St. John's Flashlight: September 2011

Thursday, September 29, 2011

St. John's Epistle for September 29, 2011

Dear church members and friends of St. John's,

This Sunday we celebrate World Communion Sunday with Christians all around the globe. As part of our celebration, we will receive today the Peacemaking Offering. This special offering is used for peacemaking efforts around the world and here in Houston. We will keep 40% of the offering to use as we wish and 60% of the offering will be sent on the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church USA for global peacemaking efforts.

All children of elementary school age are encouraged to join Kyra Noons and Shirley Boyd immediately after worship this Sunday in Room 209 for Children's Choir rehearsal from 11:45 am – 12:15 pm.

Youth in Grades 6-12 will attend a Youth Rally at Pines Presbyterian Church this Sunday afternoon. Youth should arrive at the church by 3:20 pm for departure at 3:30 pm and will return by 6:30 pm.

Jim Schneider's family says Jim would enjoy visitors at Bayou Manor. There is no need to call ahead to schedule a visit. Drop by at your convenience.

The sermon text this Sunday is Psalm 80:7-15 and the sermon title is Timing Is Everything. How does your perception of time effect your spiritual life? Come and see.

The Saturday breakfast group meets this Saturday at 8:30 am and will hear from Shanna Harris from Memorial Southwest Hospital who will be the guest speaker.

This Saturday is the FOCUS training event presented by the presbytery at St. Philip Presbyterian Church. Walk-ins are welcome. We know of half a dozen or so of our members who plan to attend.

Stewardship Kick-off is Sunday October 9 and features a Congregational Potluck after worship. Mike Cole will be the guest speaker.

Looking ahead, Rev. Hunter Farrell, director of PC(USA) World Mission, will speak at St. Philip Presbyterian Sat., Oct. 15, 10:00 a.m. to Noon. He will discuss how changes in world mission have brought both opportunities and challenges.

Trunk-or-Treat is coming up on October 30. Trunks and volunteers are needed for this special outreach event. Please contact Mary Sterner (mary2d@yahoo.com or 713-723-6262) if you would like to participate.

New usher teams are forming for October, November, December and January. Sign up for first, second, third or fourth Sunday. Speak to Connie Brown if you are interested in helping this way.

Braes Interfaith Ministries (BIM) has an Emergency Request for diapers (size 3, 4 & 5) and toothpaste for their clients. Please place items in the box outside the church office by Sunday, October 16.

Our prayers are with SouSou Asmar and her family as they mourn the death of her husband, Suleiman Asmar. May the Lord bring them peace and may the Lord help each of us to be peacemakers such as we were challenged to be by our guest preacher last Sunday, the Rev. Cobbie Palm.

May the peace of Christ be with you,
Pastor Jon

--
The Rev. Dr. Jonathan L. Burnham
St. John's Presbyterian Church
5020 West Bellfort Ave, Houston, TX 77035
Phone 713-723-6262 | sjpresby.blogspot.com

--
St. John's Presbyterian Church
5020 West Bellfort / Houston, TX 77035
T. 713.723.6262 / F. 713.723-4015 / Email: office.sjpc@gmail.com
Worship Service: Sunday, 10:30 am / Sunday School: 9:00 am

Monday, September 26, 2011

Between Me and God

O God, will you not execute judgment upon them? For we are powerless against this great multitude that is coming against us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you. 2 Chronicles 20:12, NRSV

This is King Jehoshaphat’s prayer from a desperate time in his life. God came through for his people that day. When times are desperate in your life, remember God will come through when all seems hopeless. Stick close to God and keep your prayers and your eyes on him. He has a plan!
— St. John’s Evangelism Ministry Committee

PYF October Calendar

All youth (grades 6-12) are welcome to attend the Sunday meetings. For
questions about Presbyterian Youth Fellowship please call, 713-723-6262
or email Mary Sterner, mary2d@yahoo.com.

October 2: Youth Rally at Pines Presbyterian
Please arrive at the church by 3:20 pm.
We will depart promptly at 3:30 pm and return by 6:30 pm.

October 9: 5-6:30 pm: Prodigal Problems
(a closer look at the Prodigal Son)

October 16: 5-6:30 pm: Dry Bones Scavenger Hunt

October 23: 5-6:30 pm: Pumpkin Carving

October 30: 4-6 pm: Trunk or Treat;
Please arrive (in costume) to help set up at 3:30 pm

Stewardship Season Begins

Stewardship Kick-off
Sunday October 9
Congregational Potluck

Guest: Mike Cole

St. John’s Breakfast - Saturday, October 1

Climb out of bed and get to the church by 8 am for a yummy breakfast - you won’t want to miss it!! At 8:30 Shanna Harris, Service Line Administrator Medicine for Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital, will help fill us in on the Senior facilities at Memorial. There is a lot going on there that you might not know. She will also be addressing the special national service awards that the hospital has received.

Children’s Fall Choir — Sunday, October 2

Get ready! Fall Children’s Choir rehearsals will begin Sunday, October 2. All children of elementary school age are encouraged to join Kyra Noons and Shirley Boyd in Room 209, 11:45-12:15, immediately after the Sunday morning worship service.

The rehearsals will take place most Sundays throughout the fall semester, making allowances for holidays.Plans include revisiting the lively moves and lyrics many of us enjoyed beginning to learn during ”Galactic Blast” Vacation Bible School this past June. We will also learn some other anthems that are appropriate for children’s voices.

We hope our young choristers will be ready to sing for the worship service on October 23, around Thanksgiving, and before Christmas—maybe Christmas Eve. Come and bring friends!

Adopt-a-Family— October 15 Deadline

St. John’s has been very generous in the past in supporting MD Anderson Cancer Center, Adopt-a-Family program. Gift cards are given to needy family to help them through the holidays. I am seeking donations again this year. Please make out your check to MD Anderson Adopt-a-Family. Any donation is welcome.

