School Students | July 5-12 This will be St. Luke’s sixth year to travel to Santiago and partner with G.O. Ministries. We can’t wait to work alongside them once again in construction projects, sports camps, and leading Vacation Bible School. Cost is $2000.
GETHSEMANE Summer Clubhouse | July 5-29 This summer Bible school is a safe, educational and spiritual place for children of the Sharpstown and Gulfton areas! Week 1: July 5-July 8, Week 2: July 1115, Week 3: July 25-29. 9 a.m.-1p.m., Monday-Friday. The cost is $12 per child, per week with a $40 family maximum per week. There are some scholarships available. While at the Summer Clubhouse, children will have a morning snack and a nutritious lunch. The fee also covers crafts, activities and even a bus pick-up. Volunteers are needed before and after sessions. If you would like to help in any way, please contact Amy Kelley 713-357-4464, akelley@stlukesmethodist.org or Juana Tavico 713-357-4474, jchavez@stlukesmethodist.org. Mosaic Music Program | July 18-22 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Mosaic Music Camp is a fun music experience that allows children to experience different instruments during a fun-filled week. This camp is open to children entering K-5th grade for fall of 2016. Cost for the camp is $15 per child with a maximum cost of $45 per family (siblings only). Youth Mission Trip | July 31 – August 5 Bayou la Batre The youth of Gethsemane will travel to Bayou la Batre for a life changing mission trip to the deep south to help rebuild the community as it continues to recover from the effects of Hurricane Katrina. The trip is $150 per youth. There are some scholarships available. There are only a limited number of spots available, so if you haven’t signed up, see Amy Kelley or Julie Ramos as soon as possible! For more information: akelley@ stlukesmethodist.org.
CHILDREN St. Luke’s Summer Camp | May 31–August 5 Calling all children entering grades 1-8! Join us for camp this summer! There will be 10 one-week sessions starting May 31 through August 5. Daily activities include swimming, arts and crafts, cooking/nutrition, science, talent shows, music and drama, gym games with Coach Jones, and a fun Friday field trip each week! To sign up visit www.stlukessummercampasc.org or contact us at 713-402-5075. 17
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:
Michael and Kathryn Moore on the birth of their daughter, Mary Helen Moore, on April 18. Proud grandparents are Louis and Janet McCarter. Jill Megan Nicholas and Phillip Beckman Wiginton, who were united in marriage on April 23. Eric and Becky Nichols on the birth of their daughter, Cordelia Lucy Nichols, on April 24. Proud grandparents are Mike and Stella Fitzgibbons. Jackie Boorman Wood and Derris Hall Murphy, who were united in marriage on April 30. Abigail Jo Hiatt and Morgen Earl McGuire, who were united in marriage on May 7. Congratulations to Drew and Jackie Crow on the birth of their daughter, Ella Mae Crow, on May 13. Proud grandmother is Janet Crow. Julia Constance Lowe and Benjamin Austin Stroman, who were united in marriage on May 14.
Our Sympathy to:
Linda and Martin Debrovner on the death of Linda’s brother, John A. “Jack” Castellon, on April 11. Greg Fuller on the death of his cousin, Lawrence Edward Buford III on April 12. Rihl and Carol Buckley and John, Anna Louise, and George Buckley on the death of Rihl’s mother, Josephine Richardson Buckley, on April 20. Sarah Bottomley on the death of her uncle, Leonard Tufts, on April 27. Erminie Chapman on the death of her husband, David Frank Chapman, on May 1. Ginger Yarbrough on the death of her husband, James Barney Yarbrough, Jr., on May 2. Betty Windham on the death of her husband, Lynn Burke Windham, Jr., on May 8. Barbara Davenport and Claire and Adam Dimon and family on the death of their husband and father, James Conroy Davenport, on May 15. If you know of a concern or a joy that the church should know about, please contact Caring Ministries at 713-402-5004 or ext. -5156
We Care! Are you or a loved one facing surgery or hospitalization? St. Luke’s Caring Ministry would love to pray with you prior to surgeries and during hospitalizations. Contact Laurie Kereluk with details at 713-402-5004 or lkereluk@stlukesmethodist.
Pray for Student Summer Mission Trips! We encourage you to pray for the student missions teams heading out this summer to many different parts of the world and country. They will be bringing the gospel to the Dominican Republic, the neighborhoods of Bayou la Batre in the deep Gulf Coast of Alabama, and San Antonio. A group of students will also be traveling to camp in Knoxville, Tennessee. Please pray for them as they share the good news, that all they do on their trips would be a clear picture of the hope of Jesus to the world, and that the work would transform hearts.
