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August 2012

firsteditionthe

School Year Program Kicks OffEnough! Page 6

Houston is Way Cool! 3

September 2012

A publication of First Choice Ministries First Methodist Houston

fmhouston.com

2 August 2012 3August 2012 fmhouston.com

Way To Go, First Methodist!Dr. Paul Clines

keeping the sabbathSeptember 2

Dr. Steve Wende preaching8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown

Dr. David Pendergrass preaching8:15 and 10:30 a.m. Westchase

September 9Dr. Steve Wende preaching8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown

Dr. Paul Clines preaching8:15 and 10:30 a.m. Westchase







Hispanic Worship ServiceSundays at 11 a.m.

6th Floor DowntownRev. Humberto Hernandez preaching

Sunday School9:15 a.m. Westchase9:50 a.m. Downtown

Sign Language Interpretation10:30 a.m. Westchase

11 a.m. Downtown

Communion and Healing12:05 p.m. Bintliff Chapel Downtown

It’s been a terrific summer here at First Methodist! Here’s a quick snapshot:

• We’ve sent teams of youth and adults around the world sharing the Good News of Jesus

• Our VBS programs at both campuses were filled with singing, stories about Je-sus and practical life lessons for enormous crowds of children

• Our JOY camp was an exciting week of sharing Jesus’ love with families from across the city who have children with special needs. Seeing the smiles and joy in the eyes of these children and youth would melt the stoniest of hearts

• We’ve made great impact at Port Houston, the Willow Falls apartments and multiple other local mission out-reaches that enable us to express God’s love in practical ways among people who are hurting.

• Renovation at both campuses has begun in earnest…we’re making our fa-cilities more attractive and inviting to the city God has called us to reach.

• Our Quillian Summer Camp Minis-try has touched the lives of almost 200 children every day and each week our ministers and directors have been meet-ing with the summer camp kids to share Bible stories and worship.

I’m telling you, there are bigger church-es and there are wealthier churches but there are very few churches on the planet who consistently impact the number of lives beyond our walls with the Gospel like First does. It is inspiring and awe-some! I’m sure if you bend your ear to Heaven there’s a chorus shouting “Way to go First Methodist…way to go!!”

I share this little snippet of a First Church summer because it’s impossible for anyone to absorb all the good this church does. I also share this with you be-cause I know that it’s easy to lose sight of how God is accomplishing his plans here. It’s easy to see the financial challenges, the things we don’t like, the areas where fruit hasn’t appeared yet, you know…all the frustrating things that are a part of an or-ganization with human beings involved. The problems and challenges are real and need to be addressed with spiritual wis-dom and transparency. But please don’t lose sight of the enormous good that is happening around here! The Holy Spirit is living and active and using broken peo-ple just like us to change the world! Way to go, First Methodist!!

Flu ShotSDowntown

thursday, September 13 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Cost: $25 Medicare Part B accepted - $0 co-pay (bonus Randall’s voucher for 10% off purchase)


NEWS | FIRST EDITIONFIRST EDITION | NEWS

United Methodist Men NewsBy Tom Weir By Charles Thompson

Upcoming Walk to Emmaus Dates

The Walk to Emmaus is a remarkable spiritual renewal program. It offers an op-portunity to rediscover Christ’s presence, gain fresh understanding of God’s trans-forming grace, and form friendships that foster faith and support spiritual maturity.

Listed below are Emmaus Walks in the Houston area this fall. Ask Christ whether He wants you to join others in your church in this special time with Him!

Men’s Walk #68 Sept. 20-23Men’s Walk #69 Oct. 18-21

Women’s Walk #70 Oct. 25-28

For more information and application forms, go to www.hwec.org.

Our meeting Saturday, Aug. 11 was an-other really great meeting. Many thanks to our president, Roy Plaisance, for lining up great speakers for UMM. David W. Wade, our August speaker, is the Harris County Texas liaison for the office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. His talk reviewed the necessity of planning for the possibility that a hurricane will come through our area and if you plan to vacate the area, preparations need to include a full tank of gas, nonperishable food, first aid kit, generator, portable stove, and if you plan to “hunker down”, include also some kind of lights, and additional water. He went on to share some amazing facts about Harris County. The county has 34 cities in it, in addition to 1,777 square miles, and over 9,000 miles of under-ground pipe going all over the place that hold oil, gas, water and other chemicals because of the refineries in our county as well as our very large population.

The August meeting included a memo-rial service for one of the UMM saints who has gone before us, Martin Flores. We will

miss Martin’s presence, his humor, and his love for the church. I would like to thank the men who assisted me with this service, Roy Plaisance, Gary Beasley, Glen Severs, and Ervin Kroll.

Our Sept. 8 meeting promises to be great also. Congressman Gene Green will be our speaker. He has represented the 29th Congressional District of Texas since 1992. Prior to being elected to the United States Congress, he served 20 years in the Texas House of Representatives and the Texas Senate. He currently serves as the Ranking Member on the Subcommittee on Environment and the Economy, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power, and the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations. The Green family attends Spring Woods United Methodist Church in Houston.