Please get them to me by October 15. — Thank you, Mary Hughes

Weekly Reminders, September 25

Presbyterian Women’s Bible Study: All ladies are invited to Circle Sunday Bible study at church today, Room 209, at 12:30 pm. Come and enjoy fellowship and study and carve out of your busy schedule this special time with God.

St. John’s Book Group, September 27: Readers are invited to join the discussion (Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes by Kenneth Bailey) at 7:30 pm.

St. John’s Breakfast, Saturday October 1: Come at 8 am to McPhail Hall for a yummy breakfast, and at 8:30 we welcome Shanna Harris from Memorial Southwest Hospital as our guest speaker.

Children’s Choir starts October 2: Fall Children’s Choir rehearsals will begin Sunday, October 2. All children of elementary school age are encouraged to join Kyra Noons and Shirley Boyd in Room 209, 11:45 am – 12:15 pm.

Trunk-or-Treat, October 30: Trunks and volunteers are needed for this special outreach event. Please contact Mary Sterner (mary2d@yahoo.com or 713-723-6262) if you would like to participate.

Sign Up Today: New usher teams are forming for October, November, December and January. Sign up for first, second, third or fourth Sunday. Please speak to Connie Brown if you have any questions.

Snacks: Evangelism is looking for a volunteer for Snacks After Church for the 5th Sunday. Please contact Kathleen Captain at kccaptain@msn.com, home 713-541-4787 or cell 832-498-1340.

Adopt-a-Family: Help MD Anderson Cancer Center patients have a brighter holiday season. Please give checks made out to MD Anderson Adopt-a-family, to Mary Hughes or the office by October 15. Gift cards are given to needy families.

Braes Interfaith Ministries (BIM) Emergency Request: BIM needs diapers (size 3, 4 & 5) and toothpaste for their clients. Please place items in the box outside the church office by Sunday, October 16.

St. John's Weekly Calendar, Sept 25 - October 2

Sunday, September 25
9:00 am Church School
10:30 am Worship Service, guest Reverend Carlton Palm
11:45 am Light lunch served in McPhail Hall
12:30 pm Sunday Circle, Bldg. 2 5:00 pm Centering Prayer
5:00 – 6:30 pm Presbyterian Youth Fellowship

Monday, September 26
6:30 pm Walking Together
7:00 pm Bell Choir

Tuesday, September 27
9:30 am Presbyterian Women’s activity day
12:00 pm Staff meeting
5:00 pm Hour of Prayer, Rm. 207
6:30 pm “Stay Young, Stay Strong” 7:00 pm Scout Troop 688
7:30 pm St. John’s Book Group

Wednesday, September 28
8:00 am Presbyterian Children’s Home, Bldg. 2
6:00 pm Scout Troop 21151
6:00 pm “Wonder Team” Sandwich Makers, McPhail Hall
7:30 pm Chancel Choir

Thursday, September 29
8:30 am – 12:30 pm Community Bible Study, Buildings 1 & 2
6:30 pm “Stay Young, Stay Strong”

Friday, September 30
Saturday, October 1
8:00 am Women’s Bible Small Group
8:00 am St. John’s Breakfast
0:00 am FOCUS at St. Philip Presbyterian Church

Sunday, October 2 – Peacemaking Offering/World-Wide Communion
9:00 am Church School
10:30 am Worship Service
11:45 am Evangelism Committee
11:45 am Children’s Choir, Rm. 209
5:00 pm Centering Prayer
5:00 – 6:30 pm Presbyterian Youth Fellowship

Thursday, September 22, 2011

St. John's Epistle for September 22, 2011

Dear church members and friends of St. John's,

This Sunday, September 25, we will welcome to our pulpit the Rev.Carlton (Cobbie) Palm. He is a missionary on furlough and is speaking to churches in our presbytery. St. John's is his first engagement in this presbytery and this is his first time to step foot in Texas so let's give him a warm welcome. After worship he will speak in Fellowship Hall after a light lunch is served there by the Outreach Ministry Committee. Cobbie has served with Presbyterian World Mission in the Philippines since 1989 and is the Director of Spiritual Formation at the Divinity School at Silliman University. Learn more about him and his work here. Cobbie and his colleagues in ministry risk their lives in order to share the gospel so he deserves our respect and attention.

Here is a link to the September/October issue of The Beacon.

Begin your busy month of October at FOCUS, a presbytery-wide event that takes place Sat., Oct. 1 at St. Philip Presbyterian, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Workshops are designed to focus attention on engaging our communities and making disciples. Ed Kilbourne, singer and songwriter known for his collections of moving music, quirky humor and insightful monologues, will be the keynote speaker. The event is free, but please register by tomorrow, September 23!

After a full day, kick back and enjoy Ed Kilbourne at a free concert Saturday evening, Oct. 1, at 7:30 p.m. This Coffee House Concert will be held at ChristChurch Presbyterian in Bellaire.

The Peacemaking Offering was created in 1980 to support the efforts of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) to live out a deeper commitment to peacemaking as part of our faithfulness to God. It is one of four special offerings received each year by the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). St. John's will receive the Offering on World Communion Sunday, the first Sunday in October, which this year is October 2. We will retain 25 percent of the offering to use for local ministries of peacemaking within the church and its community. Twenty-five percent is used by presbyteries and synods, and 50 percent is used by the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program.

You are invited to a Stewardship Kick-off Congregational Potluck on Sunday, October 9, after worship. Mike Cole, our Presbytery Executive, will be the speaker after lunch that day.

Make a difference! "The Wonder Team" meets in McPhail Hall every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at 6 pm to make 300+ sandwiches for Kids Meals. You may join them on Wednesdays: September 28, October 12 & 26. On-site training is provided and you'll be back home within 45 minutes.

Betty Nelson wants everyone to know that at the September 11 blood drive there were 30 people not 30% more donors.

All St. John's ladies are invited to Sunday Circle meeting on Sunday, September 25, at 12:30 pm in the Session Room. The study will focus on Lesson One (Greatly Honored are the Poor! from Matthew 5:3 and Luke 6:20, 24) in Confessing the Beatitudes.

