IN THIS ISSUE DEAR ST. LUKE'S: A LETTER FROM DR. TOM PACE, PAGE 4
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH: MARLYS BARRY AND THE SENIOR ADULTS MINISTRY, PAGE 6
A NEW INSIDE OUT WEBSITE FOR 2016, PAGE 10 FIELD OF DREAMS: SOCCER AT GETHSEMANE, PAGE 14
ON THE COVER: Field of Dreams: St. Luke's Gethsemane has built a space where kids can be kids, having fun and playing soccer - a place where dreams grow big. See story on page 14. 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.
Coffee with the Pastor UPCOMING DATES: Wednesday, September 7, 5:30-7 p.m. Sunday, October 2, 4-5:30 p.m. Sunday, November 6, 4-5:30 p.m. Please join us for a casual gathering with Senior Pastor, Dr. Tom Pace. Coffee with the Pastor is for visitors who would like to learn more about our church and a great first step in the Path to Membership. Enjoy getting to know our pastor and hearing parts of his spiritual journey, while being invited to examine your own. Learn more about St. Luke's values and vision, and how to be part of the life and mission of the church. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/events. 3
INSIDE-OUT HABITS WE TELL OUR STORIES
Eliminating the Eye Roll INSIDE-OUT HABITS WE MAKE FRIENDS
by Dr. Tom Pace
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I have always felt it was important to learn from those older and wiser than I am. Sometimes, I have discounted their wisdom, thinking it to be out of touch with the world “these days.” Most of the time, I have embraced their thoughts and ideas and it has helped me enormously. I have been less willing to learn from those younger than I am. I dismiss the millennial who can’t go five minutes without checking his Instagram feed, or tweeting something she purports to be wise. I was recently eavesdropping on two twenty somethings in the next booth at a coffee shop, and they were visiting about “The Bachelor” television show.
One of them actually began to cry about the drama in the previous show’s conclusion. I looked at the person with whom I was visiting, and rolled my eyes. Unfortunately, I have rolled my eyes too often in response to young people. I miss the boat if I allow stereotypes of millennials or teenagers to cloud my judgment, and close my mind to the insights those born in decades after me can offer. The term “reverse mentoring” has become fashionable in the business world. This is an approach where older executives are paired with younger ones, not so that the older can mentor the younger, but rather so the younger executives can mentor and teach the older ones. I am reminded of how many times in Scripture, God chose the younger to lead, and the older to follow. King David, King Solomon, Jacob, Moses, all were chosen over their older brothers, against conventional wisdom. There was a day, of course, when I liked that part of the Biblical narrative. In those days, I was the young buck, and I viewed myself as forward-thinking and innovative. I liked to change and I constantly wanted to learn. I have reached the age where I think I ought to dance with him who brung me, and change has become more difficult. What a mistake that is. If I can’t change, I can’t grow. If I can’t grow, I give up on sanctification, on “going on to perfection,” John Wesley’s admonition about the Christian life. One of the reasons the Yours, Mine, and Ours philosophy is so important to me is that we can all learn from one another. The older among us can teach the younger, and the younger among us can teach the older. As one of the older ones now, I can learn from younger people’s willingness to embrace change, to pursue new goals, and from the fire in their bellies. And yes, of course the younger can learn from me. It is time for us to eliminate the eye roll from our habits, and really listen and learn from one another, regardless of age.
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We Pray and We are Prayed For
INSIDE-OUT HABITS WE PRAY
by Laurie Noteboom It is widely known that “We pray” is the first of St. Luke’s five Inside-Out Habits and the foundation of most of what we do. But, did you know at St. Luke’s “We are prayed for?” In 1996, Reverend Ron Morris dedicated a room at St. Luke’s to prayer. He wrote beautifully in the dedication document, "'My house shall be called a house of prayer,’ were the words of Jesus. Prayer can be part of our lives at any time and any place—but we are so thankful that in this house of worship, there is a place dedicated to prayer." And for the past 20 years, volunteers have come to this dedicated room and prayed. St. Luke's Prayer Team volunteers
They have lifted up the prayers of members, the staff, the Day School and the community. From the beginning, Reverend Morris made it clear this small, holy place had a clear objective. “The purpose of this room is not about methods and techniques of prayer. Its purpose is about a love relationship.” Our prayer volunteers have heeded his words all these years. They have shown their love relationship for the community of St. Luke’s and they have shown their love relationship for the Lord as week after week they have dutifully bowed their heads for the rest of us.
INSIDE-OUT HABITS WE TELL OUR STORI
It was not until I recently accepted the Prayer Ministry Coordinator position that I fully understood how many people were praying behind the scenesWE forMAKE FRIENDS INSIDE-OUT HABITS all of us. Besides the prayer room volunteers, there are many others who phone in daily to listen to the prayer line concerns and then pray from home or work. As I’ve introduced myself to these men and women in my new role and asked them why they do it, I have consistently heard what an honor they feel it is to pray to God for others. five habits branding.indd 1
It is an exciting time at St. Luke’s because technology is opening up this opportunity to everyone. Our updated website has an Interactive Prayer Wall which will allow our whole community to post prayer requests online and for the whole community to pray for each other's requests. Now, each of us can join this “love relationship” from wherever we are and from any device. Reverend Morris would be proud that our prayer room capability is expanding exponentially and construction was not even required. This interactive nature of the Prayer Wall is one of the most exciting parts of the new website. The ability to give members proof that their community of faith is standing with them in hard times or cheering with them in good times is incredible. Imagine the ding of an email being received conjuring feelings of “I’m not alone in this” and “I belong to a faith community who cares.” And in the same way, a notification of an answered prayer will remind everyone how very good our God is. We will be a church where everyone not only knows that "We pray," but that We are prayed for.
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INSIDE-OUT HABITS WE TELL OUR STORIES
UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH... INSIDE-OUT HABITS WE MAKE FRIENDS
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Through Marlys’ leadership, programs have grown, flourished and expanded and she has gone far beyond her job description to provide thoughtful care and creativity for senior adults. For instance, the day trips rarely repeat an outing, a true element of ingenuity from Marlys. Most of all, she has taken a job that she sort of stumbled into and given her life to it— touching many participants and creating a solid foundation of ministry. “One of the most important things I think the Senior Adults Ministry does is provide a sense of belonging and community for this specific age group in the church,” Director of Adult Ministries Jennifer Gould said. “It’s a place they can come to connect with others in the same stage of life and be involved. It’s great for people who are retired or who have lost a spouse, or for people who have moved here because their children live here.”
by Meredith Mohr
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he senior adults ministry is truly a special part
of the St. Luke’s community. Look inside, and you’ll see Marlys Barry making personal phone calls to members of the group to make sure they have made event reservations. It may only take a few minutes to discover that she knows everyone and has a connection and resource to just about everything related to senior adults. She first became involved because her mother was a Mainstreamer, then Marlys took over this job in 1999, at the encouragement of former St. Luke’s staff member Dean Robinson.