UMM is a men’s ministry of men for men who are followers of Christ. Join us in Christian fellowship on Sept. 8 in the Downtown Fellowship Hall. Breakfast will be served at 7:30 a.m. All men are wel-come, ages 12 to 112+.

United Methodist Men Humor: Join-ing a Church (from Senior News May

2012, contributed by Johnnie Pegues) A Texas man went to the Baptist church and asked to join. The preacher said “OK, but you have to pass a Bible test first. Here’s the question, ‘Where was Jesus born?’” The man thought a minute and said, “Longview.” The preacher said, “Sorry, you can’t join our church.” So the man went on down the road to a Pentecostal church and asked to join. The preacher said, “We’d love to have you. You have to pass a Bible test first, though. Here’s the question, ‘Where was Jesus born?’” Quicker this time, the man said, “Tyler.” The preacher said, “No way can you join our church!” So, on the man goes, down the road to the Method-ist church and asked if he could join. The preacher said, “Sure you can join! We welcome you!” The man said, “You mean I don’t have to pass a Bible test first?” The preacher said, “No.” The man said, “Can I ask you a question then?” “Certainly,” said the Methodist preacher. “Where was Jesus born?” the man asked. The preacher answered, “Palestine.” The man nodded, and mumbled to himself, “I knew it was somewhere in East Texas.”

I wish you could have been a fly on the wall during a recent con-versation I had with Stan Adams and Judy Saenz. They were sharing information from years past about changes that have come about dur-ing their tenure. Stan, of course, grew up in First Methodist and Judy has been on staff for almost 40 years. I would like to share with you some of their comments.

In the old days, if members want-ed to go from the Sanctuary to the educational building, they had to go out-side and come in another door that led to the chapel and elevators. On the left side next to the elevators there were two stair-ways, with one going to the fourth floor and the other going all the way to the sixth floor. The present stairway on the back of the educational building is a replacement of the old steel stairway that was once out-side the building.

Around 1960 things began to change. The educational building was renovated completely at a cost of millions; the heat-ing and air conditioning units were re-worked; the present Clay Street lobby was added, including the beautiful art glass windows; the old stairways went away and the present Travis Street stairway came into being; the great Skinner organ was built; Joe Stanley put in the present wood floor-ing; the kitchen was changed from cooking to warming; some real characters, not like the present day, were on staff including Lula Davis, Raye Gilmore, Josephine Lock-ett, Willie Cook, Clarence Washington, Jimmy Houston and pastoral staff which included Clyde Verheyden, Orval Strong, Fred Marsh, Bob Stevens; as well as music staff Charles Mosely, Charles Beachler and Scott Davis. Boy, those were the days!

Around 1983 things began changing again. The televison ministry was updated with new cameras and lay volunteers took over the operation of broadcasting the wor-ship services instead of Channel 13 person-nel. And, who can forget the December fire that caused damage to the Sanctuary

windows and Clay Street balcony? As a result, new carpet and parquet flooring was added; work was done to the choir loft and wings were added over the doors that led to Main and Clay Streets; the great Skinner Organ was enlarged, and a stage was built by George Paul giving us more room in the pulpit area for large productions. Broken windows in the educational building were replaced with, at that time, state of the art solid windowpanes. Boy, those were the days!

When Dr. Steve Wende came as pastor in 2001 he discovered a great church with two campuses but with a huge debt hang-ing over our heads. Thank God, we are no longer in that situation. Also, he found an aging educational building downtown in bad need of repair. It had been forty years since the renovation of the educational building was completed. Now, you and I have the privilege of living in these new days when we can do for our time what others did for their time. Boy, what a blessing!

At the end of our conversation together, having thought of so many stories that I don’t have room to share with you, Stan, Judy and I recounted how time after time the bellwether church of Methodism, the people of ages past as well as the our pres-ent congregation, have stood by this great church to be used by God to win people to Christ and get them into heaven. We can only imagine the great thousands of souls whose lives have been and will continue to be made better because of the existence of First Methodist Houston. Boy, these are the days!

A Fly On The Wall

Women’s Style Show & Luncheonfeaturing Lisa Aldis & Luisa Kenny

Sunday, Sept. 3012:30 p.m.Downtown Fellowship Hall

Donations accepted: Scarves and black purses for Dress for Success

Tickets: $10.00For information or to purchase a ticket, call 832-668-1879 or [email protected]

Ladies, come just as you are for lunch, fashion and fun!

(L to R on stage) Gerald Ray on grand piano narrated and led our Downtown Hymn Sing with the help of Sanctuary Choir quartet Cynthia Douglas, Rike Haj, John Weinel and Terry Morris. Everyone in attendance enjoyed the fried chicken and fixins and the sing-a-long of great old revival hymns.