Get ready! Fall Children's Choir rehearsals will begin Sunday, October 2. All children of elementary school age are encouraged to join Kyra Noons and Shirley Boyd in Room 209, 11:45-12:15, immediately after the Sunday morning worship service. The rehearsals will take place most Sundays throughout the fall semester, making allowances for holidays. Come and bring a friend!

Text versions of my sermons are posted online here usually by the Monday after they are preached.

May the Lord guide you in all your ways. Patience develops spiritual maturity. Don't hesitate to call on me for prayer or a listening ear. Have a good rest of the week and I hope to see you in worship this Sunday.

Peace,
Pastor Jon

--
The Rev. Dr. Jonathan L. Burnham
St. John's Presbyterian Church
5020 West Bellfort Ave, Houston, TX 77035
Phone 713-723-6262 | sjpresby.blogspot.com

--
St. John's Presbyterian Church
5020 West Bellfort / Houston, TX 77035
T. 713.723.6262 / F. 713.723-4015 / Email: office.sjpc@gmail.com
Worship Service: Sunday, 10:30 am / Sunday School: 9:00 am

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Special Guest, September 25— Rev. Carlton Palm

On Sunday, September 25, we will welcome to our pulpit the Rev.Carlton (Cobbie) Palm.

The first 18 years of Cobbie’s life were spent in the Philippines as the son of Presbyterian missionaries, Jim and Louise Palm. He earned a Master of Divinity degree in 1987 with an emphasis on the study of world religions from Union Theological Seminary in New York. After graduating, Cobbie received an associate degree from the Graduate School of Ecumenical Studies at Bossey, Switzerland.

He has served with Presbyterian World Mission in the Philippines since 1989 and is the Director of Spiritual Formation at the Divinity School at Silliman University. His work includes leading students and faculty in spiritual retreats for each class, the faculty, and the seminary community. “I truly enjoy this ministry,” Cobbie writes, “we sing and perform, pray, reflect, and worship with such enthusiasm and joy knowing that for a refreshing change performance is not a grade point average.”

He also works on several community boards and programs. These include GWACE, Gender Watch Against Violence and Exploitation, the Buglas Bamboo Institute (promotes bamboo for housing and furniture) and Karapatan (defends workers against mining corporations and the urban poor against unjust treatment). Learn more at http://gamc.pcusa.org/ministries/missionconnections/palm-cobbie/ (You can also subscribe to Cobb’s Letters.)

After our church service Cobbie will join us for a light lunch in McPhail Hall.

Adopt-a-Family— October 15 Deadline

St. John’s has been very generous in the past in supporting MD Anderson Cancer Center, Adopt-a-Family program. Gift cards are given to needy family to help them through the holidays. I am seeking donations again this year. Please make
out your check to MD Anderson Adopt-a-Family. Any donation is welcome.
Please get them to me by October 15. — Thank you, Mary Hughes

Items Needed: Christmas Seamen’s Boxes

toothpaste
deodorant
lip balm
mouthwash
key chains
bandages
small flashlights
sewing kits
baseball caps
fun item
individual wrapped hard candy

Deliver items to the church office.

August BIM Status Report

In August, Braes Interfaith Ministries (BIM) food pantry served 1376 clients (662 children and 714 adults), 20 of whom were homeless.

BIM thanks St. John’s for their continued support helping them to continue their mission of providing much needed help to our underprivileged neighbors in the southwest area of Houston.

Remember to visit the Braes Resale Shop.
Every dollar earned at the resale shop buys
$27 worth of food at the Houston Food Bank.

Children’s Fall Choir — Sunday, October 2

Get ready! Fall Children’s Choir rehearsals will begin Sunday, October 2. All children of elementary school age are encouraged to join Kyra Noons and Shirley Boyd in Room 209, 11:45-12:15, immediately after the Sunday morning worship service. The rehearsals will take place most Sundays throughout the fall semester, making allowances for holidays.

Plans include revisiting the lively moves and lyrics many of us enjoyed beginning to learn during ”Galactic Blast” Vacation Bible School this past June. We will also learn some other anthems that are appropriate for children’s voices. We hope our young choristers will be ready to sing for the worship service on October 23, around Thanksgiving, and before Christmas—maybe Christmas Eve.

Come and bring friends!

St. John’s Breakfast - Saturday, October 1

Climb out of bed and get to the church by 8 am for a yummy breakfast - you won’t want to miss it!!

At 8:30 Shanna Harris, Service Line Administrator Medicine for Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital, will help fill us in on the Senior facilities at
Memorial. There is a lot going on there that you might not know. She will also be addressing the special national service awards that the hospital has received.

RE-Focus Youth Rally— October 2

All middle school and high school students are invited to the Presbytery-wide event at Pines Presbyterian church with “The Grateful Ed” singer, storyteller and folk theologian, Ed Kilbourne. Expect a lot of laughter and perhaps a few tears. Car pooling will be available, leaving St. John’s parking lot promptly at 3:30 pm.

St. John’s Book Group— Tuesday, Sept. 27

St. John’s Book Group, Greg Weiher moderator, will continue discussing Jesus Through Middle Eastern Eyes by Kenneth Bailey. The group meets at 7:30 pm and will focus on chapter 28 (The Parable of the Compassionate Employer: Matthew 20:1-16) and chapter 29 (The Parable of the Serving Master: Luke 16:19-30). Come and explore Jesus’ parables. Walk-ins are welcome.

"Wonder Team"

Few things have more impact than nutrition on a child’s ability to survive, learn effectively and escape a life of poverty. —Ann Veneman, Executive Director, UNICEF

Make a difference! “The Wonder Team” meets in McPhail Hall every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month at 6 pm to make 300+ sandwiches for Kids Meals. Please join us on Wednesdays: September 28, October 12 & 26. On-site training is provided and you’ll be back home within 45 minutes.