The Senior Adults Ministry incorporates two parts: a monthly program at the church with a luncheon and speaker, and Mainstreamer day trips. Over the years, these two elements have focused on city history, featured authors, professionals and other interesting topics and taken the Senior Adults group on day trips, including NASA tours, museums, and annual road trips to see bluebonnets in bloom. Besides these, Marlys has coordinated a variety of conferences, classes and programs focused on information relevant to the elder generation of the church. In 2008, she founded a special community-wide caregiver conference that now happens twice annually as a support and comprehensive resource for those who are responsible for caring for an elderly parent or relative.
Now 17 years later, as she prepares for retirement and for handing off the “We have a percentage of people involved in our Senior Adults Ministry that are from other baton to the next leader, Marlys takes a look back at her time with the churches in Houston, not because their own Senior Adults Ministry.
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churches are moving away from a senior adults ministry, but because they may have never had one in the first place,” Jennifer said. “It doesn’t work unless you have a dedicated staff person who is putting in the focused time and effort for this group.” In her time at St. Luke’s, she has also served on numerous boards, including the Christian Educators Fellowship, part of the United Methodist Church and the General Board of Higher Education, which helps to channel the certification process for people who work in Christian Education. Marlys has gone through this certification process through the Perkins School of Theology, served on the National Board and was the recipient of The Dick Murray Award, a testament to her faithfulness and her excellence in all that she does. Her work has led her to a personal interest in gerontology, the study of aging. Through that interest, she was invited to serve with Care For Elders, a group supported by United Way to improve the quality of life of the aging population in Houston. As her peers and colleagues would describe her, she is a connector, an invaluable resource and the glue that holds this ministry together. “When we talked about who might be next in her role, the Senior Adults Ministry Council described wanting someone who was organized but could see the big picture too, and could be dedicated and plan for longevity in the position," Jennifer said. "They basically kept saying they wanted and needed to find another Marlys. The care she takes with everything is so appreciated by the council and everyone involved with the senior adults ministry, and so much of that is because of her passion, creativity and faithfulness in this job.” What is next for the Senior Adult Ministries? Jennifer and other lay leaders are continuing the conversation about what this ministry will look like in it's next iteration—not just with the introduction of a potentially new staff person, but also in the way that churches can respond to changes in society and culture.
“I don’t envision big changes to what we are doing now,” Jennifer said. “But we might be adding some new things, expanding programming to reach people that we aren’t reaching with this current model. For instance, how can church ministries change as workforce culture changes. People are working longer and so the ministry may look different now, reaching different ages or people with different backgrounds and work experiences. With Yours, Mine and Ours starting this fall, one of the things we will try to do in the future is connect our senior adults with the different generations of the church and creating a bridge between different age groups and faith families.”
“As her peers describe her... she is an invaluable resource.”
The Senior Adults Ministry will continue to be a vibrant and welcoming community to the elderly at St. Luke’s and in Houston, and that is mainly because Marlys herself has built such a solid foundation in her time working here. Whoever takes her place will have some big (and not to mention fashionable) shoes to fill.
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A Summer to Celebrate at The Story Houston by Rev. Eric Huffman St. Luke’s New Worship Community Continues Growth Can you believe it? The Story Houston is now eighteen months old! In our first year and a half, we have witnessed tremendous growth: around 400 in weekly worship, 30 new small groups and teams, 135 new members who have completed the membership process, and dozens more who will become members over the next couple of months. Most remarkably, we have seen all this new growth in spite of major parking problems, construction-related interruptions and inconveniences, and while worshiping in a temporary space (St. Luke’s Activity Center) that can be hard to find for first-time guests. We are now making final preparations for our biggest day in eighteen months, and you’re invited!
Members of The Story Houston circled the new Story Houston building and joined hands to pray over the new space.
You’re Invited: The Story Launch! Sunday, September 25 - 9:30 and 11:05 a.m.
After months of anticipation (and a few unexpected delays), we’ll finally open the doors to The Story’s new home on Sunday, September 25. The building will feature a spacious lobby, full coffee bar, state-of-the-art audio-video and lighting technology, and will comfortably seat around 350. We would love to have a packed house for the big day, so come help us celebrate the grand opening of this awesome new facility during either of our services at 9:30 or 11:05! Do you have questions about The Story Houston? Email us (thestoryhouston@gmail.com) or visit www.thestory.church.
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Back to school in a new space
INSIDE-OUT HABITS WE MAKE FRIENDS
Student Ministries just wrapped up another incredible summer with the Middle and High School students of St. Luke's. The start of a new school year means weekend retreats, weekly small groups, and our recent move into the newly completed Student Ministries Building! We look forward to welcoming students, parents, and leaders to the new space on Sunday mornings and at special events throughout the year. Our first Sunday Night Live event in the new space, Nerf Gun Wars, was a huge success! The pool tables, lounge spaces, and café area have been filled from the moment the doors opened. We are thrilled for the opportunities the new space provides for relational ministry and building on the friendships that were formed on all the trips this summer. We can't wait to see how God uses these walls to bless each person who enters.
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a new inside-out website for 2016! Loaded with vivid photos, interactive features and a simplified navigation system, St. Luke’s introduces its brand-new website. Delivering elements that engage the user and invite participation, it’s a great tool for members and friends of St. Luke’s. The site can be viewed and interacted with on your mobile device or tablet. While this site a wonderful tool, it’s so much more. It is for us, St. Luke’s members, to live out who we are—one family in Jesus, putting faith to work in love. It is also for those who have not found a church home in Houston. It’s for those who are in need of love and the grace of God. It’s for those who are new to Houston and seeking community. In building this website, we take the message of Jesus Christ to our members, to our city and to our world. The site is modeled after the five Inside-Out Habits : We pray, We study the Bible, We tell our stories, We make friends, We give ourselves away in generosity and service. The website holds a treasure trove of information and activity. Open your computer and join us at StLukesMethodist.org and follow along as we take a tour.
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The Home Page The first thing you see is who we are: (1) Welcome to St. Luke’s—We are one family in Jesus, putting faith to work in love. At the very top of right side of the page you find our (2) address and phone number (don’t you hate it when websites make you hunt for that?) On the left you’ll find (3)myStLukes, your personal portal. (much more about that later.) Below is our (4) logo, and anywhere you are on the site you can click that logo to return home. Across the top, called (5) the header, are the main navigation items. Roll over each one and you can see your options to visit all ministry pages. The last item on this line is a magnifying glass, which is the (6) search feature. All of these features above the welcome slide appear on every page. Now let’s go below the Welcome slide. There are the (7) five features boxes: I’m New-one church four communities, Ministries, Worship, Help and Support, and Events.
