In the New Year,
may you be blesssed
with all the good things God has to give.
- St. John's Presbyterian Church
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Church Calendar, December 30 - January 6
This week at St. John’s
Sunday, December 30
9:00 am Church School
10:30 am Worship Service
10:30 am Worship Service
2:00 – 4:00 pm Ghanaian Presbyterian Church, McPhail Hall
Monday, December 31 New Year’s Eve
9: am – 12 am Ghanaian Presbyterian Church, Scout Room
Tuesday, January 1
Church Offices Closed
Wednesday, January 2
6:00 pm Girl Scout Troop, Scout Room
7:30 pm Chancel Choir
Thursday, January 3
6:30 pm “Stay Young, Stay Strong” Room 209
Saturday, January 5
8:00 am St. John’s
8:00 am Women’s Bible Small Group
12:00 – 5:00 pm Boy Scouts, McPhail Hall
12:00 – 5:00 pm Boy Scouts, McPhail Hall
Sunday, January 6 Installation of Officers
9:00 am Church School
10:30 am Worship Service
10:30 am Worship Service
Sunday Insert Reminders: December 30
Flower Calendar: Please sign your name on the Flower Calendar in the Narthex to reserve your special Sunday for giving flowers in the Sanctuary in 2013.
Presbyterian Women Bible Study, Tuesday, January 8: Circles 1 & 2 will meet at 9:30am in Building II. Lesson #5 (1 Peter 3) of this year’s study, Dispatches to God’s Household will be studied.
“Wonder Team” Sandwich Makers, Wednesday, January 9: Everyone is invited to McPhail Hall at 6 pm to help feed Houston
All-Committee Day, Saturday, January 12: Gather in McPhail Hall at 8:30 am for a continental breakfast followed by committee meetings. The January 2013 session meeting will follow.
Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Sunday, January 13: St. John’s
St. John’s Book Group, Thursday, January 17, at 7:30 pm: All are welcome to join the discussion, Chapters 6, 7 and 8, from the book The God I Don't Understand by Christopher J.H. Wright. Copies of the book are available in the office.
Monday, December 24, 2012
Christmas Eve Services
Christmas Family Services
5 pm
Christmas Candlelight Services
11 pm
Please join us we celebrate this joyous season!
Sunday, December 23, 2012
St. John’s Breakfast— Saturday, January 5
Come for breakfast at 8:00 a.m. and bring a friend or neighbor!! At 8:30 our own Ms. Kathie Hartzog, and Ms. Verna Noack, who is the development director of Small Steps Nurturing Center, will present our program.
We all know of Small Steps, but here is an opportunity to delve into the day-to-day activities of this wonderful school. Their motto is "Hope for children straight from the heart." Come and be inspired Please call Linda Dobbin, 281-778-5348, if you need a ride.
November BIM Report
In November Braes Interfaith Ministries food pantry served 1,695 clients (697 children and 983 adults), and 68 of the clients served were homeless. Thank you to everyone involved in this mission.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Christmas Eve Services
This Monday we will have two Christmas Eve services. The 5 pm Family Service will be led by our Director of Christian Education Mary Sterner, and our youth and children. Come as you are and bring your friends and family to sing Christmas carols and ponder the youth present some thoughts on Christmas in the form of a play. The 11 pm Cande Light Service will be led by our Parish Associate, Rev. Linda Herron, and feature a guest harpist and our church musicians, Mark Swindler and Alina Klimaszewska. Come and bring your friends and family to our Christmas Eve services.
St. John's Epistle for December 20, 2012
Dear Advent people who are pregnant with new life,
This Monday we will have two Christmas Eve services. The 5 pm Family Service will be led by our Director of Christian Education Mary Sterner, and our youth and children. Come as you are and bring your friends and family to sing Christmas carols and ponder the youth present some thoughts on Christmas in the form of a play. The 11 pm Cande Light Service will be led by our Parish Associate, Rev. Linda Herron, and feature a guest harpist and our church musicians, Mark Swindler and Alina Klimaszewska. Come and bring your friends and family to our Christmas Eve services.