The Sunday Circle— Sunday, Sept. 25

All St. John’s ladies are invited to Sunday Circle meeting on Sunday, September 25, at 12:30 pm in the Session Room. The study will focus on Lesson One (Greatly Honored are the Poor! from Matthew 5:3 and Luke 6:20, 24) in Confessing the Beatitudes.

Presbyterian Women

St. John’s 2011-2012 Presbyterian Women’s schedule:

Circles, Bible Study: Meet on the 1st Tuesday of the month at 9:30 am and on the 4th Sunday of the month following Worship, 12:30 pm. Circle meeting locations are announced in the Sunday morning bulletins.

Association Program and Lunch: Meet on the 3rd Tuesday in December 2011, April and May 2012.

Fun Days: Meet on the 3rd Tuesday.
What is a “Fun Day”?? In October and November join us at 9:30 am in McPhail Hall. Bring your favorite game, jigsaw puzzle, sewing project, etc., and have friends join you. Or select a book from the church library and settle down on a sofa for quiet time away from the usual household chores. In December we’ll have our traditional Association meeting with
holiday music and lunch.

Activity Days: Meet on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 9:30 am in Building 2.

Presbyterian Women (PW) is a church wide organization whose membership is open to ALL women.

Monday, September 19, 2011

Weekly Reminders: September 25 News

Presbyterian Women’s Bible Study, September 20: All ladies are invited to Circles 1, 2 & 3. The lesson will be Greatly Honored Are the Poor from Matthew 5:3 and Luke 6:20, 24.

Presbyterian Women’s Bible Study, September 25: All ladies are invited to Sunday Circle Bible study at church at 12:30 pm.

Beacon Assemblers: Please come to Room 203 Tuesday, September 20, at 12:30 pm to help assemble the September/October Newsletter. No experience necessary.

Sign Up Today: New usher teams are forming for October, November, December and January. Sign up for first, second, third or fourth Sunday. Please speak to Connie Brown if you have any questions.

Children’s Choir, Fall 2011: Fall Children’s Choir rehearsals will begin Sunday, October 2. All children of elementary school age are encouraged to join Kyra Noons and Shirley Boyd in Room 209, 11:45 am – 12:15 pm.

Rev. Carlton (Cobbie) Palm: Next Sunday, Cobbie will preach and join us for a light lunch while telling us about the Philippines and his work there. He serves as Director of Spiritual Formation at Silliman University, founded by the Presbyterian Church in 1910.

SESSION HIGHLIGHTS of the Session meeting, September 13.
- The examination of Mary Sterner for ordination as an elder was sustained. Her installation date is September 18.
- Session approved the invitation to Rev. Carlton Palm, (PCUSA) Missionary, to preach on September 25.
- Session created a task force to organize the reception after the Community Thanksgiving Service on November 20.
- The Worship Committee reported the results of the Worship Survey to the Session. 64of the almost 300 surveys sent out were returned. The Worship Committee will provide Session with possible changes or ideas for the worship experience at the October meeting.
- It was reported that the Blood Drive on September 11 had 30 donors.
- The Session members were encouraged to attend the Presbytery Training Event FOCUS on October 1 at St. Philip Presbyterian Church. This is open to anyone, and Diane Prevary will introduce the new Book of Order. There is no cost for this event
but registration is requested on line or through our church office.

Calendar, September 18 - September 25

Sunday, September 18 - Beacon deadline
9:00 am Church School
10:30 am Worship Service
5:00 pm Centering Prayer
5:00 – 6:30 pm Presbyterian Youth Fellowship

Monday, September 19
6:30 pm Walking Together
7:00 pm Bell Choir

Tuesday, September 20
9:30 am Presbyterian Women’s Bible Circles 1, 2 & 3
12:00 pm Staff meeting
12:30 pm Beacon Assemblers
5:00 pm Hour of Prayer, Rm. 207
6:30 pm “Stay Young, Stay Strong”
7:00 pm Scout Troop 688
7:30 pm Stewardship Committee

Wednesday, September 21
6:00 pm Scout Troop 21151
7:30 pm Christian Education Committee
7:30 pm Chancel Choir

Thursday, September 22
8:30 am – 12:30 pm Community Bible Study, Buildings 1 & 2
6:30 pm “Stay Young, Stay Strong”

Friday, September 23

Saturday, September 24
8:00 am Women’s Bible Small Group

Sunday, September 25
9:00 am Church School
10:30 am Worship Service, guest Rev. Carlton Palm
11:45 pm Light lunch served in McPhail Hall
12:30 pm Presbyterian Women Bible Study Circle 4
5:00 pm Centering Prayer
5:00 – 6:30 pm Presbyterian Youth Fellowship

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Updated Church Wish List

Here are the items on our church wish list. Contact the church office if you may help us with one of these items.

— Phone in sanctuary

— Television and converter box for library

— New outdoor furniture

— Refurbish sign on West Bellfort

— New office furniture

— Carpet cleaner machine & supplies

Session Highlights from September 14, 2011

·         The examination of Mary Sterner for ordination as an elder was sustained. Her installation date is September 18.

·         Session approved the invitation to Rev. Carlton Palm (PC (USA) Missionary to preach on September 25.

·         Session created a task force to organize the reception after the community Thanksgiving Service on Nov. 20.

·         The Worship Committee reported the results of the Worship Survey to the Session.   64 of the almost 300 surveys sent out were returned. The Worship committee will provide Session with some possible changes or new ideas for the Worship Experience at the October Meeting.

·         It was reported that the Blood Drive on 9/11 had 30% more donors.

