The Connection - August 22 - Sacrifice / Heroes

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AUGUST.22.2011

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Christ Church will host Nash3 in concert for the tenth anniversary of September 11th. This concert will be presented in honor of all fire fighters, police officers, EMT’s, first responders, search and rescue team members, hospital emergency room personnel, active military service personnel, and veterans. A special time of recognition will be held in between sets. There will be a display area for concert-goers to leave notes, prayers, or flowers and light a candle in memory of those who lost their lives that day and have since in defending our country from further terrorist acts.

Nash3 is a dynamic singing-songwriting trio. Over the past years they have blended their collective talents into a truly unique, harmony-driven, one-of-a-kind sound.

The concert is free; however, a love offering will be received. You are invited to join us for light refreshments at the reception following the concert.

FREE COMMUNITY - WIDE

9/11 CONCERT FEATURING Nash 3

TO HONOR EMERGENCY & MILITARY PERSONNEL

CONGRESSMAN PETE OLSON, EMCEE

9.11.2011 7:00 - 8:30 PM

Christ United Methodist Churchwww.cumcsl.org

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Note of thanksPeace, honor, and heartfelt thanks to all who, motivated by love of God and neighbor, willingly sacrifice their lives figuratively and literally to help others. Your sense of morals and ethics provides true servant leadership and forgiveness to a secular world lost in self. Whether it be through selfless action in military, police, fire, rescue, medical, political, or any other means, we are grateful for your services and sacrifices and pledge you will not be forgotten.

REV. DR. BOB PIERCE

As we approach the ten year

anniversary of September 11th, we can certainly

expect to remember and reflect on that terrible

day and the ones that immediately followed.

It was a time of sorrow and uncertainty about

what the future would hold. It was a time of

strong national pride with flags suddenly

appearing everywhere. The singing of the

national anthem at football and baseball

games carried a significance it simply had not

had for quite some time. Church attendance

sky rocketed. It didn’t last. In fact, it didn’t last

long at all. But for a moment people became

aware of a need for God and a faith to cling

to that perhaps they had not known for quite

some time. The stories of the victims and the

pain of family members and loved ones who

experienced grievous loss were heart breaking.

The many lives that were lost, and the images of

Ground Zero, the Pentagon, and the wreckage

of a downed aircraft in a field at Shanksville,

Pennsylvania were almost too gut wrenching

to bear. There were cries for justice, retribution,

and even revenge. This attack was carried out

against all of us. The pain of it was felt by all of

us.

Now ten years have passed. The pain

we knew on that day is still quite real, but over

time it has diminished a bit. The Pentagon has

been repaired. Ground Zero has become a

construction site. Each of them now includes

a place of memorial. The field in Shanksville

has become a shrine visited by many with a

permanent memorial also being created. Our

lives have changed. Things we used to take

for granted like getting on an airplane have

become more complicated. Indeed, it has

become quite commonplace for public places

to include metal detectors and pat downs. We

hardly think of it anymore. Wars have been

fought. Lives have been lost. Resources have

been expended seeking justice and protecting

the safety of the innocents. We continue to

experience tension regarding our attitudes

toward those from the Middle East in general

and Muslims in particular.

So, what word do followers of Jesus

have to offer the world ten years after that

terrible day? There is a wonderful phrase

found at the end of the thirteenth chapter of First

Corinthians. In that chapter after Paul talks about

love, and he lifts up those things that will pass

away. He speaks of those things that will cease

like prophecies, tongues and knowledge. He

says that as we are moving into the completed

or fulfilled life in Jesus Christ, the day will come

when these things will be left behind because

we will not need them any more. Then he says

that there are three things that remain—three

that will always be with us. Indeed, it is these

three that guide us into that completed life in

Jesus Christ. They are faith, hope and love. Of

the three, he says the greatest of them is love.

As believers approaching the tenth

anniversary of 9/11, we want to lift up, focus on

and give thanks to God for these three, and we

will do so in our upcoming sermon series, These

Three Remain, beginning on Sunday, August

28th. When the towers fell, it may have felt as if

our whole world was crumbling with them. Our

affirmation is simple. When it seems like we can

be overwhelmed with fear, hopelessness and

even hatred, we offer the three that in Jesus

Christ will always remain: faith, hope and love.

We do so remembering that the greatest of

these is love.

BY REV. MORRIS MATTHIS


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These Three RemainSENIOR PASTOR


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The First Methodist Heroine UNITED METHODIST MOMENT

John Wesley’s story properly begins with his mother, Susanna Annesley Wesley, the youngest of 25 children born to Dr. Samuel Annesley and his very devout wife. Dr. Annesley was a well-educated aristocrat, and a non-conformist preacher who gave up a very successful church and lifestyle because

of his convictions. When Susanna was 13, he found he could not condemn her for leaving the non-conformist movement to become an Anglican. After all, he understood the “drive” of deeply-held convictions and had encouraged her to think for herself.