This Sunday, December 23, during worship we will hear and act on a report from the Nominating Committee who will recommend the church members listed below.
Elders for the Class of 2015: Franklin Caspa, Dave Muanza, Dave Nelson, Kyra Noons
Youth Elders for 2013: Jacob Ehrenstrom and Christianna Johnson
2013 Nominating Committee members from the congregation: Kathleen Captain, Bill Ehrenstrom, Brad Urquhart
Scholarship Committee: Shirley Boyd
Youth Elders for 2013: Jacob Ehrenstrom and Christianna Johnson
2013 Nominating Committee members from the congregation: Kathleen Captain, Bill Ehrenstrom, Brad Urquhart
Scholarship Committee: Shirley Boyd
Nominations from the floor will be accepted provided the person being nominated has agreed to serve if elected and the person making the nomination specifies which person on the list above they would like their nominee to replace.
This Sunday we will receive the Joy Gift Offering. One half of the offering supports Presbyterian-related racial ethnic schools and colleges. Through this support, these schools offer an opportunity to young adults to advance their education and escape the cycle of poverty and prejudice. The Assistance Program of the Board of Pensions receives the other half of the Offering and uses it to assist pastors, missionaries, and church workers in special need. Your gifts enable the Assistance Program to support active and retired church workers who have unexpected needs they cannot meet.
Your ready for Christ's rebirth in my heart and yours pastor,
JON BURNHAM
Monday, December 17, 2012
St. John’s Holiday Schedule
St. John’s Church office will be closed Tuesday, December 25, and Wednesday, December 26, for the Christmas holiday. The office will also be closed Tuesday, January 1 for New Year’s Day. St. John’s staff wishes everyone a healthy and happy Christmas and a New Year filled with hope, love and joy!
Braes Interfaith Ministries (BIM) Update
November BIM Report
In November Braes Interfaith Ministries food pantry served 1,695 clients (697 children and 998 adults), and 68 of the clients served were homeless. Thank you to everyone involved in this mission.
BIM January Food Drive
Each of the 12 member churches of Braes Interfaith Ministries has a month in which it is designated to provide food. January is St. John’s month to provide food for BIM. Look for grocery sacks with a list of suggestions. Cash donations are also appreciated. BIM can buy $27 worth of canned food from the Houston Food Bank for every dollar donated. Please write BIM on the memo line of your check.
In November Braes Interfaith Ministries food pantry served 1,695 clients (697 children and 998 adults), and 68 of the clients served were homeless. Thank you to everyone involved in this mission.
BIM January Food Drive
Each of the 12 member churches of Braes Interfaith Ministries has a month in which it is designated to provide food. January is St. John’s month to provide food for BIM. Look for grocery sacks with a list of suggestions. Cash donations are also appreciated. BIM can buy $27 worth of canned food from the Houston Food Bank for every dollar donated. Please write BIM on the memo line of your check.
Holiday Shopping Hint!
Remember to stop at the Braes Resale and Consignment Shop, 10319 South Post Oak, for those last minute items on your holiday shopping list. The inventory is always changing!
Every dollar earned at the shop buys
$27 worth of food for the Braes Food pantry
from the Houston Food Bank
Church Apartment Ministry (Anchor House)
Thank you all for a successful Living Gift Market.
Thank you to the Presbyterian Women for baking cookies, Betty Nelson and Joann Navratil for their scarves and crocheted necklaces and Pam Tedeschi and Teresa Darr for their beautiful quilted table runners, tree skirt and tea books. And a very special thank you to those that just donated to the Anchor Houses.
We have kept the apartments full through Christmas which is quite a feat this time of year. (M.D. Anderson generally does not start new treatments at this time and likes to send most everyone home.) Our newest tenant is from Montana, the Goughs. They are finding our weather very warm.
Most of our tenants find the apartments very welcoming. If anyone is interested in seeing an apartment, let us know and we can show you one when someone moves out.
After the first of the year we are off to buy new mattresses for one of the apartments.
