Spire March 2016

Vol. 163 • No. 3 • March 1, 2016

WHAT IS GOD UP TO AT GETHSEMANE?

StLukesMethodist.org | 713-622-5710

IN THIS ISSUE

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GIVING OUR SEATS UP IN GENEROSITY: A CALL FROM DR. PACE

MAKING ASH WEDNESDAY MODERN: ASHES TO GO WITH DAVID HORTON

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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH NEIL STOVALL AND THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY SERVICE CENTER

COVER STORY: WHAT IS GOD UP TO AT GETHSEMANE?

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ON THE COVER: Members of the St. Luke’s Gethsemane family celebrate in front of the New Canterbury Hall. See story page 12.

Coffee with the Pastor

Please join us for an engaging class with Senior Pastor, Dr. Tom Pace, entitled Coffee with the Pastor. This gathering is for those visiting at St. Luke’s that would like to learn more about our church. For those interested, this is also the first step in our Path to Membership. Enjoy a smaller setting of getting to know our pastor and hearing parts of his spiritual journey, while being invited to examine your own. Learn more about St. Luke’s values and vision, and how to be a part of the life and mission of the church.

Upcoming Dates Sunday, March 6, 4-5:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 3, 4-5:30 p.m.

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Oh, the election season!

Yes, I do believe we have the greatest system of government in the world. Yes, I do believe the power of self-determination is essential for human rights and dignity. And yes, absolutely I believe that Christians are called to be fully involved in our democratic process, and to speak our minds with passion. But I must confess that it seems that the election season doesn’t always bring out the best in us, and that we don’t always seem called to the high and noble road, and that too often Dr. Tom Pace we are self-righteous and arrogant in our attitude toward others.

The date for this edition of the Spire is March 1, “Super-Tuesday,” the day of the Texas primary election. As we head into this election season full force, I thought I would share with you some scripture passages for you to think about as you involve yourself in the conversation. It might be a good idea for you even to memorize some of them: Ephesians 4:29-31 Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with which you were marked with a seal for the day of redemption. Put away from you all bitterness and wrath and anger and wrangling and slander, together with all malice, and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you.

James 1:19-20 You must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger; for your anger does not produce God’s righteousness.

1 Timothy 2:1-2 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity.

God is neither Democrat nor Republican, conservative nor liberal.

There are good Christians who, for good reasons, support every candidate, and no candidate or party or ideology has a monopoly on truth. So… Be passionate about your positions and candidates, but, y’all behave yourselves out there, will you please? They will know we are Christians by our love, by our love.

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Celebrating Distinguished Life | Class of 2016 Chicky and Corky Fowler –Living Inside-Out

The Fowlers have been members of Gethsemane from the beginning.

48 years ago they joined Canterbury Methodist Church, and Corky was the District Lay Leader that worked with St. Luke’s to enact the merger.

He attended Perkins Seminary knowing that he did not feel called to pastoral ministry. Corky is a man of scripture, and has led the Higher Grounds Bible class for 15 years. Corky was also instrumental in the strategic plan that resulted in the start of reVision at St. Luke’s. “Do you know that one can count 76 different nations and cultures by just walking around Gethsemane?” he says. While their home congregation is Gethsemane, they have friends at the Westheimer campus and try to go back and forth, and get their friends to come to Gethsemane. “There is such a gulf in privilege between the two communities. The experience of faith becomes richer the more we interconnect.” Chicky has loved teaching Elementary and Youth Sunday School over the years. She has used her gift of leadership over and over again as she has served as a conference officer for the UMW, Site Council Chair of the Gethsemane merger, and member-at-large of the Executive Committee.

She has been a dedicated member of the Challengers Sunday School Class for 30 years. Together, she and Corky raise puppies for Canine Companions who will also live a life of service, just like the Fowlers.

Janet Bergstrom- Shining the Light When Janet Bergstrom enters a room, she lights it up. She came to St Luke’s as a child and never left. She has served in ministries at church that start with the youngest and touch people throughout all stages of life. She loved helping the Children’s Sunday School Friends, being a Youth Counsellor for the dances in the Blanton Building, a member of the Wedding Guild and the Life Celebration Guild. Always perfectly coiffed and impeccably dressed she is an inspiration as she exemplifies Colossians 3:12, As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Janet has the gift of hospitality and makes everyone feel at home from the moment they step onto the St Luke’s campus as she cheerfully and graciously moves through her duties. An active member of the Randy Smith Bible Study, she has a deep knowledge of the scripture after studying the Bible for years. “I love being in a small group studying the Bible with friends. It has meant so much in my life.” Her strong faith is evident as she makes each acquaintance feel the special love of Jesus.

Jane and Ben Ramsey - Giving Their Life Away

Jane Ramsey literally grew up at St. Luke’s. From the 1950s on, she has loved it here. She was Chair of the Welcoming Committee, Chair of the Life Celebration Guild, served on the Finance Committee and the Board of Stewards. She worked in the Prayer Room and was a visitor to Friends at Home. Having the gift of hospitality, her fondest memories however are working in the kitchen with Theresa and Sarah, who remain dear friends to this day. Ben Ramsey has the gift of serving. It’s just part of his DNA. From the days of being a Greeter with the Evangelism Committee, serving on the Finance Committee, Council on Ministries, to Chairing the Board of Stewards in 2003 and the Personnel Committee in 2004... and that’s just a start. He drafted the legal documents for the columbarium, served as a Director for the Foundation, and chaired the Lay Consultation Team for the ordination of Andy Noel. While that journey was his favorite in service, he does not see that as his greatest accomplishment. That would be Brindley Ginn, their daughter who serves on St. Luke’s staff in Youth Ministries.

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Easter Offering 2016 We are delighted to announce that St. Luke’s Easter Offering 2016 will to go towards the purchase of a multifunction bus for our Gethsemane Campus.

Having a safe, reliable multi-purpose vehicle will allow us to transport: • Children who wish to attend church, Wednesday night

fellowship, mission trips, field trips and summer camp • Youth who attend all of the above plus youth group • Seniors who attend our Silver Circle programs and who

wouldn’t otherwise be able to attend • Refugees and immigrants who wish to worship with us and participate in our skills programs such as our Sewing Circle. Some of these members travel from downtown via buses spending over two hours to get to worship services.