If you have strong management,

people and organizational skills,

experience with the complexity of

managing a large campus/facility

and are interested in working as a

part of the staff team at First

Methodist Houston, Westchase,

please send your resume to Natalie

Stotts at [email protected].

LOOKING TO HIRE A FACILITIES

MANAGER


FIRST EDITION | NEWS

First Methodist Houston Downtown Columbarium

“Our new columbarium is a beautiful way to honor the love and legacy of members of the First Methodist family. We all want a permanent resting place of prayer and signifi cance for our loved ones, and this garden area will provide such a sacred and beautiful space. It will be a witness in Houston to the love and lasting care of Christ and His people.” – Dr. Steve Wende

Q. What is a Columbarium?A. A Columbarium is a place where cremated ashes may be inurned.

Q. Why are we building a Columbarium?A. More and more frequently members of our church or their families are choosing to have their loved one’s remains cremated. Creating a space for these remains in the church grounds is a way of honoring the life and legacy of those who have loved the Lord. It is a tradition that goes back to the early Christians.

Q. What does the Church teach about cremation?A. The Christian understanding of the resurrection of the body is based on the example of Jesus’ resurrection. St. Paul tells us that our bodies will be transformed when the perishable puts on the imperishable ( I Cor 15:53). In other words, as we die in Christ our resurrection life is not so much a continu-ation of life as we have known it as it is becoming more truly and com-pletely alive than we can now imagine. The promise is that God will restore all of the person to a new level of perfection. Therefore, historically the church has endorsed burial, cremation, or burial at sea, knowing that God will raise up the faithful Christian to abundant and whole life.

Q. How much will a “niche” cost?A. The beginning price per niche for the new columbarium, good until December 31, 2012, is $4,000. Each niche will be the same size with the capacity for two urns with a uniform cover plate. All proceeds will go to Downtown renovations.

Q. How can I get detailed information about purchasing a niche?A. Contact Judy Saenz in the church offi ce at 832-668-1836 or [email protected].

NEWS | FIRST EDITION

A sermon series in October by Dr. Steve Wende and Dr. Paul Clines will feature concepts on living simply and generously from the book Enough by Adam Hamilton.

Enough is an invitation to rediscover the Bible’s wisdom when it comes to good financial practices. It shares keys to experiencing con-

tentment, overcoming fear and discovering joy through simplicity and generosity.

The book features practical guidelines to help everyone reduce two common mala-dies in today’s culture: affluenza, the desire for bigger and better “things,” and credit-itis, the overuse of credit cards that has created mounting debt for many people.

Members are encouraged to purchase the book, which is available at both cam-pus bookstores. Thanks to a generous donation from a church member, the price of the book is $5 – half the original purchase price.

Also, Sunday School classes will have material based on the book available to them for use.

The book’s author is Senior Pastor of the United Methodist Church of the Resur-rection in Kansas, one of the country’s fastest growing churches. In his book, Hamilton invites readers to see their money and possessions with new eyes, remembering, as Jesus taught, “One’s life does not consist of abundance of pos-sessions.”

“In today’s tough economic times, it’s important to reassess how we look at money and the things we have through Bibli-cal principles. Doing so will free us to live simply and generously,” Dr. Wende notes.

Everybody Ought to Know:

Everybody ought to know that your faithfulness to God allows our children the opportunity to expe-rience His love through Bible study, retreats, camps, and special events.

Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity

GriefShare Sessions Begin in September

Ecclesiastes 3:4 tells us that there is “a time to weep…a time to mourn”. For those struggling through a season of mourning, there is GriefShare, a video series and a car-ing group of people who will walk along-side you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. Beginning September 12 we will meet on Wednesdays, in the Library on the first of the Wesley Academy build-ing on the Westchase Campus. Sessions are from 6:00pm until 7:30pm. Please join us. For more information, please contact Sandy Rogers at 281-568-8709. Everyone is welcome. Feel free to pass this information on to anyone you know that is grieving the loss of a loved one.

The JOY Ministry reaches out to children, youth and adults with special needs as well as their families.

Join us for one of our JOY respites! All activities in Quillian Gym

unless noted.• Sat., Sept. 8, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.• Sat., Oct. 13, 3:30-7:30 p.m.• Sat. Nov. 10, 3:30-7:30 p.m.• Sat., Dec. 8, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.,

Stansbury Hall

The First Methodist Houston FoundationBy Allen Houk

The Foundation exists to provide for perpetual support of the ministries, witness and growth of First Methodist Houston.

The mission statement of the Church’s Foundation was recently decided upon even as a decision was made to place all funds left in memorials to the church, such as “Liv-ing Memorials”, with the Foundation so that those gifts may become “perpetual”. The Foundation invests, rather then spends, funds it receives so that the corpus of the gift is retained in perpetuity. Gifts identified as made for the benefit of a specific ministry will be handled as in the past with the designated ministry receiving the funds.

Receive a letter about wills and the Foundation? Don’t throw it away. Read it, act on it, call me, Allen Houk 832-668-1834 or e-mail me at [email protected] or [email protected].