— Sally Shaw
Unbinding the Gospel - Lent Study
Unbinding the Gospel E-Event
40 Day Faith Journey
All-Church Study
During the past year St. John’s held three small-group leadership studies based on a book entitled Unbinding the Gospel. The study, an exciting adventure in Christianity, is about praying and sharing faith experiences.
This similar small-group study experience is now being offered to St. Johner's.
The study, also called an “E-vent,” will begin the week of February 10-17 (the first week of Lent) and conclude around Easter Sunday, March 31.
Learn more about this wonderful opportunity on All Committee Day, January 12, and during Sunday Worship on January 27.
Sunday, December 16, 2012
December 16 Sunday Insert Highlights
Advent Devotional Booklet: St. John’s 2012 Advent booklet JOY! is available in the Narthex. Use the booklet to help you prepare your heart for this joyous season.
Beacon Newsletter Deadline: Please deliver all Beacon articles for the upcoming December 2012/January 2013 issue by email (office.sjpc@gmail.com) or bring to Room 208. The last chance to be part of this issue is Sunday, December 16 at 12 noon.
Christmas Musical Program, Tuesday, December 18: Everyone is invited to the Sanctuary at 10:30 am for pianist Rob Landes’ program. A reception will be held after the program in McPhail Hall. Sponsored by Presbyterian Women.
Church Beacon Newsletter Assemblers: Come to Room 203, Tuesday, December 18, after the Reception to help assemble the December/January newsletter. No experience is necessary.
Sock Trees: Our campus Christmas trees are waiting to be decorated in their holiday finery: SOCKS. Socks, newborn through kindergarten sizes, are needed. St. John’s Presbyterian Women will deliver the socks to the House of Tiny Treasures and Small Steps Nurturing Center
Flower Calendar: Please sign your name on the Flower Calendar in the Narthex to reserve your special Sunday for giving flowers in the Sanctuary in 2013.
December 16 - 23 Weekly Schedule
Sunday, December 16 - Third Sunday of Advent Healing Service
9:00 am Church School
10:30 am Worship Service
10:30 am Worship Service
11:45-12:15 pm Children’s Choir, Room 209
12:00 pm Sunday Circle
12:00 pm Beacon deadline
5:00 pm PFY – Christmas Eve planning
Monday, December 17
9:00 am Staff Meeting
10:00 am Bob’s Crew (Property grounds projects)
6:00 pm Cub Scout Den 8
6:30 pm Walking Together, Room 210
Tuesday, December 18
9:30 am Presbyterian Women’s Association; Program of Christmas music will be
presented by Rob Landes in the Sanctuary at 10:30 am. Reception will
follow in McPhail Hall. Beacon assembled afterward in Room 203.
5:00 pm Hour of Prayer, Rm. 207
6:30 pm “Stay Young, Stay Strong” Rm. 209
7:00 pm Faith in Action Committee
7:00 pm Scout Troop 688, Scout Room
Wednesday, December 19
12:00 pm Centering Prayer, Pastor Jon’s office
6:00 pm Girl Scout Troup 21151, Scout Room
7:30 pm Caring Comittee
7:30 pm Caring Comittee
7:30 pm Chancel Choir
Thursday, December 20
6:30 pm “Stay Young, Stay Strong” Room 209
Saturday, December 22
8:00 am Women’s Bible Small Group
5:30 – 9:00 pm Ghanaians Choir Practice, Scout Room
Sunday, December 23 - Fourth Sunday of Advent
9:00 am Church School
10:30 am Worship Service
10:30 am Worship Service
11:45-12:15 pm Children’s Choir, Room 209
5:00 pm PYF – Christmas Eve planning
Thursday, December 13, 2012
St. John's Epistle for December 13, 2012
Dear Advent candle lit people of God,
--
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
Last Sunday afternoon we had a wonderful memorial service and reception for Elaine DeSouza. We will miss Elaine in so many ways from her personal inspiration to her leadership in many ministries of this congregation. In the end, Elaine showed us how to die even as she had shown us how to live. She is now well and in good hands in the company of the saints in light.
