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The following Prayer Concerns and Announcements were forwarded from the Area Provost's Office at the Texas Annual Conference Service Center.

Tuesday, January 17, 2006

________________________PRAYER CONCERNS__________________________

FROM Rev. Ron Patterson, Marshall Wesley UMC -
Melody Patterson went through surgery well and is at home recuperating.
We thank all of you for your prayers.
_______________________________BIRTHS_______________________________

__________________________DEATHS/FUNERALS_________________________

FROM Bill Servis, Matagorda United Methodist Church
Please remember the Servis family in the death of Johnnie Servis'
brother Wayne Nickols, who died at 5:05 P.M. on Saturday. I will be going
out to Odessa on Monday to be with my wife and her family.

FROM Anna M. Rohde, Longview District
Rev. Charlie Stevens of Kilgore Danville UMC and Kilgore Crossroads UMC
in the Longview District passed away yesterday in Eustace, Texas.
Funerals plans are pending.
His wife Bettie and family thank you for your prayers. Charlie
fought a good fight and he is home now.

FROM Gene Steger
Some of you who knew Thomas L. Jones when he was a minister in our
Conference but who has not been in the ministry for many years might be
interested in knowing that he died in a nursing home in Sherman, Tx about
2 weeks ago and was cremated. He is survived by one of his sons, Jay.
There was no funeral service conducted for him.

_____________________CONFERENCE INFORMATION______________________

______________________NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS_________________________

FROM Donna Adair, Director of Communications, St. Paul's UMC, Houston
St. Paul’s UMC, Houston, will celebrate its 100th anniversary with a
special worship service and "Sunday Dinner" at the George R. Brown
Convention Center in downtown Houston on Sunday, January 29, beginning at
10:30 a.m.
Bishop Janice Huie and Houston Mayor Bill White will make brief
remarks in recognition of the occasion.
Prepaid reservations are necessary for those who wish to attend the
dinner following the service. The cost is $15 for adults and $7.50 for
children age 12 and under. Maximum cost per immediate family is $45.
Call 713-528-0527 to make reservations.
Young children are invited to celebrate the occasion at St. Paul's
UMC with a special "100th Birthday Party." There will be no nursery or
child care at the convention center. The children will play games
popular in the early 1900s, have their photos taken wearing clothes from past
eras, and help blow out the 100 candles on St. Paul’s birthday cake.
Lunch will be served to the children.
For more information or to make reservations, call 713-528-0527.

FROM Todd Jordon
Register now for the Order of Elders Retreat January 31-February 2 at
Lakeview. Featured speaker Susan Beaumont of the Alban Institute will
speak on authenticity and servanthood in the context of our faith story.
Guest singer/composer Ken Medema will also be present to share his gift
of music. Contact registrar Todd Jordan at toddjordan@triitybmt.org
for more information.

FROM Jim & Mary Brown
The Texas Conference UMW will honor 50 years of ordination of Clergy
Women during their Spring Celebration on March 3 and 4 at Lakeview
Methodist Conference Center. The Keynote speaker of the event is Dr. Jan
Love, Deputy General Seceratry of the Women's Division. Eleven clergy
women will share their stories during the weekend: Dr. Karen Dorris, Revs.
Perrie Joy Jackson, Bettie Jo Hightower, Linda O'Neal, Lois boyles,
Velosia Kibe, Barbara Robberson, Donna Brown, Bonnie Eaves, Lesie Bledsoe,
and Wanda Bess. Complete information and registration can be downloaded
from the web site: www.gbgm-umc.org/texasconfuwmw. Registrar is
Frances Jackson (281) 499-6675 or jfrances70@aol.com. Clergywomen of the
conference are extended a special invitation to attend.

________________________THIS WEEK'S EVENTS_________________________

FROM Jill Krone, Director for Communications, Henderson First UMC,
903.657.6588
Christian singer/songwriter, Kelly Lindsley, will lead in an evening of
praise to God in song on Sunday, January 22 at 6:30 pm at First UMC,
Henderson. Invite your friends
and family to join you for this inspiring event. This is a free concert
open to church and community. For more information, contact the church
office at 903.657.6588

Also, "2 Moms" featured in Upcoming Conference at Henderson FUMC!
Sharon Lovejoy Autry and Laurie Lovejoy Hillard will be at Henderson
First UMC on Monday, January 23, at 7:00 PM, as part of the "Mom and
Loving It!" Conference. Both authors, speakers, and singers, they are
credited with inspiring moms of all ages to find contentment in REAL
life!
Tickets are $10 each. Contact Betty Tyson or Mollie Bryan at
903.657.6588 for more information!

FROM Donna Adair, Director of Communications, St. Paul's UMC, Houston
"Can You Hear Me Now?" is St. Paul's School's 13th annual relationship
seminar, presented by Dr. Sherry Beeman and Rev. Dr. Bill Kerley,
therapists who also are married to each other.
This seminar, based on the concept that the single most important
skill in any intimate relationship is learning to speak and to listen to
each other, offers sound advice on creating and maintaining a happy,
harmonious marriage.
At 7 p.m. Thursday, January 19, the seminar is free and childcare is
available by advance reservations to the school at 713-528-6779 or
spschool@stpaulshouston.org. More information about the seminar also is
available through those contact points.

FROM St. Luke's UMC, Houston
Houston Habitat for Humanity, in conjunction with Oprah Winfrey, will
be building 38 homes over the next 4 months.
...Phase 2 runs Thurs Jan 19, Fri Jan 20, Sat. Jan 21, Thurs. Jan 27
and Fri Jan 28
...Phase 3 runs Thurs Feb 23, Fri Feb 24, Sat. Feb 25, Thurs. Mar 3 and
Sat Mar 4
...Phase 4 runs Thurs Mar 23, Fri Mar 24, Sat. Mar 25, Thurs. Mar 31
and Fri Apr 1
We are looking for groups who can bring out 15 people each day to be
our house leads. We will add 5 to 10 additional individual volunteers
so the total number building will be 20 to 25 each day.
For more information, call Jerry Kovaly at 281-850-7780, or contact
Mike Firenza at mfirenza@stlukes-hou.org.

LEARN SPANISH FREE!!!
Classes offered weekly...Mondays at 6 pm - Entry level during the
beginning weeks and intermediate level to be added as necessary.
St. Paul's UMC; 2212 Hwy 79 South, Henderson, TX (Next to McDonalds)
For more information call (903) 657-4074 or email Rev. Paula
Behrens-Lopez at paula@pastorpaula.com
For directions to the church visit our webpage
http://PastorPaula.com


_____________________MARK YOUR CALENDAR________________________

FROM Rev. T. Paul Kethley [pkethley@cox-internet.com] -
Children's Ministries Workshop - Saturday, February 4, 2006 - 8:30 a.m.
- 3:15 p.m.
First UMC Lindale; 402 West Hubbard Street; Lindale, Texas 75771
For a complete list of the Workshop Sessions and leaders, please
contact Rev. Kethley (email above). Visit Vendors and Displays.
Cost: $35 per person, if postmarked after January 6. Groups call for
a discounted rate. Scholarships are available. Contact: Martha Hagan
(903) 882-8506 or email: marthahagan@netzero.net for more information and
registration.

FROM Cindy Masterson
Celebration Women’s Ministry presents a Leadership Connection Event,
"Equipped to Pray," Saturday, February 18, 2006, at FUMC, Gilmer, TX.
Time is 9:00- 3:30. Cost is $20.00 and includes breakfast and lunch.
Barbara Byerly will be our guest speaker. Barbara has traveled extensively
both nationally and internationally in her teaching ministry.
There will be worship, teaching, prayer time, and training for local
chapter Celebration leadership. Workshops on Prayer, Worship, Officer
Training, and Ministry Teams will be offered
For information about registration, call email
clmasterson@cableone.net or go to www.celebrationministries.org to
download a registration form.

FROM Patty Wehn-Glowski
Magnolia UMC will host Dr. Jim Fleming, lecturing on "The Turning
Points of Jesus' Life," March 31 from 7-9:30pm and Saturday April 1st,
8:30-4:00pm. Six lectures in all. Snacks, and Lunch provided. Call Magnolia
UMC for information 281-356-6647. CEU credits available.

_____________________RESTORATIVE JUSTICE NOTICES__________________

_______________________JOB OPENINGS/JOBS WANTED__________________

Below are the most current openings and job information. Previous job
postings can be located on the conference website: www.txcumc.org. Thank
you

FROM Diana Hearn, Exec. Dir.
Job Opening from Shalom Mobile Health Ministry -
TITLE: Patient Coordinator/Coach Operator
Full-time position provides support for the Family Nurse Practitioner
and LVN and is responsible for maintenance of the patient medical
record, appointment scheduling, statistical recording, and the operation
(driving) of the mobile clinic.
QUALIFICATIONS: Biligual (English/Spanish), proficient Microsoft
Word/Excel, experience working with the public (strong people skills),
willing/able to get CDL and train to drive 36ft motor coach, willing/able to
be trained to draw blood for lab (phlebotomy certification training),
medical records/medical terminology exp. desired but not required (will
train).
HOURS: Mon. - Thurs. 7:30am-5:30pm (must be available to work 3 or 4
Fri's. or Sat's. per year as assigned)
BENEFITS: Paid health insurance, vacation/sick/holiday time, pension
plan, competitive pay.
Looking for high energy, extremely organized individual to join our
team! EOE
Fax resume to Diana Hearn (713-926-3948) or e-mail
dianaehearn@sbcglobal.net

______________________WANT ADS (Items Needed/Wanted)________________

FROM Kathier Mann, Director of Partners In Mission, Texas Annual
Conference -
Windsor Village has four Ministry Candidates assigned to the Lovelady
Circuit. They are in need of 40 hymnals (the newest version) at 2 of the
circuit churches. If you have any new or gently used hymnals in your
church and would like to donate them, please contact Irv White at
iwhite@WVUMC.COM

FROM Susan Grittman, First United Methodist Houston -
I would like to offer our home piano for donation to a church who will
use it and take care of it. It is an Everett spinet 39 inch upright
with bench in woodgrain finish. I will pay for the piano movers up to
$100. All I ask is that the church pay me the cost for a professional
tuning (about $75) which I will arrange to be done 1 month after being
moved to your location. The piano is a good beginner piano in good
condition. Call Susan Grittman at 713-253-3527.

Friday, January 13, 2006

________________________PRAYER CONCERNS__________________________

FROM Dottie Dumas, Pastor, St. Paul's UMC, Baytown -
Monday, Jan. 16, at 9:30 AM, I join the Bionic Women's Club! I will
have total hip replacement surgery at Methodist Hospital in the Texas
Medical Center. I'd appreciate your prayers. Looking forward to being 100%
again. Thanks so much for your prayers. God bless you and I'll miss
you at Elders Orders Retreat.

I'm sorry to report that we have all been victims of
misinformation. Rev. Stacy Pever Anzick, Glenbrook UMC, brought the truth to my
attention. The report yesterday (see message below) was not entirely true.
It took place in 2004 and Chad has since recovered. You can find the
entire story by going to www.truthorfiction.com

"FROM: Vicky Field, Granbury, TX
Sunday, I got a call from the Army that my son, Chad, had been shot in
the head.
He was in a Humvee going through Falujah fighting and a gang of militia
fighters fired on the Humvee. The driver got him out of the city and
took him to Baghdad. He was in fatal condition, but now has been upgraded
to stable critical."
(Chad has recovered from his wounds.)