·         The Session Members were encouraged to attend the Presbytery Training Event FOCUS on October 1 at St. Philip Presbyterian Church. This is open to anyone and Diane Prevary will introduce the new Book of Order.   There is no cost for this event but registration is requested, on line or thro

St. John's Epistle for September 15, 2011

Dear church members and friends of St. John's,

Envy is quite a darling in the beginning. Envy may make you feel closer to someone when you both share a secret grudge or resentment against someone else. But envy is a cruel mate over time. Similar in effect to drug addiction or alcoholism, envy won't murder you on the street in cold blood. Envy kills more slowly over time. First, it compromises your immune system so your body becomes less able to resist germs and diseases. Then it feeds those germs and diseases so they grow strong within, fueled by bitterness and anger. Finally, it kills you, the real you, the Christ in you. You may still be breathing. You may still be walking around. But the Christ in you has been smothered. Envy will rob you blind. Then it will kill you. The sermon title this sermon is A Cure for Envy and is based on Jesus' parable on that topic in Matthew 20:1-16.

Our prayers continue to be with those who lost homes and more in the wildfires including some of the folks in the neighborhood of Mary Sterner's parents. Her parents are back in their house now. Mary will be ordained and installed as an elder this Sunday during worship.

Fall Children's Choir rehearsals will begin Sunday, October 2. All children of elementary school age are encouraged to join Kyra Noons and Shirley Boyd in Room 209, 11:45-12:15, which is immediately after the Sunday morning worship service.

We are feeding the hungry. In August, Braes Interfaith Ministries (BIM) food pantry served 1376 clients (662 children and 714 adults), 20 of whom were homeless.

On Sunday, September 25 we will welcome to our pulpit the Rev.Carlton (Cobbie) Palm. He is a missionary on furlough and is speaking to churches in our presbytery. After worship he will speak in Fellowship Hall after a light lunch provided. He has served with Presbyterian World Mission in the Philippines since 1989 and is the Director of Spiritual Formation at the Divinity School at Silliman University.

You are invited to a Stewardship Kick-off Congregational Potluck on Sunday, October 9, after worship. Think about what food you may bring.

We had 30 donors at our Blood Drive on September 11! That was 30% more than usual. Thanks to all who participated.

Your help is needed to make our wishes come true at St. John's. Speak to David or someone in the church office for details. Think generous. We have a short list that includes the following items:

— Phone in choir room; — Television and converter box for library; — New outdoor furniture; — Refurbish sign on West Bellfort ; — New office furniture;

— Choir Room: Dimmer switch for choir area; — Carpet cleaner machine & supplies

Mark your calendar to take advantage of the FOCUS event presented by presbytery. The event will be hosted by St. Philip Presbyterian Church, 4807 San Felipe, from 10 am – 3 pm. The event is free. Diane Prevary will introduce the New Book of Order. Everyone welcome. Elders expected.

You have a great weekend and we'll see you this Sunday as we come together to worship God.

Peace,
Pastor Jon

--
The Rev. Dr. Jonathan L. Burnham
St. John's Presbyterian Church
5020 West Bellfort Ave, Houston, TX 77035
Phone 713-723-6262 | sjpresby.blogspot.com

--
St. John's Presbyterian Church
5020 West Bellfort / Houston, TX 77035
T. 713.723.6262 / F. 713.723-4015 / Email: office.sjpc@gmail.com
Worship Service: Sunday, 10:30 am / Sunday School: 9:00 am

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Christmas Seamen’s Boxes

Items still needed for St. John's Seamen's Boxes:
* toothpaste
* deodorant
* lip balm
* mouthwash
* key chains
* lip balm
* small flashlights
* sewing kits
* baseball caps
* fun item
* bandages
* individual wrapped hard candy

Please, deliver items to the church office

August BIM Status Report

In August, Braes Interfaith Ministries (BIM) food pantry served 1376 clients (662 children and 714 adults), 20 of whom were homeless.

Braes Interfaith Ministries thanks St. John’s for their continued support helping us to continue our mission of providing much needed help to our underprivileged neighbors in the southwest area of Houston.

Children’s Choir-- Fall 2011

Get ready!

Fall Children’s Choir rehearsals will begin Sunday, October 2. All children of elementary school age are encouraged to join Kyra Noons and Shirley Boyd in Room 209, 11:45-12:15--that is, immediately after the Sunday morning worship service.

Plans include revisiting the lively moves and lyrics many of us enjoyed beginning to learn during ”Galactic Blast” Vacation Bible School this past June. We will also learn some other anthems that are appropriate for children’s voices.

The rehearsals will take place most Sundays throughout the fall semester, making allowances for holidays. We hope our young choristers will be ready to sing for the worship service on October 23, around Thanksgiving, and before Christmas—maybe Christmas Eve. Come and bring friends!

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Special Guest, September 25— Rev. Carlton Palm

On Sunday, September 25 we will welcome to our pulpit the Rev.Carlton (Cobbie) Palm.

The first 18 years of Cobbie’s life were spent in the Philippines as the son of Presbyterian missionaries, Jim and Louise Palm. He earned a Master of Divinity degree in 1987, with an emphasis on the study of world religions from Union Theological Seminary in New York. After graduating, Cobbie received an associate degree from the Graduate School of Ecumenical Studies at Bossey, Switzerland.

He has served with Presbyterian World Mission in the Philippines since 1989 and is the Director of Spiritual Formation at the Divinity School at Silliman University. His work includes leading students and faculty in spiritual retreats for each class, the faculty, and the seminary community. “I truly enjoy this ministry,” Cobbie writes, “we sing and perform, pray, reflect, and worship with such enthusiasm and joy knowing that for a refreshing change performance is not a grade point average.”

He also works on several community boards and programs. These include GWACE, Gender Watch Against Violence and Exploitation, the Buglas Bamboo Institute (promotes bamboo for housing and furniture) and Karapatan (defends workers against mining corporations and the urban poor against unjust treatment.)

Learn more at http://gamc.pcusa.org/ministries/missionconnections/palm-cobbie/ (You can also subscribe to Cobb’s Letters).

After our church service Cobbie will join us for a light lunch in McPhail Hall.

Stewardship Season Begins

Stewardship Kick-off, Sunday October 9

Congregational Potluck

Celebrating Stewardship Season

WHY DO YOU GIVE?
WHY DO YOU VOLUNTEER?