Still, he had a plan which was to have a young non-conformist ministerial student drop by the Annesley home as frequently as possible. That young man was Samuel Wesley and his “unspoken” task was to convince Susanna of the “error” of her ways. Instead Susanna influenced him, and shortly thereafter Samuel left the non-conformist movement and joined the Church of England. Her beauty, intelligence, plain but exquisite taste in clothing, lovely shape and delicate hands, independent spirit, and ability to hold her own in serious theological debates captured his heart. They were married shortly after Samuel’s ordination in 1689. Samuel and Susanna had 19 children together, with 16 surviving past infancy. Among them were Charles, the great hymn writer, and John, the founder of the Methodist movement. The Wesley family moved to the Epworth Parish in 1697. At that time they had eight children. Over a short span of time, fire struck either their farm or the parsonage three different times. The third fire completely destroyed the parsonage. Susanna was pregnant at the time.

She would later write about this fire with these words: “When we opened the street door, the strong northeast wind drove the flames in with such violence that none could stand against them. But some of our children got out through the windows, the rest through a little door into the garden. I was not in a condition to climb up to the windows, neither could I get to the garden door. I endeavored three times to force my passage through the street door, but was as often beat back by the fury of the flames. In this distress I besought our blessed Saviour for help, and then waded through the fire, naked as I was, which did no further harm than a little scorching my hands and face. When Mr. Wesley had seen the other children safe, he heard the child in the nursery cry. He attempted to go up the stairs, but they were all on fire, and would not bear his weight. Finding it impossible to give any help, he kneeled down in the hall and recommended the soul of the child to God.”

That child was John Wesley, then only 6 years old. Neighbors who had come to offer what help they could stood frozen at the consideration of what might happen to young John, until one unnamed hero offered to “fix” himself against the wall, inviting others of lighter weight and taller stature to stand first on his shoulders, then on each other’s shoulders in order to build a human ladder. Just as the man at the top lifted John out of the window, the roof fell inward. Had John not been taken at just that moment, all of them would have likely perished.

With tears of gratitude, Samuel called his neighbors to come, kneel down, and pray with him. He said, “Let us give thanks to God! He has given me all my eight children; let the house go. I am rich enough!” Susanna announced John had been saved for God’s special purpose and she resolved on the spot to nurture his religious education at home. That she did, in earnest, home-schooling all her children in “letters” and in the faith. When John became an Anglican priest he would refer to himself as a “brand plucked from the burning” and he would often credit his mother’s influence, bravery, integrity, and devout faith for the strength of his own faith and witness.

There are many more stories that could be told of Susanna’s great faith and trust in God. She lived to be 73 years old. John wrote and preached her funeral sermon. Adam Clarke summarized her life by writing: “I have been acquainted with many pious females; I have read the lives of others; but such a woman, take her for all in all, I have not heard of, I have not read of, nor with her equal have I been acquainted. Such a one Solomon has described at the end of his proverbs; and adapting his words, I can say, ‘Many daughters have done virtuously, but Susanna Wesley has excelled them all.’”

We will be publishing periodic articles on our United Methodist heritage and beliefs. If you have a topic you would like addressed, please send your requests

to Karen LaMotta at [email protected].

BY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCEEXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR


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In a very short time,

we will commemorate

the 10th anniversary of

the 9/11 bombings.

We will remember

anew the horrors we

witnessed on that

day, and perhaps

experience again the fear and anger born of that

catastrophe. But we’ll also recall and pay homage to

myriad heroes who acted in the midst of that crisis. Heroes

whose bravery and courage shone brightly against the

backdrop of incomprehensible evil; extraordinary men

and women who planted within our hearts the hope that,

somehow, we would recover from such a tragedy.

Most of us can vividly recollect where we were

on September 11, 2001. For my part, I was in Houston’s

medical center, receiving what would be my final dose

of chemotherapy. Watching the events of that day unfold

before me on the hospital’s television screen, I was amazed

by the stories of those humble, selfless heroes who had

sacrificed their own lives in service to others. And it was

then that I began to reflect on all the heroes I’d encountered

during my cancer battle. True, none had placed themselves

in harm’s way in order to care for me. Still, they stood as

heroes in my eyes. They were heroes of the “everyday”

variety, who encouraged me with visits, uplifting phone

calls and e-mails; delivered nourishing meals to my family

when I was unable to provide them on my own; and sent

up unending prayers on my behalf, asking for God’s mercy

and healing. Through their simple acts of kindness, those

humble, selfless souls shone brightly against the backdrop

of a disease threatening my existence, and they sustained

within my heart the hope that, somehow, I would recover

from that horrendous experience.

Is it possible that, deep down in our hearts, every

Christian longs to be someone else’s hero? Perhaps that’s

because we were created to give like Christ gave; to serve

as He served. A movie I recently watched includes a scene

where the male lead is lamenting the fact that he’s done

nothing truly heroic in his lifetime. The female lead reminds

him that he has a habit of offering his seat on the train

to anyone who needs it. The male lead says, “But that’s

not heroic,” to which the female lead responds, “It is to

the person who sits in it.” Through simple acts of kindness,

extended with humility and selflessness, any of us can

become a “hero” in another’s eyes. In fulfilling this role, we

emulate and honor the greatest Hero this world has ever

known, Jesus Christ, the One who sacrificed everything in

service to us.