This new vehicle will have a busy schedule just keeping up with the current activities on Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays. Soon expanded daily use will include furniture pick up and delivery for refugees in great need, food pick up for special events and transportation for our youth soccer program scheduled to start this summer.

With a new vehicle we will have an immediate ability to serve twice the number of children, youth and seniors we currently serve and expect that number to grow once new programming is in place.

Easter at The Story Houston!

7 a.m. at Blanton Field On Sunday, March 27, The Story Houston will continue the tradition of the Sunrise Easter service, when believers used to gather in cemetaries to pray all night before the sun rose on Easter morning.

We’ll gather on the field with coffee, donuts, worship, a message from Rev. Eric Huffman and Holy Communion. It will be the complete Easter Sunrise tradition, and you don’t even have to spend the night in a cemetary to experience it!

Happy First Birthday, The Story Houston!

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*Blanton Field is on the south edge of the St. Luke’s campus, along West Alabama. No need to bring lawn chairs - we’ll have some set up! In case of inclement weather, the sunrise service will move indoors to the Activity Center.

relevant. reverent. rememberance.

MAKING ASH WEDNESDAY MODERN

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n Ash Wednesday, if you happened by the Gethsemane campus you may have seen a new kind of worship taking place. Rev. David Horton donned a sandwich board with “Ashes To Go” emblazoned upon it. He took a risk in literally taking the church outside it’s physical walls.

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it was humbling to see people’s response to church outside the walls... all people really desire is a simple act of grace.

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“The turnout was bigger than I expected. I would have been thrilled if 12 had stopped by. But God had other ideas. When I arrived on campus, the first TV truck already had their remote set up.

Throughout the morning reporters covered the event in English and Spanish. Ultimately between 30 and 35 people stopped and had ashes imposed on their foreheads. Parents of our neighbor KIPP Academy dropped off their school children and came over along with some of our GED and ESL students from our campus.

At one point a police car stopped and I immediately thought I was in trouble. Perhaps I was breaking some law, I thought. Out of his patrol car came the officer in full uniform and...he requested ashes.

Deep relief flooded my body. In the end, it was humbling to see people’s response to church outside the walls. When I am in the Sanctuary, I tend to take myself and all of the pieces so seriously. All people really desire is a simple act of grace. That puts my job right into perspective.”

Text LENT to 313131

U P D AT E This year, Lent and Holy Week at St. Luke’s is about remembering tradition while still making the significance of our Methodist traditions modern and Katie Brown and Laurie Noteboom’s small group of student ministry moms are connecting in accessible. One of the ways we’re doing this is through person and over their Lent texts, which all arrived at the same time while they were together! a Lent Devotional Text Campaign, with daily Lenten scripture, devotionals and coordinated activities written by Dr. Linda Christians. We are off to a great start with over 1,450 members enjoying morning inspirations on their smart phones! If you have not yet signed up, it is not too late to join in. And while you are at church, pick up a few purple invitation cards and invite your friends to receive the messages with you. Just text LENT to 313131…

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Holy Week and Easter Morning at Gethsemane MARCH 24 | MAUNDY THURSDAY Gethsemane will not have a service. But, Gethsemane will provide transportation to Westheimer Campus. Please contact Elizabeth Alvarado if you will like to ride the bus at 713-357-4462.

MARCH 25 | GOOD FRIDAY Worship service at Gethsemane campus at 6:30 p.m.

MARCH 26 | CHILDREN’S HOLY SATURDAY SERVICE 10 a.m. in the Sanctuary. Children anticipate the coming Christ’s resurrection through prayer, activities and song. Childcare is available for children 4 years old and under beginning at 9:30 a.m. This is a family friendly service.

MARCH 27 | EASTER SUNDAY We will have two services at our regular times 9 a.m. Traditional worship 11:15 a.m. Contemporary worship 12:30 p.m. Easter Sunday Picnic at 12:30 p.m. in our new Canterbury Hall

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Holy Week and Easter at St. Luke’s Westheimer Campus Follow the journey...

The week began with cheering, as Jesus rode into Jerusalem on the back of a donkey. It was a joyous beginning to a week that would turn incredibly tragic as Jesus said goodbye to his disciples, was arrested and crucified - and then turn unbelievably joyous again as Jesus’ followers learned of his resurrection.

Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.

Palm Sunday | March 20 Palm Sunday Parade, Picnic and Egg Hunt Sunday, March 20, 11a.m.-1 p.m.

Join us for a favorite St. Luke’s family tradition! We will enjoy an outdoor picnic lunch on Blanton Field with live music, games, and an Egg Hunt beginning at 12:20 p.m. Tickets are $10 adult and $5 child and available for advance purchase online. For more information, please visit StLukesMethodist.org/palmsundaypicnic or call the Children’s Ministries office at 713-402-5044.

On the last night...

Maundy Thursday | March 24 Services with Holy Communion at 12 and 7 p.m.

It is finished.

Good Friday | March 25 Service of the Tenebrae at 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary The Story Houston service at 7 p.m. in the Activity Center Saturday, March 26 Anticipation of Easter with Rob Landes and Friends at 11 a.m. in the Chapel

He is not here!

Easter Sunday | March 27* Traditional Worship 8, 9, 10:15 and 11:15 a.m. in the Sanctuary Encounter Contemporary Worship 9:15 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall The Story Houston Sunrise Service at 7 a.m. on Blanton Field Modern Worship at 9:30 and 11:05 a.m. in the Activity Center *Additional Easter Parking is available at Central Market (Weslayan and Westheimer) with continuous shuttle service.

We will not have Children’s Sunday School on Easter. Our nurseries will open at 7:45 a.m. for children ages 2 months through PreK and close at 12:30 p.m. on our Westheimer campus.

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Spring flowers, palms and Easter lilies are gifts for

the entire congregation to enjoy and a wonderful way to honor or remember loved ones.