INSIDE-OUT HABITS WE TELL OUR STORIES
StLukesMethodist.org
INSIDE-OUT HABITS WE MAKE FRIENDS
As you roll past the feature boxes you will come to the bottom navigation called (8) the footer. It shows everything on the site, like the header navigation, it is seen on every page of the site. Some people fondly refer to it as “the bail out.” When they want to go somewhere else on the site, they prefer to go down to the bottom and click. Speaking of clicking, let’s do some:
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Want to read about upcoming events in the life of the church? From the homepage just click on (9) Events. (You can even search the events section by ministry.) Here you can register for an event and pay for any fees if applicable. Perhaps you’d like some mid-week inspiration? Click on (10) Worship and select Sermons from one of our four worship venues. Share with a friend with the button on the bottom right corner of the viewing screen. While you are on the worship page, notice the livestream link where you can watch all our traditional services live on Sundays. Are you standing in the need of prayer or want to pray for others? From the main navigation at the top of the homepage, click on (11) Pray. The first thing you will see is a daily prayer. Click one of the other choices and visit the interactive Prayer Wall. The Prayer Wall is loaded with features. You can submit your prayer privately and our Prayer Team will pray for you; or you can ask that the prayer be shared on the site (anonymously or not.) Not only is the interactive Prayer Wall a place to share your prayers, it is also a place where you can go to pray for others, and when you do, be sure and check the box that says you prayed. The person who originated the request will be notified that it has been prayed over. Maybe you have a bit of time to serve at either St. Luke’s or with one of our local outreach partners. From the homepage navigation, click on (12) Serve and see what opportunities God calls you to and that fit your schedule best.
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It may be time to make new friends and join a small group or register for a class. Head on 13 over to (13) Ministries, then Adults and click on Small Groups. You can search by day of the week, or peruse the different LIFT groups or Learning Communities. When you find the perfect class, you can register online. There are seasons when we all need care. 14 Click on (14) Help and Support to see all that St. Luke’s offers right in one place. From loneliness to bereavement, divorce, depression, a desire for a hospital visit or a complete listing of support groups, you will find answers and resources here. Would you like to manage your subscriptions to all periodicals and e-newsletters as well as Dr. Pace’s weekly Inside-Out email? 15 Click on (15) Watch and Read and select Subscriptions. And, while we are exploring the Watch and Read section, you will notice the new St. Luke’s blogs—We Tell Our Stories and Inside-Out with Dr. Tom Pace.
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Best of all there’s myStLukes, your personal portal. 8 8 3 (3) MyStLukes is an online dashboard that, when all features Automate your giving. are completed, will give those who register access to their 16 myStLukes provides the tools you need to (16) automate your giving and control the amount, dates, and the fund to which you wish to designate your gift. You personal St. Luke’s data such as can set up recurring payments by bank draft or credit or debit card, make a contact information, Records of 16 (16) Giving, courses and events pledge or pledge payment, and much more. Soon you will also be able to access your giving history and review and print out your Record of Giving at any time. registered for, all stored within a Managing your giving will be so simple through myStLukes. secure environment. While there are some functions active now, So jump online and enjoy getting to know your new website! more are being added weekly. StLukesMethodist.org Better yet, share it with a friend! Updates to come.
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LIVING OUT THE FIVE INSIDE OUT HABITS
INSIDE-OUT HABITS WE TELL OUR STORIES
One of my husband Whitney’s and my favorite to do INSIDE-OUT HABITS WEthings MAKE FRIENDS is open up our house and have friends, family, neighbors and by Katie Montgomery Mears friends-of-friends over for dinner. But I never thought of our A year or so ago, I read some words from Shauna Niequist that meals as way to grow closer to God until I became intentional about it. Sharing a meal with someone breaks down a barrier— resonated so deeply within me. and once that happened, I felt like I was able to use these She wrote, "much of spiritual gatherings a way to share how God was working in my life, and growth is adding tools to the to ask my friends how they saw God moving in their lives too. toolbox, and connecting with Through telling our stories, and really listening to one another, God in ways that are right for each season of life.” I was in a bit our relationships were strengthened. of a spiritual slump, finding that the devotionals that Another tool in my toolbox is an openness to the Holy Spirit sustained me for so long were not quite working any when it comes to serving others. For many years, serving longer. others was something that I scheduled in my calendar just like At the same time, our church launched the Inside-Out work meetings, school deadlines, workouts, and social plans. I Habits: we pray, we study the Bible, we make friends, we found myself choosing service opportunities that worked with my schedule rather than letting the right things speak to me. share our stories, we give ourselves away in generosity and service. I realized that there were so many ways to Whitney and I decided to pray about letting the Holy Spirit move in us, and we got what we asked for! On the weekend of connect with God and live out my faith that I hadn’t tried! The Inside-Out Habits gave me a few new “tools” August 12, my hometown of Baton Rouge experienced the worst flooding it has ever seen. Floodwaters covered the ground—and for my spiritual toolbox. in some cases, the roofs—of friends’ houses and places that First, I just had the gut conviction that I needed to meant a lot to me, like my elementary and high schools. I was be more focused on studying scripture. So last fall, in the middle of a busy week (starting as a ministerial intern at I grabbed a group of folks and told them, “I need St. Luke's UMC (!) and traveling to Dallas for meetings), but more intentional Bible study in my life. And I am the Holy Spirit just would not let go of my heart. I felt God tell guessing maybe you me that the physical distance from Baton Rouge didn’t need to do too? Let’s do it stop me from helping in a tangible way. Whitney and I gathered together.” This was a couple of friends together to assemble United Methodist pretty hard for me to Committee on Relief (UMCOR) flood buckets, and the small admit — especially seed of an idea that the Holy Spirit planted in my heart resulted since I was in in so much more blessing than we could have imagined. seminary! Since then, I have found so much unexpected joy in letting God move my we have been doing heart. I would have missed this opportunity to serve my home the Covenant study state had I been rigid about my desire for well-planned and together, and it has unfolded scripture in such a new and rich way for me. conveniently timed opportunities to serve. five habits branding.indd 1
God has also placed on my heart an interest in praying through journaling. I have been recording my prayers in a journal app on my iPhone lately. Having my prayers recorded in the app allows me to go back and read through them, which has been more meaningful than I imagined it might be.
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In this season of my life, the most important thing I know about my faith is that it is growing and stretching and adjusting. Just like our relationships with friends and family change over time, our relationship with God does too. Finding new tools for my spiritual toolbox is the best way that I can grow as a disciple of Christ.