8 August 2012August 2012

FIRST EDITION | ADULT EDUCATION MUSIC MINISTRY | FIRST EDITION

9fmhouston.com

Beginning Sign Language

Mondays, Sept. 19 – Dec. 10, 4:30-6 p.m.Cost: $45Location:1320 Main at Clay St, Houston.

A class that teaches the understanding of the manual language, its history and cul-ture. Basis Signs and Signing Communica-tion are taught in a unique and visual man-ner through conversation and storytelling. American Sign Language has been docu-mented as an incredible way to increase eye to hand coordination, language develop-ment, visual comprehension and cognitive thinking skills. Badges will be awarded at the conclusion of the workshop. Addition-al classes and workshops are offered for any participant who wishes to learn more. This class is open to all home-schoolers and any other interested youth of all ages. This class is accredited as a foreign language class and provides efficient practice at a level that would provide knowledge and comprehen-sion for Advanced Placement or Credit by Exam at the High School level.

ASL Illustrating MusicMondays, Sept. 19 – Dec. 10, 6-7:30 p.m.Location:1320 Main at Clay St, Houston. Cost: $45

A class that teaches the understanding of the manual language, its history and cul-ture in a way that gives a clear understand-ing of morphemes, use of space, glossing, and conceptual delivery. Basis to Advance Signs, Facial and Body Language, Inter-preting vs. Transliterating, Ethics and Sign-ing Communication are taught in a unique and visual manner through the interpreta-tion of the poetic message of songs. ASL has been documented as an incredible way to increase eye to hand coordination, lan-guage development; visual comprehension; and cognitive thinking skills.

At this level, ASL will come to life as a beautiful visual form of expressive commu-nication and witness. This class is accred-ited as a foreign language class and pro-vides efficient practice at a level that would provide knowledge and comprehension for Advanced Placement or Credit by Exam. Certificates of Completion and transcript will be awarded at the conclusion of the workshop. Additional classes and work-shops are offered for any participant who wishes to learn more.

Introduction to Deaf History and Culture

Mondays, Sept. 19 – Dec. 10, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m. Location:1320 Main at Clay St, HoustonCost: $45

A class that teaches the understanding of the manual language, its history and culture in a way that gives a clear under-standing of it as a language. This class is intended to help you understand the back-ground, culture and communication styles of the deaf and hard of hearing. There will be various resources available that further explain in-depth various aspects of the deaf culture as well as language usage. Most deaf and hard of hearing individuals are happy to explain their preferred communication style as well as their unique backgrounds.

The deaf culture is ethnocentric in na-ture, centered around sign language and relationships among one another. Unlike other cultures, the Deaf culture is not asso-ciated with any native land but, rather it is a global culture. Although by some, deaf-ness maybe viewed as a disability, the Deaf-World sees itself as a language minority.

Throughout the years, many accomplish-ments have been achieved by deaf people. To name the most famous, Ludwig van Beethoven and Thomas Alva Edison were both deaf and contributed great works to culture.

At this level, ASL will come to life as a beautiful visual form of communication with vast historical and cultural signifi-cance. Additional classes and workshops are offered for any participant who wishes to learn more.

Pol. ad paid for by Brett Busby Campaign, Warren W. Harris, Treasurer

Congratulationsto FM member Brett Busby

on his appointment tothe 14th Court of Appeals!

To learn more about Brett andhow you can help him keep his seat

in the November 6 election, please visitwww.BrettBusby.com

First Methodist Houston TravelsTo Portugal and Spain and Beyond

“The Uttermost Parts of the World”

Contact Judy Saenz at 832-668-1836 or [email protected] to receive more information.

LisbonTroia

MeridaCordobaGranada

ItalicaSevilleToledo

Madrid

Tour Guides: Dr. Jim Fleming & Hannaniah Pinto

April 20-May 2, 2013

$5,350 per person (round trip from Houston)

Our own Sanctuary Choir has invited us to join them on their Choir Tour in 2013. Can you imagine traveling with such a fun, talented, interesting and friendly group of people? You will have the opportunity not only to see amazing sights, but hear our choir perform in concert at Holy Trinity Church and participate in worship at Wesley’s Chapel and St. Mary’s Haddington Road. We will be staying in Dublin, Caernarfon, Oxford and London. While in those cities there will be many guided tours of interesting sites. Just to mention a few: House of Crystal in Waterford, Book of Kells at the Trinity College Library in Dublin, Caernarfon Castle, Warwick Castle, Stonehenge, and Windsor Castle. The cost of the Choir tour is $3,860 double occupancy, single room supplement is $850. There are a limited number of spaces available for friends of the choir so make sure to get your reservation in. If you need more detailed information or to sign up, please contact Judy Saenz, 832-668-1836 or [email protected].