______________________________BIRTHS_______________________________

FROM Royce Scott, Pastor
Parkwood UMC in Pasadena is pleased to announce that our secretary,
Dana Rangel, has given birth to a beautiful, healthy baby girl.

_______________________DEATHS/FUNERALS_________________________

FROM Joe Machac, Wesley Mem UMC & Donna Alexander, Houston North
District, Retired Methodist minister Rev. Cecil McKee, 86, passed away
Wednesday,
January 11 in Huntsville, Texas. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm
Friday, January 13,
at Huntsville Funeral Home. Funeral services will be at 10 am Saturday,
January 14
at Wesley Memorial UMC in Huntsville, with Rev. Debbie Drost
officiating, followed
Please remember his wife, Ruth, and their family and friends in
your prayers.
Memorial tributes may be made online at www.mem.com.

_____________________CONFERENCE INFORMATION______________________

______________________NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS_________________________

FROM Rev. T. Paul Kethley [pkethley@cox-internet.com] -
Children's Ministries Workshop - Saturday, February 4, 2006 - 8:30 a.m.
- 3:15 p.m.
First UMC Lindale; 402 West Hubbard Street; Lindale, Texas 75771
For a complete list of the Workshop Sessions and leaders, please
contact Rev. Kethley (email above). Visit Vendors and Displays.
Cost: $35 per person, if postmarked after January 6. Groups call for
a discounted rate. Scholarships are available. Contact: Martha Hagan
(903) 882-8506 or email: marthahagan@netzero.net for more information and
registration.

________________________THIS WEEK'S EVENTS_________________________

FROM Sarah Smith, Memorial Drive UMC
They bring a new definition to the word "a capella." The Zambian
Vocal Group will perform at Memorial Drive UMC’s Accent on Music series
concert, Sunday, January 15th, 7 p.m., in the sanctuary. Seven young men
from Zambia will sing traditional hymns, original verse, and will
provide a combination of African rhythms, vocal percussion, and some complex
vocal harmonies. Admission is $5...tickets may be purchased at the
music office prior to the concert or at the door.
Memorial Drive UMC is located at 12955 Memorial Drive, Houston, a
block west of the Sam Houston Tollroad.

FROM Donna V. Adair, Director of Communications, St. Paul's UMC,
Houston
CHRISTOPHER HERRICK, an English concert organist devoted to
international performances, recording, and broadcasting, will play at St.
Paul's United Methodist Church on Friday, January 13, at 8 p.m.
For more about Herrick and his repertoire, see www.herrick.musician.
org.uk. To reach Donna Adair, e-mail: dadair@stpaulshouston.org.
Church: 713-528-0527; Cell: 713-705-6542
NEW STEPHEN MINISTRY TRAINING
A new three-month-long Stephen Ministry training class will begin at
St. Paul's UMC on Sunday, January 15. The sessions will be from 3 to 5
p.m. For more information, contact Rev. Thompson at 713-528-0527 or
terryt@stpaulshouston.org.

_____________________MARK YOUR CALENDAR________________________

FROM Cindy Masterson
Celebration Women’s Ministry presents a Leadership Connection Event,
"Equipped to Pray," Saturday, February 18, 2006, at FUMC, Gilmer, TX.
Time is 9:00- 3:30. Cost is $20.00 and includes breakfast and lunch.
Barbara Byerly will be our guest speaker. Barbara has traveled extensively
both nationally and internationally in her teaching ministry.
There will be worship, teaching, prayer time, and training for local
chapter Celebration leadership. Workshops on Prayer, Worship, Officer
Training, and Ministry Teams will be offered
For information about registration, call email
clmasterson@cableone.net or go to www.celebrationministries.org to
download a registration form.

FROM: Billy Watson, St. Peter’s UMC, Katy, -
Digital Storytellers Seminar, February 25, 2006
You and your media ministry team are invited to Midnight Oil
Production’s Digital Storytellers Seminar on Saturday, February 25, 2006, 8 a.m.
- 4 p.m. at St. Peter’s UMC in Katy. Len Wilson and Jason Moore (both
formerly of Ginghamsburg UMC, and co-founders of Lumicon) established
Midnight Oil Productions in 2002 "to further the vision of worship for
the digital age through ideas, resources and seminars that work for local
churches." The cost for the event is $109 for individuals and $89 per
person if 2 or more come from your church. This includes 4 sessions with
Len and Jason, a digital film festival, seminar related materials, a
meal, refreshments, and more. For more information about Midnight Oil or
the Digital Storytellers Seminar, visit:
www.midnightoilproductions.com. For more information about the event in Katy, contact Billy Watson at
bwatson@stpeterskaty.org or 281-492-8031, ext. 304.

FROM Patty Wehn-Glowski
Magnolia UMC will host Dr. Jim Fleming, lecturing on "The Turning
Points of Jesus' Life," March 31 from 7-9:30pm and Saturday April 1st,
8:30-4:00pm. Six lectures in all. Snacks, and Lunch provided. Call Magnolia
UMC for information 281-356-6647. CEU credits available.

_____________________RESTORATIVE JUSTICE NOTICES__________________

FROM John W. Harrington, Restorative Justice Coordinator, Beaumont
District----
Newly released from incarceration, needing churches to contact, they
have asked:
GIST UNIT: Juan Jose Morales, 501 N. 10th, Richmond, TX 77469 ph.
281
232 9112
TDCJ: Terry Lee Koelliker, 1932 Miller Dr., Bridge City, TX 77611
Kevin Haney, 4555 Hoffman, Vidor, TX 77662
Richard E. Vasquez, 6465 Cooledge, Groves, TX 77619 ph 409 962
0350--attended Kairos
Harvey Gordon, 1320 E. 17th St., Port Arthur, TX 77640 409 982 4309
Martie Boles Jr, 3304 10th St., Port Arthur, TX 77640 409 985 7706
David Elton, 2517 18th St. Port Arthur, TX 77642 409 983 6106
Shawn Bernard, 7605 9th Ave. #210 Port Arthur, TX 77842
Loe Benjamin, 8367 Davis Ave., Port Arthur, TX 77640 ph 409 736 1406
Darrell G. Colone, 1915 Sarah, Beaumont, TX 77705 ph. 409 843 6261
Troy Livingston, 2509 Cable Ave., Beaumont, TX 77704
Joe Anthony Allen, 4340 Westridge Ln., Apt 217, Beaumont, TX 77706 ph.
409 892 5255
Isaac Manuel, 5435 Spencer Dr., Beaumont, TX 77708--attended Kairos

Please contact these folks and invite them to Christian functions and
job fairs--it's the Wesleyan thing to do!

_______________________JOB OPENINGS/JOBS WANTED__________________

Below are the most current openings and job information. Previous job
postings can be located on the conference website: www.txcumc.org. Thank
you


______________________WANT ADS (Items Needed/Wanted)________________

Thursday, January 12, 2006

_PRAYER CONCERNS__________________________

FROM Rev. Mary Tennison:
The Patton and Tucker Family of Cedar Grove UMC (near Ore City) had a
house fire at their home near the church. Two people were hospitalized
at Good Shepherd Hospital and others suffered minor injuries. Please
pray for this family and I will supply more information as it is
received.

This is an excerpt from an email received from David Williamson,
retired Elder:

The facts are even worse than Mary must have known. Four children and
one adult died in the tragic fire that started from a defective "oxygen
machine" used by the elderly grandmother. At least three (and maybe
all) of the children were students at Ore City Schools....I talked and
grieved with five very young cousins of the family. Later, I counseled
with some older children and learned that one of the children who died in
the fire was one of the most popular girls in the middle school. He
name was Destiny, and a wall of the middle school was dedicated to
drawings and messages from the students in her memory.
A fund has been established at the Security State Bank in Ore City
to help this family who had very limited resources of their own even
before the fire which destroyed almost everything they had.

FROM Donna Alexander, Houston North District
Lisa White, Church Secretary of Montgomery UMC, is having serious
vision problems. She is currently undergoing testing and is hospitalized.
At this point, the doctors have been unable to determine the exact cause
of the problem. Surgery is planned in the immediate future due to the
extreme pressure in her eyes. An additional complication is Lisa's
severe diabetes.
Please join with us in prayer for God's healing, guidance and
comfort for Lisa, her family and her physicians.

FROM Bill Servis, Matagorda UMC
Prayers are requested for Johnnie Servis' brother Wayne Nichols who
will be taken off of life support on Friday afternoon at the hospital in
Odessa, Texas. Wayne has only 20% capacity of the use of his
lungs.Johnnie has been in Odessa for the last two weeks.

FROM Danny Barrett, FUMC Normangee/ Flynn
Would you, as brothers and sisters in Christ, lift up my 2-year-old
granddaughter Hanna. She is being admitted to Children's Hospital in
Dallas with a severe staph infection. She is a very sick little girl and I
and Vera would covet your prayers.

Anna Rohde in Longview received this email from a friend of
hers in
Pueblo, CO. Please pray for this young
soldier:
FROM: Vicky Field, Granbury, TX
Sunday, I got a call from the Army that my son, Chad, had been shot in
the head.
He was in a Humvee going through Falujah fighting and a gang of militia
fighters fired on the Humvee. The driver got him out of the city and
took him to Baghdad. He was in fatal condition, but now has been upgraded
to stable critical.
Please pray that my son will not have brain damage and that he will
be restored and healed ! by the blood of Jesus, and the grace of God. I
ask for you to pass this prayer request on so there will be many prayer
warriors praying for him. God Bless.

______________________________BIRTHS_______________________________

_________________________DEATHS/FUNERALS_________________________

FROM Michael D. Dent, Senior Pastor, Marvin UMC
Rev. Cecil McKee died Jan. 11 at his home in Huntsville after a long
battle with cancer.


_____________________CONFERENCE INFORMATION______________________

______________________NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS_________________________

FROM Sarah Smith, Memorial Drive UMC
They bring a new definition to the word "a capella." The Zambian
Vocal Group will perform at Memorial Drive UMC’s Accent on Music series
concert, Sunday, January 15th, 7 p.m., in the sanctuary. Seven young men
from Zambia will sing traditional hymns, original verse, and will
provide a combination of African rhythms, vocal percussion, and some complex
vocal harmonies. Admission is $5...tickets may be purchased at the
music office prior to the concert or at the door.
Memorial Drive UMC is located at 12955 Memorial Drive, Houston, a
block west of the Sam Houston Tollroad.

FROM Cindy Masterson
Celebration Women’s Ministry presents a Leadership Connection Event,
"Equipped to Pray," Saturday, February 18, 2006, at FUMC, Gilmer, TX.
Time is 9:00- 3:30. Cost is $20.00 and includes breakfast and lunch.
Barbara Byerly will be our guest speaker. Barbara has traveled extensively
both nationally and internationally in her teaching ministry.
There will be worship, teaching, prayer time, and training for local
chapter Celebration leadership. Workshops on Prayer, Worship, Officer
Training, and Ministry Teams will be offered
For information about registration, call email
clmasterson@cableone.net or go to www.celebrationministries.org to
download a registration form.

FROM Richard Heyduck [rheyduck@txcumc.org]
A new site for the Commission on Archives and History is now up at:
http://txmethhistory.blogspot.com/. It will feature timely pieces on
Methodist history and will be a source for help on keeping and developing
your own histories.