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FIELD OF DREAMS HOW A SOCCER FIELD BECAME A MISSION FIELD
by Pastor David Horton, St. Luke's Gethsemane Campus
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footsteps from the Gethsemane campus, soccer is in the blood. Of course our neighbors would have brought pastoral appointment at St. Luke’s Gethsemane. their passion for soccer with them into the United But much more importantly, I had survived my second Houston summer and made it to my first fall. I States. Bringing soccer would have been as natural as bringing socks and shoes. I should have known. guess there are some things I’ll never get used to. Finally the fall had arrived. It was October 2014. The A recurring subject kept popping up like popcorn sanctuary at the Westheimer Campus was still under among the Gethsemane staff and members: soccer. construction, but construction hadn’t yet blessed They were dreaming of soccer, on the edge of their Gethsemane. The Gethsemane and Outreach staff had seats waiting for soccer, like first graders who can’t been planning for months in cooperation with reVision, wait for Christmas morning and cross out every a ministry for at-risk youth, and the Houston Dynamo. day on the calendar until December 25. Except Christmas had come in the form of the Fall Soccer Gethsemane was crossing off its calendar days until the Fall Soccer Clinic. I didn’t understand. Did I miss Clinic. Every Saturday morning during the month of October, something? What was the big deal? children and middle schoolers from around the I knew soccer was huge in the multinational communities of Sharpstown and Gulfton, but I didn’t neighborhood would come and learn soccer on the Gethsemane open field. Most of the children came realize how huge. I should have guessed it. In the from KIPP Connect next door or from the Gethsemane home countries of Gethsemane’s first-generation children’s ministry. But there were more than a few who immigrant neighbors, soccer is second only to breathing. Children learn soccer around the same time signed up through KIDS HOPE at Sutton Elementary, as they learn how to walk. From Congo to El Salvador or who learned about the clinics through flyers posted in the apartment complex next door. The goal of the to Honduras to Pakistan, nations represented mere
soccer clinics was community, not competition. It was never our intention to form a soccer team and play in a league. It was always about building up community in a neighborhood so divided by language and fear of the other. It was about setting a table with a dish everyone no matter their country of origin loved. It worked. Soccer really worked. On the last Saturday morning of the clinics, I watched around 90 children and youth, ages 5 to 14, use what they had learned throughout the month and play against one another in friendly scrimmages. Watching the joy on their faces I couldn’t help but feel joyful myself. The best part was picture time at the end of the day. A rainbow of sweaty and grass-stained children smiled at the camera. They could have arrived to this country a month ago. They could have had a brother in a local gang. They might have wondered if college was ever a possibility for a poor immigrant kid like them. But in that moment, playing soccer together, in community, was all that mattered. It was kinship. It was the Kingdom. Fast-forward two years and we’re still dreaming of the Kingdom. Construction descended upon Gethsemane and with it came the gift of a professional-grade soccer field. What was an open field with weeds and clover is now a proper soccer field that St. Luke’s can feel proud of. The one goal of the field, its one reason for existence, is mission. It is a Kingdom asset. Gethsemane itself is a mission, a missionary outpost on the frontier of multicultural ministry. We want every square inch of our facilities and grounds to be used for mission and outreach so the community may know Jesus is near. To borrow language from Dr. Pace, Gethsemane intends to be the “epicenter” of transformation in the community, the focal point where shockwaves of growth, beautification, and kinship originate. The soccer field will help make that vision a reality. The two largest ways the field will be used during the new school year is as a sports field for KIPP Connect School and as the home of a new St. Luke’s soccer program. First, students from KIPP Connect Charter School will make the twominute walk and use the field for recess and intramural
INSIDE-OUT HABITS WE MAKE FRIENDS
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sports on school days. Over 20 hours of field time per week is devoted to the KIPP students, or, as KIPP calls them, "Kipsters." Second, St. Luke’s Gethsemane and Outreach, in partnership with reVision, are collaborating on a major new soccer program to begin at the end of September. It will be a community soccer clinic for children ages 5-14. Like the beloved program prior to construction, the purpose of these clinics is not for competition but rather for building community. The Houston Dynamo Street Team will coordinate the on-the-field drills and training. The clinics will be on Monday and Wednesday late afternoons and Saturday mornings. We hope parents of the young players will stick around and visit on the sidelines. If soccer is to be the main course we dish out to the community, then we hope the whole family will stay and enjoy. The dream for the soccer field is the same dream we at Gethsemane have for all our ministries: that it might be a mission to the ends of the earth in our backyard. Truly the ends of the earth have come to our doorstep, and given we serve the right dish, they will knock down the door trying to get in. In Psalm 133:1, David joyfully shouts, “Look! How good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity!” It is my fervent prayer that the Gethsemane soccer field will be a place where kindred from all nations play together in unity. How good and pleasant it will be! It will be something I’ll never get used to.
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“But in that moment, playing soccer together, in community, was all that mattered. It was kinship. It was the Kingdom.”
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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
Show Your Face Adult Choir Kickoff | September 7 5 p.m. St. Luke's Chancel Choir, St. Cecilia Women’s Choir, and Veritas Men’s Choir begin their fall seasons with a potluck dinner on Wednesday, September 7, beginning at 5 p.m. and followed by rehearsal. It’s a perfect time to join! All adult choirs rehearse regularly on Wednesday evenings. SongPlay! | Beginning September 25 A musical experience with an eye to the neuropsychological development of young children from birth through preschool. The fall session begins the week of September 25, with classes on Sunday afternoons, plus Monday and Friday mornings. For detailed information and registration, visit www.stlukesmethodist.org/events.
Rotunda Gallery features Spectra Artists, Inc. September Spectra Artists, Inc. is a Texas Non-Profit Corporation dedicated to the advancement of visual art in the local community. Meet the artists in the Rotunda Gallery on Sunday, September 4. To purchase art, contact Randy Murrow at rmurrow@stlukesmethodist.org or 713-4025122.
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Pure Sound “Monster Retreat” | September 2-5 Our Pure Sound Youth Choir leaves Friday, September 2, to spend the Labor Day weekend at Camp for All for “Monster Retreat,” their 21st annual retreat with guest clinician Sam Brukhman. New Sound 6th grade choir will join them overnight Saturday. Welcome the choir back to St. Luke’s on Monday, September 5 at 4 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, where they will perform the pieces they learned at camp. Regular rehearsals resume on Sunday, September 11.
Children’s Choir Kickoff | September 11 All children’s choirs begin on Sunday, September 11, with singing, ringing, ORFFestra, rhythm instruments and musical play. SundaySing! for grades 1–5 meets 4–5 p.m. Join us for our “Round Up” on Friday, September 2 from 5-8 p.m. in the Rotunda Theater. SundayRing! for grades 3–5 meets 3–4 p.m. JoyfulNoise! for Pre-K and K meets 4–5 p.m. Study music at Bridges Academy of Fine Arts Take lessons with some of the top music instructors in Houston. Over 200 students study at St. Luke’s each semester in disciplines such as piano, strings, voice, guitar and winds. Learn more or inquire on our website at BridgesFineArts.org.
GETHSEMANE Fall Kick-Off and Third Grade Bible Sunday | September 11 Children will move to their new classes for the 2016-2017 school year. Our current Summer Sunday School schedule is in effect through September 4. This year’s Fall Kick-off is super exciting as we begin our church-wide focus on Yours, Mine, and Ours, and is also Third Grade Bible Sunday. All of our
3rd graders will receive their very special Bibles that they will use for a lifetime. We want you to spend the morning with us in Sunday School and worship. Please contact Juana Tavico at jchavez@stlukesmethodist.org for more information or questions. Fall Kick-Off and Vision Night | September 11 | 5:30 p.m. Youth AND their parents are invited to join in a celebration of the upcoming year, happening during the Sunday School hour. We will share information about major events, what we’ll be studying, and just how we’re going Unleash Our Hearts in this amazing year ahead of us. Parents are needed to fill out paper work and volunteer. We will also dance, eat, and fellowship. For more information or questions, please contact Julie Ramos at juramos@stlukesmethodist.org. Young Adults Party at Hermann Park | September 10 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Gethsemane young adults (college to age 30) will head to Hermann Park for food, football, Frisbee and fun! We will meet at the base of the Miller Outdoor Theater hill. If you need a ride, we will be taking a church van. Bring your own lunch, we will provide the water and drinks. For more information or to reserve a seat on the van, please contact Amy Kelley at akelley@stlukesmethodist.org. Young Adult Baseball Night | September 23 | 5:30 p.m. We have 45 tickets for our young adults to see the Astros vs. Los Angeles Angels on Friday, September 23rd at 7:10pm. We will meet at the Gethsemane Campus at 5:30 p.m. to load the bus. You must sign up to reserve your tickets and seats on the bus. The sign-up sheet will be in the Welcome Center on Sunday mornings or email Amy Kelley at akelley@stlukesmethodist.org. What’s Mine Is Yours Family Clothing Swap | September 4 12:30 p.m. | Room 1307 Women of all ages and sizes are invited to bring their gently used clothes to share with someone else who may need them. This is a great opportunity to help and uplift each other and our church families by sharing. Shoes and accessories are welcome too. For more information, please contact Amy Kelley at akelley@stlukesmethodist.org or call 713-357-4464. Family Game Night | September 30 | 6-9 p.m. Bring your whole family and your neighbors, too, and join other families for a night of unplugged fun and friendly competition in Canterbury Hall. We will offer a variety of board games for all ages. A pizza dinner will be served at 6 p.m., games will begin at 6:30 p.m., and the fun will continue until 9 p.m. The cost is $2/person. Contact Amy Kelley if you have any questions at akelley@stlukesmethodist.org. Childcare will be available from 2 months through 4 years with a reservation. RSVP for childcare with Juana Tavico at jchavez@stlukesmethodist.org.
