Favorite Hymns Sing-Along — Sunday, August 31

Start making your list of your favorite hymns and relive the wonderful memories they bring back! Bring your list to McPhail Hall on the last Sunday in August as St. John’s celebrates Labor Day with the "Favorite Hymns Sing-along" with Mark Swindler, starting at 9:15 am. It has been said that the choice of a favorite hymn isn’t made on the basis of the faith its words express, its theology or even its melody, but it becomes a favorite because of the memories the song evokes in the minds of the singer. Donuts and drinks will be served. All ages are welcome.
*Please note there will be NO scheduled Sunday School classes meeting on August 31.

Favorite Hymns Sing-Along — Sunday, August 31

Health Opportunities at St. John’s

Let’s do the math. There are 1440 minutes in a day. Experts say we only need to exercise for 30 of those minutes. So why is it so hard to get motivated? Review the list below (I know, you’ve heard these before but they still hold true). Physical activity can:

• Lower your blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
• Reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke.
• Relieve stress.
• Strengthen your heart, muscles, and bones.
• Help insulin work better.
• Help with losing, and keeping off, weight.
• Keep your joints flexible.

St. John’s offers a variety of different classes. Over the next three months the classes will include Yoga for people with bad backs, Pilates, balance and aerobic classes.

Monday: 9:45 am: "Yoga for Bad Backs"
6:30 pm "Walking Together"
Tuesday: 6:30 pm "Stay Strong Stay Young"
7:00 pm Exercise video of choice
Wednesday: 9:45 am "Growing Strong Together"
6:30 pm "Walking Together"
Thursday: 6:30 pm "Stay Strong Stay Young"
7:00 pm "Yoga for Bad Backs"

Health Opportunities at St. John’s

Holly Hall Book Review— Tuesday, September 30

Did you know that Einstein used both parts of his brain? He was both a scientist and a musician! Learn more about the story of his life and his loves when reviewer Rose-Mary Rumbley discusses Einstein, His Life and His Universe by Walter Isaacson as part of the Holly Hall Book Review Series. The review will be held at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, 3471 Westheimer, at 10:30 am.
It’s not too late to purchase season tickets for the upcoming Holly Hall 2008-2009 Book Review Series. Season tickets are $25 for four book reviews. Proceeds raised from the sale of Book Review Series tickets are used to cover the cost for those residents of Holly Hall who over time may not be able to meet the rising prices. Holly Hall Retirement Community is located at 8304 Knight Road, Houston.

Holly Hall Book Review— Tuesday, September 30

St. John’s Book Group— Tuesday, September 9

Books are the windows through which the soul looks out.
- Henry Ward Beecher

The short story, "Mr. Green," by Allegra Goodman from Volume 4 of Listening for God will be reviewed. Books are available in the church office. Come and join in the spirited discussion at 7:30 pm.

St. John’s Book Group— Tuesday, September 9

St. John's Breakfast— Saturday, September 13

Please make your plans to attend St. John’s first fall breakfast, with the wonderfully scrumptious breakfast being served at 8 am. At 8:30 am our featured guest, a fireman from Firehouse #48 (Chimney Rock Station) will begin his program. If you need a ride, call Linda Dobbin at 281-778-5348 or Thalia Bunnell at 713-723-5215. No reservations are required, and everyone is welcome. (Please note: The September meeting is on the second Saturday of the month.)

St. John's Breakfast— Saturday, September 13

The National Anthem by BrokeN Acapella

Mark DeSouza, Tenor I
Aaron Hyland, Tenor II
Joseph Adair, Baritone
Jacob Mttis, Bass

The National Anthem by BrokeN Acapella

Wonder Team Sandwich Makers - Wednesday, August 27

Come to McPhail Hall at 6 pm, August 27, to help make 300 sandwiches which are combined with fruit, juice and chips and then distributed to preschool children for lunch. Volunteer to help feed local Houston children! Come and help make a difference!

Wonder Team Sandwich Makers - Wednesday, August 27

Back Pack Blessing, Sunday, August 24

All children, youth and college students are invited to bring their back packs to church on Sunday, August 24, for a "Blessing of the Back Packs" in the children’s time during worship at 10:30 am in the sanctuary. All students welcome

Back Pack Blessing, Sunday, August 24

Sunday, August 24 Brunch

Welcome to the last brunch of the summer,
All are invited to McPhail Hall for brunch following worship service. Working in the kitchen today is St. John's Outreach Mission Ministry.