________________________THIS WEEK'S EVENTS_________________________

FROM Thebe Worden, Chair -
The Board of Managers, the governing board for the Cooperative
School of Christian Mission, will have its Winter meeting Friday, January
l3, 2006, at 10:00 a.m. It will be at Friendship UMC located at 252 Ford
Road, Porter, Texas. Lunch will be provided.

FROM Donna V. Adair, Director of Communications, St. Paul's UMC,
Houston
CHRISTOPHER HERRICK, an English concert organist devoted to
international performances, recording, and broadcasting, will play at St.
Paul's United Methodist Church on Friday, January 13, at 8 p.m.
Herrick performs regularly, both as a soloist and with orchestras,
throughout the world. His more than 30 recordings for Hyperion have
become a benchmark and include the complete works of Bach and the Organ
Fireworks series.
For more about Herrick and his repertoire, see www.herrick.musician.
org.uk. To reach Donna Adair, e-mail: dadair@stpaulshouston.org.
Church: 713-528-0527; Cell: 713-705-6542
NEW STEPHEN MINISTRY TRAINING
A new three-month-long Stephen Ministry training class will begin at
St. Paul's UMC on Sunday, January 15. The sessions will be from 3 to 5
p.m. For more information, contact Rev. Thompson at 713-528-0527 or
terryt@stpaulshouston.org.

_____________________MARK YOUR CALENDAR________________________

FROM Rev. Marlin Fenn
First United Methodist Church, Katy, will host Dr.Tim Bruster as
speaker of the tenth annual Coen Conference preaching series January 22 and
23. Dr. Bruster is Sr. Pastor of First United Methodist Church in Fort
Worth and a former member of the Texas Annual Conference. Services are
Sunday, January 22 at 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00am, and 7:00pm. Monday
service is at 7:00pm. Theme of the conference is "A Disciple’s Journey."
Church phone is 281-391-2121. Address is 5601 Fifth Street in Katy, 77493

FROM: Billy Watson, St. Peter’s UMC, Katy, -
Digital Storytellers Seminar, February 25, 2006
You and your media ministry team are invited to Midnight Oil
Production’s Digital Storytellers Seminar on Saturday, February 25, 2006, 8 a.m.
- 4 p.m. at St. Peter’s UMC in Katy. Len Wilson and Jason Moore (both
formerly of Ginghamsburg UMC, and co-founders of Lumicon) established
Midnight Oil Productions in 2002 "to further the vision of worship for
the digital age through ideas, resources and seminars that work for local
churches." The cost for the event is $109 for individuals and $89 per
person if 2 or more come from your church. This includes 4 sessions with
Len and Jason, a digital film festival, seminar related materials, a
meal, refreshments, and more. For more information about Midnight Oil or
the Digital Storytellers Seminar, visit:
www.midnightoilproductions.com. For more information about the event in Katy, contact Billy Watson at
bwatson@stpeterskaty.org or 281-492-8031, ext. 304.

FROM Terry Dougherty
This may be a resource for some of our local churches in East TX:
FASTEN has little grants for Faith-based organizations to help with
emergency response and with community recovery & rebuilding. The deadline
is March 1, 2006. See the attached link for details:

http://www.fastennetwork.org/display.asp?Page=2006_INFO


_____________________RESTORATIVE JUSTICE NOTICES__________________


_______________________JOB OPENINGS/JOBS WANTED__________________

Below are the most current openings and job information. Previous job
postings can be located on the conference website: www.txcumc.org. Thank
you

FROM Rev. Denise Jones
F/T Children's Ministries Director - Westbury UMC
A multi-cultural church in Southwest Houston. Experience working in
children's ministry is desired.
Contact: Rev. Denise Jones; 5200 Willowbend; Houston, Texas 77096;
713-723-0175 - denise1@westburyumc.org

______________________WANT ADS (Items Needed/Wanted)________________

FROM Kitty S. Key pastor, Sabine Pass UMC
Sabine Pass UMC is in need of a set of house plans which meet
Conference requirments, church budget, can be constructed by volunteer teams and
satisfy Codes for costal building. No small order for sure! If you have
an answer for our situation, please contact me at kfkey@hotmail.com
Visit our website for updates: www.sabinepassumc.org

Wednesday, January 11, 2006

________________________PRAYER CONCERNS__________________________

FROM Rev. Mary Tennison:
The Patton and Tucker Family of Cedar Grove UMC had a house fire last
night at their home near the church. Two people were hospitalized at
Good Shepherd Hospital and others suffered minor injuries. Please pray
for this family and I will supply more information as it is received.

President Haywood L. Strickland, President and CEO of Wiley College in
Marshall, Texas will undergo surgery at East Texas Medical Center in
Tyler, Texas on January 11 to repair an abdominal aortic aneurysm.

______________________________BIRTHS_______________________________

_________________________DEATHS/FUNERALS_________________________

_____________________CONFERENCE INFORMATION______________________

______________________NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS_________________________

FROM Terry Dougherty
This may be a resource for some of our local churches in East TX:
FASTEN has little grants for Faith-based organizations to help with
emergency response and with community recovery & rebuilding. The deadline
is March 1, 2006. See the attached link for details:

http://www.fastennetwork.org/display.asp?Page=2006_INFO

FROM Richard Heyduck [rheyduck@txcumc.org]
A new site for the Commission on Archives and History is now up at:
http://txmethhistory.blogspot.com/. It will feature timely pieces on
Methodist history and will be a source for help on keeping and developing
your own histories.

FROM Rev. Marlin Fenn
First United Methodist Church, Katy, will host Dr. Tim Bruster as
speaker of the tenth annual Coen Conference preaching series January 22 and
23. Dr. Bruster is Sr. Pastor of First United Methodist Church in Fort
Worth and a former member of the Texas Annual Conference. Services are
Sunday, January 22 at 8:30, 9:45, and 11:00am, and 7:00pm. Monday
service is at 7:00pm. Theme of the conference is "A Disciple’s Journey."
Church phone is 281-391-2121. Address is 5601 Fifth Street in Katy, 77493.

________________________THIS WEEK'S EVENTS_________________________

FROM Thebe Worden, Chair -
The Board of Managers, the governing board for the Cooperative
School of Christian Mission, will have its Winter meeting Friday, January
l3, 2006, at 10:00 a.m. It will be at Friendship UMC located at 252 Ford
Road, Porter, Texas. Lunch will be provided.

FROM Donna V. Adair, Director of Communications, St. Paul's UMC,
Houston
CHRISTOPHER HERRICK, an English concert organist devoted to
international performances, recording, and broadcasting, will play at St.
Paul's United Methodist Church on Friday, January 13, at 8 p.m.
Herrick performs regularly, both as a soloist and with orchestras,
throughout the world. His more than 30 recordings for Hyperion have
become a benchmark and include the complete works of Bach and the Organ
Fireworks series.
For more about Herrick and his repertoire, see www.herrick.musician.
org.uk. To reach Donna Adair, e-mail: dadair@stpaulshouston.org.
Church: 713-528-0527; Cell: 713-705-6542
NEW STEPHEN MINISTRY TRAINING
A new three-month-long Stephen Ministry training class will begin at
St. Paul's UMC on Sunday, January 15. The sessions will be from 3 to 5
p.m. For more information, contact Rev. Thompson at 713-528-0527 or
terryt@stpaulshouston.org.

_____________________MARK YOUR CALENDAR________________________

FROM: Billy Watson, St. Peter’s UMC, Katy, -
Digital Storytellers Seminar, February 25, 2006
You and your media ministry team are invited to Midnight Oil
Production’s Digital Storytellers Seminar on Saturday, February 25, 2006, 8 a.m.
- 4 p.m. at St. Peter’s UMC in Katy. Len Wilson and Jason Moore (both
formerly of Ginghamsburg UMC, and co-founders of Lumicon) established
Midnight Oil Productions in 2002 "to further the vision of worship for
the digital age through ideas, resources and seminars that work for local
churches." The cost for the event is $109 for individuals and $89 per
person if 2 or more come from your church. This includes 4 sessions with
Len and Jason, a digital film festival, seminar related materials, a
meal, refreshments, and more. For more information about Midnight Oil or
the Digital Storytellers Seminar, visit:
www.midnightoilproductions.com. For more information about the event in Katy, contact Billy Watson at
bwatson@stpeterskaty.org or 281-492-8031, ext. 304.


______________________RESTORATIVE JUSTICE NOTICES_________________


_______________________JOB OPENINGS/JOBS WANTED__________________

Below are the most current openings and job information. Previous job
postings can be located on the conference website: www.txcumc.org.
Thank you

FROM Rev. Denise Jones
F/T Children's Ministries Director - Westbury UMC
A multi-cultural church in Southwest Houston. Experience working in
children's ministry is desired.
Contact: Rev. Denise Jones; 5200 Willowbend; Houston, Texas 77096;
713-723-0175 - denise1@westburyumc.org

______________________WANT ADS (Items Needed

Tuesday, January 10, 2006

________________________PRAYER CONCERNS__________________________

______________________________BIRTHS_______________________________

_________________________DEATHS/FUNERALS_________________________

FROM Donna Alexander, Houston North District & Elizabeth Palmer ,
[liz_larks@yahoo.co]
The Reverend Sarah Gertrude Johnson passed away January 5, 2006.
Funeral services are scheduled for 1:00 pm on Saturday, January 14, 2006 at
the Sloan UMC, Houston. A wake service is planned for Friday, January
13th from 7-9pm. A memorial service will be held at 8 pm. Both services
will be at the church.

_____________________CONFERENCE INFORMATION______________________

______________________NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS_________________________

________________________THIS WEEK'S EVENTS_________________________

FROM Thebe Worden, Chair -
The Board of Managers, the governing board for the Cooperative
School of Christian Mission, will have its Winter meeting Friday, January
l3, 2006, at 10:00 a.m. It will be at Friendship UMC located at 252 Ford
Road, Porter, Texas. Lunch will be provided.

FROM Donna V. Adair, Director of Communications, St. Paul's UMC,
Houston
CHRISTOPHER HERRICK, an English concert organist devoted to
international performances, recording, and broadcasting, will play at St.
Paul's United Methodist Church on Friday, January 13, at 8 p.m.
Herrick performs regularly, both as a soloist and with orchestras,
throughout the world. His more than 30 recordings for Hyperion have
become a benchmark and include the complete works of Bach and the Organ
Fireworks series.
For more about Herrick and his repertoire, see www.herrick.musician.
org.uk. To reach Donna Adair, e-mail: dadair@stpaulshouston.org.
Church: 713-528-0527; Cell: 713-705-6542
NEW STEPHEN MINISTRY TRAINING
A new three-month-long Stephen Ministry training class will begin at
St. Paul's UMC on Sunday, January 15. The sessions will be from 3 to 5
p.m. For more information, contact Rev. Thompson at 713-528-0527 or
terryt@stpaulshouston.org.

_____________________MARK YOUR CALENDAR________________________

FROM Rev. Paula Behrens-Lopez, St. Paul's UMC, Henderson
LEARN SPANISH FREE!!!
Beginning Monday, January 16 at 6pm -
St. Paul's United Methodist Church; 2212 Hwy 79 South, Henderson, TX
(Next to McDonalds)
Classes offered weekly...
Entry level during the beginning weeks and intermediate level to be
added as necessary.
For more information, call (903) 657-4074 or email Rev. Paula
Behrens-Lopez at paula@pastorpaula.com
For directions to the church, visit our webpage:
http://PastorPaula.com

FROM Sherri Kelley
The Division of Single Adult Ministry is offering two 1-day seminars
with Terry Hershey, inspirational speaker from Vashon, WA. On Jan. 21,
the seminar will be held at Lon Morris College, and on Jan. 28, it will
be held at St. Paul’s UMC in Houston. The topic will be Living with
Intention: Practice the Sacrament of the Blessed Present. The cost is $25
per person and includes lunch. For more information, please contact the
DoSAM chairperson, Sheri Kelley, at sherikelley@mdumc.org or
713/468-8356, ext. 119.