Stephen Ministry Training Classes Sundays, beginning September 25 6:30-8:30 p.m. Hines Baker Room School bells are ringing. Can you hear them? They are ringing for all kinds of classrooms this time of year. One of the loudest bells is ringing for a new class of Stephen Ministers here at St. Luke’s. These classes begin on Sunday, September 25, and will run through midFebruary. The instructors are excellent and well-trained. The course itself includes fifty hours of study. These classes prepare men and women to serve Jesus Christ in a wonderful way. At the completion of the course, these students are “ordained” in the sanctuary in a special service. Stephen Ministers are lay members of our congregation who verbally support people in need. Those in need are both members and non-members. Stephen Ministers are effective listeners for those who are struggling, suffering or grieving. Stephen Ministry crosses denominational lines and has now expanded outside the United States. If you think that God may be calling you to serve Him in this area of ministry, please call Reverend Bill Denham at 713-402-5156 or email him at bdenham@stlukesmethodist.org. Bill will be glad to talk to you and answer your questions. That bell you hear may be a Stephen Ministry bell. Is it ringing for you?
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UNITED METHODIST WOMEN Gethsemane Book Group September 10 10 a.m. Jo Ann Smith’s home We are reviewing two books by Jo Jo Moyes: Me Before You and After You. Please call Jo Ann at 713-686-5859 with questions. We will also be choosing books to read for the rest of the year. UMW Westheimer Book Group | September 12 10 a.m. | The Forum Betty Brothers will be hosting and review A Paris Apartment by Michelle Gable at The Forum, located at 777 Post Oak Rd. For more information, contact Dorothy Voss, 713-660-7243. UMW Fall Kick-Off General Meeting | September 13 10:30 a.m. | Hines Baker Room Rev. Geovanna Huffman will join us with an update on the marvelous growth and work that is taking place at The Story Houston. You won’t want to miss it. Contact JoNell Beadle at jnpohl@yahoo.com or 614-736-2682 for more information.
UMW Afternoon Study Circle | September 27 12-2 p.m., Hines Baker Room Julian Byrd is speaking and will answer questions about Chaplaincy and Clinical Pastorial Education. Please come and bring a friend. Everyone is welcome. RSVP to Kathy Austin at 713-252-6727. Shalom Circle | September 20 | 9:30 a.m. Clarewood House For more information contact, May Jee, 713-771-3279 Gethsemane Silver Circle | September 28 9:30 a.m. – 1p.m. | Canterbury Hall at Gethsemane Campus Enjoy a morning of games and conversation, with lunch and birthday celebrations at Noon. $5 for lunch. For reservations call Betsy Evans, 281-565-0348.
SENIOR ADULTS Mainstreamer Day Program and Luncheon September 15 | 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Hines Baker Room Join our first Mainstreamer gathering of the new fall season. Enjoy an interesting program, a buffet lunch, and visiting with friends. We welcome our speaker Jim Parsons, Director of Special Projects and Walking Tours chairman for Preservation Houston. A buffet lunch ($10) will follow the program. Please call the reservation line at 713-402-5087 to reserve your place.
UMW Games Group | September 19 and 26 | 10 a.m. R25
For more information, contact Lori Wilson-Reynolds, 713-665-3553.
UMW Night Circle | September 20 | 6:30 p.m. Home of Adria Baker Adria, Circle chairman for this program, will host the UMW Night Circle at her home, at 7918 Pagewood Lane, Houston, TX 77063, and will review the book, Everybody’s Got Seed to Sow. St Luke’s played an important role in the realization of The Brookwood Community, and the book has many great Christian truths. All women of the Church and friends are welcome to join this multi-generational Circle. Call Pat Deckert for information 713-334-6848.
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AARP Safe Driving Course | September 19 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Parlor This newly designed course is an informative way to refresh your driving skills and may be used for insurance reduction only. You must be 50+ to take the course. The cost for the course is $15 for AARP members and $20 for other. Advance registration required. For more information or to register, call 713-402-5087. Like to Play Bridge? | Mondays | 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. | R25 All are welcome at this informal group interested in Bridge played by Goren rules. A good opportunity to brush up your skills or if you are just learning or want to learn. For more information, call Kathy Austin, 713-252-6727.
WOMEN'S MINISTRY
Mainstreamer Day Trip | September 23 10:30 a.m.–3 p.m. | Menil Collection Our September Day Trip will be a visit to the esteemed Menil Collection. In addition to the museum’s own collection of art loved and collected from the 1940s—1990s by founders John and Dominique de Menil, we will see the newest exhibitions: Andy Warhol’s Sunset and Picasso: The Line. The trip will start with lunch then our visit to the museum. Cost for this trip is only for lunch; the museum is always free. Call the reservation line at 713-402-5087 to reserve your place.
Joy Pottery: | Wednesday October 19 | 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Sponsored by the God and Girlfriends’ small group this luncheon will feature a presentation by Rachel Norris, who has been sharing her testimony while using her potter’s wheel since 1992. $30 includes lunch. All proceeds will benefit the God and Girlfriends’ College Scholarship fund., Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/events. Beautiful Creation Women’s Retreat | Saturday, November 5 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Join us for a one-day retreat that explores God’s desire for you to leave your creative mark in the world. Workshops include watercolor, art journaling, prayer beads, photography and more. A light breakfast and lunch are included. Registration will begin in mid September. Contact Jennifer Gould at jgould@stlukesmethodist.org for more information.
PRAYER MINISTRY Service of Healing | September 7 | 6-7 p.m.| Westheimer Chapel Join us the first Wednesday of every month for a Service of Healing. Dr. Linda Christians leads a time of prayer and communion where we ask God for spiritual and physical healing for you or a loved one. For more information contact Laurie Noteboom at lnoteboom@stlukesmethodist.org or 713-402-5024.