BY LYNN TAYLOREveryday Heroes

HonoredOn the back of my car I have a decal with two blue stars, and I often get asked why I have the stars on my car. I reply with a big smile on my face that I have two sons serving in the military. I am a proud mom of Petty Officer 1st Class Thomas Proctor serving in the Coast Guard in Petaluma, California and Lance Corporal Hunter Thompson, a Marine stationed in 29 Palm, California. They are following in the footsteps of their grandfather, Maj. Gen. George Dany. As they were growing up, they would listen to stories of his thirty-five year career in the Air Force. I am honored that my boys made the choice to serve their country. It comes with many hardships but has given them opportunities they wouldn’t have otherwise experienced.

COLLEEN FLINT


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In his letter to the Romans (12:1-2) Paul writes:

“I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by

the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living

sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your

spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world,

but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so

that you may discern what is the will of God – what is

good and acceptable and perfect.” The model behind

Paul’s words was Christ, who offered His own life as

the ultimate atoning sacrifice so that we might be able

to become living sacrifices in His name tasked with

transforming the world. Becoming so requires “agape,”

that form and way of loving that demonstrates itself in

self-sacrificial behavior that meets the needs of others.

Loving and living sacrificially is a choice made in the

strength of mature faith for the purpose of serving the

truth of Christ. It is the highest human possibility

and reflects the divine nature of

God as love.

Christ Church has many who sacrifice

themselves in order to care for the needs of others. Most

of them work behind the scenes and are unknown to the

larger congregation. They don’t need credit or glory or

the applause of the crowd; in fact, they quickly point

to God as deserving of any thanks

or praise. They are part of

our Emmaus community,

members of our Care

Team, servants in Hearts

of Grace and Altar

Prayer, Stephen Ministers,

Communion helpers,

missioners who serve

in one or more of our

Heroes and Heroines Here at HomeBY REV. LINDA SUMMERS PIERCEEXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE PASTOR


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Heroes and Heroines Here at Home

seventeen mission outreach efforts, Easter at the Creek

volunteers, children and youth leaders and volunteers,

ministry leaders, and bringers of the good news of

the Gospel in prisons and other places of brokenness

and pain – in short, those who have made the choice

to present themselves as living sacrifices in ways that

are acceptable by God and become in them tangible

expressions of their spiritual worship of God.

Heroes, in our culture, are generally those

who, at the very least, risk their well-being for the sake

of another’s well-being. Sometimes such behavior is

the result of a conscious and deliberate choice; other

times, it comes as an instinctual reaction to an immediate

perceived danger. Saint Paul’s words call us to

something deeper and more fundamental to the image

of God within us – to the recognition that God has

placed us in a community with brothers and sisters that

is characterized by interdependence and the call to

bear each other’s burdens at all times. The

renewing of our minds and the choice

to offer ourselves sacrificially

are connected; they

exist in a mutual relationship that reminds us, when we

worship, that “we” are now the sacrifice that was once

required in the Temple. In praising God, we come to

the full realization of who God made us to be, and

so enlightened and alive in Christ, finally understand

that our God-given gifts are meant to be presented as

“living sacrifices” for the good of all.

Yes, we have many heroes and heroines at

Christ Church, and I thank God daily for each one of

them. Still it’s good to be reminded that all Christians

are called to come alive in Christ so they might live and

love in intentionally self-sacrificial ways. All that’s

required is time in the Temple. I hope to see you

in worship, the best starting place I

know.

Thank YouI want to personally thank all of our military, police, firefighters, EMT, and all other emergency personnel for their service to the citizens of America the great. Your sacrifice of service is beyond a bunch of nice words; we couldn’t get by in the country with out YOU! Thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart.

DEBBIE MEIER


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BLOOD DRIVE9-11-11

9AM -1 :30PM


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Surrounded by HeroesThe first time I became aware of heroes was in 1943 when my father left late at night by train to go to war in the South Pacific in WWII; then came the news of the death of an 18 year old uncle in France. During Korea I also had uncles who served, one contracted TB and was hospitalized for two years. Then came Vietnam (our war) and the heroes surrounding me were off again. One of the neighbor boys was shot down six weeks before the birth of his baby girl, and I remember his grieving parents and widow. During the first Gulf War, my first cousin’s daughter and two sons were sent to Iraq. Lo and behold, after 9/11, off they went again serving more than one tour in Iraq and Afghanistan. I am also surrounded by in-laws who have served more than one tour and now are employed by the Dallas PD. I have heroes all around me. One cousin is presently involved with the Vet Hunter Project riding a bike across country seeking to find homeless vets and help them to learn how to deal with the “system.” Another cousin is a sergeant with the Austin PD, there’s a nephew with Dallas PD, and my granddaughter is a Criminal Justice Major at SHSU entering her senior year. In fact, I just had a visitor from the Sugar Land PD, wanting help contacting my neighbors to form a Crime Watch in our area. These heroes are everywhere, and how we are blessed by them all—from Sugar Land and beyond.

God bless America!

JOANN ECK

BLOOD DRIVE9-11-11

9AM -1 :30PM

CHRIST CHURCH WILL HOST A CITY-WIDE BLOOD DRIVE ON 9/11 FROM 9:00 TO 1:30. DONATION SLOTS MAY FILL QUICKLY, SO PLEASE CALL CINDY PETERSON AT 281-545-8673 AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT OR SIGN UP ONLINE AT WWW.GIVEBLOOD.ORG.


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Prayer RequestPlease keep our children and all those who serve our country in your prayers.