FROM Michael Hunter
Christian Unity week set for Jan. 18-25
United Methodists will join with other Christians Jan. 18-25 to
celebrate the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.
By United Methodist News Service . Go to http://umns.umc.org for
more information.
The prepared materials, which can be found online at
http://wcc-coe.org/wcc/what/faith/wop2006contents.html include the
biblical text, introduction, ecumenical worship service, biblical
reflections and prayers for each of the eight days.

FROM Maggie Nickens
I'm the CCYM Secretary and leader of the decorations committee. As you
know this year's theme is "Fisher Christ: Pray, Laugh, Grow". Well, a
huge part of the decorations committee ideas this year involves Fisher
Price toys! So, if there is any way each of you could possibly bring any
Fisher Price toys to camp, we would be so grateful! You can pick them
up at garage sales, bring some you have and can bring home after camp,
or borrow...any way you can get some. Big and small, we'll use them all!
While this is not mandatory at all, it would be a big help. Thanks a
lot!
If you have any questions, e-mail maggienickens@aol.com

______________________RESTORATIVE JUSTICE NOTICES_________________


_______________________JOB OPENINGS/JOBS WANTED__________________

Below are the most current openings and job information. Previous job
postings can be located on the conference website: www.txcumc.org.
Thank you

FROM Diana Hearn, Executive Director
Job Opening from Shalom Mobile Health Ministry -
Title: Patient Coordinator/Coach Operator
Full-time position provides support for the Family Nurse Practitioner
and LVN and is responsible for maintenance of the patient medical
record, appointment scheduling, statistical recording, and the operation
(driving) of the mobile clinic.
Qualifications: Biligual (English/Spanish), proficient Microsoft
Word/Excel, experience working with the public (strong people skills),
willing/able to get CDL and train to drive 36ft motor coach, willing/able to
be trained to draw blood for lab (phlebotomy certification training),
medical records/medical terminology exp. desired but not required (will
train).
Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 7:30am-5:30pm (must be available to work 3 or 4
Fri's. or Sat's. per year, as assigned)
Benefits: Paid health insurance, vacation/sick/holiday time, pension
plan, competitive pay.
Looking for high energy, extremely organized individual to join our
team! EOE
Fax resume to Diana Hearn (713-926-3948) or e-mail
dianaehearn@sbcglobal.net

______________________WANT ADS (Items Needed/Wanted)________________

Monday, January 09, 2006

________________________PRAYER CONCERNS__________________________

FROM Anna M. Rohde, Longview District, 903-758-7003 -
Rev. Doug Wintermute of Carthage St. Andrews and Murvaul UMC, had an
emergency appendectomy yesterday at Good Shepherd Hospital, Longview,
Texas. He is in room 1467 and will remain there for the next five days.
Please pray for his speedy recovery. Also, Doug’s in-laws appreciate all
your prayers and assistance given to them due to the loss of their home
to the wildfires in West Texas last week.

FROM Lou Powers, Vice Chairman of Restorative Justice -
Reverend Marvin Hood has undergone foot surgery and is at home
recuperating. He will be off of his feet for a couple of weeks as his foot
heals. Please pray for his speedy recovery and fast return to his
Restorative Justice Ministry. He gives his thanks to all of those that have
supported this special ministry with their time, prayers and financial
support.

FROM Rodger D. Garbs, Wesley Memorial UMC, Huntsville, Texas
Retired Rev. Cecil McKee's health is failing and Hospice was called to
begin caring for him on Friday, January 6, 2006. The family and friends
would appreciate prayers.

______________________________BIRTHS_______________________________

_________________________DEATHS/FUNERALS_________________________

_____________________CONFERENCE INFORMATION______________________

______________________NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS_________________________

FROM Maggie Nickens
I'm the CCYM Secretary and leader of the decorations committee. As you
know this year's theme is "Fisher Christ: Pray, Laugh, Grow". Well, a
huge part of the decorations committee ideas this year involves Fisher
Price toys! So, if there is any way each of you could possibly bring any
Fisher Price toys to camp, we would be so grateful! You can pick them
up at garage sales, bring some you have and can bring home after camp,
or borrow...any way you can get some. Big and small, we'll use them all!
While this is not mandatory at all, it would be a big help. Thanks a
lot!
If you have any questions, e-mail maggienickens@aol.com

________________________THIS WEEK'S EVENTS_________________________

FROM Thebe Worden, Chair -
The Board of Managers, the governing board for the Cooperative
School of Christian Mission, will have its Winter meeting Friday, January
l3, 2006, at 10:00 a.m. It will be at Friendship UMC located at 252 Ford
Road, Porter, Texas. Lunch will be provided.

FROM Donna V. Adair, Director of Communications, St. Paul's UMC,
Houston
CHRISTOPHER HERRICK, an English concert organist devoted to
international performances, recording, and broadcasting, will play at St.
Paul's United Methodist Church on Friday, January 13, at 8 p.m.
Herrick performs regularly, both as a soloist and with orchestras,
throughout the world. His more than 30 recordings for Hyperion have
become a benchmark and include the complete works of Bach and the Organ
Fireworks series.
For more about Herrick and his repertoire, see www.herrick.musician.
org.uk. To reach Donna Adair, e-mail: dadair@stpaulshouston.org.
Church: 713-528-0527; Cell: 713-705-6542
NEW STEPHEN MINISTRY TRAINING
A new three-month-long Stephen Ministry training class will begin at
St. Paul's UMC on Sunday, January 15. The sessions will be from 3 to 5
p.m. For more information, contact Rev. Thompson at 713-528-0527 or
terryt@stpaulshouston.org.

_____________________MARK YOUR CALENDAR________________________

FROM Sherri Kelley
The Division of Single Adult Ministry is offering two 1-day seminars
with Terry Hershey, inspirational speaker from Vashon, WA. On Jan. 21,
the seminar will be held at Lon Morris College, and on Jan. 28, it will
be held at St. Paul’s UMC in Houston. The topic will be Living with
Intention: Practice the Sacrament of the Blessed Present. The cost is $25
per person and includes lunch. For more information, please contact the
DoSAM chairperson, Sheri Kelley, at sherikelley@mdumc.org or
713/468-8356, ext. 119.

FROM Michael Hunter
Christian Unity week set for Jan. 18-25
United Methodists will join with other Christians Jan. 18-25 to
celebrate the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.
By United Methodist News Service . Go to http://umns.umc.org for
more information.
The prepared materials, which can be found online at
http://wcc-coe.org/wcc/what/faith/wop2006contents.html include the
biblical text, introduction, ecumenical worship service, biblical
reflections and prayers for each of the eight days.


______________________RESTORATIVE JUSTICE NOTICES_________________


_______________________JOB OPENINGS/JOBS WANTED__________________

Below are the most current openings and job information. Previous job
postings can be located on the conference website: www.txcumc.org.
Thank you


______________________WANT ADS (Items Needed/Wanted)________________

Friday, January 06, 2006

________________________PRAYER CONCERNS__________________________

______________________________BIRTHS_______________________________

_________________________DEATHS/FUNERALS_________________________

FROM Rev. Steve Turner, UM Foundation, Development Officer
My wife Nonie's younger sister, Lucy Brasington, died on Thursday
afternoon in South Carolina. Arrangements are pending. We would appreciate
your continued prayers.

FROM Nancy Hinshaw, Houston Area Episcopal Office
I just received word from Lewis Jackson that Sara Gertrude Johnson, one
of our retired ministers, died yesterday in her home. We will forward
more details as they are available.

_____________________CONFERENCE INFORMATION______________________

FROM Kathie Mann, Director of Partners In Mission
Partners In Mission is holding Team Leader Training for all team
leaders working with PIM 2006 projects.
Please call Beth Dudley at 713-521-9383 to register. Cost is $5 per
person.
Jan. 14 - St. Luke's UMC , Houston - 9-3 p.m.
Jan 21 - Marvin UMC, Tyler - 9-3 p.m.
Jan. 28 - St. Luke's UMC, Houston - 9-3 p.m.
Feb. 11 - FUMC, Lufkin - 9-3 p.m.

______________________NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS_________________________

FROM Connie Scroggins, Ministry Assistant
First United Methodist Church at 306 Scurry in Daingerfield is hosting
the Southern Gospel Quartet "Praise, Inc." on Sunday, January 22nd at
6:00 p.m. Admission is free, but a love offering will be taken. Please
join us!

FROM Todd Jordan
Register now for the Order of Elders Retreat January 31-February 2 at
Lakeview. Featured speaker Susan Beaumont of the Alban Institute will
speak on authenticity and servanthood in the context of our faith story.
Guest singer/composer Ken Medema will also be present to share his gift
of music. Contact registrar Todd Jordan at toddjordan@triitybmt.org
for more information.

________________________THIS WEEK'S EVENTS_________________________

FROM Rev. Dr. Elijah Stansell, TXCUMC Treasurer
BMCR Hosts MLK Breakfast
"Walk Together Children -- Don't Get Weary" is the theme of this year's
Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration breakfast, hosted by the Houston
Chapter of Black Merthodists for Church Renewal. Everyone is invited to
fellowship together at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, January 16, at Bethany UMC,
3511 Linkwood in Houston, where Dr. Francis E.W. Guidry is pastor. The
featured speaker is Rev. Dr. Lydia Jackson Waters of Dallas.
RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE MADE BY MONDAY, JANUARY 9.
Individual tickets are $25 and a table of eight is $200. For reservations,
contact Frances Dunlap at 281-999-5114 or francesdunlap@msn.com or
contact Rev. Lawrence Young at 713-733-4630 or pastoryoung@joneschurch.org.
Make checks payable to BMCR and mail to 3014 Hutchins, Houston, TX
77004.

_____________________MARK YOUR CALENDAR________________________

FROM Donna V. Adair, Director of Communications, St. Paul's UMC,
Houston
SIBLINGS WITHOUT RIVALRY WORKSHOP
St. Paul's School will offer a six-part workshop titled "Siblings
without Rivalry" on Tuesday mornings, from January 10 to February 14.
The workshop fee, including cost of parent manual, is $35. To
register or for more information, contact the school at 713-528-6770 or
spschool@stpaulshouston.og.

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP BEGINS JANUARY 10 at St. Paul's UMC
Living with Loss is a supportive opportunity to share grief experiences
and re-examine spirituality in the wake of loss.This grief support
group will meet six consecutive Tuesday nights from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at St.
Paul's Umc, beginning January 10, 2006.
To register or for more information, contact Rev. Thompson at
713-528-0527 or terryt@stpaulshouston.org.

FROM Thebe Worden,Chair
The Board of Managers, the governing board for the Cooperative
School of Christian Mission, will have its Winter meeting Friday, January
l3, 2006, at 10:00 a.m. It will be at Friendship UMC, located at 252
Ford Road, Porter, Texas. Lunch will be provided.