Stewardship committee is looking for personal testimonies to share with the congregation about what the stewardship season means to you personally. The quotes will be used in the Sunday inserts and the upcoming Beacon newsletter. Please send to St. John’s office: office. sjpc@gmail.com

St. John's Weekly Reminders, September 11

Blood Drive, Sunday, September 11: Share the gift of life! The drive has moved to Building 2, Room 209. Walk-ins are welcome until 12:30 pm today.

PYF Fall Kick-off, Sunday, September 11: Youth, 6th through 12th grades, are invited to participate in St. John’s Presbyterian Youth Fellowship. The first meeting is today, 5 – 6:30 pm. Friends, relatives and neighbors are welcome! Join us for the 3 F’s: fun, fellowship and food. Please contact Mary Sterner with any questions, mary2d@yahoo.com.

Centering Prayer Resumes Sunday, September 11: Come and explore this method of silent prayer with Pastor Jon in his office beginning at 5 pm.

Sandwich Makers, Wednesday, September 14: Please join the “Wonder Team” (sandwich makers extraordinary) as they make 300+ sandwiches for Kid’s Meals. Meet in McPhail Hall at 6 pm and you will be home within 45 minutes.

Beacon Newsletter Deadline: Please deliver all Beacon articles for the upcoming September/October newsletter by email, office.sjpc@gmail.com, or bring to Room 208. The last chance to be part of this issue is Sunday, September 18, at 12 noon.

Focus, Saturday, October 1: A free Presbyterian education opportunity, 10 am - 3 pm. at St. Philip Presbyterian Church (4807 San Felipe). The keynote speaker is Ed Kilbourne. Workshop descriptions and the registration forms are in the Narthex and the church office. Deadline for registration is September 23.

Presbyterian Women’s Bible Study: All ladies are invited to Circle 4 Bible study on Sunday, September 25, at Cue’s Burgers and More (10423 South Post Oak) at 12:30 pm. We will explore the Beatitudes while enjoying fellowship and food.

St. John's Weekly Calendar, September 11 - 18

Sunday, September 11
8:00 – 12:30 pm Blood Drive, Building 2, Room 209
9:00 am Church School
10:30 am Worship Service
11:45 am Worship and Fellowship Committees
5:00 pm Centering Prayer
5:00 – 6:30 pm Presbyterian Youth Fellowship (PYF) Kick-off

Monday, September 12
6:30 pm Walking Together
7:00 pm Bell Choir

Tuesday, September 13
9:30 am Presbyterian Women’s Activity Day
12:00 pm Staff meeting
5:00 pm Hour of Prayer, Rm. 207
6:30 pm “Stay Young, Stay Strong”
7:00 pm Scout Troop 688

Wednesday, September 14
6:00 pm Scout Troop 21151
6:00 pm “Wonder Team” Sandwich Makers, McPhail Hall
7:30 pm Chancel Choir
7:30 pm Session Meeting

Thursday, September 15
8:30 am – 12:30 pm Community Bible Study, Buildings 1 & 2
6:30 pm “Stay Young, Stay Strong”

Friday, September 16

Saturday, September 17
8:00 am Women’s Bible Small Group

Sunday, September 18 Beacon Deadline
9:00 am Church School
10:30 am Worship Service
5:00 pm Centering Prayer
5:00 – 6:30 pm Presbyterian Youth Fellowship

Monday, September 12, 2011

Celebrating Stewardship Season

Why do you give?
Why do you volunteer?

Stewardship committee is looking for personal testimonies to share with the congregation about what the stewardship season means to you. The quotes will be used in the Sunday inserts and the upcoming Beacon newsletter. Please send to St. John’s office: office. sjpc@gmail.com.

Blood Drive a Success!

Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center thanks you for your blood drive. Your blood drive results are as follows:

Drive Date: September 11, 2011
Donors: 30
Whole Blood:26
Double Red Cell: 1
Red Cell Plasma: 0
Total Products: 28
Deferrals: 3

Once again, thank you for Committing for Life!

Thursday, September 8, 2011

St. John's Epistle for September 8, 2011

Dear church members and friends of St. John's,

You may join me in prayer for all who lost homes and more in the wildfires including some in the neighborhood of Mary Sterner's parents. Thus far her parent's house is still standing. These wild fires have been frightening and extremely dangerous. Our thoughts and prayers are with all who have been or still are in their destructive path.

You are invited to the Breakfast Club this Saturday, September 10, in Fellowship Hall. Come at 8 am as usual for a good breakfast to get you started on your day. At 8:30 Dr. Paul Stimson will speak about Forensic Dentistry.

You are encouraged to give blood this Sunday on the tenth anniversary of 911. The time is 8 am - 12:30 pm. Note the new location in in Room 209, the exercise room of Building 2 where the church offices are located,. Walk-ins are welcome.

You will want to remember in prayer Louise Cherry who is scheduled for surgery this morning. Helen will soon be visiting her daughter in Phoenix. Rosemary is well and adjusting to her new home near her children in north Houston.

Youth in Grades 6-12 are invited to join Presbyterian Youth Fellowship (PYF) for a fall kick-off event this Sunday, September 11, at 5 pm in Fellowship Hall. Come and bring a friend!

You are invited to a Centering Prayer Workshop this Sunday at 4:30 pm in my office. First timers and regulars are all welcome to the workshop at 4:30 pm followed by our first time back for the fall gathering at 5 pm in my office.

Your Chancel Choir invites you to come sing with them in the choir room at 7:30 pm on Wednesday nights. New voices are wanted. First timers are welcome. Speak to the choir director, Mark, for more information.