As we grow more mature (not necessarily older but more mature), we tend to value experiences more. For example, a Christmas gathering when we are young adults may be viewed as something we have to "get through" so we can go out and spend some quality time with our friends. As we mature though, we come to value time spent with family and the sameness of holiday rituals.
One of our holiday rituals in this church family is our Christmas Eve services. Put them on your calendar and come and bring your family and friends on December 24. We will have a youth led service at 6 pm in the sanctuary and a candlelight service at 11 pm in the sanctuary. Look forward to that service. Cherish it this time and once again. We don't how many such services we will get to attend in our lifetime. For some of us, we don't know which ones, this may be our last Advent season. So what are we waiting for? Let's let Christ be born in our heart anew. That's what Elaine would want us to do.
Toward that end, this Sunday is a healing service. After the sermon, as we sing O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, you may come forward for anointing with oil and prayer for yourself or someone you love. You may seek healing of mind, body, or soul. It may be financial, relational, or physical healing you seek. Christ the great healer will meet you where you are and bring healing to your life this Sunday.
Your waiting with you for Christ's rebirth in our hearts pastor,
JON BURNHAM
--
Rev. Dr. Jonathan L. Burnham (Jon's Blog, Facebook, Twitter) 5020 West Bellfort Ave, Houston, TX 77035 (Map & Directions to church)
Sunday Schedule: Church School for all ages: 9:00 am; Worship 10:30 am; Youth Fellowship 5 pm
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
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Christmas Eve Services
Christmas Family Services
5 pm
Christmas Candlelight Services
11 pm
Please join us we celebrate this joyous season!
Christmas Joy Offering - Sunday, December 23
Presbyterians can respond to that love at Christmas by giving generously to the Christmas Joy Offering. As we celebrate Jesus’ love in our lives this Christmas, our gifts bear joyful witness to the power of that boundless love that changes lives.
What Is the Christmas Joy Offering?
One way in which the PC(USA) has joined together and shared the good news of great joy is through the Christmas Joy Offering. One half of the Offering supports Presbyterian-related racial ethnic schools and colleges. Through this support, these schools offer an opportunity to young adults to advance their education and escape the cycle of poverty and prejudice. The Assistance Program of the Board of Pensions receives the other half of the Offering and uses it to assist pastors, missionaries, and church workers in special need. Your gifts enable the Assistance Program to support active and retired church workers who have unexpected needs they cannot meet..
December 9 - 16 Church Calendar
Sunday, December 9 - Second Sunday of Advent & Advent Festival
9:00 am Church School
9:00 – 10:00 am Advent Festival, McPhail Hall
10:30 am Worship Service
9:00 – 10:00 am Advent Festival, McPhail Hall
10:30 am Worship Service
11:45-12:15 pm Children’s Choir, Room 209
4:30 pm Pack 8 den
5:00 pm PFY – Christmas Eve planning
Monday, December 10
9:00 am Staff Meeting
10:00 am Bob’s Crew (Property grounds projects)
6:30 pm Walking Together, Room 210
7:00 pm Bell
Tuesday, December 11
9:30 am Presbyterian Women’s Activity Day
5:00 pm Hour of Prayer, Rm. 207
6:30 pm “Stay Young, Stay Strong” Rm. 209
7:00 pm Scout Troop 688, Scout Room
Wednesday, December 12
12:00 pm Centering Prayer, Pastor Jon’s office
6:00 pm Girl Scout Troup 21151, Scout Room
6:30 pm “Wonder Team”Sandwich Makers
6:30 pm “Wonder Team”
7:30 pm Chancel Choir
Thursday, December 13
8:30 am – 12:30 pm Community Bible Study, Buildings 1 and 2
6:30 pm “Stay Young, Stay Strong” Room 209
7:30 pm St. John’s
Saturday, December 15
8:00 am Women’s Bible Small Group
5:30 – 9:00 pm Ghanaians Choir Practice, Scout Room
Sunday, December 16 - Third Sunday of Advent and Healing Service
9:00 am Church School
10:30 am Worship Service
10:30 am Worship Service
11:45-12:15 pm Children’s Choir, Room 209
12:00 pm Beacon Deadline
12:00 pm Sunday Circle
5:00 pm PFY – Christmas Eve planning
December 9: Sunday Insert Reminders
Advent Devotional Booklet: St. John’s 2012 Advent booklet JOY! is available in the Narthex. Use the booklet to help you prepare your heart for this joyous season.