Sunday, August 24 Brunch

This Week at St. John's

Sunday, August 24 – Scout Award and Back Pack Blessing
9:00 am Church School
-Joann Navratil: Social Issues in Room 203
-“How to Get to Solla Sollew,,”
Dr. Seuss' Parables in Room 205
-Parables of Dr. Seuss in High School Room 207-The New Millennium Church, Room 210
10:30 am Worship Service
11:45 am Brunch by Outreach Mission Ministry
4:30 pm Centering Prayer, Pastor's OfficeMonday,

Monday, August 25
9:45 am Yoga for Bad Backs, Room 209
6:30 pm St. John's “Walking Together”
7:00 - 8:30 pm Scout Troop 688
7:00 pm Bell Choir
7:30 pm Outreach Evangelism Ministry Meeting

Tuesday, August 26
9:30 am Presbyterian Women's Activity Day
1:30 pm Staff Meeting
6:30 pm “Stay Strong Stay Young” followed by St. John's “Walking Together”
7:00 pm Nominating Committee Meeting
7:30 pm Venture Crew 688

Wednesday, August 27
9:45 am “Growing Stronger Together”
6:00 pm Wonder Team Sandwich Makers
6:30 pm St. John's “Walking Together”
7:30 pm No Chancel Choir (Resumes Wednesday, September 3)

Thursday, August 28
6:30 pm “Stay Strong Stay Young” followed by St. John's “Walking Together”

Saturday, August 30
8:00 am Women’s Bible Small Group

Sunday, August 31
9:00 am No Church School
9:15 am Hymn sing-along with Mark Swindler followed by donuts, juice
and coffee in McPhail Hall
10:30 am Worship Service
4:30 pm Centering Prayer, Pastor's Office

This Week at St. John's

August Session Highlights

At their meeting on August 21, your Session:

*Hired Mary Defee as Director of Christian Formation beginning September 15, 2008. More information about Mary will be forthcoming soon.
*Approved a special offering on September 14 for Hurricane Dolly victims in Mission Presbytery. Our Mexico Mission Team will also give a report during that service.
*Approved the following elders to serve as commissioners to stated meetings of New Covenant Presbytery: George Dobbins in August; Marie Kutz in November; and Barbara Brisch in February.
*Began planning for the Vision Presentation Brunch in McPhail Hall on Sunday, September 28, immediately after worship.

August Session Highlights

VBS 2008 Film

Here is a recap of our Vacation Bible School. As you can see, we had a good time!

VBS 2008 Film

Development Officer – New Covenant Presbytery

Might God be calling you to use your gifts and experience to make a difference in the lives of children and families? PCHAS is seeking a full-time Development Officer, based in Houston to serve New Covenant Presbytery.

Essential Job Functions:

• Development Officers are responsible for maximizing philanthropic support from, and promoting awareness of the agency's mission, among individuals, churches and other constituencies.
• Some non-traditional hours such as evening and weekend hours for making presentations to churches/church groups and visiting with constituents.
• Travel will be mostly day trips within assigned region with some overnight travel required.

Job Requirements:

• Must be an organized and motivated self-starter and team player with proven fundraising solicitation skills.
• Excellent communication/presentation and interpersonal skills needed to build, foster and manage long-term donor relationships.
• Must have a personal commitment to PCHAS' mission of providing Christ-centered services to children in need and their families.
• College degree, and 1-3 years relevant fundraising experience, including gift solicitation, is preferred.
• Preference given to active members of Presbyterian Church(USA) congregations.
• Must be proficient in MSOffice. Raiser's Edge and/or contact management software experience, and familiarity with the Benevon model of fundraising a plus.

Excellent salary (DOE), comprehensive benefits package and mileage reimbursement provided.

For consideration, please send resume, salary requirements and cover letter to esmith@pchas.org (email with MS Word attachment preferred); mail to PCHAS, 4407 Bee Cave Road, Suite 520, Austin, TX 78746; or fax to 512-476-8468.

Please note our application and screening process for qualified candidates will involve the following as per agency policy and in order to comply with state licensing requirements:

• phone and in person interviews
• personality and skills testing
• drug testing
• criminal background check
• credit screening
• reference checking.