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San Antonio: June 1-4
Dominican Republic: June 12-18
Knoxville, TN: June 12-18
Bayou la Batre, AL: July 31-August 5
Celebrating Lives BUILDING FUND OUTREACH MINISTRIES In Memory of: In Honor of: Randy Gorham by Dennis Dickson by Timothy P. Hart Lavonne & Rob Baker CARING MINISTRIES The birthdays of Betty Brown & In Honor of: Bobbie Wisecup by Dr. Linda Christians by The S.N.A.G.S Linda Walls In Memory of: Rev. Bill Denham by Stanley Kirk by Warren W. Tichenor Merri & Dick Bundy In Memory of: Robert Krouse by Dixie Jernigan by Gene & Shelley Laura & Bill Denham Jorgenson CHILDRENS MINISTRY RANDY SMITH BIBLE STUDY CLASS In Honor of: In Memory of: Sojourners Class by Richard McCaine by Laura & Bill Denham Kathryn & Hank FRIENDS OF MUSIC Coleman In Memory of: ST. LUKE’S METHODIST CHURCH Cynthia Farrall Aycock by FOUNDATION Kristin & Vance Tillman In Honor of: James Otho Knight by Karen & Richard Ethun by Gladys & Merrill O’Neal Kay Kamas & Jim Porter Wylie McCain by In Memory of: James F. Bunting Evelyn Houstoun Chew by Betty Mohrman by Cynthia & John Harper Shirley & Michael Sara Gammon by Pearson Devoted Family Sterling Womack by Stanley Cain Kirk, Sr. by Barbara & Dan Clinton Merri & Dick Bundy NICK FINNEGAN COUNSELING William Little, Jr. by CENTER The Casey Family: In Memory of: Tammy, Bob & Bobby, Rebecca Belknap by Barbara & Gerald D. Laura & Bill Denham Hines of Baptism was received The Sacrament Maria Chadez by by: Betty Mohrman by Bill & Susan Finnegan Jill & Bruce Zivley Jason Thiesfeld by Sterling Womack by Ginny & David Griffith Renee & Alan Gugenheim Linda & Dean Henning Superior Holding Inc. Ron & Susan Thiesfeld
Baptisms
THE STORY In Honor of: Ruth Shelly by Lavonne & Rob Baker In Memory of: Edie Baker by Lavonne & Rob Baker Jason Thiesfeld by Kristi & Al Bentley Elizabeth & John Chisholm Mr. & Mrs. Ben M. Coatsworth Bonita & John Fox Dolores W. Grissom Judy & John Meloy Michelle & Anthony Riley Ann Yager Alice & Gordon Zothner WOODSHOP In Honor of: Dave Barziza by Mary Jane & Jack Casimir Richard Jaks by Val Dean & Jack Read Paul Renner by Nancy & Dave Barziza In Memory of: Jim Yarbrough by Nancy & Dave Barziza Nancy & Jim Hall Paul Renner Bobbie Wisecup WYCLIFFE BIBLE MINISTRIES In Memory of: Joyce Irene Wagner by Mark & Jo Beth Hawkins Kristen & Vance Tillman
We give ourselves away in generosity and service: New IRA Rollover option Looking for ways to make a charitable gift to St. Luke’s? There are several ways to do so, including a direct distribution from your IRA. In December, 2015, Congress permanently extended the IRA Charitable Rollover, which means that donors age 70 ½ or older can make tax-free charitable gifts of up to $100,000 per year directly from their traditional or Roth IRA accounts to St. Luke’s. The gift may also qualify as the donor’s annual required minimum distribution. The check must be sent directly from your IRA administrator payable to St. Luke’s UMC. Please ask your administrator to include your name in the memo line of the check. Just to be safe, please call Cindy Stafford at 713-402-5026 in our Finance Office, or by email, cstafford@stlukesmethodist.org, to let us know you will be making a gift from your IRA and which financial institution will be sending the check. This will allow us to apply the gift to your record in case the administrator neglects to include your name. Several other options are available to support St. Luke’s with your giving: Give by check: Mail to P.O. Box 22013 Houston, TX 77227-2013. Give online: Please visit our giving page at www.stlukesmethodist.org/pledges-donations. Donate appreciated securities: Please call our Finance Office at 713-402-5026 for transfer instructions. Thank you for your faithful and generous support of the ministries of St. Luke’s.