NICK FINNEGAN COUNSELING CENTER Tree of Life Gala October 5 | 6:30 p.m. River Oaks Country Club Mark your calendars for an inspirational evening on October 5, at River Oaks Country Club. Emceed by Sunny 99.1 FM morning show host and Nick Finnegan Counseling Center (NFCC) advisory board member, Dana Tyson, this year’s Tree of Life Gala is chaired by Ann and Leslie Doggett and Susanna and Gee Kane. Join us at 6:30 p.m. for a country-club casual affair including a jewelry pull, a robust live auction and a brief video debut showcasing NFCC’s growth. The evening’s proceeds benefit NFCC—a St. Luke’s ministry—and enable the Center to provide high-quality, affordable services including counseling, support groups, community talks, panel discussions and more. Event tickets and sponsorships are available at 713-402-5127 or at FinneganCounseling.org. If you wish to contribute items to the evening’s activities, we welcome your donation and ask you to please call 713-402-5127 for details.
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CHILDREN
YOUTH Small Groups Begin | September 7 | Host Homes This will be the first week of students meeting in host homes for the new school year. If you have any questions about where you're meeting, or if you still need to register, email Katie Brown at kbrown@stlukesmethodist.org for more information.
Parenting the Love and Logic Way September 14–October 19 | Wednesdays | 6:30 -8 p.m. Parenting the Love and Logic way is a 6 week series designed to help parents, grandparents and caregivers learn to parent with empathy and logical consequences. Classes will meet on Wednesday evenings starting in mid September. For those who have attended this course before, they are welcome to drop in for free refresher sessions. Cost is $240 per couple, $140 per individual. Childcare is free and available by request. Online registration is now open at www.StLukesMethodist.org/events. Sunday School Fall Kick-Off | Sunday, September 11 9:45 a.m.-10:45 a.m. We are excited to celebrate Fall Kick-Off on Sunday, September 11 when our new Sunday School year begins! Our current Summer Sunday School schedule is in effect through September 4. Look for an email and/or card in the mail that will list your child’s new class for the 2016-2017, just after Labor Day. If you have any questions, please call the Children’s Ministries Office at 713-402-5044 or email Kim at kdavis@stlukesmethodist.org.
An Evening with Chap Clark | September 11 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. St. Luke's is excited to welcome Dr. Chap Clark, co-author of Sticky Faith: Everyday ideas to build lasting faith in your kids. He will speak at a dinner for parents and other adults who support and encourage teenagers as they grow in their faith. There will be a separate dinner for students in the Student Ministries building and activites following in Student Ministries and the Activity Center. The evening will include activities and roles for our Middle and High School students, and childcare is available for younger children. Required registration can be found online at stlukesmethodist.org/events. Middle School Fall Retreat | September 16-18 Stoney Creek Ranch All 6th-8th grade students are invited to join us as we return to Stoney Creek Ranch for a weekend of fun! We are so excited to welcome Ryan DeLange Band back to lead worship, and we're looking forward to hearing messages from Josh Arrington. Cost is $180 until September 2, $195 after. Registration available online at stlukesmethodist.org/events.
ADULT FALL OFFERINGS Want to see everything that is happening at St. Luke’s? Click on the EVENTS button on the homepage of our new website. There you will be able to view all events or sort by ministry.
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Go With Grace Women’s Bible Study Thursdays, 7:15-8:30 a.m. | Crossroads Building #101 Westheimer Campus Join this community of women who are seeking to know God more intimately through Bible study, prayer and fellowship. The study is led by Dr. Linda Christians. The group is studying the book of Esther this semester. Register at StLukesMethodist.org/events.
Divine Conspiracy Book Study | Tuesdays, beginning September 13 | 6-7:30 p.m. | Library Westheimer Campus Based on the book by Dallas Willard, this 9-month study led by Dr. Linda Christians and Ken Jacobson challenges long-established beliefs and gives a fresh insight into Jesus’ ministry, message and call to discipleship. Cost $35. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/groupfinder. Mom’s Bible Study | Tuesdays, 9:15-10:45 a.m. | B145 (Parlor) Westheimer Campus This welcoming group for mothers of young children meets to study God’s word together and encourage one another. The group is led by Children’s Ministries Director Julie Ellerbrock and Christy Dulaney. No advance preparation is needed. Join at any time! For more information, contact Julie Ellerbrock at 713-402-5040. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/groupfinder.
Men’s Life Fall 2016: Becoming Christian Repairmen Wednesdays, beginning September 14 | 6:30 a.m.-7:45 a.m. Fellowship Hall Westheimer Campus Men will meet for 10-sessions beginning, September 14. The group will use Kirk Blackard and John Sage's book, Restoring Peace, based on the experience of men who are incarcerated, and how they found healing. Dr. Pace gives a lesson before table discussions. Cost is $10. Register at StLukesMethodist.org/events or contact Kathy Neely at kneely@stlukesmethodist.org.
Higher Ground Bible Study | Thursdays | 9 -11 a.m. Room 22 Gethsemane Campus Led by Corky Fowler, this is an academic bible Study for adults of all ages. Each session is a stand-alone so no one falls behind even if they have to miss a class. Scripture is studied in depth with extensive use of commentaries, dictionaries and Bible atlas. Registration is not required. For more information, contact Corky Fowler at dcfowler@sbcglobal.net or 713-774-4262. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/groupfinder.
Epic of Eden Bible Study | Thursdays, September 15– November 17 | 9:45-11:30 a.m. | R21 Westheimer Campus Led by Louise McEvoy, this study is based on Dr. Sandra L. Richter’s book, The Epic of Eden, is a history of God’s redeeming grace. The story runs from the Garden of Eden to the garden of the New Jerusalem. This class will organize your understanding of the Old Testament and renew your enthusiasm for studying the Bible. Cost $20. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/groupfinder.
Disciple Fast Track Bible Study | Wednesdays, beginning September 14 | 10-11:30 a.m. | R25 Westheimer Campus This 24-week study provides biblical knowledge of both the Old and New Testament. Participants commit to daily readings on their own and to participate in weekly discussions with the group. Disciple Fast Track maintains the integrity and principles of the original Disciple I study, but its modifications can better meet the needs of a hectic world. Fast Track is not a replacement for the original; it is simply a practical option. Participants still receive a thorough introduction to the Bible, but in almost a third less time. Reading begins September 7. Cost $40. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/ groupfinder. Disciple III Bible Study – Remember Who You Are Mondays, beginning September 12 | 6:30–9 p.m. | R22 Westheimer Campus This 32-week study, led by Jana Gaddy and Sandy Hendon, concentrates on the writings of the Old Testament prophets and on the letters of Paul. Completion of Disciple I is required to take this class. Cost $40. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/ groupfinder.
Toxic Charity: How Churches and Charities Hurt Those They Help, and How to Reverse It Book Study Wednesdays, September 22-November 17 | 6:30-8 p.m. R25 Westheimer Campus Veteran urban activist Robert Lupton reveals the shockingly toxic effects that modern charity has upon the very people meant to benefit from it. Toxic Charity provides proven new models for charitable groups who want to help—not sabotage—those whom they desire to serve. Cost $15. Register online at StLukesMethodist.org/groupfinder.
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Baptisms
The Sacrament of Baptism was received by:
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Elizabeth Catherine Kuiper, daughter of Alexander Aron Kuiper and Hillary Cuda Kuiper on July 10.