Development Officer – New Covenant Presbytery

Blessing of the Back Packs - Sunday, August 24

All children, youth and college students are invited to bring their back packs to church on Sunday, August 24, for a "Blessing of the Back Packs" in the children’s time during worship at 10:30 am in the sanctuary. All students welcome

Blessing of the Back Packs - Sunday, August 24

God and Church Award -Sunday, August 24

Don’t miss this special recognition honoring Sean Coughlen, Troop 740, Brendan Ehrenstrom, Troop 222, Mitch Sawyer, Troop 740, and BJ Ragan, Troop 1020. These scouts successfully completed the "God and Church" program.

God and Church Award -Sunday, August 24

2008 Advent Devotions Book — Pick Up Your Page On Rally Day, September 7

This year Advent starts on Sunday, November 30 and ends with the lighting of the Christ Candle on Christmas Eve.

St. John’s will celebrate the season with the publication of our annual Advent Devotions Book. The booklet will be 25 pages; each page will contain its own Bible verse. You pick your page and write your reflection. The reflection may be your thoughts about the verse or a Christmas memory that the verse calls to mind. The length is half a letter-size page.

Christian Formation will provide the page and answer all questions about content. Pages will be due no later than Sunday, September 28. Look for Jeanne Leach on Rally Day to pick up your page and answer your questions. Everyone in the congregation will receive a book for their use during the Advent season.

2008 Advent Devotions Book — Pick Up Your Page On Rally Day, September 7

St. John’s Cookbook

The first 50 copies of St. John’s Cooks have already been snatched-up, but don’t fear, more are on the way. The second printing will be available by the end of August. Thanks to everyone who submitted recipes!

St. John’s Cookbook

Ministry to the Port of Houston

It’s not too early to start buying things for the Seafarers’ Christmas boxes. We already have many items for the 30+ boxes Presbyterian Women usually pack and take to the center at Houston’s port. Still needed are 12 pairs of heavy work socks, a few more tooth brushes, and 2 dozen or so large bars of bath soap. Some of the other items needed are:

● Disposable razors
● Deodorant
● Toothpaste
● Lip balm
● Small Kleenex packs
● Nail clippers
● 2009 calendars
● Hard candy

A drop box is available in the recycling center in Fellowship Hall or, if you prefer, Joann Navratil will be happy to do your shopping for you.

Ministry to the Port of Houston

Focus 2008: October 4— Registration Deadline, September 15

The annual Presbytery Leadership Event will be hosted at Northwoods Presbyterian Church, 3320 FM 1960, in Houston. Nationally known preacher and author, Dr. Tom Long, will be the keynote speaker and will address themes raised in his book Testimony: Talking Ourselves into Being Christian.

Dr. Long will be joined by a distinguished faculty of workshop leaders, including Jack Haberer, editor of Presbyterian Outlook and Joan Gray, past moderator of the PC(USA). Twenty-two workshops will be offered on topics of prayer, worship, theology, practical ministry and more. Breakfast, snacks and lunch are provided.

Brochures with the registration form can be picked up from the coffee table in Building II. The deadline to hand in your registration form to St. John’s office is Monday, September 15. Christian Formation will pay all early registration fees. If you miss the September 15 deadline, mail your registration form with your payment to Focus, 1110 Lovett Boulevard, Houston , TX 77006-3824.

Focus 2008: October 4— Registration Deadline, September 15

Rally Day - September 7

St. John’s begins the fall schedule with Rally Day on Sunday, September 7. Please gather in McPhail Hall at 9 am for a continental breakfast and information about the line up of fall educational opportunities for Christian growth. Learning about Christ is a lifelong pursuit. It doesn’t end when we grow up. If we are to love God with our minds as well as our hearts, our souls and our strength, we should keep learning at all ages!

Rally Day - September 7

Fall Christian Education Opportunities— Sunday, September 14

Inquirer’s Class— Pastor’s Office
Pastor Jon Burnham will teach an Inquirer’s Class for three Sunday mornings in his office from 9:00 - 9:45 am on September 14, 21 and 28. Those who take the class may join the church on September 28.

Godly Play, Children’s Church— Building One
Preschool through 1st grade experience Bible lessons taught in a Montessori approach that actively engages their hearts and their minds.

Workshops Rotation Sunday School Class— Room 209
The 1st through the 5th grade class is a state-of-the-art Sunday School class because our teachers have state-of-the-art hearts. Friends are always welcome.

Middle and High School— Room 207 & 210
Join the teaching team of Mary Gaber and David Rainwater (High School) and Murray Smith (Middle School) as they explore the Presbyterian faith.