Sanctuary Choir Invites You To Join Them On Their Concert Tour Of Ireland, Wales And England June 13-24, 2013

Our society is at a crossroads. What can we do to move into the future? The answer is this: Go deeper into God’s Word and go out into the world. Disciple 2: Into the Word Into the World is the second of four courses within the Disciple program. Over one million individuals worldwide have completed this course and have found a deeper understanding and love of God’s Word through their participation. Disciple 2 encourages people to open themselves to hearing what God has to say to them through the Bible and to be guided into their particular ministry in the world through the study of God’s Word. During the course of 32 weeks, we will deepen our biblical understanding of selected Scripture (Genesis, Exodus, Luke, and Acts).

When: Wednesday Nights, 6-8 p.m.Orientation: Sept. 12; Class Starts: Sept. 19Where: 5th Floor ParlorCost: $40 for class materials (Scholarships available if needed)Facilitator: Colleen DillahuntyContact: Liz Norris at [email protected] or 832-668-1879 to sign up

Disciple 2: Into The Word Into The World


QUILLIAN CENTER | FIRST EDITIONFIRST EDITION | CHILDREN’S MINISTRY DOWNTOWN

After School Care At Quillian CenterOur fun and safe after-school program

serves children in grades K- 8. Each day, children are provided with a snack and supervised time for homework. They also enjoy time in our game room, playground, pavilion and gymnasium. Children may stay at Quillian as late as 6:30pm. Quillian also offers enrichment opportunities for after school students such as dance, chess, golf, art, rock climbing, drama, and gym-nastics. Drop-in care is available during Thanksgiving, Winter and Spring Breaks as well as most school holidays for those reg-istered in the After School Program.

Quillian Center proudly serves Sneed, Outley, Shadowbriar, Walnut Bend, Askew, Briarmeadow, Frostwood, Rummel Creek Wilchester and Wesley Academy. Online registration begins Monday August 6, 2012 at www.quilliancenter.org. Registration is $100 for the school year, and tuition is $250 per month, except for Briarmeadow, which is $275. For more information, contact Beverly Okosun at 713-458-4713 or [email protected].

Kidz Night OutKidz Night Out

is hosted on Friday nights twice a month just for kids. Chil-dren between the ages of 5 to 14 will engage in a fun, en-ergetic and safe envi-ronment, focused on keeping kids active. They will have the op-portunity to hang out with friends, interact with a professional staff and participate in activities that will want them coming back for more. Kidz Night Out is from 6:30pm to 10:30pm.

The fee for Kidz Night Out is $25 for one child, $45 for two children and $60 for three children. This includes dinner, drinks snacks and activities. If you are a member of First United Methodist Church or Quillian Center you receive a $10 dis-count. To sign up for a Quillian member-ship or reserve a Kidz Night Out spot, please contact Beverly Okosun.

Dates & Themes:• September 7, 2012: Slumber Party• September 21, 2012: Movies Night• October 5, 2012: Rock Climbing Night• October 19, 2012: Costume Party• November 2, 2012: Silly Games Night• November 16, 2012: Moonwalk Night• November 30, 2012: Scavenger Hunt

Night• December 7, 2012: Quillian X Games• December 21, 2012: Bring On Santa

Senior Adult Exercise Group

Don’t miss out on the fun with daily jokes, good conversations, and a little ex-ercise mixed in as well. This is a stretching and toning class designed for older adults. Following exercise class there will be lunch. Each week we will rotate between ordering in, going dutch, bring your own or covered dish. Tuesdays at 11am, beginning September 4. Contact Tom Gaden for more information.

Senior Adult Golf League

Senior adults are encourages to par-ticipate in Quillian’s Senior Adult Golf League. The group meets at Sharpstown Golf Center and tees off at approximately 10am on Thursday mornings.

Upcoming Dates:• September 6 & 20• October 4 & 18• November 1 & 15• December 6 & 20

To reserve your tee time, contact Tom Gaden at 713-458-4705 or [email protected].

September 20th12 pm-1pm

Churrasco’s River Oaks$20 per person

Come join us as we reconnect over lunch and share the joys of motherhood! We will be discussing

ways to motivate our children to grow into Christ-centered successful young men and women.

Invite your friends!

Moms@Lunch

Succeed!

Reservations by September 9th to [email protected]

fmhouston.com

Did you know there is a Christian school on the Westchase Campus? In fact, Elaine Pendergrass, the Westchase Minister to Children, is part of the newly established Head of School team!

Are you in search of a Christian school with fantastic, loving teachers? Would you like to know that your child is challenged academically, provided with personal instruction and taught biblical principles?

If you are in search of a Christian school for your child (6 months – 8th grade), then Wesley Academy is a great choice! For more information, or to set up a tour, call 713-266-3341.

Youth Sports VolunteersWe are looking for men and women that have a heart for working with children. We are looking for both volunteer coaches and team

ambassadors to assist in our upcoming youth sports leagues. Volunteer coaches will be taught drills and the skills needed for success in our leagues. Team ambassadors will be there to help the coaches out and lead the team in prayer before games. If you have interest in becoming active in Quillian Youth Sports, please contact Tom Gaden.