Contributions may be made in any amount (we request a minimum of $20) to the Lenten Flower Fund. Acknowledgements will be made in the worship bulletin on Easter Sunday, March 27, 2016. Forms are available in the Connections Center or you may contribute on-line or contact Gayle Eury at geury@stlukesmethodist.org or 713-402-5027. Dedications must be received by Friday, March 18, 2016.

Altar Flower Dedications

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The altar flowers were dedicated to the glory of God and were given...

St. Luke’s Scholarships

February 21, in loving memory of Georgia and T.J. Arnold, W. Buck Arnold, and Tom and Grace Arnold by their families; and the baptism of Bradley Fentress Bracewell IV “Winn” by Sarah and Bradley Bracewell III; and in celebration of the baptism of Luke Christopher Ross by Katherine and Kyle Ross; and in celebration of the baptism of Anderson Lee Smith by Ashley and Lynton Smith; and in celebration of the baptism of Brynn Elise Welborn by Lori and Phillip Welborn.

St. Luke’s Scholarship Applications are available for St. Luke’s members and children of members. The applications must be completed and returned on or before the end of the day Thursday, March 31. You can pick up applications at the front desk in the Church office or find descriptions of the scholarships and applications on St. Luke’s website at: stlukesmethodist.org/scholarships

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UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL... with Neil Stovall

I am celebrating my 10th year volunteering with the Christian Community Service Center and loving it.

Some readers may not realize St. Luke’s UMC founded the organization in 1980 as a coalition of area churches dedicated to combating the effects of poverty. CCSC was created out of faith, founded in the belief that we are called to help all God’s children heart to heart and hand to hand. Sounds familiar, doesn’t it, after our church-wide Unbinding Your Heart study? There is no better way to practice the Inside-Out Habit “to give ourselves away in generosity and service” than volunteering with CCSC.

someone’s life burden. Hope is a precious commodity in these anxious times.

If asked to cite a “transformational” client interview, there are many people who have touched my heart, but one family recently reminded me of my college years. They came to CCSC needing food. Both parents work and they have two teenage children. When I asked the mom if the elder teen was still living at home, she reported her son was completing his first year at Texas A&M on an academic scholarship covering tuition plus room and board as a member of the Corps of Cadets. She proudly showed me pictures of her son in uniform and told me he was the first in his family to attend college. While CCSC’s role in this family – where both parents work full time – was more peripheral, it resonated with me because her son’s attendance at A&M echoed my enrollment there many years ago on a merit scholarship, under almost identical circumstances, as the first member of my family to attend and, four years later, graduate from college. I know firsthand the value of a college graduation and was happy that day to be a small part of helping this working family.

“Hope is a precious commodity in these anxious times...”

Volunteers are CCSC’s life blood, touching the lives of those less-fortunate with aid and hope for a better tomorrow. I work regularly in both CCSC food pantries: Emergency Services-Central, near St. Luke’s Main Campus, and Emergency Services-Southwest, on the St. Luke’s Gethsemane Campus. Volunteers are taught to treat clients – who receive food, clothing, hygiene products and financial assistance – with dignity and respect. I am personally fueled by the sincere appreciation of clients and the opportunity to help lift 12

“CCSC takes to heart Matthew’s words to see Christ in every individual...”

As one of many volunteers, I want to share my admiration for CCSC and encourage you to join me in service through this top-notch organization. Here are a few reasons why: CCSC takes to heart Matthew’s words to see Christ in every individual. Many families, through no fault of their own, face seemingly insurmountable financial odds in their day-today lives. Many are struggling just to put food on the table.

CCSC provides each needy family with a 5-day supply of nutritious food as well as fresh fruits and vegetables grown in the community garden (when available).

Information is power. CCSC also provides clients with information about services available through other agencies.

Sometimes that information is equal in value to more tangible assistance delivered.

CCSC is an extremely well-managed non-profit; 90% of budget goes directly to client services. CCSC’s efficiency and low cost operations are made possible by the 2,300 volunteers whose diverse talents and experience drive the organization.

Staff and volunteers look for avenues to provide, rather than deny, assistance while operating within established procedures and financial controls.

Managers and assistant managers of each CCSC unit exhibit the utmost professionalism and competency.

Quality and compassion are the hallmarks of CCSC volunteers. Essential are the ability to empathize and a kindhearted sense of humor; smiles are a universal language.

The number of young people volunteering for special projects is heartwarming.

To learn more contact Kate Gallup, CCSC Resource Development Coordinator at 713-961-3993 or kgallup@ ccschouston.org.

What is the Christian Community Service Center (CCSC)?

CCSC’s mission is to serve the poor, the hungry, the disabled and the otherwise needy while respecting their religious, ethnic or cultural differences. CCSC carries out its mission through seven programs and a resale shop in Houston, partnering with 41 churches across the city. These programs include Emergency Services for Central and Southwest areas, JobNet, Martha’s Way, Jingle Bell Express, Back to School, The Louise J. Moran Vision Care Program and the Sunshine Resale Shop.

There is a vital need for volunteers at CCSC, especially those who are bilingual, who can serve regularly a few hours each week. Please consider prayerfully giving yourself away to this vibrant ministry.

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SPOTLIGHT: GETHSEMANE

WHAT IS GOD UP TO AT GETHSEMANE?

M

wende is the father of five and a Congolese war refugee. His father was killed in a refugee camp in Mozambique. Now Mwende, his wife, and his children have found safe sanctuary at Gethsemane, where they regularly attend worship and Sunday School, and where Mwende is enrolled in an ESL class.

Margaret is a minority Christian from Iraq.

She has found a home in the Kaleidoscope Sunday School class. Her son’s family recently immigrated to the United States and Gethsemane members donated pots and pans and kitchen gadgets to help them get on their feet.

Silvia is a firstgeneration immigrant from Mexico.

She sings in the band in the contemporary service in Spanish, English, and Swahili. She carefully prepares the elements for Holy Communion and brings her children every week to Wednesday Night Fellowship.

The prophet Isaiah once peered into the future and saw the climax of God’s redemptive work: “He will raise a signal to the nations, and will assemble the outcasts of Israel, and gather the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth” (11:21).

Gethsemane is a rainbow-colored taste of what God will finally do in the end. Here, the outcasts have been assembled. Here, the dispersed have been gathered.