FROM Rev. Paula Behrens-Lopez, St. Paul's UMC, Henderson
LEARN SPANISH FREE!!!
Beginning Monday, January 16 at 6pm -
St. Paul's UMC; 2212 Hwy 79 South, Henderson, TX (Next to McDonalds)
Classes offered weekly...Entry level during the beginning weeks and
intermediate level to be added as necessary.
For more information, call (903) 657-4074 or email Rev. Paula
Behrens-Lopez at paula@pastorpaula.com
For directions to the church, visit our webpage
http://PastorPaula.com

FROM Judy Gober
It's not too late -- REGISTER TODAY for the TCCEF Annual Study Retreat!
- "This Day - How is it With Your Soul?" Please join us for the Texas
Conference Christian Educators Fellowship Annual Retreat, January 17 -
19, 2006 at Lakeview Conference Center. Our retreat leaders will be
Rev. Susan Keirn Kester and Rev. Mary E. Tumulty. Please contact Judy
Gober, jgober@cypress-umc.org, 281-469-0730 x 214, for registration
information.

______________________RESTORATIVE JUSTICE NOTICES_________________


_______________________JOB OPENINGS/JOBS WANTED__________________

Below are the most current openings and job information. Previous job
postings can be located on the conference website: www.txcumc.org.
Thank you


______________________WANT ADS (Items Needed/Wanted)________________

Thursday, January 05, 2006

________________________PRAYER CONCERNS__________________________

FROM Vetta Quackenbush, Lufkin District
Prayers are requested for Frances Wilson, mother of Rev. George Wilson,
who is in ICU at St. Luke's, Houston. Rev. Wilson is pastor at Lake
Rayburn.

FROM Rev. Steve Turner, UM Foundation, Development Officer
It is time to share a personal prayer request from my wife’s family. My
wife's (Nonie) younger sister, Lucy Brasington, is in the final stage
of cancer and is presently in a cancer hospital in South Carolina. he
doctors has informed the family that Lucy does not have long to live. We
would appreciate the prayers from the staff of our Conference Center
and others around our conference who may be interested.

______________________________BIRTHS_______________________________

FROM Nancy Hinshaw, Houston Area Episcopal Office
Amanda Harvey Davis (a candidate for ministry in the HNW District) and
her husband Alex welcomed their baby on January 2, 2006 at 7:37 pm.
Ashley Lynn Davis was 8 lb. 1 oz. and 21 inches long.

_________________________DEATHS/FUNERALS_________________________

FROM Doris Folser, Houston NW Dist.
There will be a time for visitation with Rev. Hill and Rev. Cramer
Johnson and family from 6-8 this evening, Jan. 5, at the Kingwood Funeral
Home. Mr. Harvey Johnson, father of Rev. Hill Johnson, passed away and
the funeral will be tomorrow at 1:00 at Kingwood Funeral Home, with
interment at Veterans Memorial Cemetery.

FROM Dr. Janice Gilbert-Williams, McKinney Memorial United Methodist
Church
Mrs. Sandra Crittenton went home to be with the Lord on January 3,
2006. The memorial service will be Thursday, January 5, from 6:00 p.m.-8:00
p.m. The funeral service will be Friday, January 6, at 11:00a.m. These
services will held at McKinney United Methodist Church in LaMarque
Texas. Pray that God's grace will strengthen and comfort this family.

_____________________CONFERENCE INFORMATION______________________


______________________NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS_________________________

FROM Donna V. Adair, Director of Communications, St. Paul's UMC,
Houston
SIBLINGS WITHOUT RIVALRY WORKSHOP
St. Paul's School will offer a six-part workshop titled "Siblings
without Rivalry" on Tuesday mornings, from January 10 to February 14.
Taught by Zane Ann Tigett, the preschool's director for more than 25
years, the goal of this workshop is to teach parents special methods
that enable siblings to deal with their negative feelings about each
other in a positive away and to resolve conflict in a helpful manner.
Among points to be discussed are "What to do when siblings fight."
and "Ways to treat children unequally and still be fair."
The workshop fee, including cost of parent manual, is $35. To
register or for more information, contact the school at 713-528-6770 or
spschool@stpaulshouston.og.

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP BEGINS JANUARY 10 at St. Paul's UMC

Living with Loss is a supportive opportunity to share grief experiences
and re-examine spirituality in the wake of loss.This grief support
group will meet six consecutive Tuesday nights from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at St.
Paul's Umc, beginning January 10, 2006.
Facilitated by Rev. Terry Thompson, St. Paul's Minister for
Congregational Care and Senior Adults, and Rev. Dan Miller, a United Methodist
minister and hospice chaplain, the group primarily is for those who
recently have experienced the death of a loved one.
Many grieving persons have found that simply being with others who are
dealing with similar loss can ease the pain of grief and encourage the
healing process.
In many ways, life after the death of a loved one is much the same as
before the loss: Daily activities go on. Vocational demands continue.
Family and household responsibilities remain.
In other ways, however, much is changed: The pain of loss permeates
everything. Grief saps energy, so that even the simplest tasks are
exhausting. Grief can alter perceptions; the world "just looks different."
--more--
Grief Support Group Begins January 10 at St. Paul's UMC
Add one


Grief also affects one's spiritual life. Some come to rely more on
faith. Others may find they have less energy for worship, prayer, and
scripture. One's relationship with God can change after a loss. All this can
add to the stress of grief.
To register or for more information, contact Rev. Thompson at
713-528-0527 or terryt@stpaulshouston.org.
St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Houston, is on the corner of Main
and Binz/Bissonnet, across from the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. It is
within one block of both Museum District MetroRail

St. Paul's School is located in the Jones Building of St. Paul's
UMC, on the corner of Main and Binz/Bissonnet, across from the Museum of
Fine Arts. Free parking is available in two lots across Fannin Street
from the church.


________________________THIS WEEK'S EVENTS_________________________

FROM Rev. J. C. Dorman, Central United Methodist Church
This Saturday, January 7th, at 2:00 PM, we will begin the first of our
Healing and Wholeness Services that will become a regular 1st Saturday
event. This will be a traditional service of healing and wholeness
following the format in our Book of Worship. Please come and bring someone
with you and be prepared to seek the Lord's presence. Central United
Methodist Church is located on the corner of 33rd Street and Avenue O 1/2
in Galveston (3308 Avenue O 1/2). For additional information call
409-762-2138 or email revjcd1@aol.com.

FROM Rev. Dr. Elijah Stansell, TXCUMC Treasurer
BMCR Hosts MLK Breakfast
"Walk Together Children -- Don't Get Weary" is the theme of this year's
Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration breakfast, hosted by the Houston
Chapter of Black Merthodists for Church Renewal. Everyone is invited to
fellowship together at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, January 16, at Bethany UMC,
3511 Linkwood in Houston, where Dr. Francis E.W. Guidry is pastor. The
featured speaker is Rev. Dr. Lydia Jackson Waters of Dallas.
RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE MADE BY MONDAY, JANUARY 9.
Individual tickets are $25 and a table of eight is $200. For reservations,
contact Frances Dunlap at 281-999-5114 or francesdunlap@msn.com or
contact Rev. Lawrence Young at 713-733-4630 or pastoryoung@joneschurch.org.
Make checks payable to BMCR and mail to 3014 Hutchins, Houston, TX
77004.

_____________________MARK YOUR CALENDAR________________________

FROM Thebe Worden,Chair
The Board of Managers, the governing board for the Cooperative
School of Christian Mission, will have its Winter meeting Friday, January
l3, 2006, at 10:00 a.m. It will be at Friendship UMC, located at 252
Ford Road, Porter, Texas. Lunch will be provided.

--Please note that the webpage address in yesterday's email
below contained an "0" that didn't belong there. The address is correct in
today's message--

FROM Rev. Paula Behrens-Lopez, St. Paul's UMC, Henderson
LEARN SPANISH FREE!!!
Beginning Monday, January 16 at 6pm -
St. Paul's United Methodist Church
2212 Hwy 79 South, Henderson, TX
(Next to McDonalds)
Classes offered weekly...
Entry level during the beginning weeks and intermediate level to be
added as necessary.
For more information, call (903) 657-4074 or email Rev. Paula
Behrens-Lopez at paula@pastorpaula.com
For directions to the church, visit our webpage
http://PastorPaula.com (this is the correct address.)

FROM Judy Gober
It's not too late -- REGISTER TODAY for the TCCEF Annual Study Retreat!
- "This Day - How is it With Your Soul?" Please join us for the Texas
Conference Christian Educators Fellowship Annual Retreat, January 17 -
19, 2006 at Lakeview Conference Center. Our retreat leaders will be
Rev. Susan Keirn Kester and Rev. Mary E. Tumulty. Please contact Judy
Gober, jgober@cypress-umc.org, 281-469-0730 x 214, for registration
information.

FROM Rev. Don & Vivian White
ENGAGED ENCOUNTER - UNITED METHODIST Weekend Jan. 27-29, 2006 in
Houston
Here is an opportunity for all engaged and newly-married couples,
and also for couples considering engagement. The Engaged Encounter-United
Methodist weekend is an approved program of the General Board of
Discipleship of The UMC and of the Family Ministries Committee of the Texas
Annual Conference. It meets the recommendation of the 2004 General
Conference Resolution #27 regarding nurturing marriage and family.
Registration deadline for the Jan. 27-29 weekend is very near. Please have
interested couples contact us immediately! Rev. Don and Vivian White, Texas
Contact Couple for Engaged Encounter-United Methodist, 281-429-7686, or
e-mail donvivwhite@juno.com

FROM Mac Vaughn
We are starting a new ministry:
United Methodist Motorcycle Enthusiasts [Cypress & the greater Houston
Area]- Chapter Dedication & Bike Blessing, Sunday, January 29, 2006,
@11am. Ministry Activity Center Cypress United Methodist Church, 13403
Cypress N. Houston Road, Cypress.
All motorcycle enthusiasts are welcome regardless of denomination
or church affiliation. We will gather around 8:30 to 8:45am and line up
and display the bikes in the front of the Ministry Activity Center.
We will be planning short rides once a month and one long ride every
quarter.
To build a fund, a donation of $5.00 or more per ride is requested
but not required. We will be working on setting up outreach & charity
runs. Any ideas or any further inforamatoin, please send an e-mail to:
(brennan_dave@sbcglobal.net, taylor.s.d.gary@sbcglobal.net), or
dab12903@yahoo.com.
We need to get photo of each rider, along with a copy of their bike
insurance and hospitalization. The Road Captain will have this
information on each ride.

FROM Alicia Coltzer, alicia@clearlakemethodist.org
CALLING ALL BIKE ENTHUSIASTS!
Join our Team!!!
You are invited to ride with the "Parkway/Clear Lake UMC" bike team, as
we gear up for our second year participating in the MS150 bike tour
from Houston to Austin, April 22-23, 2006. Last year, we raised more than
$13,000 to help in the fight against Multiple Sclerosis! Come join us
as we continue to minister to those affected by MS, riding for them and
sharing in a great time of fun, fellowship, and getting in better shape
along the way. If you'd like to join the team as a rider or volunteer
as part of our support crew, please contact Team Captain Dave Swartwout
at 281-488-8452 or Tracia Sanders at 281-992-6429 for more information.
Also, visit www.ms150.org to register. Registration is now open and
spots for the tour are going quickly.