Book Group Meeting: Our next meeting will be Thursday, Dec 13 at 7:30 pm. The book being discussed is The God I Don't Understand by Christopher J.H. Wright. Focus will be on chapters 4 and 5. All are welcome.
Beacon Newsletter Deadline: Please deliver all Beacon articles for the upcoming December 2012/January 2013 issue by email (office.sjpc@gmail.com) or bring to Room 208. The last chance to be part of this issue is Sunday, December 16 at 12 noon.
Christmas Musical Program, Tuesday, December 18: Everyone is invited to the Sanctuary at 10:30 am for pianist Rob Landes’ program. A reception will be held after the program in McPhail Hall. Sponsored by Presbyterian Women.
Sock Trees: Our campus Christmas trees are waiting to be decorated in their holiday finery: SOCKS. Socks, newborn through kindergarten sizes, are needed. St. John’s Presbyterian Women will deliver the socks to the House of Tiny Treasures and Small Steps Nurturing Center
Order Poinsettias for Christmas
The poinsettias are from Brookwood Community, come in a six inch pot averaging 16 inches in height with 5 to 7 blooms. Remember to write poinsettia in the memo line of your check. Poinsettias can be taken home after the Christmas
Saturday, December 8, 2012
St. John's Memorial Service for Elaine DeSouza | 2 pm, Sunday, December 9
Dear church family and friends of St. John's,
--
Rev. Dr. Jonathan L. Burnham (Jon's Blog, Facebook, Twitter)
--
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
You are invited to a memorial service for Elaine DeSouza in the sanctuary of St. John's Presbyterian Church at 2 pm tomorrow, Sunday, December 9, with a reception to follow in Fellowship Hall. Elaine passed away early this morning after a long struggle with cancer. She was an inspiration to her family and our church family and will be dearly missed by all who knew her. She served Christ's church in so many ways and touched our lives through her teaching, prayer, and faith filled life. Here are a few scriptures Elaine chose for her memorial service. May they be a source of comfort to us all as we celebrate her resurrection to eternal life during her memorial service tomorrow at 2 pm.
The Lord is my light and my salvation--whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life--of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27)The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the Word of God stands forever. (Isaiah 40:8)
The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. (Numbers 6:24-26)
Peace,
Jon B.
Jon B.
Rev. Dr. Jonathan L. Burnham (Jon's Blog, Facebook, Twitter)
5020 West Bellfort Ave, Houston, TX 77035 (Map & Directions to church)
Phone church office 713-723-6262; Email church office
Sunday Schedule: Church School for all ages: 9:00 am; Worship 10:30 am; Youth Fellowship 5 pm
--
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
Thursday, December 6, 2012
St. John's Epistle for December 6, 2012
Dear lingering children of light,
In this Advent season, we find ourselves waiting for Christ to be born anew in our hearts.
At the same time, we find ourselves praying for Elaine DeSouza who is in hospice care at MD Anderson. We pray for her to find the peace that passes all understanding as she makes the transition from this world to the world to come. Especially we pray for her children, Mark and Jenny, and for their families.
We also lift in prayer Colette who is at Texas Children's Hospital and for Jim who is in Hospice Care at Bayou Manor.
This Sunday at 9 am all ages are invited to St. John's Advent Festival in McPhail Hall. Come make Advent ornament, drink wassail, and sing Christmas carols. A light continental breakfast will be provided.
St. John's 2012 Advent booklet is available in the Narthex this Sunday. Look for JOY! You may use the booklet to help you prepare your heart for this joyous season.
-- It was a joyous celebration last Sunday as our youth choir led the way in a beautiful service of music that included the chancel choir and the handbell choir. All these choirs will be singing again during worship this Sunday. Come and join us as we lift our souls to God on the Second Sunday of Advent.