“The soul of Gethsemane is a sanctuary, a safe place, a refuge for the outcast and the dispersed.”

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BY REV. DAVID HORTON

Here, the four corners of the earth kneel around one altar.

Gethsemane has come a long way since 1955.

On December 18th of that year, the first worship service of Gethsemane Methodist Church was held in the Sharpstown Administration Building on the corner of Hillcroft and Bellaire in Houston. Rev. Keith Fellow was the founding pastor. The first six months of his salary, a whopping $4500, was paid by St. Luke’s Methodist Church as part of the “Room to Grow” church plant initiative. Ironically, the church that planted Gethsemane back in 1955 would be the same church that would adopt it as its second campus.

Fast-forward to 2008 and Sharpstown had changed in what felt like overnight. But Gethsemane had struggled to keep up with the influx of first-generation immigrants and to respond to the gangs in the old Sharpstown apartments and the crippling poverty in its backyard. In August 2004, Canterbury United Methodist Church, located in Alief, closed its doors and merged with Gethsemane. The new Canterbury Hall honors the original home church of many of our current members. Yet even with the influx of members that came with this previous merger, funds were running dry and Gethsemane was in danger of closing.

It became necessary for a creative solution that would sustainably maintain a Methodist missional presence in Sharpstown.

Thankfully, due to the foresight of our Bishop and Dr. Pace, and with the help of a merger team composed of members of the two churches,

Gethsemane began the one-year merger process with St. Luke’s, which was completed in 2009.

What used to be Gethsemane United Methodist Church is now the Gethsemane Campus of St. Luke’s UMC. Gethsemane is as much a mission as it is a church, reminiscent of the old mission posts that once dotted the Texan frontier. Except now the frontier is our backyard, and the mission field is our neighborhood.

We worship two services on a Sunday morning, a 9 a.m. traditional service and an 11:15 a.m. contemporary service.

On the first Sunday of the month we have a potluck brunch at 10 a.m. followed by a blended service at 11:15 a.m. On average we have 160 people in attendance on Sunday mornings. On Wednesday evenings we have a family style dinner at 5:30 p.m. with classes for children, youth, and adults at 6:30 p.m.

A third of the congregation is older Anglo persons from the old Sharpstown neighborhood. These people are saints. They stayed in a changing neighborhood while their friends fled for the suburbs. Another third of the congregation is first generation immigrants and refugees from around the world, hailing from El Salvador and Mexico, Philippines, Iran, and Iraq, Congo, Burundi, Nigeria, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, and Texas.

And that’s not everyone. The final third of the congregation is young people, children and youth. Of the fifty young people in our children’s and youth ministries, only four are Anglo, and the majority are first-generation Americans.

St. Luke’s has committed to being an insideout church, which carries the gospel of Jesus

outside the walls of the church. Gethsemane, though, is an outside-in presence in southwest Houston. The soul of Gethsemane is a sanctuary, a safe place, a refuge for the outcast and the dispersed. We are trying to bring into the church those people who need a safe place to rest and grow. That is why Monday through Saturday is just as important to us as Sunday morning.

During the week, Gethsemane houses a legion of ministries. The Christian Community Service Center (CCSC) operates a food pantry and emergency assistance ministry in our fellowship hall. The Houston Center for Literacy runs GED and ESL courses in our building Monday through Thursday, mornings and evenings, with around 100 students currently enrolled. reVision, a ministry to kids on the edge, mostly young men in the juvenile detention network, offices and runs programming out of our building. JFON (Justice for Our Neighbors) provides affordable, quality legal counsel to immigrants. We hold legal clinics once a month on Saturday mornings. Silver Circle is a monthly fellowship event for senior citizens around the area. They come to our fellowship hall to play dominos and eat lunch. It is the happiest place on earth.

What is God up to at Gethsemane? Nothing less than the assembly of the outcast around one altar to worship one Lord. God is resurrecting the dead places of southwest Houston and giving birth to new life out of the ashes. Jesus paces up and down our hallways everyday. If you come visit us, you will see him smiling back at you from the most surprising and beautiful of faces.

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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 fit.

To learn more about all of our ministry groups, visit www.stlukesmethodist.org/ministries.

SUNDAY MORNING VOLUNTEERS Do you have an extra hour once a month to give in service to St. Luke’s on Sunday mornings?

Volunteers are needed in so many ways to help make Sundays a blessing for our members and guests. Whether you are a “people-person” or a “behind-the-scenes person” there is a place for you to serve! For more information, or to volunteer, please contact Jennifer Gould, Director of Adult & Connecting Ministries at 713-402-5084 or jgould@ stlukesmethodist.org.

Sunday School Attendance Volunteers – Once a month, from 11 a.m.-12 p.m., help collect attendance information and class offerings for both adult and children’s classes. This position is perfect for someone who’s more of a “behind the scenes” person, and is a huge help for both Adult and Children’s Ministries!

Ushers - Welcome and greet our members, visitors and guest as they enter the sanctuary for one hour while you’re already here on Sunday mornings.

Worship Attendance Volunteers - Once a month (or more if you want), help us collect the attendance pads from the sanctuary following the 11 a.m. service. These pads are our primary means of contacting our visitors and also making sure our member’s needs are taken care of. This is a great family volunteer opportunity and takes 20-30 minutes!

MUSIC & FINE ARTS

Connection Center Volunteers - Give 30 minutes on Sunday morning to connect people into volunteer opportunities and small groups at the Connection Center.

Rotunda Gallery Artist Michele Whisenhunt Photographer Michele Whisenhunt travels the world in search of cultural experiences, architectural features, and the beauty of nature. She has been shooting since the 1970s, winning honors in the Bellaire Buzz and other publications, teaching design, and maintaining a long-standing exhibit at McHugh Tea Room.Stop by the gallery any time this month to view her work and leave a note in the guestbook.

Greeters - Every Sunday, a faithful team of volunteers provide a friendly welcome, and help guide guests and members to locations throughout our campus. Just a few minutes can make a big difference.

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.

Christian Friends - Assist guests who are interested in joining the church.