The Bible Study for Everyone Class — Room 203
The class study will be Tom Wright’s book, John for Everyone. The class is discussion with members sharing as facilitators. Books are available for purchase in the church office. Call Suzette Harrel (713-666-6218) if you have any questions or need more information.

Lectionary Study Class— Room 205
Do you want to understand the Lectionary readings each Sunday? Come explore the passages of the Bible. Facilitated by Elaine DeSouza.

Fall Christian Education Opportunities— Sunday, September 14

Hymn Singalong - August 31

Please join Mark Swindler in McPhail Hall at 9:15 am for a hymn singalong, followed by donuts. (Please Note: No Sunday School classes will meet during on this Labor Day weekend. )

Hymn Singalong - August 31

This Week at St. John's

Sunday, August 17 Beacon Deadline
9:00 am Church School
-Joann Navratil: Social Issues in Room 203
-“Oh, the Places you will Go,” Dr. Seuss' Parables in Room 205
-Parables of Dr. Seuss in High School Room 207
10:30 am Worship Service
11:45 am Brunch by Outreach Evangelism Ministry
4:30 pm Centering Prayer, Pastor's Office

Monday, August 18
9:45 am Yoga for Bad Backs, Room 209
6:30 pm St. John's “Walking Together”
7:00 - 8:30 pm Scout Troop 688
7:00 pm Bell Choir

Tuesday, August 19
8:00 am – 2 pm CBS Teacher Training, Scout Room
9:30 am Presbyterian Women's Activity Day
1:30 pm Staff Meeting
6:30 pm “Stay Strong Stay Young” followed by St. John's “Walking Together”
7:30 pm Mission Outreach Ministry Meeting
7:30 pm Venture Crew 688

Wednesday, August 20
9:45 am “Growing Stronger Together”
6:30 pm St. John's “Walking Together”Thursday, August 21
6:30 pm “Stay Strong Stay Young” followed by St. John 's “Walking Together”
7:30 pm Session

Saturday, August 23
8:00 am Women’s Bible Small Group
8:30 am Presbytery Meeting, Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church, Katy

Sunday, August 24 Scout Award and Backpack Blessing
9:00 am Church School
-Joann Navratil: Social Issues in Room 203
-“How to get to Solla Sollew,” Dr. Seuss' Parables in Room 205
- The New Millennium Church in Room 205
-Parables of Dr. Seuss in High School Room 207
10:30 am Worship Service
11:45 am Brunch by Outreach Mission Ministry
4:30 pm Centering Prayer

This Week at St. John's

St. John's Cookbook

The first 50 copies of 'St. John's Cooks' have already been snatched- up, but don't fear, more are on the way. The second printing will be available by the end of August. Thanks to everyone who submitted recipes!"

St. John's Cookbook

Special Invitation - Sunday, September 14

St. John’s Congregation is invited to hear Mary Marcotte, Associate General Presbyter, on Sunday, September 14. A light afternoon tea will be served at 3:30 pm and Mary will begin her presentation at 4 pm. She will explore the upcoming Presbyterian Women’s Bible Study, Luke’s Gospel for the Poor.

Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to learn about Luke. This special program replaces the Presbyterian Women’s Septembers Association and Circle meetings.

Special Invitation - Sunday, September 14

A Special Invitation - September 14

A Special Invitation
St. John’s Presbyterian Women invites YOU
Sunday September 14 at 4 pm*

Guest SpeakerMary MarcotteAssociate General Presbyter
Come learn about the upcoming Presbyterian Women’s Bible Study, Jubilee!
Luke’s Gospel for the Poor

Mary Marcotte will explore Jesus’ message found in Luke:
1."he has anointed me to bringgood news to the poor"….
2. "to proclaim release to the captives"
3. "recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free"

*A light afternoon tea will be served at 3:30 pm.

A Special Invitation - September 14

Inquirer’s Class— September 14, 21 & 28

Pastor Jon Burnham will teach an Inquirer’s Class for 3 Sunday mornings in his office from 9:00 - 9:45 am on September 14, 21 and 28. Those who take the class may join the church on September 28.

Inquirer’s Class— September 14, 21 & 28

Focus - Registration Deadline

Focus brochures with the registration from can be picked up from the coffee table in Building II. The deadline to hand in your registration form to St. John's office is Monday, September 15. Christian Formation will pay all early registration fees. If you miss this deadline mail your registration form, with your payment to Carrie Walker at 1110 Lovett Boulevard, Houston, TX 77006-3824.