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Baptisms
The Sacrament of Baptism was received by: Caylee Isadora Canonico, daughter of Christopher Guy Canonico and Lauren Michelle Soliz on April 24.
Clara Louise Oliphint, Lillian Margaret Oliphint, and Sadie James Oliphint, daughters of Guy Matthew Oliphint and Megan Melissa Upchurch Oliphint on April 24. Pierce Edward Rollins, son of Matthew Edward Rollins and Kayla Braziel Rollins on April 24.
Genevieve Van Burkleo, daughter of Brian Van Burkleo and Elizabeth Steiner Van Burkleo on April 24.
Lauren Alexandria Zagorski and Ava June Zagorski, daughters of Brett Alexander Zagorski and Stacey Lea Jones Zagorski on April 24. Mom Stacey Lea Jones Zagorski was also baptized on April 24. Allison Sarah Oswald, daughter of Karl William Oswald and Ashley Marie Holguin Oswald on May 1.
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Erik Xavier Marmack, son of Michael Shannon Marmack and Norma Lydia Marmack on May 8.
Barbara Clee Seidel, daughter of Sam Hunt Seidel and Rachel Behrend Seidel on May 8.
Henry Carlton Tucker, son of Harrison Caine Tucker and Jenny Ulbik Tucker on May 8.
Wells Murray Bowden, son of Jeb Murry Bowden and Elizabeth Lane Bowden on May 15.
Cecily Anne Gauthreaux, daughter of Kyle James Gauthreaux and Lauren Manford Gauthreaux on May 15.
Paul Wayne Inbody IV, son of Paul Wayne Inbody III and Lauren Michelle Mahood Inbody on May 15.
John Starks Parkerson, son of Christopher Stirling Parkerson and Jessica Killingsworth Parkerson on May 15.
New Members
Katie Collins Anderson unites by transfer from another United Methodist church. She is an accountant with Ernst and Young.
Alex and Hillary Kuiper transfer to St. Luke's, he from another denomination and she from another United Methodist church. He is managing partner and she is office manager for Kuiper, Wheat & Associates, LLP. They are the parents of Ellie Kuiper, age 11 months.
Linda Riley transfers to our congregation from another United Methodist church. She is joined in our church family by her husband, Rev. John W. Riley.
Aaron Morris unites with our congregation by profession of faith. He joins his wife, Lauren, and his in-laws, Craig and Chris LaFollette, in the St. Luke's membership.
Amanda Rayborn transfers to our congregation from another United Methodist church. She is a member of the Luminous class.
Glenda Raley unites by transfer from another denomination. She joins her daughter and son-in-law, Lauri and Mike Verhalen in the St. Luke's membership.
Brandon and Paige Berg join St. Luke's, he by profession of faith and she by transfer from another United Methodist church. Brandon is a partner/attorney with Thompson, Coe, Cousins & Irons and Paige is a real estate broker with Keller Williams.
Charlie and Elizabeth Leykum unite by transfer from another denomination. He is C.E.O. and founding partner of CSL Capital Management. Charlie and Elizabeth are the parents of Diane, age 5, Charlie, age 3, and Lucy, age 17 months.
Marilyn Murr unites by profession of faith . She is an assistant professor at UT Health and a member of the Chancel Choir.
Michele Tyson and her daughter, Gracie, join by transfer from another United Methodist church. Michele is underwriting manager with Indemco and Gracie will be attending the University of Alabama in the fall. They are joined in the St. Luke's congregation by their husband and father, Rev. Mike Tyson.
Chris and Angel Stefaniak transfer to St. Luke's, he from another denomination and she from another United Methodist church. They are the parents of Maggie Stefaniak, age 7 months.
Not pictured: These people united by profession of faith at our Gethsemane campus on April 3: Aoci Elize, Jacqueline Mushimaimana, Mara Nabitendelo, Angelique Nahoza, and Echumbe Nayonga.