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Sunday Receptionist - Help answer the phones on Sunday mornings once a month. This is a great way to meet other congregants and find out what’s happening at the church. Training is provided and staff is here to help.

Lenten Recital Series Our annual Lenten Concert Series continues throughout the season every Thursday at 12:05 p.m. in the Chapel. Designed for reflection and meditation, these 25-minute recitals feature some of the best musicians in Houston. A free will offering will be received.

Anticipation of Easter Join organist Rob Landes and friends in this annual musical offering in anticipation of Easter. Saturday, March 26 at 11 a.m. in the Chapel.

Pure Sound presents Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Pure Sound Youth Choir presents its 20th annual spring musical Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, a West End and Broadway hit by composer Andrew Lloyd Weber and lyricist Tim Rice. One of the most enduring shows of all time, “Joseph” is the irresistible family musical about the trials and triumphs of Joseph, Israel’s favorite son, set to a multitude of musical genres spanning from country-western and calypso to pop and rock and roll. Don’t miss it! Four evening shows at 7:30 p.m.

March 31-April 3, and two matinees at 2:30 p.m.

April 2-3 in the Rotunda Theater at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church. Tickets are $10 for general admission / $5 for children 12 and under.

NICK FINNEGAN COUNSELING CENTER

it may come from your friendly counseling ministry at St. Luke’s. If you or someone you know could use a little boost, Nick Finnegan Counseling Center has five ways to provide just that this spring.

BLENDED FAMILIES WORKSHOP For adults in a relationship where one or both have children from a previous relationship. Meets Saturdays, February 27 & March 5 | 9 a.m.

PARENT/CHILD ADHD GROUP There will be one group for kids and one for parents to help them work together to manage ADHD

symptoms. Groups meet Tuesdays, March 22April 19 from 6-7:30 p.m. Cost is $140 per family.

FAMILIES OF ADDICTS WORKSHOP This workshop helps families learn new ways to care for themselves as well as their loved one with an addiction. Group meets Tuesday, March 29 from 67:30 p.m. $10 per person.

CAREER COUNSELING GROUP High schoolers will learn more about themselves in relation to college and a future career. Wednesdays, April 6 from 6-7 p.m. $70 per person.

G.I.R.L.S. GROUP Gives middle school girls a safe place to Gain Insight, Relationship and Life Skills. Tuesdays, April 26-May 31 from 6-7:30 p.m. $100 per person Register at 713-402-5046 or Info@FinneganCounseling.org. Insurance, payment plans and reduced rates are available by request.

Conversations and services are confidential.

CHILDREN Pure Sound Spaghetti on April 10!

Save the Date for this year’s Pure Sound Spaghetti Lunch and Auction on Sunday, April 10, 11a.m.1p.m. in the Fellowship Hall this year. Tickets go on sale in March! Watch the weekly e-bulletins for more information, or check the St. Luke’s website calendar.

We all need extra support now and again.

Sometimes it may come from a friend; other times

Lenten Prayer Initiative In Sunday School each week during Lent, children will be given a special egg. Inside they’ll find the Lord’s Prayer and names of St. Luke’s children for them to lift up in prayer each day. We encourage families to pray together daily and ask for God’s blessings for those children by name. We hope that this activity will help renew your family’s prayer time.

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Palm Sunday Picnic Sunday, March 20 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. | Blanton Field Admission includes: The Egg Hunt, entertainment, children’s activities and lunch from Skeeter’s. Tickets are $10 per adult and $5 per child (ages 2-12).

Purchase your tickets online at StLukesMethodist. org/picnic, or in person with cash, check, Visa or MasterCard beginning at 9 a.m. in the Activity Center on Palm Sunday. Dress is outdoor casual. We ask each family to bring a blanket for the lawn and children should bring their Easter baskets.

Beginning at 11 a.m. we will have live music from the Encounter Band and our friend’s from Skeeter’s Mesquite Grill will serve lunch. Children’s activities include face painting, inflatable obstacle courses/ bounce house and our open egg stroll for little ones ages 0-2 years. We will have two rounds of the Cake Walk inside the Blanton Building.

Vacation Bible School Registration opens March 6 Let’s hit the waves! Surf Shack VBS will impact campers with a deeper understanding of God’s awesome power combined with summer fun!

Vacation Bible School is June 6-10, from 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. at our Westheimer Campus. This year’s adventure includes music that will wow your ears, interactive Bible fun, super science, cool crafts, delicious snacks, great games, and more.

Registration for campers entering grades K-5 this fall and teen staff opens online on Sunday, March 6.

Adults who volunteer on campus during VBS can register their children younger than Kindergarten age to be on campus, too! We offer Mini-VBS for children 2 ½ years through Pre-K and childcare for children ages 2 months through 2 years. More information is available at StLukesMethodist.org/ vbs, as well as a link to register and pay with Visa or MasterCard.

Interested in being a VBS Teacher? Please call the Children’s Ministries office at 713-402-5039 to learn more about this rewarding volunteer opportunity.

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STUDENTS March 5 | Mum Delivery Service Project | 1-4 p.m.

Our 6th-12th grade students will deliver beautiful Easter flowers to our Friends At Home. It is a privilege to visit our homebound church members, and we look forward to this event every year!

March 6 | Rodeo Night | 5:30-7:30 Grab your boots and plaid shirt, it’s Rodeo time in Houston! Join us for barbecue and the return of the mechanical bull as we kick off rodeo season. 6-12 graders are welcome, bring $20 and a friend!

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

June 6-10 | Vacation Bible School & After-VBS Activities | All Students We look forward to joining Children’s Ministries in their largest outreach event of the year. Our students play a crucial role by partnering with them to lead activities and build relationships during these jam-packed days. We also have afternoon activities during the week for students who volunteer, so plan to stick around for even more fun!

June 12-18 | CIY:Move | High School Students 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.

July 5-12 | Dominican Republic Mission Trip | High School Students 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. Whether this is your first time going or your fifth, each trip brings unique opportunities for challenges and growth - both physically and spiritually. Cost is $2000.

SENIOR ADULTS Mainstreamer Day Luncheon and Program Thursday, March 10 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

Hines Baker Room Mainstreamer Day is a time of camaraderie and fellowship. Come for an interesting and informative program followed by a delicious lunch served buffet style.