YOUNG ADULTS | FIRST EDITIONFIRST EDITION | MISSIONS

July 29 - August 4, 2012Register today at

www.pinecove.com/summer-camps/outback.

Building on our city’s new coolness cred, the young adults – The Contemporary Class - have made a bold decision. “It is time for us to move outside the walls of our church. We want to reach young adults who may not be willing to step inside a church building yet,” say class leaders Brant Wallace and Gordon Dillahunty. The group researched options within walking distance of Main Street. Downtown dwell-er and fellow classmate Sam Song made the call – “Phoenicia is new in downtown and is where everyone hangs out. That is where we need to be.”

So, this fall at 9:50 a.m. on Sundays, that is where you will find the newest growing segment of our congregation – tackling tough faith questions over coffee in the MKT Bar at Phoenicia Downtown Mar-ket, located at 1001 Austin Street (between McKinney and Lamar). It is an easy stroll from the church – which means people can make either the new contemporary wor-ship at 8:45 a.m. or our traditional 11a.m. service.

To kick off the bold change, the class has also chosen a bold new study, “What’s the Least I can Believe and Still Be a Chris-tian?” by Martin Thielen. The author has compiled a list of ten things Christians need to believe and ten things they don’t to qualify as Christians. Many young people hunger for an expression of Christian faith that is different from the judgmental and narrow-minded caricatures they see on television or in the news. This lively and engaging book will be a help to seekers as well as a comfort to believers who may find themselves questioning some of the assumptions they grew up with. And on this journey, discover authentic Christian insights that speak to our deepest need.

Houston is Way Cool!

“Cool” is defined by Merriam-Webster’s dictionary as “very good; fashionable.” Houston may not be the first place you associate with being hip or trendy. But we do have something many other major cities don’t: jobs. Nearly 50,000 Americans ar-rived in our city this last year -- particularly young professionals. Did you know that the median age of a Houston resident is a youthful 33? Wow!

If you have been downtown lately, you have seen some of the effects. Over the past decade, the dreary corporate cityscape has been quietly transforming. Stylish housing developments have popped up downtown, restaurants have taken up residence in for-mer factories and art galleries have moved into warehouses. Add in a strong theater scene, world-class museums and a multi-cultural mash-up of a streetscape and you can easily see why Houston has the No. 1 spot on Forbes’ list of America’s Coolest Cities to Live. (To locate the article and top 20 list - which includes 4 other Texas cities, go to www.forbes.com.)

The Primetimers’ (Seniors) Summer of Service project at Wesley Community Center was a huge success! The group assembled 180 bags of groceries for the senior and family food programs and sorted 400 pounds of rice and beans into two pound bags.

Young Adults

Want more info about what’s happening in the Missions Ministry?• Pick up a Missions Ministry booklet from the kiosk in the Downtown Lobby or Westchase Atrium.• Visit us online at fmhouston.com.• Check us out on Facebook - search “First Methodist Houston Missions.”• Contact the Missions Office at 832-668-1819 or [email protected].

June, July and August have been excit-ing months for us as we have reached out around the city and the world to serve those in need. We serve, as Jesus did, to meet the physical or “felt needs” first, and then we share about the love that God has for each person, revealed in a personal relationship with Christ. Both are critical. We cannot share God’s love with someone in great need without first acknowledging and helping to fill the need and we cannot only serve a physical need, because the real healing and hope comes only in Jesus.

An amazing this happens when we lay aside our agendas to serve others - we find God.

We go to help someone else and we come away with more blessings than what we gave. We find humilty, grace and peace and see the best of ourselves. In a world consumed with “self ”, we desperately need this. Our families need this. So, if you were unable to make that committment this summer, you can begin this fall.

If you were a part of the serving team this summer, you have been a part of ministry to the following communities/agencies or countries:

Port Houston Community - N.I.A.Willow Falls Apt. - ImigrantsLifeline - HomelessBeing an Online MissionaryWHAMWesley Community CenterHouse of AmosSEARCHEmergency Aid CoalitionThe BeaconCovenant HouseChristian AllianceApartment MinistryLocal PrisonsLife Center for the HomelessOpen Door MissionEagle PassThailandAlaskaHondurasGuatemala Through our prayer focus for a differ-

ent region and individual people groups many of you joined in to make a huge difference throughout the world, through prayer. Change is coming in each week through the change cans and will be used for the translation of scripture into a new language.

Change Cans for Bible Translation

If you have not picked up your change can, you may do so at Mission Control Center (Westchase) or the Welcome Cen-ter (Downtown). When your can is full please return it to either of these locations. This collection will continue year round and in June, the collections will go to tran-late the Bible into a new language.

Upcoming Mission Trips

Mission trips for 2013 are now being set. Make it your goal to serve on one in the next 12 months. Some of the trips that have been scheduled are:

Eagle Pass - Oct. 10-14, 2012 - Repair-ing homes, working with families and at food bank.