Tyler Bradley Buster, son of Todd Bradley Buster and Kelly Fly Buster on July 31.
John Bitter Herring, son of Mason William Herring and Catherine Pressly Herring on July 17.
Dorothy Louise Quisenberry, daughter of David Chandler Quisenberry and Rebecca Rogers Quisenberry on July 31.
Catherine Elise King, daughter of Ross Conner King and Elizabeth Rae Tosh King on July 17.
Samantha Jean Scoggins and Karrington Marie Scoggins, daughters of Edward Andrew Scoggins, Jr. and Kelly Lynn Gavron Scoggins on July 31.
Claire Annabel Wells, daughter of Peter Boyd Wells, IV and Jennifer Palmer Wells on July 17.
William Gregory Raymer, son of William Richard Raymer and Virginia Seamans Raymer on August 7.
John Wayne Howard, son of Christopher Matthew Howard and Allyson Marie Johnstone Howard on July 24.
William Andrew Ward II, son of William Andrew Ward and Lynsey Duke Ward on August 7.
Eleanor Mae Larsen, daughter of Travis Hope Larsen and Erin Delaine Larsen on July 24.
Audrey Anne Whitley, daughter of George William Whitley and Sara Stiles Whitley on August 14.
New Members Correction to June Spire: 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.
Hayley Banks joins St. Luke's by profession of faith. She is an enterprise business representative for Micro Focus.
Mark and Ann Woods unite by transfer, he from another denomination and she from another United Methodist Church. He is general manager with DXP Enterprises and she is employed by Lyondell Basell. They join Ann's brother and sister-in-law, Walker and Kristin Agnew, in the St. Luke's membership.
Spencer and Casie Cearley unite with our congregation by profession of faith. He is an advisor with BHP Billiton and she is a speech language pathologist in the Houston Independent Schoool District.
Mary Caroline Dillon transfers to St. Luke's from another denomination. She is a real estate agent with Martha Turner Sotheby's.
Lauren Hall transfers to St. Luke's from another United Methodist Church. She is employed by Texas Aromatics in oil and gas operations.
Madeline Bridgman joins by transfer from another United Methodist Church. She is a student at UT Health School of Nursing.
Bruce Vest unites by transfer from another United Methodist church. He is a project manager with Allstate.
Kathy Ward joins our congregation by transfer from another United Methodist Church.
Tim Brooks transfers to our congregation from another denomination. He is an accountant with Oxy and joins his wife, Valerie, in the St. Luke's membership.
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New Members Anna Freund joins St. Luke's by transfer from another United Methodist Church. She is employed by ExxonMobil.
Jeff and Patty Dudderar unite by profession of faith. Jeff is employed by BBVA Compass and he and Patty are the parents of twin daughters, Kylie and Logan, age 19 and college sophomores.
Lynn and Kibbie Hipp transfer to St. Luke's from another United Methodist Church.
Becky Dozier-Lake unites with our congregation by transfer from another United Methodist Church.
Sarah Lands unites by transfer from another United Methodist Church. She is a nurse practitioner at Baylor College of Medicine.
Not pictured: Norma Robinson unites with St. Luke's at our Gethsemane Campus by profession of faith. Not pictured: Hamilton Ramirez and Jessica Angulo join our Gethsemane Campus by profession of faith.
St. Luke's Flower Dedications
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The altar flowers are dedicated to the glory of God and are given:
Your Generosity Makes it Possible
August 7 in celebration of the baptism of William Gregory Raymer by Ginny and Trey Raymer; and in celebration of the baptism of William Andrew Ward II by Lynsey and Drew Ward; and in honor of Reverend Bill and Laura Denham on the occasion of their 45th wedding anniversary by Will, Elizabeth and Russell Denham; Whit, Martha and William Campbell; and Jim, LeeAnn and Elizabeth Denham. August 14 in celebration of the baptism of Audrey Anne Whitley by Sara and Will Whitley. August 21 in honor of Sid Davis, with gratitude, by the Thorn Family. August 28 in celebration of the baptism of Ford Chapman Mills by Lauren and Scott Mills; in celebration of the baptism of James Jeffrey Ross by Liz and Adam Ross; and in celebration of the baptism of Charles Greene Martin by Lauren and Pascal Martin.
The June "Good for a Guitar" $1 Campaign offering totaled $4,713. You are making a huge difference in the lives of students through your boundless generosity! Your gifts made it possible for seven students to recieve guitars and two second year students to continue lessons. The Wesley Community Center staff and students graciously send their appreciation and thanks!
Celebrating Lives BACK TO SCHOOL In Honor of: The birthdays of Linda Burch & Nancy Stephenson by The S.N.A.G.S BUILDING FUND In Memory of: Randy Gorham by Timothy P. Hart Elizabeth Hill by Martha Hill Jamison CARING MINISTRIES In Honor of: Bill & Laura Denham by Jan & Debbie Agee Dr. Marcella Manning by John & Eloise Lloyd In Memory of: Bette Carpenter by Linda & Dr. Abbe Ledbetter, Jr. Patricia Gow by Laura & Bill Denham Thomas Frederick Jones, Jr. by Dorothy Wynne CHILDRENS MINISTRY In Memory of: Bill Ellerbrock by Jeff & Leslie Creel Jody & Jack Evans Jana & David Gaddy Betty & Bob Geary Pat & Sandy Hendon Kyle, Martha & Claire LeFevers Claire Moughon Hugh & Fannie Parker Jeff & Connie Payne Susan & Tommy Stone Mr. & Mrs. Michael Taetz Kristin & Vance Tillman Mom’s Bible Study The Staff of Westbury UMC ELIZABETH DODGE SCHWAB MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP In Memory of: Dr. James Diamonon by Ethel Dodge ENCOUNTER WORSHIP In Memory of: Bill Ellerbrock by Susan & Tommy Stone
FRIENDS OF MUSIC In Memory of: Bette Carpenter by James F. Bunting Laura & Bill Denham Fred & Hulda Schubert GETHSEMANE CAMPUS In Memory of: Mrs. Ellen J. Fong and Mrs. May Jean Wong by Mr. & Mrs. William Jee and Family OUTREACH MINISTRIES In Memory of: James Herring by Matt & Melinda Cassidy Lynn Burke Windham, Jr. by Mr. & Mrs. Chester Benge ST. LUKE’S METHODIST CHURCH FOUNDATION In Honor of: The baptism of Sloane Christine Davis by Kandyce Singletary The 50th Wedding Anniversary of M.T. & Jane Crump by Winston Crump Dr. Jon Fleming by Ross D. Margraves The baptism of Claire Wells by Suzanne & Milton Palmer Jr. In Memory of: Bette Carpenter by Bruce & Wayne Bardwell Mr. & Mrs. Gus K. Eifler Janet Head Pene Moore Sarah Parks Beverly J. Watson Carolyn Wildenthal Jim Davenport by Betty & Bob Geary Mr. & Mrs. Richard Miller Grace M. Perez Rhetta Davis by Bruce & Wayne Bardwell Bill Ellerbrock by Barbara & David Henington John Goss by Walter M. Bering Patricia Gow by Barbara O’Toole Shirley Ann Smith
Thomas Frederick Jones, Jr. by Johnelle M. Cortner James L. Dougherty, Jr. James Herring by Barbara Finney Pat Sacaris Sonja Searles & Sid Victory Virginia Wallace John H. Lindsey by Walter M. Bering Nina B. Margraves by Ross D. Margraves James Maurice Robison by Kate & Woody Scott Sterling Womack by David J. Devine & Pamela R. Smith
THE STORY In Honor of: The baptism of Gray Houston Smith by Ed & Debbie Singleton In Memory of: Jason Thiesfeld by Meredith & Jason Thiesfeld UMM SCHOLARSHIP FUND In Memory of: Ken Crow by Dick Brewer WOODSHOP In Honor of: Paul Renner by J. Arnold Smith The Woodshop by Elizabeth & Sean Duffin WYCLIFFE BIBLE MINISTRIES In Honor of: Boyd Wagner by Sue & John Farrell In Memory of: Joyce Irene Wagner by Sue & John Farrell
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Caring and Sharing As Christians, we are called to care and pray for one another. Congratulations to: Valerie Lynn Wuerth and Timothy Laurence Brooks, who were united in marriage on July 16. Anna Alexandrovna Bakharyeva and Scott Matthew Lewis, who were united in marriage on July 16. Lauren Kathleen Gallagher and David Leslie Kunze, who were united in marriage on July 23. Megan Elizabeth Minns and John Terrell King, who were united in marriage on July 30. Colin and Katie Johnson on the birth of their daughter, Claire Taylor Johnson, on August 2. Taylor Lauren Shingledecker and Wesley Sloan Brown, who were united in marriage on August 6. Meredith Michelle Byrnes and Carson Robert Pfluger, who were united in marriage on August 13.