Enjoy the company of longtime friends as well as friends you may not have met yet. On Thursday, March 10, hear a book review on poverty

by Michelle Shonbeck, Executive Director of the Christian Community Service Center (CCSC). The book is called Hand to Mouth, by Linda Tirado, and is a first-person account of what poverty feels like from someone living in it, not just studying it.

Michelle plans to not only review the book, but to also pose questions raised by the author. Michelle is a long-time member of St. Luke’s and has been with CCSC since 1993. She is passionate about helping the poor and grounds this passion in her faith. She is married to Scott and has two children, Jessica and Mark. Lunch is $10, payable as you go through the buffet line. Please make reservations by calling the reservations line, 713-402-5087.

Mainstreamer Day Trip Friday, March 18 (note special day and date) Heritage Village Museum – Woodville, TX 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Join the group as we travel to the Big Thicket of

East Texas to visit the Heritage Village Museum in Woodville. The Village lets visitors step back into Tyler County’s pioneer history, and learn something about how people lived here before industrial times.

Our tour will include lunch at the famous Pickett House restaurant within Heritage Village, known for its chicken & dumplings, fried chicken and home style cooking served boarding-house style, as well as a stop at the gift shop. Cost for the tour and lunch is $16. Call the reservation line at 713-402-5087 to reserve your seat on the precinct bus for this fun outing. We will gather and leave at 8:30 a.m. from the Blanton Building at the Alabama end of the St. Luke’s parking lot, and plan to return by or before 4:30 p.m., including time for rest stops.

Like to Play Bridge?

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

Gethsemane Silver Circle Wednesdays, March 23 and April 27 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

New Canterbury Hall, Gethsemane Campus Enjoy a morning of games and conversation, followed by lunch and celebration of birthdays at noon. Cost for lunch is $5. For reservations, call Betsy Evans, 281-565-0348.

AARP Safe Driving Class Monday, March 21 | 9 a.m.-1 p.m. | R22 For Insurance reduction only Must be 50+ to take the course Cost for the course if $15 for AARP members and $20 for others Advance registration is required and may be made by calling the reservation line, 713-402-5087 Next class will be Monday, May 16

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SINGLES Journey 2Gether Events March 6 - After Church Lunch, Pronto’s , Holcombe @ Buffalo Speedway, 12:30 p.m.

March 13 - After Church Lunch, Goode Company BBQ, 5109 Kirby, 12:30 p.m.

March 20 - After Church Lunch, Becks Prime, 2615 Augusta, 12:30 p.m.

March 24 - Single’s Mingle, Karbach Resturant, 2032 Karbach Street, 5:30 p.m.

March 27 - Easter Sunday, After Church Lunch, La Madelaine, San Felipe @ Fountainview, 12:30 p.m.

WOMEN UMW Welcomes Ann Arnett as Speaker for Spiritual Growth Service Tuesday, March 8, 10:30 a.m., Westheimer Chapel All women of St. Luke’s and their guests are invited to hear Ann as she brings an inspiring message that will surely provide us with a strong basis for reaching into our spiritual lives and the life of Jesus.

Following the service, you are all invited to a brunch in the Hines Baker Room. Please bring a dish to share in this time of fellowship. No reservations are necessary, and childcare is available by contacting StLukesMethodist.org/childcarerequestform.

Shalom Circle Shalom Circle will not meet in March. For more information, contact May Jee, 713-771-3279.

UMW Gethsemane Book Group Friday, March 11| 11 a.m. | Junior League Ship of Brides by Jojo Moyes Reservations to Jo Ann Smith, 713-686-5859.

UMW Night Circle Tuesday, March 22 | 6:30 p.m. | Lagenia Clark’s home 121 Beverly Lane (Bellaire) How God Works Through Tragedy—Isaac’s Story All women of the Church are invited and warmly welcomed. Call 713-334-6848 for other information UMW Afternoon Circle Tuesday, March 22 | 12-2 p.m. | Cynthia Wier’s home, 14719 Kellywood Lane (77079) For more information, contact Kathy Austin, 713-252-6727.

UMW Games Group Mondays, March 7, 14 and 21, 10 a.m. | R25 Contact Carole Wakefield, 713-899-4212.

If you want to become active in the UMW contact our UMW President, JoNell Beadle at jnpohl@ yahoo.com or (614) 736-2682.

GETHSEMANE Spring Break Good Dinosaur Movie Party Wednesday, March 18 | 3 p.m. | Children’s Wing This is for children ages 4 years old through 5th grade.

Children’s Holy Saturday Service | March 26 10 a.m. | Sanctuary Children anticipate the coming Christ’s resurrection through prayer, activities and song.

Youth Credo Confirmation starts March 6-June 12 during the Sunday school hour. Confirmation allows students to learn and grow in their faith and confirm their baptism.

UMW Westheimer Book Group March 14 | 10:30 a.m. | Hines Baker Room Rebecca by Daphine DuMaurier Contact Dorothy Voss, 713-660-7243.

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UMW Service Group Monday, March 21 | 10 a.m.-12 p.m. | R23 We will prepare hygiene kits and decorate lunch sacks for Kids’ Meal sandwiches. Contact Mary White at marywhite3997@att.net.

Spring Break Youth GEM Party!

Tuesday, March 15 | 12-5 p.m.

GEM stands for gaming, eating and movies. Bring $3, expandable pants and a snack to share!