Your help is needed to make our wishes come true at St. John's. Speak to David or someone in the church office for details. Think generous. We have a short list that includes the following items:

— Phone in choir room; — Television and converter box for library; — New outdoor furniture; — Refurbish sign on West Bellfort ; — New office furniture;

— Choir Room; — Dimmer switch for choir area; — Carpet cleaner machine & supplies

Your input is needed. Stewardship committee seeks personal testimonies. The quotes will be used in the Sunday inserts and the upcoming Beacon newsletter. Answer these questions: Why do you give? Why do you volunteer? Give your quotes to St. John's office.

Mark your calendar to take advantage of the FOCUS event presented by presbytery. The event will be hosted by St. Philip Presbyterian Church, 4807 San Felipe, from 10 am – 3 pm. The event is free.

Diane Prevary will introduce the New Book of Order. Everyone welcome. Elders expected.

You and your family are invited to join your church family as we worship God and mark the 10 year anniversary of 911 this Sunday. Come sing familiar hymns and hear the Word of God proclaimed.

Peace of Christ be with you,
Pastor Jon

--
The Rev. Dr. Jonathan L. Burnham
St. John's Presbyterian Church
5020 West Bellfort Ave, Houston, TX 77035
Phone 713-723-6262 | sjpresby.blogspot.com

--
St. John's Presbyterian Church
5020 West Bellfort / Houston, TX 77035
T. 713.723.6262 / F. 713.723-4015 / Email: office.sjpc@gmail.com
Worship Service: Sunday, 10:30 am / Sunday School: 9:00 am

Wednesday, September 7, 2011

Braes Resale and Consigment Store

BRAES RESALE & CONSIGNMENT SHOP NEWS
10319 South Post Oak @ West Bellfort
www.Braesinterfaithministries.com

Furniture * Clothing * Jewelry * Collectibles * Dishes * Books *
Household Items * Glass, etc.

We are one of the 12 congregations that support Braes Interfaith Ministries (BIM), which in turn, is supported by the Braes Resale & Consignment Shop. For every dollar profit earned by the Resale Shop, as well as funds from the 12 congregations, BIM gets $27.00 of food from the Houston Food Bank.

The Resale Shop has been in business for almost three years, open 10 am – 5 pm, Monday through Saturday.

Support the Resale Shop by volunteering, shopping, donations (donated items are tax deductible) and/or consignments.

- This month, we are in great need of children's clothes.

- Consignment items Braes can accept: furniture, house wares, collectibles, art, jewelry, china, dishes, stemware, and art glass.

- Donated items Braes can not except: Children's furniture & toys, office furniture, sleeper sofas, pillows, sports equipment,major appliances.

If you have questions please call 713-728-0024 or email braesresale@att.net.
Thank you, Ralph Weed, or Jeannie Escott, Co-Managers.

SUPPORT THE STORE AND GO SHOPPING!

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

Peacemaking Offer

On October 2, churches across the country will celebrate World Communion Sunday, and congregations across the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) will receive the 2011 Peacemaking Offering.

The Peacemaking Offering, one of the denomination’s four special offerings, supports peacemaking ministries across the church and is crucial to the ongoing work of the Presbyterian Peacemaking Program. Today, the United States is embroiled in two lengthy wars, our economy is faltering in part to support our military “might,” and our society is increasingly — and too often violently — divided by a growing economic rift. However, as Christians, we are reminded that “a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace.”

Through your gifts to the Peacemaking Offering, congregations receive training and resources to address conflict, International Peacemakers bear witness to how they live out their faith in the midst of challenge and violence, children and young people learn how they can make a difference in building peace, and people across the church benefit from resources that teach peacemaking as part of our Christian discipleship. Indeed, we are reminded that:

- the church is faithful to Christ when it is engaged in peacemaking,

- the church is obedient to Christ when it nurtures and equips God’s people as peacemakers,

- the church bears witness to Christ when it nourishes the moral life of the nation for the sake of peace in our world.

Gardening Skills Training

A leading provider of gardening education in the Houston area is Urban Harvest, which has for a long time provided courses in garden construction, growing fruits and vegetables, starting community gardens, and more. They also host the Permaculture Guild of Houston's Permaculture Design Certificate (PDC) class. Urban Harvest is offering several classes including Hands-On Canning and Preserving (Saturday, September 10), Urban Farming (Thursday, September 15), and Natural Beekeeping (Saturday, September 17). The Fall module of the PDC class, Designing Bountiful Gardens using Permaculture, starts October 9, and the two prerequisite classes (Sustainable Living Through Permaculture 1 & 2) are on September 25 and October 2. More information and registration (there is a fee) for all these classes can be found on the Urban Harvest education. calendar.

September 2011 Interfaith Relations Newsletter

Interfaith Relations Newsletter

September 2011

Dear Jon,

In the month of September my Jewish sisters and brothers will celebrate Rosh Hashanah, the beginning of their new year. One of the important aspects of this holiday is the observance of the Sovereignty of God. If you have spent time with me you will know that I struggle with theological absolutes, and I often find our descriptions of God or the Holy deeply inadequate.Yet today the idea of God as sovereign comforts me as I recognize how little I know about the mystery of our existence. The idea that there is a God infinitely more capable of holding the universe together reminds me that I am not wholly responsible for everything. I am responsible for that which God places unto my care, whether that is work, relationships, or charity.

Recently a friend and reporter asked me how effective I consider interfaith dialogue and cooperation when our nation seems more polarized each day. In light of Rosh Hashanah, I see our work as vital. Every effort that we make to repair the world I believe will be honored and I pray, magnified, by God. I invite you to consider how you can join with our Jewish brothers and sisters to make our world new. Maybe you can celebrate the new year through a conversation with a family member who holds false prejudices, maybe you will reach out to a co-worker and learn about his/her beliefs, or maybe you will find one of our programs enlightening. Perhaps you will begin a project or start a revolutionary movement that brings light to the dark places in our world.

Whatever actions you take in the coming months to renew the world I hope that you put your whole heart into them. As you make our city a better place to live and thrive, remember you have fellow travelers along the journey. No one person can do everything, but if we all keep working alongside one another we can accomplish great things. As always, I encourage you to join us for our wonderful events and make new friends!