Thanks,

ROBYN AND BILL TOMPKINS


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WALL OF HONOR You may not be aware of it, but you probably have seen their faces dozens of times. Theirs are just some of the photos displayed on our Wall of Honor. Located in the hallway between the chapel entrance and the front office, the Wall of Honor currently features 19 servicemen and women who are serving our country in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines or Coast Guard. Next time you pass the wall, we invite you to stop for a moment, read the names and consider the sacrifices they, and their families, are making so we can worship and live freely. Say a prayer for them, and if the address is listed with the photo, take a moment to write a note of encouragement. If you have a friend or relative currently serving, and you would like him or her added to the wall, or you need to update the information on one of the photos, please contact Debbie Meier at [email protected] or 281.980.6888.

DONATE ITEMS FOR OUR TROOPSMy name is Josh McKay, and I am in Boy Scout Troop 140. I am currently working on my Eagle Scout Project which consists of collecting items to donate to the Marines in Afghanistan. These items include: tan/black socks, beef jerky, nuts, protein bars, sunflower seeds, single serving Gatorade, and ramen noodles. Please donate items in the Collection Bins by September 11 or bring them to the 9-11 Concert. Questions? You can contact me at [email protected]. Thank you for your support!

Captain Zachery Carey

Captain Alicia Tompkins Carey

2nd Lt. Erin Tompkins

Seaman Daniel Morrow

SSG Richard D. West Jr.

AB Blake Nunes

Captain David Benson

PFC Hunter Thompson

Captain Barrett Thomas

Second Lt. Erin Thomas

Tom Proctor

SSGT Melissa Rafferty

PDF Lucas Christopher

Lt. Adam Smith

2nd Lt. Scott Siggins

SGT. Christopher Huysman

SRA Chase Blevins

LCPL Alex Kiefer

PFC Blake McClendon


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MIDDLE SCHOOL

FLIPSIDE • SUNDAYS • 5 - 7:15 PM • GYMAll middle school youth (6th – 8th grade) are invited to join us in the Family Life Center Gym every Sunday night from 5:00 - 7:15 pm. We will begin with games, then move to a small group time and end with worship.

HIGH SCHOOL

THE LOFT • SUNDAYS • 6:15 - 8:30 PM • FLCThis is a great place for high school youth to hang out and relax together in Christian fellowship, Sundays from 6:15 - 8:30 pm in the Family Life Center.THE ENCOUNTER • WEDNESDAYS • 7 - 8:30 PM • CHAPELHigh school students are invited to this weekly Bible study, Wednesday evenings from 7 - 8:30 pm in the Chapel.

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WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY FELLOWSHIPSTARTING SEPTEMBER 8 • 9:30 AM • VOLUNTEER CENTER Join us as we study Bad Girls of the Bible by Liz Curtis Higgs. This class will be led by Debe Fannin. Register at www.cumcsl.org/women; the class is $25.STARTING SEPTEMBER 12 •9:30 - 11:30 AM • 11/12We will be studying Live Deeply, a Study in the Parables of Jesus by Lenya Heitzig and Penny Rose This class will be led by Jeanette Stoltz. Register at www.cumcsl.org/women; the class is $25.STARTING SEPTEMBER 13 • 7 PM Ladies, join us for the fun and humorous study Me and My Big Mouth by Joyce Meyer. This 6-week class will be led by Mindy King in her home near Highlands Elementary. Register at www.cumcsl.org/women; the class is $20.

GROW

ALPHA STARTING SEPTEMBER 15 • THURSDAYS• 6:30 - 8:30 PMAlpha is a course which explores the validity and relevance of the Christian faith for our lives today. It is a practical introduction to the basics of Christianity and offers a relaxed, comfortable place to ask questions. Alpha will meet Thursdays from 6:30 - 8:30 pm, and each session includes a delicious dinner. Childcare is available. Register at www.cumcsl.org/studies or contact Jeanne Damon at [email protected] or 281.690.4756 for more information.

DISCIPLE 1 CLASS

STARTING SEPTEMBER 18 •6:00 PM DISCIPLE Bible Study is a life-changing program which encourages participants to nourish their faith and live as disciples of Jesus Christ. Disciple I is the first class in the DISCIPLE Bible Study series, and a prerequisite for further Disciple studies. Being part of this small group Bible study will: •Help you understand what you read in the Bible.•Help you read 70% of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, in 34 weeks.•Help you grow closer to God.•Help you develop new friendships with others in your group.This class requires a commitment to attend the weekly, 2 ½ hour group sessions along with daily study of approximately 40 minutes. Registration is available at www.cumcsl.org/studies, and the class is $40. Contact Jeanne Damon at [email protected] or 281.690.4756 for more information.

Author Andrew Murray once said this

regarding Christ: “He offers Himself…with all

His power and love, as the living home of the

soul…” Webster’s Dictionary defines home as

a sanctuary; a happy haven; a refuge. Is it any

wonder, then, that Murray described Christ as

the living home of the soul? For it is in Christ that

a restless soul can find safety, experience the

purest form of happiness, and enjoy the peace

that “transcends all understanding.” Safe, happy

and peaceful - everything a home should be!