Celebrating Lives BENNETT ARTS ENDOWMENT FUND In Memory of:

Barbara Bennett by

Peggy & Lee Duggan

BUILDING FUND In Memory of:

Randy Gorham by

Timothy P. Hart

Joyce I. Wagner by

Pam & Jim Wilhite CARING MINISTRIES In Memory of:

Leonora “Winkie” Hueter by Laurie Kereluk

Kenneth Cruse Minter, Jr. by

Amy & Todd Mueller

Joyce I. Wagner by Linda Walls CCSC In Honor of:

Emily Griffin by

Don & Karen Eldridge

Roxi Dainty, Pam Howard &

Susan Silvus’ birthdays by Betty Brown Linda Burch Roxi Dainty Pat Deckert Elinor Hart Pamela Howard Beverly Merritt Susan Silvus Nancy Stephenson Bobbie Wisecup CHILDREN’S MINISTRY In Honor of:

The baptism of Kendall Lee Stiles by

Leslie Prokop Teel

The Fiftieth Wedding Anniversary

of Carolynn & Michael Connelly

by

Sue & Steve Watkins

In Memory of:

Kenneth Cruse Minter, Jr. by

Paul & Louise Swope FRIENDS OF MUSIC In Honor of:

B. B. Bamberg by

Tom & Laurie Kereluk GENE DECKER OUTREACH ENDOWMENT FUND In Memory of:

Yleen Brown by

Betty &Bob Geary

Jane & Charles Szalkowski

Bob Foster Conger by

Betty & Bob Geary

Robert Thrasher by

Jane & Charles Szalkowski NICK FINNEGAN COUNSELING CENTER In Memory of:

Mark Hart by

Jim & Linda McCartney

Tom Melo by

John & Dorel Carter

Lance & Mary Schuler RANDY SMITH SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Memory of:

Joyce I. Wagner by

Laura & Bill Denham SCOUT TROOP 46 In Memory of:

Ray Simpson, Jr. by Camille Simpson ST. LUKE’S METHODIST CHURCH FOUNDATION In Honor of:

Kenneth Mohn by Ann Wooldridge In Memory of:

Leonora “Winkie” Hueter by

Mr. & Mrs. William

Stockard Bragan, II

Kenneth Cruse Minter, Jr. by

Beverly & Dan Arnold

Sydney M. Bauer

Margaret & Chester Benge

Andy Lockwood Family

Mr. & Mrs. Russell Keene

Susan & Tom Martin

Matthew P. Rotan

Mary & Frank Stanley

Joyce I. Wagner by

Barbara & David Henington

Tressa Lea White by Patricia Broadnax

Mary Ellen McClellan

Mary Nelle Moore

Val Dean & Jack W. Read

Fred & Hulda Schubert

Walta Jean Smith

Wayne White by

Fred & Hulda Schubert Ann Catlett Williams by

Mrs. Charles Gervig WYCLIFFE BIBLE MINISTRIES In Memory of:

Joyce Irene Wagner by Richard Domercq

Clarice & Robert Hollis

Glendine & William Daniel Lipford

Jim & June Moore

Ben & Jane Ramsey

Val Dean & Jack W. Read

Ken Schwenke & Sallie Gordon Tommye & Thomas Pace, Jr.

Jane & Charles Szalkowski

Nancy & Edward Weston

The Unbinding Group:

Alice & Randy Helms Pam & Chuck Holm Vivian & Tom O’Leary Vicki & Scott Laverde Fannie & Hugh Parker Beverly & Scott Schaefer Stephanie & Brad Tucker Elizabeth West Dee Williams

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

Congratulations to:

Adam and Liz Ross on the birth of their son, James Jeffrey Ross, on October 22.

Sterling Stensrud and Robert Markham Evans, who were united in marriage on December 19.

Geoff and Julianne Atkinson on the birth of twins, Preston McCoy Atkinson and Vivienne Lane Atkinson, on January 20. Proud older brother and sister are Campbell and Anna Atkinson and proud grandparents are George and Jan Atkinson.

Erin Leigh Fagan and James Helmut Leibfarth, Jr., who were united in marriage on February 6.

Cheryl Redman Primm and Paul Douglass McCleary II, who were united in marriage on February 6.

Britnie Nicole Jordan and Valentino Amir Dagher, who were united in marriage on February 6.

Nick and Susanne Warner on the birth of their daughter, Vivian Gray Warner, on February 6. Proud grandmother is Noralyn Carpenter.

Wakeford and Elizabeth Thompson on the birth of their daughter, Allena McCann Thompson on February 10.

Our Sympathy to:

Chris Holmes on the death of his mother, Winifred Hammond Holmes, on January 28.

Boyd Wagner, Dee and Tom Pace, Katie Pace and Phil Henson, Coatney and Andrew Cobble, Kendall and Will Monroe, Calley and Larry Jones, Caroline Pace and Noah Pace on the death of Joyce I. Wagner on January 30.

Pat Shults on the death of her husband, Phillip Gorton Shults, on January 30.

Karen Smith on the death of her aunt, Florence Price.

Friends of Eric Glueck, who died on February 2.

Don and Karen Eldridge and David Eldridge on the death of Don’s sister, Betty Eldridge Adair, on February 9.

Ross and Rebecca Matthews and Ellen and Olivia Matthews on the death of Ross’ father, Billy W. “Bill” Matthews, on February 9.

Beth, Tommy, and Emmie Proctor, Ashley and Pepper Edens, and Will, Avery Elizabeth, and Peyton Edens on the death of Beth’s mother, Jean Ferguson Edens Minor, on February 11.

Family and friends of Kathryn Lindsay Williams, who died on February 12.

Betty Pierce, Ann and Bob Arnett, George and Cindy Pierce, Richard Arnett, Sarah and Adrian Schoolar, Allen Pierce, and Susannah and Patrick McGown on the death of John Allen Pierce on February 14.

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

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Baptisms The Sacrament of Baptism was received by: Charles Rene Houssiere, V, son of Charles Rene Houssiere, IV and Lisa Ann Gutzman Houssiere on January 17.

Lincoln Augusta Merrill, daughter of Jason Paul Merrill and Whitney Elizabeth Thomas Merrill on January 24.

Samuel Everett Nelson, son of Travis Conley Nelson and Laura Brown Nelson on January 17.

Margaret Nikole Stefaniak, daughter of Christopher Kinney Stefaniak and Angel Yvonne House Stefaniak on January 24.

Robert Chapman Page, son of William Edward John Page and Lauren Creager Page on January 17.

James Patrick Koehn, son of Daniel Joseph Koehn an Natalie Joyce Kubik on January 31.

Jeremiah Ellis Ponder, son of David Howard Ponder and Amanda Jo Atkins Ponder on January 17.

Reed William Richey, son of Dylan Kim Richey and Shannon Albritton Richey on January 31.