FROM Connie Bovier, Charis Spiritual Director Training Program
Charis Spiritual Director Training Program Seeks Applicants for Class
2.
Application deadline: March 1, 2006
The Charis Spiritual Director Training Program of the Texas Annual
Conference is now accepting applications for Class 2 to enter training in
August 2006. This three-year training program equips both lay and clergy
to serve as spiritual companions to individuals who seek deeper
spiritual growth. Classes meet at Livingston UMC the second Saturday of each
month, September through April, with August and May retreats held at
Lakeview.
For more information or to request an application packet, contact
Charis Coordinator Becky Oates at 281-360-1942 or
havenofrest@earthlink.net

FROM Dr. Glenna Kyker Brayton
Native American Ministry in the Texas Conference has jump-started its
outreach. The Youth Powwow, sponsored by the Texas Conference, turned
out to be "A Dancer's Powwow," according to Native American staff, the
committee, singers, and dancers. It was such a success that we have been
asked to repeat the event in 2006.
Some of the best things coming out of the November youth powwow are
statements from young people who experienced for the first time the
dignity of a part of their heritage. All day spectators were heard to say
things like "My grandmother was half Indian" or "My grandpa told
stories about his Indian mother [or father]." We've heard recently of
United Methodist youth who have made changes in their lives because of new
feelings of worthiness and identity as Native Americans.
Healing within the church and outreach for the unchurched! What a
ministry! We ask you to consider creating a line item in your 2006
mission outreach budget for the Texas Conference Native American Ministry.
Much of the expenses for 2005, including prize money and staff fees,
was underwritten by a grant from a non-Methodist foundation, which we may
not have next year.
If you want specific information regarding 2005 powwow expenditures
or proposed budget for 2006, please call Dr. Glenna Kyker Brayton at
281-391-5797.

______________________RESTORATIVE JUSTICE NOTICES_________________

FROM John W. Harrington Restorative Justice Coordinator Beaumont
District
GIST STATE JAIL- Welcome Back and or Operation Rebound:
Floyd Struckmeyer, 23415 Honeybee Lane, New Caney, TX 77357 ph. 281 354
2109
Juan Gabriel Ramirez, 1505 Mesquite, Houston, TX 77093 ph. 832 524
3308
Kieth Lee Bell, 1504 N. Winfree, Dayton, TX 77535 ph. 936 258 0166
Earl M. Malveaux, 1643 Highway 96 South, Lumberton, TX 77657 ph. 409 -
755 0691 "A believer"
Larry Doneall Mosely, 3506 Cove View Apt. 1207, Galveston, TX 77554 -
Phone
409 740 6780
Vincent St. Cyr, 21115 Julie Lane, Montgomery, TX 77356 ph. 836 596
6996
Troy S. Robertson, 5830 Concord Rd., Beaumont, TX 77708 ph. 409 924
0870 Brandon Castille, 6095 Alpine Circle Apt. 1, Beaumont, TX 77708
409- 924 0587
Michael McDaniel, 990 West Florida, Beaumont, TX 77705
Reggie Sharp, 3150 W. Cardinal #176, Beaumont, TX 77705
Dale Weeks, 18552 Fairfield Rd., Russell, Kansas 67665 - ph. 785 483
6571

GATESVILLE WOMENS UNIT:
Lalasha Marie Moore, 2326 Glenwood Drive, Port Arthur, TX 77640 - 409
983 5507

TDCJ:
Shawn Bernard, 605 9th Ave. #210, Port Arthur, TX 77642
Leon Benjamin, 8307 Doris Ave., Port Arthur, TX 77640 ph. 409 736
1406
Kevin Haney, 4555 Hoffman, Vidor, TX 77662
Luke Jackson, 3405 Ave. H, Nederland, TX 77627 ph. 409 727 3450 "I am
a Methodist"
Bobby Leonard, 4161 Kenneth St., Beaumont, TX 77705 ph. 409 835
3317,
DOB 11/18/48

Please invite these folks in the closest distances to you to a church
function and to local job fairs! Thank you

_______________________JOB OPENINGS/JOBS WANTED__________________

Below are the most current openings and job information. Previous job
postings can be located on the conference website: www.txcumc.org.
Thank you

FROM Rev. Robert Stutes
OFFICE MANAGER position at First UMC Pasadena. Full-time position with
responsibilities for administration, publications, and supervision of
other support staff. Immediate opening. Contact Robert Stutes,
281-487-8787 or robertstutes@firstumcpasadena.org.

FACILITIES MANAGER position at First UMC Pasadena. Part-time position
with responsibilities for overseeing maintenance and operations of
physical plant. Immediate opening. Contact Robert Stutes, 281-487-8787 or
robertstutes@firstumcpasadena.org.


______________________WANT ADS (Items Needed/Wanted)________________

Wednesday, January 04, 2006

________________________PRAYER CONCERNS__________________________


_______________________________BIRTHS_______________________________


_________________________DEATHS/FUNERALS_________________________

FROM Pat Travers, Tyler District UMC
From Rick Son (Mineola): Eugenia's mom passed away yesterday at 1:30.
The memorial service is this Friday at 2:00 p.m. at Christ Episcopal
Church in Tyler. Her mother's name was Jean Key. Please keep the family
in your prayers.

_____________________CONFERENCE INFORMATION______________________


______________________NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS_________________________

FROM Thebe Worden,Chair
The Board of Managers, the governing board for the Cooperative
School of Christian Mission, will have its Winter meeting Friday, January
l3, 2006, at 10:00 a.m. It will be at Friendship UMC, located at 252
Ford Road, Porter, Texas. Lunch will be provided.

FROM Rev. Paula Behrens-Lopez, St. Paul's UMC, Henderson
LEARN SPANISH FREE!!!
Beginning Monday, January 16 at 6pm -

St. Paul's United Methodist Church
2212 Hwy 79 South, Henderson, TX
(Next to McDonalds)

Classes offered weekly...
Entry level during the beginning weeks and intermediate level to be
added as necessary.
For more information, call (903) 657-4074 or email Rev. Paula
Behrens-Lopez at paula@pastorpaula.com
For directions to the church, visit our webpage
http://PastorPaula.com0

FROM Judy Gober
It's not too late -- REGISTER TODAY for the TCCEF Annual Study Retreat!
- "This Day - How is it With Your Soul?" Please join us for the Texas
Conference Christian Educators Fellowship Annual Retreat, January 17 -
19, 2006 at Lakeview Conference Center. Our retreat leaders will be
Rev. Susan Keirn Kester and Rev. Mary E. Tumulty. Please contact Judy
Gober, jgober@cypress-umc.org, 281-469-0730 x 214, for registration
information.

FROM Mac Vaughn
We are starting a new ministry:
United Methodist Motorcycle Enthusiasts [Cypress & the greater Houston
Area]- Chapter Dedication & Bike Blessing, Sunday, January 29, 2006,
@11am. Ministry Activity Center Cypress United Methodist Church, 13403
Cypress N. Houston Road, Cypress.
All motorcycle enthusiasts are welcome regardless of denomination
or church affiliation. We will gather around 8:30 to 8:45am and line up
and display the bikes in the front of the Ministry Activity Center.
We will be planning short rides once a month and one long ride every
quarter.
To build a fund, a donation of $5.00 or more per ride is requested
but not required. We will be working on setting up outreach & charity
runs. Any ideas or any further inforamatoin, please send an e-mail to:
(brennan_dave@sbcglobal.net, taylor.s.d.gary@sbcglobal.net), or
dab12903@yahoo.com.
We need to get photo of each rider, along with a copy of their bike
insurance and hospitalization. The Road Captain will have this
information on each ride.


________________________THIS WEEK'S EVENTS_________________________

FROM Rev. J. C. Dorman, Central United Methodist Church
This Saturday, January 7th, at 2:00 PM, we will begin the first of our
Healing and Wholeness Services that will become a regular 1st Saturday
event. This will be a traditional service of healing and wholeness
following the format in our Book of Worship. Please come and bring someone
with you and be prepared to seek the Lord's presence. Central United
Methodist Church is located on the corner of 33rd Street and Avenue O 1/2
in Galveston (3308 Avenue O 1/2). For additional information call
409-762-2138 or email revjcd1@aol.com.

FROM Rev. Dr. Elijah Stansell, TXCUMC Treasurer
BMCR Hosts MLK Breakfast
"Walk Together Children -- Don't Get Weary" is the theme of this year's
Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration breakfast, hosted by the Houston
Chapter of Black Merthodists for Church Renewal. Everyone is invited to
fellowship together at 8:30 a.m. on Monday, January 16, at Bethany UMC,
3511 Linkwood in Houston, where Dr. Francis E.W. Guidry is pastor. The
featured speaker is Rev. Dr. Lydia Jackson Waters of Dallas.
RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED AND MUST BE MADE BY MONDAY, JANUARY 9.
Individual tickets are $25 and a table of eight is $200. For reservations,
contact Frances Dunlap at 281-999-5114 or francesdunlap@msn.com or
contact Rev. Lawrence Young at 713-733-4630 or pastoryoung@joneschurch.org.
Make checks payable to BMCR and mail to 3014 Hutchins, Houston, TX
77004.

_____________________MARK YOUR CALENDAR________________________

FROM Rev. Don & Vivian White
ENGAGED ENCOUNTER - UNITED METHODIST Weekend Jan. 27-29, 2006 in
Houston
Here is an opportunity for all engaged and newly-married couples,
and also for couples considering engagement. The Engaged Encounter-United
Methodist weekend is an approved program of the General Board of
Discipleship of The UMC and of the Family Ministries Committee of the Texas
Annual Conference. It meets the recommendation of the 2004 General
Conference Resolution #27 regarding nurturing marriage and family.
Registration deadline for the Jan. 27-29 weekend is very near. Please have
interested couples contact us immediately! Rev. Don and Vivian White, Texas
Contact Couple for Engaged Encounter-United Methodist, 281-429-7686, or
e-mail donvivwhite@juno.com

FROM Alicia Coltzer, alicia@clearlakemethodist.org
CALLING ALL BIKE ENTHUSIASTS!
Join our Team!!!
You are invited to ride with the "Parkway/Clear Lake UMC" bike team,
as we gear up for our second year participating in the MS150 bike tour
from Houston to Austin, April 22-23, 2006. Last year, we raised more
than $13,000 to help in the fight against Multiple Sclerosis! Come join us
as we continue to minister to those affected by MS, riding for them and
sharing in a great time of fun, fellowship, and getting in better shape
along the way. If you'd like to join the team as a rider or volunteer
as part of our support crew, please contact Team Captain Dave Swartwout
at 281-488-8452 or Tracia Sanders at 281-992-6429 for more information.
Also, visit www.ms150.org to register. Registration is now open and
spots for the tour are going quickly.

FROM Connie Bovier, Charis Spiritual Director Training Program
Charis Spiritual Director Training Program Seeks Applicants for Class
2.
Application deadline: March 1, 2006
The Charis Spiritual Director Training Program of the Texas Annual
Conference is now accepting applications for Class 2 to enter training in
August 2006. This three-year training program equips both lay and clergy
to serve as spiritual companions to individuals who seek deeper
spiritual growth. Classes meet at Livingston UMC the second Saturday of each
month, September through April, with August and May retreats held at
Lakeview.
For more information or to request an application packet, contact
Charis Coordinator Becky Oates at 281-360-1942 or
havenofrest@earthlink.net

FROM Dr. Glenna Kyker Brayton
Native American Ministry in the Texas Conference has jump-started its
outreach. The Youth Powwow, sponsored by the Texas Conference, turned
out to be "A Dancer's Powwow," according to Native American staff, the
committee, singers, and dancers. It was such a success that we have been
asked to repeat the event in 2006.
Some of the best things coming out of the November youth powwow are
statements from young people who experienced for the first time the
dignity of a part of their heritage. All day spectators were heard to say
things like "My grandmother was half Indian" or "My grandpa told
stories about his Indian mother [or father]." We've heard recently of
United Methodist youth who have made changes in their lives because of new
feelings of worthiness and identity as Native Americans.
Healing within the church and outreach for the unchurched! What a
ministry! We ask you to consider creating a line item in your 2006
mission outreach budget for the Texas Conference Native American Ministry.
Much of the expenses for 2005, including prize money and staff fees,
was underwritten by a grant from a non-Methodist foundation, which we may
not have next year.
If you want specific information regarding 2005 powwow expenditures
or proposed budget for 2006, please call Dr. Glenna Kyker Brayton at
281-391-5797.