Focus Event
The annual Presbytery Leadership Event will be hosted at Northwoods Presbyterian Church, 3320 FM 1960, in Houston. Nationally known preacher and author, Dr. Tom Long, will be the keynote speaker and will address themes raised in his book Testimony: Talking Ourselves into Being Christian. Long, Bandy Professor of Preaching at Chandler Seminary teaches us how to bring faith to speech in the everyday occurrences of life – especially when we are not in church. In his words, "Unless you say it, you don’t really believe it." (Link to read, see and hear our Keynoter, visit www.30goodminutes.org)
Dr. Long will be joined by a distinguished faculty of workshop leaders, including Jack Haberer, editor of Presbyterian Outlook and Joan Gray, past moderator of the PC(USA). Workshops are on topics that will nurture your spirit, enliven your faith and motivate you to recommit to ministry.
On-line registration, brochures and interesting resources can be found at www.focushouston.org.

Focus - Registration Deadline

Blessing of the Backpacks

All children, youth and college students are invited to bring their back packs to church on Sunday, August 24, for a "Blessing of the Backbacks" in the children's time during worship at 10:30 AM in the sanctuary. Invite your classmates to visit us at St. John's on August 24 and bring their backpacks for a special back to school blessing.

Blessing of the Backpacks

Retreat at St. John's with Mary Marcotte

You are all invited to a Christian Formation Ministry Retreat at St. John's with Mary Marcotte from 6-9 PM on Friday, August 8 and 9 AM - 12:30 PM on Saturday, August 9. She will guide us in a process of discernment about the direction of our Christian Formation Ministry on Friday evening and do some training with our leaders in Christian Formation on Saturday morning. Mary is the Associate General Presbyter for Discipleship and Leadership Development for New Covenant Presbytery. Mary serves as an advisor and facilitator for discipleship and leader development through the Congregational Resourcing Team and provides support to the educators of the presbytery through the Committee on Ministry. She promotes inter-congregational connections and supports various specialized group ministries (Youth Connections Council, Presbyterian Women, etc). and supports training opportunities for professional and lay leaders in our presbytery. Mary resources the Commissioned Lay Pastor subcommittee of the Committee on Ministry. Mary is a graduate of Rice University and is a Certified Christian Educator. She is an Elder and member of Pines Presbyterian Church. Mary and her husband have 2 adult children.

Retreat at St. John's with Mary Marcotte

Lafabah Recognizes St. John's

I accepted an award on behalf of our church family on July 26, 2008. The award reads: "La Famille Bamileke de Houston (Lafabah) proudly recognizes Saint John's Presbyterian Church for promoting human growth and development through spiritual enrichment and philanthropic contributions to the people in your community." This award is on display on the coffee table by Vivian's office. Lafabah is the expatriate community of Cameroonians and other Africans from various tribes who celebrated their 20th anniversary in Houston this year. Our own Léonie Tchoconté is a key leader in this group and we other African church members active in the group. It was a great celebration in the ballroom of the Courtyard Mariotte West. There were elaborate fashion shows by the children and youth and traditional tribal dances as well as general information and displays of food and cultural items. The hotel served a good meal as well. Our church has provided spiritual and material support to Lafabah over the years. Most recently we let them use McPhail Hall for a key planning event that led to the organization of a Medical School back in Cameroon. We certainly cherish our special relationship with Lafabah and pray that the Holy Spirit will continue to work in our midst.
Peace,
Pastor Jon B.

Lafabah Recognizes St. John's

Inquirer's Class in September

Pastor Jon will teach an Inquirer's Class for 3 Sunday mornings in his office from 9:00 - 9:45 AM on September 14, 21 and 28. Those who take the class may join the church on September 28.

Inquirer's Class in September

Sandwich Makers Needed - Wednesday, August 13

St. John's Wonder Team will meet in McPhail Hall to make sandwiches for 300 local area children. Volunteers are needed! Training is provided and we promise you will be home within an hour! Come make a difference in a childs life.

Sandwich Makers Needed - Wednesday, August 13

St. John's Book Group - August 12

Meet in Room 203 at 7:30 pm. The short story "The Family Markowitz" from Listening For God will be reviewed. Books are available in the church office. Don't miss this spirited exchange of ideas and different viewpoints.

St. John's Book Group - August 12