Please scroll all the way down the page to see our fall offerings!

Lauren Santerre

Director of Interfaith Relations

_________________________________________________________

Heart Anthology:

An Evening of Interfaith Women's Art

Heart Anthology 2

Tickets: $10.00

September 22, 2011

Unitarian Fellowship of Houston

1504 Wirt Rd

Houston, TX 77055

Join us for a wonderful evening of art performed and produced by women from many different faith traditions. The evening will highlight our sacred connenctions through dance, poetry, songs and visual art. There will be time for fellowship and conversation. Light snacks and beverages will be provided.

Join us for a unique interfaith experience for women!

Click here for Registration.

_____________________________________________________

Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston Presents:

The Annual Dinner Dialogues

November 17, 2011

Registration for Host Homes Now Open!

The Amazing Faiths Project Annual Dinner Dialogues bring people of all faiths and no faith together for an engaging conversation while sharing a meal. The dinners provide an opportunity for Houstonians to learn about one another and share their faith experiences. Register to host a group of ten to twelve Houstonians in your home today!

Click Here to Sign up Today!!!

For More Info visit: www.imgh.org

Registration for participants will open by October 1, 2011.

_____________________________________________________

Women's Interfaith Retreat

February 24-26, 2012

Camp Allen

Love Thyself 2

We invite you to join together with women from various faith traditions and backgrounds for an intimate weekend together exploring the deep complexity of loving ourselves. We invite you to read all about it...

Join us for a DIVINE weekend!

Keynote Speaker: Kristin Ritzau

Workshops, Meditations, Small Groups and More....

Semi-Private: $200.00

Private: $275.00

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER

_____________________________________________________

Dinner Dialogue in a Box

Questions for Dinner Dialogue Groups Many of you have let us know that you are continuing to meet with your Amazing Faiths Dinner Dialogue groups and we are thrilled to hear that great news! Each month you will find in this section a few discussion questions that you can use for your follow up meetings!

We would love to hear about how your groups are doing and any activities that you all choose to do together!

August Questions:

1. "So as we observe the state of the nation and the world, see their progress and their struggle, we can and we should observe the state of our own being. Not only in terms of how much more we are doing, observing and learning, but also in terms of how much more deeply and sensitively we are living."
--Rabbi David Lapin

How do you respond sensitively to the struggles of the world? How do your responses differ from others in your life or faith community?

2. "If [a person] were able to survey at a glance all he has done in the course of his life, what would he feel? He would be terrified at the extent of his own power.

--Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel

This quote calls us to consider how we use our power to help or hurt those in our lives. Describe a time when God or a higher power moved your heart to consider the power of your actions. What lesson did you learn?

Do you have news to share?

The Interfaith Relations Department asks that all requests to promote upcoming events be received by the 3rd Friday of the month preceeding your event. Click here to fill out our line request form. Thank you!

In This Issue

Heart Anthology

Host An Amazing Faiths Dinner

Women's Retreat 2012

Dinner Dialogue in a Box

9/11/11 Community Dialogues

Compassionate Weekend of Service

Service of Remembrance

Human Trafficking Interfaith Service

Hip Hop to Sugar Hill

Crop Hunger Walk

Artful Thursday

"Community Dialogues about 9/11"

Rothko Chapel

3900 Yupon Street

Houston, TX 77006

Thurs.Sept. 08, 2011

Tues. Sept. 13, 2011

Thurs. Sept. 15, 2011

7:00pm

Working with the Institute for Sustainable Peace, Inprint, and HGOco, the Rothko Chapel will hold a series of facilitated community dialogues about Histonians' experience of 9/11.

Thursday,the meaning of commemoration and memory will be explored. Tuesday will be focused on moving from anger to forgiveness. Thursday will be a dsicussion of how healing can improve the community.

For more info click here

Compassionate Houston

9/11 Service Weekend

September 9-September 11, 2011

Organizations, Faith Communities and Businesses will join together for a variety of activities and service projects from Sept.9-11 in honor of those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001.

We encourage you to visit the website and learn more about how you or your community may become a Compassionate Partner.

For more info click here

"Service of Remembrance"

Spring Interfaith Dialogue invites you to join us for a Service of Remembrance making the

10th anniversary of 9/11

Sunday, September 11, 4:00pm

Cypress Creek Christian Church

6823 Cypresswood Drive,

Spring, TX 77379

For more info click here

Human Trafficking Interfaith Service

Sunday, Sept. 18, 2011

4:00p.m.

Rothko Chapel
3900 Yupon Street
Houston, TX 77006

The Human Trafficking Interfaith Service at the Rothko Chapel is the culminating event of the second anual Faith and Freedom Weekend that is part of Houston Resuce and Restore Coalition's Human Trafficking Awareness Month.

This year, representatives from each of the city's four largest faith communities in Houston will discuss their faith's response to slavery, both historically and in contemporary times.

Discussion and a Q&A session with the audience will follow the service.

For more info click here

"From Hip Hop to Sugar Hill"

Thurs. Sept. 22, 2011

7:00p.m

Bohemeo's

708 Telephone Road
Houston, TX 77023

A collaborative project bringing together Houston writers, folklorist, historians and the like to share special places that make the city unique is set to present it's first series of public programs.

For more info click here

CROP Hunger Walk 2011

November 6, 2011

Art Park on the Sabine Promenade

Walk begins at 1:45pm

Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston's Meals on Wheels program has been chosen as the 2011 recipient. The Meals on Wheels Program will receive 25% percent of the money raised from the 2011 CROP Hunger Walk.

For more info click here

For interested congregations, contact Rina Chandarana John or call (713)-533-4948.

Artful Thursday

High Notes

Thursday September 15, 2011
Brown Theater
6:30pm

In this month´s Artful Thursday lecture, Dr. Hussein Rashid will use music to explore how the Muslim American community has made a lasting cultural contribution to American music.

For more info click here