______________________RESTORATIVE JUSTICE NOTICES_________________

FROM John W. Harrington Restorative Justice Coordinator Beaumont
District
GIST STATE JAIL- Welcome Back and or Operation Rebound:
Floyd Struckmeyer, 23415 Honeybee Lane, New Caney, TX 77357 ph. 281 354
2109
Juan Gabriel Ramirez, 1505 Mesquite, Houston, TX 77093 ph. 832 524
3308
Kieth Lee Bell, 1504 N. Winfree, Dayton, TX 77535 ph. 936 258 0166
Earl M. Malveaux, 1643 Highway 96 South, Lumberton, TX 77657 ph. 409 -
755 0691 "A believer"
Larry Doneall Mosely, 3506 Cove View Apt. 1207, Galveston, TX 77554 -
Phone
409 740 6780
Vincent St. Cyr, 21115 Julie Lane, Montgomery, TX 77356 ph. 836 596
6996
Troy S. Robertson, 5830 Concord Rd., Beaumont, TX 77708 ph. 409 924
0870 Brandon Castille, 6095 Alpine Circle Apt. 1, Beaumont, TX 77708
409- 924 0587
Michael McDaniel, 990 West Florida, Beaumont, TX 77705
Reggie Sharp, 3150 W. Cardinal #176, Beaumont, TX 77705
Dale Weeks, 18552 Fairfield Rd., Russell, Kansas 67665 - ph. 785 483
6571

GATESVILLE WOMENS UNIT:
Lalasha Marie Moore, 2326 Glenwood Drive, Port Arthur, TX 77640 - 409
983 5507

TDCJ:
Shawn Bernard, 605 9th Ave. #210, Port Arthur, TX 77642
Leon Benjamin, 8307 Doris Ave., Port Arthur, TX 77640 ph. 409 736
1406
Kevin Haney, 4555 Hoffman, Vidor, TX 77662
Luke Jackson, 3405 Ave. H, Nederland, TX 77627 ph. 409 727 3450 "I am
a Methodist"
Bobby Leonard, 4161 Kenneth St., Beaumont, TX 77705 ph. 409 835
3317,
DOB 11/18/48

Please invite these folks in the closest distances to you to a church
function and to local job fairs! Thank you

_______________________JOB OPENINGS/JOBS WANTED__________________

Below are the most current openings and job information. Previous job
postings can be located on the conference website: www.txcumc.org.
Thank you

FROM Rev. Robert Stutes
OFFICE MANAGER position at First UMC Pasadena. Full-time position with
responsibilities for administration, publications, and supervision of
other support staff. Immediate opening. Contact Robert Stutes,
281-487-8787 or robertstutes@firstumcpasadena.org.

FACILITIES MANAGER position at First UMC Pasadena. Part-time position
with responsibilities for overseeing maintenance and operations of
physical plant. Immediate opening. Contact Robert Stutes, 281-487-8787 or
robertstutes@firstumcpasadena.org.


______________________WANT ADS (Items Needed/Wanted)________________

FROM Terry Dougherty -
My husband, Dr. Ed Dougherty, has many classical mathematics texts that
he would like to donate to a university or library that may not have
funds or access to such materials. Please let me know if you have a
connection where these books may be put to good use (they are primarily
graduate level texts). (ministerterry@hotmail.com)

Tuesday, January 03, 2006

________________________PRAYER CONCERNS__________________________

This email was received on January 1st:
FROM Karley Munson:
I am sending this email to ask for your help. My sister, Loren, is very
sick. She has been sick since before Christmas and has been in the
hospital since last Tuesday. I wish I could tell you why she is sick but
all the numerous doctors that have seen her have no idea what is wrong.
Most of you probably know that she was recently married. Her husband,
Jeff, has been there with her the whole time, but sadly there is more to
the story. They are expecting their second child which further
complicates the situation. Please, I am asking for your prayers. I am so
worried and don't know what to do. So, please keep Loren, Jeff, Averi, the
baby, and the rest of our family in your prayers. I would really
appreciate it.

This is the follow-up that was received on January 2:
FROM Karley Munson:
Hello again friends,
Thanks to all of your prayers I have a great update! As you all know,
Loren has been incredibly sick for several weeks now. She has been in
the hospital for 8 days. The doctors could never determine what was
making her so sick for all this time. However, less than 24 hours after
Loren was placed on the prayer chain at our church and less than 24
hours after I sent to email to all of you, Loren woke up feeling 100%
better. For the first time in over 2 weeks, her fever was gone. She was no
longer in the incredible pain that she had been experiencing for weeks
now. She woke up on her birthday healed, and today she is coming home.
KNOW that it is because of your prayers. Thank you so much. I cannot
express how grateful I am for your prayers. This is truly a miracle!

_______________________________BIRTHS_______________________________

_________________________DEATHS/FUNERALS_________________________

FROM Doris Folser, HNW District
Mr. Harvey Johnson, father of Rev. Hill Johnson and father-in -law of
Rev. Cramer Johnson, passed away. His funeral will be Friday, January
6th at Kingwood Funeral Home at 1:00 p.m. Interment will follow at
Veterans Memorial Cemetery. Please keep the Johnson family in your prayers.

FROM Pastor Larry Smith, 1st UMC Cleveland
Rev. Thomas Anthony Webster died December 23, 2005. He was interred in
the National Veteran's cemetery in Houston on Dec. 27. Please keep his
family in your prayers.

FROM Rev. Stacy Pever Anzick, Glenbrook United Methodist Church
Just writing to let you all know that Robert's Mom (Dorothy Anzick)
died Dec. 31 in Denver, Colorado.
We were in Florida for a few days of R&R with Robert's sisters for
their first Christmas without his Dad... which just makes this more
difficult.
Services will likely be on Monday (01/02).
We appreciate your prayers during this challenging time. Robert's
Mom would have turned 79 on January 1, 2006. This was very unexpected
and we are still a little bit in shock.

FROM First United Methodist Church, Trinity:
Rev. James L. White's mother passed away on December 27. Visitation
was at the Friendship FUMC in Porter. Services were held on Thursday,
December 29, with interment at Grand View Cemetery in Pasadena. Please
keep Rev. White and his family in your prayers.

FROM Vetta Quackenbush, Lufkin Distr.
Prayers are requested for Rev. Jackie Harmon and family. Her mom,
Ethyl Baas, passed away in Lalamazoo, Michigan on Christmas Day. Jackie is
pastor of Keltys UMC, Lufkin District.

_____________________CONFERENCE INFORMATION______________________

FROM Priscilla Wright, Bryan District Administrative Assistant
The Bryan District is officially moved! Our address is:
526 University Drive East- Building C; College Station, TX 77840
Our phone numbers are: (979)696-8962 office - (979) 764-1428 FAX

______________________NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS_________________________

FROM Rev. Don & Vivian White
ENGAGED ENCOUNTER - UNITED METHODIST Weekend Jan. 27-29, 2006 in
Houston
Here is an opportunity for all engaged and newly-married couples,
and also for couples considering engagement. The Engaged Encounter-United
Methodist weekend is an approved program of the General Board of
Discipleship of The UMC and of the Family Ministries Committee of the Texas
Annual Conference. It meets the recommendation of the 2004 General
Conference Resolution #27 regarding nurturing marriage and family.
Registration deadline for the Jan. 27-29 weekend is very near. Please have
interested couples contact us immediately! Rev. Don and Vivian White, Texas
Contact Couple for Engaged Encounter-United Methodist, 281-429-7686, or
e-mail donvivwhite@juno.com

FROM Alicia Coltzer, alicia@clearlakemethodist.org
CALLING ALL BIKE ENTHUSIASTS!
Join our Team!!!
You are invited to ride with the "Parkway/Clear Lake UMC" bike team,
as we gear up for our second year participating in the MS150 bike tour
from Houston to Austin, April 22-23, 2006. Last year, we raised more
than $13,000 to help in the fight against Multiple Sclerosis! Come join us
as we continue to minister to those affected by MS, riding for them and
sharing in a great time of fun, fellowship, and getting in better shape
along the way. If you'd like to join the team as a rider or volunteer
as part of our support crew, please contact Team Captain Dave Swartwout
at 281-488-8452 or Tracia Sanders at 281-992-6429 for more information.
Also, visit www.ms150.org to register. Registration is now open and
spots for the tour are going quickly.

FROM Connie Bovier, Charis Spiritual Director Training Program
Charis Spiritual Director Training Program Seeks Applicants for Class
2.
Application deadline: March 1, 2006
The Charis Spiritual Director Training Program of the Texas Annual
Conference is now accepting applications for Class 2 to enter training in
August 2006. This three-year training program equips both lay and clergy
to serve as spiritual companions to individuals who seek deeper
spiritual growth. Classes meet at Livingston UMC the second Saturday of each
month, September through April, with August and May retreats held at
Lakeview.
For more information or to request an application packet, contact
Charis Coordinator Becky Oates at 281-360-1942 or
havenofrest@earthlink.net

FROM Dr. Glenna Kyker Brayton
Native American Ministry in the Texas Conference has jump-started its
outreach. The Youth Powwow, sponsored by the Texas Conference, turned
out to be "A Dancer's Powwow," according to Native American staff, the
committee, singers, and dancers. It was such a success that we have been
asked to repeat the event in 2006.
Some of the best things coming out of the November youth powwow are
statements from young people who experienced for the first time the
dignity of a part of their heritage. All day spectators were heard to say
things like "My grandmother was half Indian" or "My grandpa told
stories about his Indian mother [or father]." We've heard recently of
United Methodist youth who have made changes in their lives because of new
feelings of worthiness and identity as Native Americans.
Healing within the church and outreach for the unchurched! What a
ministry! We ask you to consider creating a line item in your 2006
mission outreach budget for the Texas Conference Native American Ministry.
Much of the expenses for 2005, including prize money and staff fees,
was underwritten by a grant from a non-Methodist foundation, which we may
not have next year.
If you want specific information regarding 2005 powwow expenditures
or proposed budget for 2006, please call Dr. Glenna Kyker Brayton at
281-391-5797.


________________________THIS WEEK'S EVENTS_________________________

FROM Rev. J. C. Dorman, Central United Methodist Church
This Saturday, January 7th, at 2:00 PM, we will begin the first of our
Healing and Wholeness Services that will become a regular 1st Saturday
event. This will be a traditional service of healing and wholeness
following the format in our Book of Worship. Please come and bring someone
with you and be prepared to seek the Lord's presence. Central United
Methodist Church is located on the corner of 33rd Street and Avenue O 1/2
in Galveston (3308 Avenue O 1/2). For additional information call
409-762-2138 or email revjcd1@aol.com.