Cuba - Nov. 2 - 10, 2012 - Serving with sister church to encourage members.

Eagle Pass - Dec. 19-23, 2012 - Repair-ing homes, bringing Christmas to families, working with children.

Haiti - Feb. 2-9, 2013 - Working in a local community on homes and with families and children.

Nicaragua - Feb. 2013 - Women’s trip.Cuba - April 2013 - Serving with sister

church to encourage members.Thailand - June 2013 - Serving at

school, camps and home for Burmese refugee children.

Nicaragua - Aug. 11- 18, 2013 - Digging water wells.

Guatemala - Oct. 2013 – Medical surgery team.

Celebrating 2012 Summer of Service Reaching Unreached People


JOYS AND CONCERNS | FIRST EDITIONFIRST EDITION | WOMEN’S MINISTRY

FIND US ON:TV: Sundays live on KUBE-TV, channel 53 (Comcast) and channel 653 (Comcast HD). Dish & Direct TV subscribers will find us on channel 57. Channel 13 (KTRK) carries th e sermon portion of the service at 5 a.m., delayed by one week.Radio: KHCB-FM 105.7 on Sundays at 8 p.m.Internet: fmhouston.comVideo streaming: fmhouston.com/communications/livestreaming.aspxBy phone: 832.668.1800 (DT) or 713.458.4700 (WC)

PASTOR ON CALL:When the church offices are closed, you may dial the “Pastor on Call” and leave your name, a number where you can be reached, and a brief word about the nature of your emergency.

The pastor “on call” will return your call as quickly as possible.

Pastor on Call: 832.668.1800, option 7

PRAYER REQUESTSIf you or someone you know needs prayer, fill out a prayer card at church, call the church office or submit your request through our website. Because of your support, First Methodist Houston provides Stephen Ministers, Good Neighbors, Hospital Visitation, CanCare, AIDS Care and Alzheimers Care.

“First Edition” (USPS 015-624) is published monthly for $25 per year by First United Methodist Church, 1320 Main Street, Hous-ton, TX 77002-6803. Phone 832-668-1800. Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, Texas and at additonal Mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to First Edition, 1320 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002-6803.Website: fmhouston.com

In Honor Of: Designated Fund: Given By:Rev. Charles Thompson First Choice Ministries Dr Ann Zimmerer And DTDClubDR/Mrs Ed Hungerford Lifeline Ministries Quillian ClassM/M George Lehman Lifeline Ministries Quillian ClasssDr/Mrs John Weindel Downtown Music Ministries Quillian ClassBeryle Woods General Ministries Quillian ClassMyra Higginbotham General Ministries Quillian Class

In Memory Of: Designated Fund: Given By:William (Bill) Williams Jr. First Choice Ministries Frances MayberryBert Ella Brunson Living Memorial Lucille DurenVictor Sponenberg First Choice Ministries Vera StephensGlen Jamison First Choice Ministriest Vera StephensGlen Jamison General Ministries Harry ReedGlen Jamison DT Renovations M/M Dub HodgesI J Heard WC Renovations Ian,Gabbi and Annie DaughdrillI J Heard WC Renovations M/M Chris DaughdrillGayle Riley Lifeline Ministries Bobbie KiddKatharine Sponenberg First Choice Ministries M/M Rex KingVictor Sponenberg First Choice Ministries M/M Rex KingWilliam (Bill) Williams Jr. First Choice Ministries Fidelis ClassMildred Ragan Living Memorial M/M Larry KatzJim “Bucky” Harvell Stephen Ministries Brenda HarvellJessie Hampton First Choice Ministries Sharon BrownRosalie McGlaun First Choice Ministries Sharon BrownBill McGlaun First Choice Ministries Sharon BrownTheola Cooper The Gathering Place M/M Bryan FoxMartin Flores FUMC –Foundation M/M Edward LoweMartin Flores Woodward Fund Frances LunaMartin Flores DT-Evangelism M/M Glen Severs Jr.Martin Flores DT-Evangelism M/M Milton HanksJesse Hampton First Choice Ministries University of Mary Washington Department of PsychologyMartin Flores Downtown Renovations M/M Edgar MarshallMartin Flores DT-Evangelism Judge Mike McSpaddenSallie Ann Lewis First Choice Ministries Dr Ann Zimmerer And DTDClubRobert I Zimmerer First Choice Ministries Dr Ann Zimmerer And DTDClubLloyd McDonald Jr. First Choice Ministries Dr Ann Zimmerer And DTDClubMary Katherine Schorm First Choice Ministries Dr Ann Zimmerer And DTDClub

honorariums and memorials

welcome to the family (since 6/10/12) “And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” - Acts 2:47

joys and concerns “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” - Romans 12:15

Births: Miss Gabrielle Michaela Guillaume, 8/2/12; daughter of Daniel and Cara Guillaume