If Christ is, in fact, the living home of the

soul, in that same way, small groups are, in my

mind, the living home of the church. This conclusion

comes naturally given my own experiences

in various Christ Church small groups through

the years. Within those intimate, yet dynamic

settings, my most enduring relationships have

been forged and my most genuine friendships,

born. In the privacy of those meeting rooms, I

have shared countless joys and sorrows, hopes

and fears, successes and missteps with my fellow

group members. And no matter how shameful the

secret or complete the failure disclosed, never

has judgment or condemnation been directed

my way; only acceptance, encouragement and

sometimes a strong but loving dose of Christian

guidance. Inside the walls of those intimate

gathering places I have enjoyed shelter and a

happy respite from the world just outside the door.

And time and again, a profound sense of peace

has overcome me as I realize I do not journey

through this life alone. I am, instead, travelling in

the company of Christ’s large family of believers

and, with them, my heart has found its home.

Christ - Living Home of the Soul

BY LYNN TAYLOR


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For a full listing of activities and ways you can get involved at Christ Church, please visit

WWW.CUMCSL.ORG

3RD GRADE - FIRST BIBLE FAITH CLASS AND BIBLE SUNDAYSEPTEMBER 14• 6:30 PMOur 3rd graders will be presented with a Bible on Sunday, September 18, during the 11:05 am worship service. All children currently in 3rd grade are invited to participate. To prepare for this presentation, children and their parents are asked to attend a First Bible Faith Class on Wednesday, September 14 at 6:30 pm. Dinner will be served, and childcare will be available for siblings during the class. To register, please go to the Children’s Ministry page at www.cumcsl.org/children. 4TH GRADEGIRL TIME SWIM PARTY • AUGUST 28 • 2 - 3:30 PMBring a snack to share and a beach towel. This is a great time to bring a girlfriend. Questions? Contact Ruthie Linsenbardtat [email protected] or 281.814.8090.MISSION SUNDAY • SEPTEMEBER 11 • 11 AM - NOONCome join the fun as we work in the Church Vegetable Garden. Wear closed-toe shoes, a hat and some clothes you won’t mind getting dirty.

5TH GRADEGIRL TIME SWIM PARTY • AUGUST 28 • 2 - 3:30 PMBring a snack to share and a beach towel. This is a great time to bring a girlfriend. Questions? Contact Susie Duggan [email protected] or 281.261.3367. POPCORN SUNDAY • SEPTEMBER 4 • 9:45 - 10:45 AMJoin us in room 211 and bring a snack to share.

SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES

8:30 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES

CRUSADERSThis class is composed of singles and couples of all ages with a participatory format and Bible-based studies. Meets in the Bride’s Room.9:45 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSESADVENTURERSThis class consists of couples in their 30’s - 50’s, with children of all ages. This group is a discussion-oriented class studying a variety of Biblical topics. We use study guides, videos, guest speakers and music to enhance our studies. Meets in room 302/303 in the Family Life Center.BARNABASThis class is a friendly community consisting of adults in their 40’s - 60’s united by a shared belief in Christ, seeking and providing encouragement to one another through prayer, Bible study, topical studies and lots of fellowship. Meets in the Chapel.CELEBRATE SINGLES SUNDAY SCHOOLAll singles are invited to join us for our new Sunday School class. The class begins September 11, 2011. Meets in room 309 in the Family Life Center. COUPLES FOR CHRISTThis class consists of married couples in their 20’s - 40’s with or without children. It is a relaxed, yet engaging class that provides Christ-centered fellowship, support, and opportunities for service. Meets in the Bride’s Room (across from Sanctuary).GRACE ABOUNDSAll ages and stages of life are welcome (married, single, single on Sunday). This class has a participatory rather than lecture format. We love a great discussion! Study facilitators rotate among interested class members. Meets in room 312 in the Family Life Center.GRACE NOTESThis class is composed of choir members who love to study God’s word and discuss relevant issues. Meets in the Choir Room.H.O.P.E. 24/7 (HEAR OUR PRAYERS EVERYDAY 24/7)Our name reflects our focus on prayer. Discussion-oriented studies cover a range of topics to encourage spiritual growth. Socials and missions round out our activities for members, ages 40’s - 70’s. Meets in room 311 in the Family Life Center.JUBILEEThis class is made up of mature individuals, ages 50+ who enjoy the fellowship of others and share in the nourishment gained from Bible-based studies. Lively discussions abound under the leadership of Jan Randolph. Meets in rooms 11/12.SEEKERSThis is a class of mixed ages with couples, singles, and single on Sundays that concentrates on Bible study, missions and lively discussion. Meets in room 308 in the Family Life Center.STAGESThis class consists of single parents, remarried couples, and blended families, ages 30-50’s, exploring a mix of Biblical studies and contemporary issues. Meets in room 310 in the Family Life Center.TGIS (THANK GOD IT’S SUNDAY)This class is made up of couples and singles of all ages who enjoy lively discussion and fellowship. Topics range from Bible study to contemporary issues and books. Meets in the Scout Shack.THE HUB LIFEGROUPFrom 9:45 - 10:45 in the Family Life Center Gym each Sunday morning. Come explore God’s Word in a relaxed and comfortable setting. WEAVERSThis class is made up of marrieds and singles, ages 55+, dedicated to Bible study, fellowship and service. This class is very mission-oriented. Meets in the Library (upstairs across from the Sanctuary).WOMEN’S CLASSThis class is made up of women of all ages whether married, single, widowed or divorced. We primarily do Bible-based studies and various service projects. Meets in room 307 in the Family Life Center.