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Dollar Bill Campaign for "Good for a Guitar" Program in June
A single dollar doesn’t get you much today. You can’t even buy a cup of coffee or a gallon of gas. But just one dollar can add up over time – think of how many loose bills you may have sitting around the house or in your car. Add them all up, and now you have some buying power. During the month of June, St. Luke’s will dedicate the $1 bills from the offering to benefit “Good for a Guitar,” a 10-week summer music and education program for 6-12 grade students who attend the Youth Program at the Wesley Community Center. In 2015, 16 students “graduated” from the inaugural program…this is an impact that lasts a lifetime! The goal of the program is to teach the fundamentals of playing guitar, providing an educational opportunity to students who otherwise would not have had the option due to limited access to instruments and a lack of available affordable programming options for instruction. There are many benefits to learning music. Students who participate in a music program learn discipline, teamwork and cultural awareness. They improve their language and reading skills and abstract thinking skills, score higher on their SAT, and are less likely to abuse tobacco, drugs or alcohol compared to students who do not participate in a music program. The “Good for a Guitar” program will conclude with a recital, where students will showcase what they have learned over the summer. At the end of the recital, something very magical happens that is sure to light up the students’ eyes. Students will be gifted with their very own guitars to reward them and show them that their hard work was “Good for a Guitar.” Make a difference in a student’s life through your boundless generosity and remember to bring your dollar to Worship! You can make all the difference for these students.
Third Annual Tee Up for Counseling Tournament June 11 The third annual Tee Up for Counseling driving range tournament will be on 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.
From 'I will' to 'I do' and Beyond Couples come in all shapes and sizes. Fortunately, their counseling does too thanks to St. Luke’s ministry known as the Nick Finnegan Counseling Center (NFCC). Finding the right fit is easy with NFCC’s options: Premarital counseling can help couples before they get married to strengthen their bond, explore topics they may not have previously discussed and help them find ways to work together when conflict arises. Offerings include a three-pack of personalized sessions or a group format – one of which is offered twice annually and the other is in partnership with The Story. Blended Families is a two-day workshop for couples when one or both partners has a child from a previous relationship. The workshop is in a group format and tailored to address the unique needs blended families face. Couples counseling is available to all couples regardless of marital status. It is often covered by insurance, does not require couples to be in crisis and can help with work/life/family balance. NFCC provides services to couples regardless of their church affiliation. Costs vary for the different options above, but NFCC works to find a rate each couple can afford. For questions and appointment requests, contact 713-402-5046 or info@finnegancounseling.org. Conversations are confidential.
April and May Flower Dedications The flowers on the altar each week are dedicated to the glory of God and to the following: April 3 in celebration of the baptism of Charlotte Alexandra Berry, daughter of Alexandra and Michael Berry, by Gay and Glenn Humphress; and in celebration of the baptism of Spencer Paul Hogan by Nicole and James Hogan; and in celebration of the baptisms of Robert Michael “Robbie” Morrow and Thomas Erwin “Tommy” Morrow by Amanda and Nicholas Morrow; and in celebration of the baptism of Adeline Marie Parker and in honor of her grandmother Rosemary Parker by Audrey Rozsypal and James Parker. April 10 in celebration of the baptism of Travis Wesley Anderson by Kristin and David Anderson; and in celebration of the baptisms of Leyton Stuart Woolf IV and Lucy Victoria Woolf by Amy and Leyton S. Woolf III; and in celebration of the baptism of Harper Price Popp by Peyton and Alex Popp. April 17 in celebration of the baptism of Alexis Grace Murray by Jennifer and Byron Murray. April 24 in celebration of the baptism of Pierce Edward Rollins by Kayla and Matt Rollins; and in celebration of the baptism of Caylee Isadora Canonico by Lauren Soliz and Chris Canonico; and in celebration of the baptisms of Ava June Zagorski and Lauren Alexandria Zagorski by Stacey and Brett Zagorski. May 1 in loving memory of Myra E. Pearson by Mike, Shirley and Ben Pearson and Elizabeth Pearson and Michel Bigelow. May 8 in loving memory of Virginia Nelson and Eleanor Holm by Pam and Chuck Holm, Melody Nelson and Jan and Steve Dunn; and in celebration of the baptism of Barbara Clee Seidel by Lainey and Sam Seidel; and in celebration of the baptism of Henry Carlton Tucker by Jenny and Harrison Tucker.
Bible in 90 Days | Tuesdays, June 7 through August 30 7-8 p.m. | Hines Baker Room $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.
Financial Peace University | June 26 – August 28 | Sundays, 4-6 p.m. Cost is $93. Contact Adrianne McGee at amcgee@stlukesmethodist. org if you are interested in attending.
Why let a little thing like having a baby keep you from church? St. Luke’s Chancel Choir member, Mike McCarver and his wife Lena enjoyed livestreaming the Chichester Psalms special worship service while she was in labor. Their son Luke was born that evening at 8 p.m. You might think he was named for St. Luke’s Church or Luke of the Bible, but no. He’s named for Luke Skywalker. If you can’t join us on Sunday, go to StLukesMethodist.org/livestream and watch our traditional services live at 8:30, 9:45 and 11 a.m.