Your peaceful yet passionate pastor,
JON BURNHAM
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
Sunday, December 2, 2012
"Wonder Team" Sandwich Makers December Schedule
Our Sandwich Makers, "The Wonder Team" meets in McPhail Hall at 6 pm to make sandwiches. Normally sandwiches are made twice a month, the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of each month. The exception is in December when we gather one time: December 12. Please join us. No experience is necessary, and you will be home within the hour.
Presbytery Open House - December 6
The Presbytery of New Covenant, 1110 Lovett Boulevard, Houston, will hold its annual
Christmas Open House on Thursday, December 6, 11 am to 2 pm.
Christmas Open House on Thursday, December 6, 11 am to 2 pm.
Presbyterian Youth Fellowship December Schedule
December 2, Noon-1:30 pm: Living Gift Market in McPhail Hall. Come and help sell the PYF paintings and Christmas ornaments at our booth. Money raised will benefit PYF activities and missions.
December 9, 5-6:30 pm & December 16, 5-6:30 pm:
Christmas Eve Planning. We will begin planning the annual Christmas Eve Family Service and the skit for the Christmas message.
December 23
: NO PYF! Merry Christmas!
December 24, 5 pm:
Christmas Eve Service. Please arrive by 4 pm to practice the service and skit!
Socks Needed!
Children’s Socks
Needed for Sock Trees
Needed for Sock Trees
Newborn through
Kindergarten Sizes Only
Kindergarten Sizes Only
All Colors
All Styles
All Styles
St. John’s Presbyterian Women will deliver the socks to the House of Tiny
Treasures and Small Steps Nurturing Center.
Treasures and Small Steps Nurturing Center.
December 2 Reminders
Advent Devotional Booklet: St. John’s 2012 Advent booklet, JOY!, is available in the Narthex today. Use the booklet to help you prepare your heart for this joyous season.
Presbyterian Women Bible Studies: Circles 1 & 2 will meet Tuesday, December 4, at 9:30 am. Lesson 4 (1 Peter 2:11-25) will be discussed. The Sunday Circle will meet December 16 at 12 noon. All women are invited.
Advent Festival, December 9: All ages are invited to St. John’s
Christmas Musical Program, Tuesday, December 18: Everyone is invited to the Sanctuary for pianist Rob Landes’ program. Sponsored by Presbyterian Women.
To the Congregation: Many of you may have had a favorite story about you and St. John's that you didn't get to share with us the night of the anniversary dinner and program. To that end, would you write out your special happening and submit it either directly to Pam Tedeschi or to me and we will include it in a "stories page" in an upcoming Beacon? Thanks, Linda Dobbin
Order Poinsettias for Christmas
Please sign the Poinsettia poster in the narthex if you would like to buy a poinsettia ($10.00) and help to beautify the Sanctuary.
The poinsettias are from Brookwood Community, come in a six inch pot averaging 16 inches in height with 5 to 7 blooms. Remember to write poinsettia in the memo line of your check. Poinsettias can be taken home after the Christmas Eve service.