CELEBRATION OF NEW LIFE

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25 • ALL FOUR SERVICESThis year’s Celebration of New Life will be held on Sunday, September 25, during all four Worship Services. Families with children born during the last year are invited to attend for a time of recognition, prayer, and blessing. To prepare for this celebration, you are asked to attend a Celebration of New Life Faith Milestone Parent and Child Class on Saturday, September 10, at 10:00 am. Breakfast will be served, and childcare will be available for siblings during the class. Register at www.cumcsl.org/children on the Children’s Ministry page.

CHILDRENS CHOIR REGISTRATION NOW OPENThe Children’s Choirs are preparing for another terrific year. The Choirs are for Pre-K (age 4 by September 1st) – 5th grade children. The choirs sing periodically during services and produce two children’s musicals each year. Choirs meet on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 - 6:30 pm and/or on Sunday mornings during the 8:15 and 11:05 services. In addition, we offer Choir Chimes for 3rd – 5th graders on Wed. from 5 – 5:30 pm. Registration is now online at www.cumcsl.org/music. If you are interested in more information please contact Lahonda Sharp at 281.690.4741 or [email protected] or Tracei Wilson at 281.690.4759 or [email protected].


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Normal bookstore hours are Sundays, 9:00 am - 12:30 pm & Thursdays, 10:00 am - 12:30 pm.

GROW (CON’T)

MARK 12:30 CLASS

MONDAYS, SEPT 12 - MAY 21• 6:30 - 8:30 PM • 302/303This class emphasizes health and wellness education and is based on Mark 12:30, which says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength.” The Program:• teaches how God calls us each to be free from strongholds in order to serve and love Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength and achieve emotional, spiritual, mental and physical health along with wellness and balance.• utilizes tools from First Place 4 Health, including a daily Bible study (www.firstplace4health.com).• provides weekly meetings with a small group for motivation and accountability.• provides friends for support, encouragement and prayer.The class is $95. Register at www.cumcsl.org/studies by September 12, or come learn more at the orientation Monday, August 29 from 6:45 - 7:30 pm. Contact Cathe Seaton at [email protected] for more information.

WOMEN’S FALL RETREAT

OCTOBER 7 - 9 • CAMP TEJASWomen, you’re invited to step away from the stresses and demands of life to be refreshed and renewed at our annual women’s retreat in beautiful Giddings, TX. Our speaker, Rev. Jessica LaGrone, Pastor of Worship at The Woodlands UMC, will present Broken and Blessed: How One Dysfunctional Family Changed the World. Find out how God can use one person to change a family and how God can use one family to change the world. Register online at www.cumcsl.org/women. Early-bird registration is $160 through the month of August and $175 thereafter ($50 deposit available; balance due by September 18). Contact Jeanne Damon at [email protected] or 281.690.4756 for more information.

COMPANIONS IN CHRIST

STARTING SEPTEMBER 18 • 5:00 PM • SCOUT SHACKAre you seeking deeper spiritual growth? Do you sense there is “something more” spiritually for you, but you’re not quite sure what it is? Enrich your spiritual growth through Companions in Christ. Companions in Christ is a spiritual formation experience engaging you in a journey of spiritual growth and discovery. This 28-week journey utilizes daily individual readings and exercises along with a weekly small group meeting creating a setting where you can respond to God’s call to an ever-deepening communion and wholeness in Christ. This class is free, but participants are asked to visit www.cumcsl.org/studies and register.

CHRIST CHURCH SCHOOL REGISTRATIONChrist Church School has limited openings in the Bridge Class and the Kindergarten Class for the 2011-2012 school year. For more information, please contact Beth or Becky at 281.980.2582, Monday through Friday. School starts August 29.

FINE ARTS ACADEMY PREPARES FOR NEW SCHOOL YEAR

REGISTRATION OPEN NOWRegister now for the Fine Arts Academy fall semester! We offer piano, guitar, voice and oil painting lessons throughout the school year. More information can be found at www.cumcsl.org/music, or you can contact the Director, Lahonda Sharp, at 281.690.4741 for more information.

SAVE THE DATE - NEW ACOLYTE TRAINING

SEPTEMBER 25 • NOON • SANCTUARYAcolytes are very special worship leaders who bring in the light of Christ to begin worship and take it out into the world at the end of worship. It is an honor to serve as an Acolyte. All 3rd - 8th graders are invited. For more information, contact Judy Hicks at [email protected].

SECOND HALF OF MARRIAGE STUDY STARTING OCTOBER 9• SUNDAYS• 6:00 PM“Facing the 8 Challenges of Empty Nest Years” is a 4-week study. The authors reveal marital challenges every long term marriage faces in those empty nest years. The study will take place at the home of Ace and Cathy Alexander. Register at www.cumcsl.org/studies or contact Jeanne Damon at [email protected] or 281.690.4756 for more information.

ADULT CHOIRS BEGINIf you enjoy music and singing and fellowship now is a GREAT time to serve in one of our choirs. Joyful Noise sings at the 9:45 service and rehearses Sunday mornings at 8:30 am in the Choir Room. Chancel Choir sings at the 11:05 services and rehearses Wednesdays from 7 - 9 pm in the Choir room. For more information, contact Lahonda Sharp at [email protected] or 281.690.4741.