Baptisms:Miss Isabel Lynn Kalavar and Miss Meena Elizabeth Kalavar, 8/12/12;

granddaughters of Mrs. Doris HerveyMiss Winifred Grey Stephens, 8/19/12; daughter of Jacob & Melanie Stephens

Deaths:Ms. Kathy K. Cunningham, 7/1/12Mrs. Rosalie McGlaun, 7/14/12Mr. Glen W. Jamison, 7/16/12; husband of Mrs. Margaret JamisonMr. Robert Louis Dyer, Jr., 7/17/12; husband of Mrs. Debbie DyerMr. Martin D.Flores, 7/25/12; husband of Mrs. Glenda Flores, and father to Ms

Brandy Flores, Ms Brittany Flores,Mr. Ralph E. Sutter, 8/4/12, Uncle to Ms. Carola Rog.Mr. R. A. “Bob” Newberry, Jr.; 8/7/12, husband of Mrs. Irene Newberry.

• Corin Arundale, League City 77573• Scott Chase, Houston 77060• Sharon Morrison, Houston 77008• Larissa Tamez, Houston 77009

An Exciting Gift For New Members

The Sewing Connection, a group of faithful ladies who have been sewing to support missions for years, has created a new area to funnel funds earned from their annual Fall Bazaar. Through the ministry of our church which welcomes and helps new members assimilate and become con-nected, each new member will receive an audio bible through Faith Comes By Hearing. We are excited to see these ladies’ eagerness to share God’s Word with all new members.

Thanks to the efforts of the Sewing Con-nection, baby layettes, lap quilts and robes, neck coolers for the military, pillowcase dresses, cancer caps, and hats for Lifeline are but a few of the many projects benefit-ing the needy. The ladies have also begun another new focus: prayer shawls are being crocheted or knitted for those who need comfort because of life circumstances or illness.

The Sewing Connection works all year on items for the Fall Bazaar. These items include crafts and needlework. The pro-ceeds from the sale of these items cover the expenses for materials and then the balance is donated to fund various missions the ladies select: Lifeline Ministries, Star of Hope, Wounded Warriors, and now, Audio Bibles for new members.

Please join the Sewing Connection’s commitment to spread God’s word and comfort to others by supporting their up-coming Bazaar on November 4th, down-town.

For information concerning the Sewing Connection or its projects, contact Sherrill Mason, 281-485-1049.

On Monday, Aug. 6, the Let’s Read Book Club was entertained by guest reviewer LaNell Kruse as she discussed Verily, Verily: The KJV—400 years of influence and Beauty. Because of her style of delivery, over 25 women were informed, educated, and tickled all at the same time. It was a wonderful hour to spend with friends.

Our next selection, The Harbinger by Johathan Cahn, will be reviewed by Linda Calvert. Come hear about the prophetic mystery concerning America and its future. If you are intrigued to hear a discussion of end-time prophecy, this will be a day you won’t want to miss.

Join the Let’s Read Book Club on Monday, Sept. 10, at noon in Hidden Treasures Books and Gifts.

Renew, Refuel, And Recharge

It is never too late to begin a new way of think-ing about your health, mind, body, and spirit. Learn to make positive changes, have better con-trol over emotions, and transform the way you refuel and recharge your body, all while better relating to God.

Enroll with First Place for the new fall session beginning Sunday, Sept 2nd, at 10 a.m. or Wednesday, Sept. 5 at noon. Our 12-week Bible study is Seek God First, which ex-plores the importance of surrendering oneself to Jesus…first.

This fall program continues from September through mid-November at 9:45 a.m. on Sundays or noon on Wednesdays. Registration is required. The fee, $20, covers the class and the study book. Call Pam Horne: 713-385-7559.

The Tuesday Noon Bible Study is beginning on Tuesday, September 11, with Beth Moore’s: “James: Mercy Triumph’s” by DVD. Beth will ask us to consider and face the implica-tions of faith and will inspire us to get to know both the man and the Book of James. She will explore such concepts as joy, hardship, faith, wisdom, single-mindedness, the tongue, hu-mility, prayer, and more. This interactive study is eight weeks.

Lunch will be served in Fellowship Hall for $5.00 at 11:30 and the sessions will begin at 12 noon. For information call Liz at 832-668-1879.

• Craig and Addy Workman, Spring 77388• Raymond & Kimery McKaskle, Houston 77055• Zoe Gilkey, Houston 77018• Michael & Brooke Sabo, Houston 77008

What Good is Your Faith?

Let’s Read Book Club

Moms, Be All You Can Be

This new Bible study is for mothers with babies through teenagers. Mom2Mom begins our new study, Beauty by the Book by Laurie Cole on Tuesday, Sept. 18 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. Childcare will be available. Leaders will be Amy Garner and Robin Milutin. For information, call 832-668-1879.

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First United Methodist Church1320 Main StreetHouston, TX 77002

PERIODICALDated Material

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Documents

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paul clines preaching8

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summer camp kids

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