Weekly Calendar: Sunday Dec 2 - 9
Sunday, December 2 - First Sunday of Advent and Hanging of the Greens
8:00 am – 12:00 pm Blood Drive
9:00 am Church School
10:30 am Worship Service
10:30 am Worship Service
11:30 am – 1:30 pm Living Gift Market, McPhail Hall
11:45 am – 12:15 pm Children’s Choir, Sanctuary
11:45 am – 12:15 pm Children’s Choir, Sanctuary
Monday, December 3
9:00 am Staff Meeting
10:00 am Bob’s Crew (Property grounds projects)
6:00 pm Cub Scouts Pack 8
6:30 pm Walking Together, Room 210
7:00 pm Bell
Tuesday, December 4
9:30 am Presbyterian Women’s Circles 1 and 2
5:00 pm Hour of Prayer, Rm. 207
6:30 pm “Stay Young, Stay Strong” Rm. 209
7:00 pm Scout Troop 688, Scout Room
Wednesday, December 5
12:00 pm Centering Prayer, Pastor Jon’s office
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Coppertree Homeowners Assn., McPhail Hall
6:00 pm Girl Scout Troup 21151, Scout Room
7:30 pm Chancel Choir
7:30 pm Session Meeting
Thursday, December 6
8:30 am – 12:30 pm Community Bible Study, Buildings 1 and 2
11:00 am – 1:00 pm Presbytery’s Christmas Open House
6:30 pm “Stay Young, Stay Strong” Room 209
Saturday, December 8
8:00 am Women’s Bible Small Group
5:30 – 9:00 pm Ghanaians Choir Practice, Scout Room
Sunday, December 9 - Second Sunday of Advent and Advent Festival
9:00 am Church School
9:00 – 10:00 am Advent Festival, McPhail Hall
10:30 am Worship Service
9:00 – 10:00 am Advent Festival, McPhail Hall
10:30 am Worship Service
11:45-12:15 pm Children’s Choir, Room 209
Thursday, November 29, 2012
St. John's Epistle for November 29, 2012
Dear children of God in waiting,
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
We start the season of waiting this Sunday which is the First Sunday of Advent. This will be a day of great celebration in the congregation. Among other events this Sunday we have a blood drive in Building 2, hanging of the greens in the sanctuary at 10:30 am, and the Living Gift Market in Fellowship Hall after worship. In addition, we will celebrate the Lord's Supper during worship. The handbells will play during worship. The chancel choir will sing during worship. The young choir will sing twice during worship. We will light the Advent candles during worship as well.
In regard to the Living Gift Market, think of all the lives that will be touched both locally and around the world through the mission money raised in this alternative gift market. Sometimes we focus on the names or organizations represented in the various booths: 10,000 Villages; Heifer Project; Pennies for Peace; Delicious Peace Coffee; Matthew's Market; Anchor House; Coalition of Appalachian Ministries; Presbyterian Children's Homes and Services; Braes Interfaith Ministries (BIM); Grace International Children's Foundation; St. John's Presbyterian Youth Fellowship (PYF); Small Steps Nurturing Center; and Living Waters for the World. This year let's remember all the livesthat will be touched by Christ and blessed by the Holy Spirit through the gifts we buy and the money we raise for these various ministries. From children in Uganda to children in the Third Ward of Houston to children in Meyerland to adults from around the world coming to stay in our Anchor House, there are many opportunities for God to use our gifts for Christ's service in the world through the Living Gift Market.
May the peace of Christ be with you as we await the coming of Emmanuel, God with us, during this Advent season. In our waiting, let's be on aware of the joy of living life each moment with awareness of how Christ is already alive and stirring within each of us and within our congregation.
Your patient yet alert pastor,
JON BURNHAM
-- 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, November 28, 2012
Sunday December 2 Highlights
Blood Drive
8 am - 12 Noon
Building 2
Hanging of the Greens
Sanctuary
10:30 am
Living Gift Market
Fellowship Hall
11:30 am - 1:30 pm
Don't miss this exciting day!
Monday, November 26, 2012
Blood Drive - Sunday, December 2
Jesus needs us to help the sick, and giving blood is one way that even a non-medical person can render a vital medical service. Donated blood and the individual components (plasma, red blood cells, and platelets) are typically used within two days.
Presbyterian Youth Fellowship (PYF) December Calendar
December 2, Noon-1:30 pm:
Living Gift Market in McPhail Hall. Come and help sell the PYF paintings and Christmas ornaments at our booth. Money raised will benefit PYF activities and missions.
December 9, 5-6:30 pm & December 16, 5-6:30 pm:
Christmas Eve Planning. We will begin planning the annual Christmas Eve Family Service and the skit for the Christmas message.
December 23
: NO PYF! Merry Christmas!
December 24, 5 pm:
Christmas Eve Service. Please arrive by 4 pm to practice the service and skit!
Christmas Shopping - Gifts that Keep on Giving
Living Gift Market
Sunday, December 2 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
Sunday, December 2 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
Are you tired of shopping for the same things at the same places for somebody who already has the same stuff? Come to our alternative shopping opportunity and buy unique items and gifts that will keep on giving year round.