BLOOD DRIVE9-11-11

9AM -1 :30PM

CHRIST CHURCH WILL HOST A CITY-WIDE BLOOD DRIVE ON 9/11 FROM 9:00 TO 1:30. DONATION SLOTS MAY FILL QUICKLY, SO PLEASE CALL CINDY PETERSON AT 281-545-8673 AS SOON AS POSSIBLE TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT OR SIGN UP ONLINE AT

WWW.GIVEBLOOD.ORG.

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ALTAR PRAYER PARTNERSPrayer partners connect people in need with the power and presence of God. Just reach out your hands at the altar rail during Communion or after worship, and a prayer partner will come pray with you.

HEALING PRAYER SERVICES - MONTHLY SEPTEMBER 13 • 7 PM • SANCTUARYIf you are experiencing the grief of loss or suffering due to illness or brokenness, God is ready to bring healing, wholeness and salvation to you. Christ Church offers monthly services of hope and healing every second Tuesday of the month.

WEEKLY WORSHIP SCHEDULE - SUNDAYS CONTEMPORARY • 8:15 AM • SANCTUARY TRADITIONAL• 9:45 & 11:05 AM • SANCTUARY CASUAL - the hub• 11:00 AM • FAMILY LIFE CENTER GYM

NEW MEMBER CLASS OCTOBER 14Membership is about much more than having your name on a roster; it is a commitment to grow spiritually and to participate in our life together at Christ Church. If you are looking for a new church home, we invite you to participate in our New Member Class. It is a great opportunity to learn more about spiritual growth and how we can help one another in our journey to find fullness in Christ. You will get to know the pastors, meet staff, make new friends, learn the vision of our church, find your unique ways to serve, and discover how to connect to a greater involvement within the church. Reserve your spot at our Welcome Center or online. BACK-TO-SCHOOL YOUTH BASH SUNDAY, AUGUST 28 • 6 - 9 PM • FLC GYM Mark your calendars now. All youth in grades 6 - 12 and their friends are invited to attend. Join us for youth-led worship from 6 - 7 pm in the Family Life Center Gym, followed by fellowship, food and fun from 7 - 8:45 pm. Be sure to bring your swimsuit and a towel.4TH GRADE PARENT SUNDAY SEPTEMEBER 11 • 9:45 - 10:45 AM • ROOM 210All parents who have a 4th grader are asked to join their student in Sunday School at 9:45 on Sunday, September 11 for a special Parent Sunday opportunity.

5TH GRADE PARENT SUNDAY AUGUST 28 • 9:45 - 10:45 AM • ROOM 211All parents of a 5th grader are asked to join their student in Sunday School on Sunday, August 28 during the 9:45 Sunday School hour for a special Parent Sunday opportunity in room 211.


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PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY MONDAYS & FRIDAYS • 9 AM• VOLUNTEER CENTERJoin members of all ages as they create tangible expressions of the prayers of our church for those needing comfort, healing, assurance, and presence. We meet every Friday and Monday. If you don’t know how to crochet or knit, we will teach you! Email Jan Randolph at [email protected] for information.

FREEDOM WALK TOUR SEPT 8 & OCT 13• CAROL VANCE PRISON UNITThe Freedom Walks are very moving and a lot of fun. They are on Thursdays at either 2:00 or 7:30 pm and only take 1 hour. We can also arrange tours for Bible studies and other groups if needed. Individuals and groups should signup at least a week in advance. Contact Betty Waedemon at 281.980.5368 to sign up for a walk or to get more information.

SERVE

THE UNITED METHODIST WOMEN ARE COLLECTING ITEMS FOR HEALTH KITS THROUGH SEPTEMBER18 • MINISTRY CENTERYou may obtain a list of the items we’re collecting at www.cumcsl.org/umw or at our table in the Ministry Center. You may also make a donation by indicating “health kit” in the memo line of your check; each kit costs approximately $12. Questions? Contact Lajuan Ellis-Thayer at 832.659.3529. Drop off items in the collection bins downstairs.

WOMEN’S BREAKFAST: FASHION, FRIENDS & FINDS SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 • 9 AM • FLC GYMPlease join us for our Women’s Breakfast: Fashions, Friends and Finds. This breakfast is a special outreach event for Dress For Success, a non-profit that provides interview appropriate clothing for low-income women. Image consultant, Rebecca Matthews, will also be back to give us some hints on the fall fashions and to let us shop from some of her fashion finds. The price is $35. OUR NEXT HABITAT HOUSE BUILD FALL 2011Christ Church will begin construction of its 11th Habitat for Humanity house this fall in the Teal Run Subdivision. Each Saturday we will need approximately 20 volunteers to work alongside the recipient of the home to complete the construction. If hammers and nails are not your strength, we also need folks to paint, install insulation, work on landscaping, and prepare and serve food for the volunteers. Financial contributions, used to purchase the building materials, are also needed and can be made through the church office or during worship. Please write “Habitat” on the memo line. For more information on how you can get involved, please contact Stanton Brown ([email protected]) or Mark Buhrke ([email protected]). Won’t you help us make someone’s dream of owning a home come true.