Larry and Mary Matysiak and Laura and A.J. Yoakum on the death of Larry’s mother, Esther Elizabeth “Doll” Rader Matysiak, on July 18. Family and friends of Elise Caston Cort, who died on July 23. David and Audrey Gow, Lawson and Lauren Gow, David Gow, Jr., Christopher and Katie Gow, Sarah Gow, and Wesley Gow on the death of David mother, Patricia Lawson Gow, on July 24. Family and friends of Mary Alleta Coats Whitley, who died on July 27. Larkin and Sally Matthews, Elizabeth and Seann Duffin, Catherine and Andrew Washington, Jack and Marla Matthews and their families on the death of Larkin’s sister, Sara Matthews “Sally” Buchanan, on July 30. Evelyn McCullough and family on the death of Evelyn’s husband, David Melville “Buck” McCullough, on August 1. Brian and Bonnie Rhames, Joshua and Jordan Rhames on the death of Brian’s father Bruce Lynn Rhames, on August 3. David and Quentin Collard, Meredith Collard, and Corinne Collard on the death of David’s father, Fred Collard, on August 5. Gloria Hjalmarson on the death of her husband, Magnus “Mike” Hjalmarson, on August 8. Family and friends of Joyce Toellner, who died on August 11. Family and friends of Allen Edward Cairnes, who died on August 13.
May the god of hope fill you with joy and peace
as you trust in him. Romans 5:13
Our Sympathy to: Chris and William Leighton, Wills and Charlotte Leighton on the death of Chris’ mother, Barbara Jean Franze, on May 22. Lisa and Tom Gossett, Sarah Gossett, and Rachel Gossett on the death of Lisa’s father, Alvin Brunn, on June 28. Hunter and Ivan Lazo on the death of Hunter’s grandmother, Peggy Land, on June 28. Family and friends of Janet Rothrock Johnson, who died on June 28. Alice Burguieres on the death of her husband, Philip Joseph Burguieres on June 30. Elaine Herring on the death of her husband, James Henry Herring III, on July 8. Larry and Nan Moore on the death of Larry’s cousin. Sarah Bottomley on the death of her cousin, Rosemary H. Tellen, on July 14. Katy Pratt on the death of her son, James Laurens “Jimmy” Pratt, on July 15. Lynda Crist on the death of her husband, William Britton Crist, on July 16. Bill and May Jee on the death of Bill’s sister, Ellen Jee Fong, on July 17.
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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 We Care! St. Luke's Caring Ministry delights in praying with members prior to surgeries and during hospitalizations. Contact Laurie Kereluk with details at 713-402-5004 or lkereluk@stlukesmethodist.org
A Tale of Two Signs by Denise Snider On August 25, St. Luke’s UMC sent a team to Baton Rouge, Louisiana to help the people recover from devastating floods. As the team headed out on I-10, they thought about what the scene would look like. Would it be chaotic? Would people be completely devastated and heartbroken? Were they going to enter a somber space? Maybe the people would just focus on the task at hand not want to talk about what happened? What would be the general attitude of the community? What would the houses look like? Were they going to be covered in mud and mold? Were they going to find snakes and spiders? There were a lot of unknowns on their mind but one thing they were sure of, they were called to give themselves away in generosity and service. To be Christ to the people. To love on them. To help their neighbors recover from the disaster. That is exactly what they set out to do. With thousands of diapers, hundreds flood buckets, and enough tools for a small army... they were ready. When they arrived, they quickly learned that Broadmoor UMC was a light in their community. While there was a bit of chaos as people figured out what they were doing, there was also generosity, peace and love. Broadmoor UMC has been an inside out church, serving and loving their community. A local elementary school was completely destroyed and closed for the year. When Broadmoor UMC learned the devastating news, they immediately opened their doors to the school. The church has now become a school, hosting the teachers, the staff, and all the wonderful children who come to learn. They are providing a safe, loving environment so the children can continue to learn, and regain a since of normalcy in their life. All guests who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ, for He Himself will say: “I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” This sign was placed in a random location so those passing by will know they are loved and cared for. It was a reminder to the people that no matter who they were, where they came from, or what they did, they would be treated with kindness and respect. It was an image of gentleness for those who were burdened and weary because of the challenging aftermath of the storms. It was yet another sign of how the church cared deeply for each person they encountered. These are only two of so many stories of people coming together to support each other. Though the floods may have devastated the physical neighborhoods of this region, they cannot destroy the community that exists there. So we invite you to come alongside them. Let us give ourselves away in service and generosity. Join us later in September to make more flood buckets for Louisiana. We are planning to send more disaster recovery teams to partner with Broadmoor UMC. If you are interested in either of these opportunities, email Denise Snider at dsnider@stlukemethodist.org.
L I F T off !
NEW LIVING IN FAITH TOGETHER (LIFT) SMALL GROUPS LAUNCHING THIS FALL!
Are you wanting to go deeper with a community of believers and seek out a lasting faith that will sustain you through life’s ups and downs? God may be nudging you to join a LIFT (Living in Faith Together) Group this fall. LIFT Groups are small groups of about 12 people who meet regularly to pray, study the Bible, share their stories with each other, build lasting friendships, and serve the world and community together. Beginning the week of September 11, we will be launching new LIFT groups to participate in an 8-week small group experience, which will coordinate with the fall sermon series Yours, Mine, and Ours, as well as study the book The Genius of Generosity by Chip Ingram. To register for a new LIFT group, please visit www.stlukesmethodist.org/groupfinder.
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