Booths in attendance:
10,000 Villages
Heifer Project
Pennies for Peace
Delicious Peace Coffee
Matthew’s Market
Anchor House
Coalition of Appalachian Ministries
Presbyterian Children's Homes and Services
Braes Interfaith Ministries (BIM)
Grace International Children's Foundation
St. John's Presbyterian Youth Fellowship (PYF)
Small Steps Nurturing Center
Living Waters for the World.
Heifer Project
Pennies for Peace
Delicious Peace Coffee
Matthew’s Market
Anchor House
Coalition of Appalachian Ministries
Presbyterian Children's Homes and Services
Braes Interfaith Ministries (BIM)
Grace International Children's Foundation
St. John's Presbyterian Youth Fellowship (PYF)
Small Steps Nurturing Center
Living Waters for the World.
St. John's Breakfast - Saturday, December 1
Please join us for breakfast in McPhail Hall at 8 am.
At 8:30 am our guest speaker Anna DeJoya, a physical therapist with Memorial Hermann T.I.R.R. (The Institute for Rehabilitation & Research), will present our program. This will cover all kinds of brain trauma and injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other related issues. (Do you remember that Gabbie Giffords was treated at T.I.R.R.?) Please call Linda Dobbin, 281-778-5348, if you need a ride.
Anchor House - Visit our Booth at the Living Gift Market
The apartments are doing well. We bought new living room furniture, a couch and two recliners, for one of the apartments. I think some new TV's will be bought soon.
We hope you will visit our booth at The Living Gift Market on Sunday, December 2. This is our only fund raiser. The apartment complex really went up on our rent the last time we signed a lease, and the cable
company keeps inching up on our rates. We are determined not to raise the rent until absolutely necessary, and thanks to your donations we haven't had to do that.
company keeps inching up on our rates. We are determined not to raise the rent until absolutely necessary, and thanks to your donations we haven't had to do that.
At our booth we will have items to sell:
►The Women's Association is going to provide cookies and scarves.
►Connie Brown, Teresa Darr and Pam Tedeschi are going to surprise us with some of their quilting handiwork.
►The Women's Association is going to provide cookies and scarves.
►Connie Brown, Teresa Darr and Pam Tedeschi are going to surprise us with some of their quilting handiwork.
At our booth we will also accept monetary donations. If you wish, you may choose how you would like your money to be used:
► Kroger Gift cards ($25) for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
► Rent (We charge $54 a day.)
► Meet special needs as they arise.
► Kroger Gift cards ($25) for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
► Rent (We charge $54 a day.)
► Meet special needs as they arise.
Our tenants seem most appreciative of their dwellings and have said over and over that the apartments help with their stay in Houston and the healing process. Again, your prayers are appreciated for each tenant.
Thank you for all you do! See you at the Market
Sally Shaw
Sally Shaw
November 25 Sunday Insert Announcements
Living Gift Market, Sunday, December 2, 11:30-l:30 pm - This special Living Gift Market will include many booths selling items that will benefit our community and the world. Booths represented at the market include Living Waters of the World, Heifer International, Ten Thousand Villages, Grace Children’s Home in Uganda…just to name a few. Please plan to attend this special event at St. John’s
To the Congregation: Many of you may have had a favorite story about you and St. John's that you didn't get to share with us the night of the anniversary dinner and program. To that end, would you write out your special happening and submit it either directly to Pam Tedeschi, or to me, and we will include it in a "stories page" in an upcoming Beacon? Thanks, Linda Dobbin
Order Poinsettias for Christmas
Please sign the Poinsettia poster in the narthex if you would like to buy a poinsettia ($10.00) and help to beautify the Sanctuary.
The poinsettias are from Brookwood Community, come in a six inch pot averaging 16 inches in height with 5 to 7 blooms. Remember to write poinsettia in the memo line of your check. Poinsettias can be taken home after the Christmas Eve service.
The poinsettias are from Brookwood Community, come in a six inch pot averaging 16 inches in height with 5 to 7 blooms. Remember to write poinsettia in the memo line of your check. Poinsettias can be taken home after the Christmas Eve service.
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