DONATE ITEMS FOR OUR TROOPSMy name is Josh McKay, and I am in Boy Scout Troop 140. I am currently working on my Eagle Scout Project which consists of collecting items to donate to the Marines in Afghanistan. These items include: tan/black socks, beef jerky, nuts, protein bars, sunflower seeds, single serving Gatorade, and ramen noodles. Please donate items in the Collection Bins by September 11 or bring them to the 9-11 Concert. Questions? You can contact me at [email protected]. Thank you for your support!

THESE THREE REMAIN: FAITH, HOPE, AND LOVE OUR NEXT SERMON SERIES • STARTING AUGUST 28 August 28: Faith For the Fearful - Isaiah 41:4b-13 September 4: Hope For the Weary - Isaiah 40:27-31 September 11: Love For Those Who Hate - Matthew 5:43-48

4TH AND 5TH GRADE “GUYS AND DADS TIME”SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 • 1 - 2:20 PM • LAZERZONEAll 4th and 5th grade guys and their dads are invited to join us as we kick off a new year of “Guy Time.” Meet us at LazerZone on Hwy 6 in Sugar Land for some fellowship and friendly competition. Bring $13/person and a snack to share. RSVP to Ingred Lathrop at [email protected] or 281.690.4748.

3300 AUSTIN PARKWAYSUGAR LAND, TEXAS 77479

NON-PROFIT ORG.US POSTAGE PAIDSUGAR LAND, TX

PERMIT #129

worship • connect • grow • servepeople helping people find fullness in Christ


WE’RE HERE TO HELP!CHRIST CHURCH STAFF

We are delighted you are part of Christ Church. If you have a question or if we can help you within the life of the church, please feel free to contact us. Rev. Morris Matthis, Senior PastorRev. Linda Summers Pierce, Executive Associate Pastor Rev. Jason Nelson, Exec. Director of Discipleship Ministries

Jeanne Damon, Discipleship Ministries Stacey Fleck, Business ManagerRoland Huysman, FacilitiesTripp Kerth, Youth MinistriesKaren LaMotta, Exec. Dir. of Outreach MinistriesIngred Lathrop, Children’s MinistriesJan Randolph, Older Adult MinistriesLahonda Sharp, Music MinistriesRenee Teel, Mission Ministries

For a complete staff listing, please visit our website at www.cumcsl.org

PHONE: 281.980.6888 • WWW.CUMCSL.ORG • FACEBOOK.COM/CUMCSL

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PLEASE REMEMBER IN YOUR PRAYERS... Adele Booth, Marylyn Dromgoole, Mary Nagai’s niece, Lee Dorger’s father, Russell Straw, Carol Myones’ father, Herb Krog, Lisa Warren’s boyfriend, Tiffany and family, Gretchen Cockerill’s daughter-in-law, Melanie Slagle’s father, Lee Ann Andersen’s friend, Joanne McCarthy’s mother-in-law, Ken Crouch, Margie Thompson’s cousin, Audrey Lewis’ father, and all those serving in the military. ANSWERED PRAYERS... Carolyn Staples’ friend, Scott Pleus’ friend, Stephen Font, Charlene Avery-Turek’s friend, Maria

Eggenschwiler, Claire Unger’s husband, Debbie Haas, Lisa Royce’s son, Sue & Bobby Martin’s friend, Emmy Finley, Jennie Sime’s mother.

CHRIST CHURCH EXTENDS ITS SYMPATHY TO... Roger McGuire on the death of his father, Judy Smith on the death of her mother, Joe & Benita

Sebesta on the death of his uncle.

WE NEED YOUR HELP! VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AT CHRIST CHURCH

FACEBOOK.COM/CUMCSL

MORE THAN A CUP OF COFFEEAre you like many of us who enjoy a cookie or cup of coffee on Sunday mornings between services? Our Hospitality Team is grateful to serve our congregation by providing refreshments, but it is so much more than the cup of coffee. It is about welcoming one another just as Christ has welcomed us. It is about gathering people into the body of Christ, inviting them to the banquet of God’s gracious love. It is about helping a newcomer feel genuinely welcome to Christ Church, and doing something, however small, to show we care. Our Hospitality Team is currently too small to adequately serve the needs of this ministry, and we are inviting you to help. There is a minimal time commitment; no experience is necessary, and there are immeasurable benefits. Contact Karen LaMotta at [email protected] or 281.690.4767.

PHONE VOLUNTEERSChrist Church has a continuing opportunity for our members to serve in the church. It is a chance for you to be that first friendly voice people hear when they call our church. We are in need of friendly people who will volunteer to take a half day shift at our receptionist desk each week. We will train you on how to operate the switchboard, help you to know how to answer questions, and equip in every way to perform this important task. To find out more about this ministry, contact Debbie Meier at [email protected] or at 281.690.4740.

SHARE YOUR JOYS AND CONCERNS WITH USYour pastoral staff and leaders of Christ Church’s Member Care Ministries want to share in your joys and

concerns. You might not know this, but hospitals do not contact churches – even when you give them your church name, address, and contact information. Part of this is due to HIPPA laws. So whether you’re about to enter

the hospital or you’re celebrating the birth of a baby, please call Sandy White in the church office at 281.980.6888. She will forward your message to the pastors and appropriate member care ministry leaders.

TWITTER.COM/CUMCSL

The Connection - August 22 - Sacrifice / Heroes

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Transcript of The Connection - August 22 - Sacrifice / Heroes