_____________________MARK YOUR CALENDAR________________________

______________________RESTORATIVE JUSTICE NOTICES_________________

_______________________JOB OPENINGS/JOBS WANTED__________________

Below are the most current openings and job information. Previous job
postings can be located on the conference website: www.txcumc.org.
Thank you


______________________WANT ADS (Items Needed/Wanted)________________

FROM Terry Dougherty -
My husband, Dr. Ed Dougherty, has many classical mathematics texts that
he would like to donate to a university or library that may not have
funds or access to such materials. Please let me know if you have a
connection where these books may be put to good use (t

Tuesday, December 27, 2005

Tom Webster, son of Thomas Anthony Webster, called to report that
Reverend Webster died, December 23, 2005. His body will lie instate at the
Klein Funeral home on Champion Forest from 9 - 10 AM tomorrow 12/27/05.
Graveside will follow the National Veteran's cemetery in Houston at 11
AM. There will be a memorial service held at Bear Creek UMC on Saturday, 12/31/05 at 1 PM.

Friday, December 23, 2005

Both Nancy Hinshaw and I will be on vacation from December 26 through
Janauary 2, 2006. As a result, there will be no Group Emails during that
time.
Let me take this opportunity to wish you and yours a most joyous
sacred season and may 2006 bring great opportunities, accomplishments and
blessings for the Texas Annual Conference.

Merry
Christmas & Happy New Year,
Jo
Mackenzie, Receptionist, TXCUMC


________________________PRAYER CONCERNS__________________________

FROM Shirley Allen-Jenkins
Melvin Dillard, Conference Lay Leader, was hospitalized Thursday,
having suffered a stroke. He is currently at Methodist Hospital in the Jones
Building, Room 802. Please keep Marvin in your prayers.

_______________________________BIRTHS_______________________________

_________________________DEATHS/FUNERALS_________________________

FROM Nancy Hinshaw, Area Provost's Office
The funeral for Herbert Mann, father of John Mann and father-in-law of
Kathie Mann (our conference PIM Director), will be held on Dec 31, 2005
at 11am at the First UMC of Springfield CO.

FROM Marty Gordon
Virginia Steele, daughter of retired minister, Thomas Anthony Webster,
called to report that Reverend Webster died this morning, December 23,
2005. Funeral arrangements are pending at this time. The family is
leaning towards a private graveside service with a memorial following later
at Deer Park UMC. More to follow later...

_____________________CONFERENCE INFORMATION______________________

FROM Vetta Quackenbush, Adm. Asst. Lufkin Dist.
As of December 26, please note the new e-mail address:

9_u_m_c@cox-internet.com

There are three undersores, with no space between c and @ .

Have a Merry Christmas! Blessings, Vetta

______________________NEW ANNOUNCEMENTS_________________________

FROM Melissa Burnham
Jason Burnham (Assoc. Minister at St. Luke's, Houston) and his wife
Lauren are proud parents of Aidan Mitchell Burnham, born at 8:50 am on
Dec. 20, 2005. Aidan is welcomed home by big sister, Addison Grace. Proud
grandparents are Richard and Melissa Burnham.

FROM Julie Smith -
First United Methodist Church of La Porte will start a Family and
Friends of the Incarcerated Support Group. This group is for anyone who has
a family member or friend who is incarcerated. We will meet to share
concerns and support one another. This group will meet the 2nd and 4th
Sundays of every month at 5:00 pm. We are located at 9601 W. Fairmont
Parkway, (281)478-4673.

FROM Miacheal Hunter
We at the Texas Conference Division of Youth (DOY) and Conference
Council On Youth Ministry (CCYM) want to wish you all a:
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR.


________________________THIS WEEK'S EVENTS_________________________

FROM Donna Adair, Director of Communications, St. Paul's UMC, Houston
St. Paul's UMC, Houston, will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the
congregation's initial worship service this Christmas Eve with four
worship services in the Sanctuary - at noon, 5, 7, and 9 p.m. Christmas
Day will be celebrated with one worship service in the Sanctuary at 10:30
a.m. All of the evening services will have congregational carol singing
and candle lighting. The individual services also will include:
" Noon. Service of Holy Communion.
" 5 p.m. Lessons and Carols with St. Paul's Chamber Choir.
" 7 p.m. Lessons and Carols with the full St. Paul's Choir.
" 9 p.m. Worship service with Holy Communion and the full St. Paul's
Choir.
St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Houston, is at 5501 Main Street, on
the corner of Main and Binz/Bissonnet, across from the Museum of Fine
Arts, Houston. It is within one block of both Museum District MetroRail
stops, and free parking is available in two lots across Fannin Street
from the church.

FROM Jill Krone, Director of Communications, First UMC Henderson, Texas
(Longview District) -
First United Methodist Church, located at 204 North Marshall,
Henderson, Texas 75652, invites you to experience hope, peace, joy, and love
this Christmas. Come, experience Jesus! Experience worship with First
United Methodist Church of Henderson, Texas.
Advent, 2005 *** Expect the Unexpected
The birth of Jesus Christ unexpectedly transformed the lives of
those who experienced it! Experience the wonder and awe of the season and
be transformed by the expectation of His coming!
Saturday, December 24, 5 pm - Christmas Eve Service - Experience
anew the wonder and miracle of God's presence as we share in the ever-new
story of Christ's birth.
Sunday, December 25, 10 am - Christmas Day Worship - Gather with
friends and family as we celebrate and give thanks for our most treasured
Christmas gift-Jesus Christ!
Blessing of the Gifts: Like a special gift, our Christmas day
worship service at 10 am holds the possibility of great joy and wonder. As a
part of this service, we invite every child to bring to church one
gift that they received, for a special time of blessing. We look forward
to sharing this worship service with you.

FROM Dr. Janice Gilbert-Williams, Senior Pastor
McKinney Memorial United Methodist Church will celebrate Christmas
morning worship @ 9:30 a.m. All are invited as we worship the birthday of
our Lord and Savior. We are located at 1607 Nashby Street in LaMarque
Texas.

_____________________MARK YOUR CALENDAR________________________

FROM Nancy Heintz
FACE (Foundational Academy on Christian Education) Leadership Training
January 15-17 at Lakeview.
This retreat is planned to equip you for the ministry of Christian
Education,whether you are paid or unpaid for your leadership. Please
join us for this two-day retreat at Lakeview, which will be led by
experienced Christian Educators in the Conference.
Cost: $75 per person ($50 per person if attending the TCCEF Study
Retreat that follows). For complete information concerning registration,
please contact Nancy Heintz, 936.756.3395 or heintz@fumc-conroe.org

FROM Michael Hunter
REMINDER:
Below are dates for Conference Safe Sanctuary Training: If you are in
the Palestine, Tyler, Lufkin, Longview, Bryan districts.
Where: Lakeview Conference Center
When: Thursday, January 5, 2006
Time: 6:00 PM-7:30 PM
Who needs to attend: Anyone that will be attending any Conference
sponsored event/camp/retreat where you will be working with children or
youth.
Example of camps: Winterfest, Mid-Winter, District Church Camp,
District retreats or outings.
For more information, contact Michael Hunter, email
mhunter@aciglobal.com
Call: Home--254-359-4356, Cell--903-388-1246

FROM Terry T. Smith
What: Clergywomen’s Retreat
When: February 20-22, 2006
Where: At Lakeview
The retreat you have asked for is finally here! One night or two, it’s
up to you!
Rest - Revive - Rejuvenate - Rest
The retreat will begin at 6pm on Monday, Feb. 20, with dinner at a
restaurant in Palestine (to be named later). Following dinner, we will
return to Lakeview for hot chocolate and fireside conversation.
Tuesday morning: breakfast and salad bar lunch. You may sleep in,
walk around the lake, walk the prayer trail, or visit with friends.
Tuesday afternoon more free time and discussion groups with buffet at 6pm,
followed by a short business meeting and evening worship.
Wednesday morning we will have brunch, followed by the closing
worship service.
Email eaglerev@jas.net or phone 409-565-4083 for more information.

FROM: Billy Watson, St. Peter's UMC, Katy -
Digital Storytellers Seminar, February 25, 2006
You and your media ministry team are invited to Midnight Oil
Production's Digital Storytellers Seminar on Saturday, February 25, 2006, 8 a.m.
- 4 p.m.
at St. Peter's UMC in Katy. Len Wilson and Jason Moore (both formerly
of Ginghamsburg UMC, and co-founders of Lumicon) established Midnight
Oil Productions in 2002 "to further the vision of worship for the digital
age through ideas, resources and seminars that work for local
churches." The cost for the event is $109 for individuals and $89 per person if
2 or more come from your church. This includes 4 sessions with Len and
Jason, a digital film festival, seminar related materials, a meal,
refreshments, and more. For more information about Midnight Oil or the
Digital Storytellers Seminar visit www.midnightoilproductions.com. For more
information about the event in Katy, contact Billy Watson at
bwatson@stpeterskaty.org or 281-492-8031, ext. 304.

______________________RESTORATIVE JUSTICE NOTICES_________________

_______________________JOB OPENINGS/JOBS WANTED__________________

Below are the most current openings and job information. Previous job
postings can be located on the conference website: www.txcumc.org.
Thank you

FROM Kay Johnson
First United Methodist Church of Fulshear is seeking a youth minister
for 30 hours a week with the possibility of extending the position to
full time. Please call Kay Johnson at 281.346.1416 or fax resume to
281.346.2082

FROM Beth Chenault
Strawbridge United Methodist Church in Kingwood Texas (outside Houston)
is seeking a full-time Director of Youth Ministries for a large youth
Ministry. Experience preferred. Please contact Rev. Beth Chenault at
281-360-4500, or email information and resume to youth@kingwoodcable.com

FROM Joel McMahon IV JMCMAHONIV@aol.com
First United Methodist Church of Hawkins, Texas is looking for someone
to serve as a part-time youth director. This is a paid position with
experience being a factor in determining the salary level.
All inquiries can be directed to Joel McMahon IV be e-mail at
JMCMAHONIV@aol.com, by phone at (903)760-2973, or by mail at 149
Paradise Lane, Hawkins, TX 75765.

FROM John Reasons
Faith United Methodist Church, 2403 Rayford Road, Spring, 77386 is
seeking a paid, part-time accompanist for Sunday morning worship and
Wednesday evening choir rehearsals. Please call the church office at
281-367-7776 with inquiries or fax resumes to 281-367-7174 or e-mail
faithumc@ev1.net.

FROM Stewart Memorial UMC
Music/Childen's Minister Wanted
Stewart Memorial United Methodist Church located in Buffalo, Texas,
is seeking a
Mid-term graduate to direct Chancel Choir, Children's Choir, Children's
Programs, etc.
FULL-time position or will consider SEMINARY student.
Community has a 20% growth rate.
Buffalo is located on Interstate 45 & Hwy 79 halfway between Houston
& Dallas.
Contact Jerry Anderson, Pastor at 903-322-4319 or E-mail
smchurch@netzero.net.

______________________WANT ADS (Items Needed/Wanted)________________

FROM David Banks
For Sale: Hammond H-Series Organ
H-382 Italian Provincial in Walnut with built-in Auto-Rhythm. This
model has the extra reiteration, percussion touch control, harp sustain,
string bass, and vibrato/chorus controls, reverb controls etc. Great for
your church.
It was given to our church as an item to raise funds. Needs
professional cleaning. Will sell it for $1,700.00 For more information,
please contact Sherrie Reese at First United Methodist Church of Onalaska at
936/646-5859 or e-mail us at sreese@fumc-onalaska.org

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