George Joseph Dols, son of Christopher Stephen Dols and Laura Moore Dols on January 24.

Ashley Elizabeth Huber, daughter of Stephen Nicholas Huber and Megan Riley Smith Huber on January 24.

Kendall Lee Stiles, daughter of Lester Thompson Stiles and Katherine Ford Stiles on January 31.

Isabelle Louise Thomas, daughter of Lawrence David Thomas, Jr. and Kristin Jacobs Thomas on January 31.

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Baptisms continued The Sacrament of Baptism was received by: Allison Rebecca Wagner, daughter of William Robinson Wagner and Amy Rebecca Smith Wagner on January 31.

Oliver William Brent, son of Jason Paul Brent and Sarah Kristin Gossett Brent on February 7.

Gustavo George Ferreira, son of Gustavo Maciel Ferreira and Elise Evans Schudy on February 7.

Joshua Lahai, son of Peter Samuel Lahai, Sr. and Fatu Fofanah on February 7.

Max Alexander Rice, son of William Tracy Rice and Tabitha Leigh Callaway Rice on February 7.

In the Sacrament of Baptism, words, actions and the physical element of water are combined to both express and convey God’s grace and love. At St. Luke’s UMC, we welcome children and adults into the family of faith just as Jesus did. Baptism of child is a commitment by parents to raise the child in the life of the church, and in the Christian faith. During our Baptism ceremony, the entire congregation vows to love, encourage, walk with and embrace these children on their path to eternal life.

Baptism is available for infants through adults in our church community. Baptisms occur at most Sunday worship services. Please make a reservation for Baptism well in advance of the preferred date.

For a child’s Baptism, St. Luke’s requires that parents attend a one-hour class taught by Children’s Ministries. To request a date for baptism or to attend the Baptism class, please contact Noralyn Carpenter at 713-402-5028.

New Members

Not pictured

Thomas and Michelle Zentner unite with St. Luke’s by transfer from another denomination. He is an attorney with Vinson & Elkins LLP and she is an attorney with Lionstone Investments.

Delilah Guerra and her daughter, Cathy Looger unite with St. Luke’s by transfer from another United Methodist church.

Erin McCary unites with our congregation by profession of faith.

Obert and Florence Mashongamhende unite by profession of faith.

Chris and Katie Morgan unite by transfer from another denomination.

He is a critical care physician and she is a homemaker. They are the parents of Benjamin, age 3, and Eleanor, age 1.

Helen Nalls joins St. Luke’s by profession of faith.

Karen Snow transfers to St. Luke’s from another United Methodist church. She and her husband, Eric, are the parents of Thomas, age 15, and Zachary, age 13.

Morgen McGuire and Abby Hiatt unite with our congregation by transfer from other denominations. He is an energy information specialist with HIS and she is a project manager with TransCanada.

They are engaged to be married.

Ben and Natalie Halladay join St. Luke’s, he by profession of faith and baptism and she by transfer from another denomination. Ben is a senior financial analyst with BMC Software and Natalie is a nurse practitioner at M.D. Anderson.

They are the parents of a son, Nathan, age 8 months.

Will and Illa Gaunt transfer to St. Luke’s, he from another United Methodist church and she from another denomination.

They are the parents of a daughter, Clementine, age 3 months.

Mark and Debbie Cuda unite with our congregation by transfer from another United Methodist church. He is in sales for Steelcase and she is a retired registered nurse.

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

New Members continued Collins and Gina Free transfer to St. Luke’s from other United Methodist churches. He is an underwriter for AIG and she is an attorney with Schwartz, Page & Harding.

David and Katherine Helffrich unite by transfer, he from another United Methodist church and she from another denomination. He is as director at M.U.F.G. Union Bank and she is a senior manager for NRG.

Brian Cook transfers to St. Luke’s from another denomination.

John Meese and Michelle Delgado-Meese transfer to our congregation from another denomination. He is a senior director at Waste Management and she is the owner of Wonderfaux Home.

Michael and Norma Marmack join St. Luke’s by transfer from another denomination. They are the parents of a son, Erik, age 1.

Grant Krause transfers to St. Luke’s from another denomination.

Hugh and Kristi Herman unite by transfer from another denomination. He is a commercial real estate broker with Cushman and Wakefield.

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

Joel Noyes and Lauren King unite with our congregation by profession of faith.

They are engaged to be married.

Nancy Falk unites with St. Luke’s by profession of faith.

Matt and Kayla Rollins join St. Luke’s by transfer from another denomination. He is a vice president with Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Company and she is an assistant research scientist at Texas A&M.

Not pictured

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

New Members continued Mike Peel and Courtney Hiser transfer to St. Luke’s from other United Methodist churches.

Rejina Kabika and her sister, Jeanne Kabika unite with St. Luke’s at our Gethsemane campus by transfer from another United Methodist church.

Abwe Aseeleia unites with St. Luke’s at our Gethsemane campus by transfer from another United Methodist church

Victorina Mbeleci unites with St. Luke’s at our Gethsemane campus by transfer from another United Methodist church.

Lomia Murenzi and her daughter, Orneilla Tuyuringe unite with St. Luke’s at our Gethsemane campus by transfer from another United Methodist church.

Douce Christa Manishatse unites with St. Luke’s at our Gethsemane campus by transfer from another United Methodist church. We also welcome her son, Armstrong Ndagijimana, to our church family.

Todd Widell and Karen Wright unite with our congregation, he by transfer from another United Methodist church and she by profession of faith. He is the founder/ owner of TENT LLC and she is a vicepresident at Moody Rambin.

Anthony and Melizza Albano transfer to our congregation from another denomination. They are the parents of a daughter, Isabella, age 2.

We pray, to build intimacy and partnership with God. We study the Bible, so we can learn and share God’s story.

We make friends to pass on God’s love.

We tell our stories, so others can hear what God is doing in the world today.

We give ourselves away, in generosity and service, so that we can demonstrate the good news rahter than just talk about it.

Periodicals Postage Paid Houston, Texas

Westheimer Campus

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

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

Sermon podcasts available at: StlukesMethodist.org/Sermons

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

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

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