St. John's Epistle for November 29, 2012

Dear children of God in waiting,

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

St. John's Epistle for November 29, 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!

Sunday December 2 Highlights

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.

Do you know whether or not you are eligible to donate blood? Anyone 17 years or older, who weighs at least 110 pounds, and is in good general health may donate. Come to Room 210 on Sunday morning December 2 and discover if you are one of the lucky people who can donate. MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Blood Drive - Sunday, December 2

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!

December 30: NO PYF! Happy Holidays!

Presbyterian Youth Fellowship (PYF) December Calendar

Christmas Shopping - Gifts that Keep on Giving

Living Gift Market
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.

Christmas Shopping - Gifts that Keep on Giving

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.

St. John's Breakfast - Saturday, December 1

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.

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.

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.

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

Anchor House - Visit our Booth at the Living Gift Market

November 25 Sunday Insert Announcements

St. John's Breakfast - Saturday, December 1. Anna DeJoya, a physical therapist with Memorial Hermann T.I.R.R. (The Institute for Rehabilitation & Research), will present our program. This will cover brain trauma and injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other related issues. Come at 8 a.m. for breakfast with the program starting at 8:30. (Do you remember Gabbie Giffords was treated at T.I.R.R.?)

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. The items and donations make wonderful Christmas gifts!

Blood Drive, Sunday, December 2: Start adding iron to your daily diet so you can donate. The Gulf Coast Blood Drive will be back on campus on the first Sunday in December. Come, bring a friend or two, and make a real difference in the world.

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.

November 25 Sunday Insert Announcements

Weekly Calendar, Nov. 25 - Dec 2

This Week at St. John’s

Sunday, November 25

  9:00 am  Church School   
10:30 am  Worship Service
11:45 am – 12:15 pm Children’s Choir, Room 209

  4:30 pm  Cub Scout Pack 8 Den Meeting
  5:00 pm  No Presbyterian Youth Fellowship

Monday, November 26

 10:00 am  Bob’s Crew (Property grounds projects)

  6:30 pm  Walking Together, Room 210

  7:00 pm  Bell Choir

Tuesday, November 27

  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  Faith in Action Committee

  7:00 pm  Scout Troop 688, Scout Room

Wednesday, November 28

12:00 pm  Centering Prayer, Pastor Jon’s office

  6:00 pm  Sandwich Makers, Fellowship Hall
  6:00 pm  Girl Scout Troup 21151, Scout Room

  7:00 pm  Property Committee  7:30 pm  Chancel Choir

Thursday, November 29

  8:30 am – 12:30 pm  Community Bible Study, Buildings 1 and 2

  6:30 pm  “Stay Young, Stay Strong” Room 209

Saturday, December 1

  8:00 am  Women’s Bible Small Group

  8:00 am  St .John’s Breakfast

  9:00 am – 3:30 pm Living Gift Market set-up

10:00 am  Worship Committee preparing for Hanging of the Greens
  5:30 – 9:00 pm  Ghanaians Choir Practice, Scout Room

Sunday, December 2 - First Sunday of Advent and Hanging of the Greens

  8:00 am  Blood Drive,  Room 209

  9:00 am  Church School    
10:30 am  Worship Service

11:45-12:15 pm  Children’s Choir, Room 209

11:30 am – 1:30 pm  Living Gift Market, McPhail Hall

Weekly Calendar, Nov. 25 - Dec 2

St. John's Epistle for November 21, 2012

Dear joyful children of God,

Our young choir blessed us with their singing last Sunday and we appreciate them and their adult leaders.

Rev. Linda Herron, our Parish Associate, will preach this Sunday. We appreciate Linda's leadership in our congregation.

In the meantime, may God bless you and your family as you pause to give thanks to God.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Your grateful pastor,
JON BURNHAM

--
Rev. Dr. Jonathan L. Burnham (Jon's Blog, Facebook, Twitter) 

Pastor of St. John's Presbyterian Church (Church's Website, Blog, Facebook) 

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

St. John's Epistle for November 21, 2012

Your're Invited

Living Gift Market
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.

Your're Invited

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.

Do you know whether or not you are eligible to donate blood? Anyone 17 years or older, who weighs at least 110 pounds, and is in good general health may donate. Come to Room 210 on Sunday morning December 2 and discover if you are one of the lucky people who can donate.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Blood Drive - Sunday December 2

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.

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.

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.

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

Anchor House

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.

St. John’s Breakfast— Saturday, December 1

Braes Interfaith Ministries

In October Braes Interfaith Ministries food pantry served 1318 clients (535 children and 783 adults), and 42 of the clients served were homeless. BIM also provided 794 children (K-12) with school supplies.

Holiday Shoping Hint!

Drop in daily at the Braes Resale and Consignment Shop,
10319 South Post Oak. The inventory is always changing!

Every dollar earned at the shop buys
$27 worth of food for the Braes Food pantry

Braes Interfaith Ministries

Advent Festival, December 9

Advent is a time to look forward to Christmas, and it is an opportunity to reflect on the reason for the season. Advent is a time to prepare our hearts for Christ, just as we prepare our homes for Christmas. The word "advent" means coming or arrival.

This year Advent begins on Sunday, December 2. St. John’s will celebrate by Hanging of the Greens during worship. Remember to pick up your St. John’s Advent Devotional book,
available in the Narthex.

On the second Sunday of Advent, December 9, everyone is invited to St. John’s Advent Festival in Fellowship Hall, 9-10 am. We will make Advent ornaments, enjoy Wassail, and sing Christmas carols. All ages are invited. (light continental breakfast provided.)

Advent Festival, December 9

November 18 Weekly Highlights

Dedication of New Choir Robes, Today, 12 Noon: The United Ghanaian Presbyterian, led by Evangelist Ebenezer Boateng, will hold a special Praise and Worship Celebration Sun., Nov. 18, at noon, in McPhail Hall. All are invited to the church for this Choir Inauguration Day when new choir robes will be dedicated.

Community Thanksgiving Service, today: All are invited to this 4 pm service at Willow Meadows Baptist Church, 4300 W. Bellfort, with music provided by the BIM choir. A special offering will benefit Braes Interfaith Ministries.

Presbyterian Youth Fellowship (PYF): Meeting today at 5 pm to begin planning the annual Christmas Eve Family Service and the skit for the Christmas message. For more information, contact Mary at mary2d@yahoo.com or 713-723-6262.

Church Beacon Newsletter Assemblers: Come to Room 203, Tuesday November 20, at 9:30 to help assemble November/December newsletter. No experience is necessary.

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. The items and donations make wonderful Christmas gifts!

Blood Drive, Sunday, December 2: Start adding iron to your daily diet so you can donate. The Gulf Coast Blood Drive will be back on campus on the first Sunday in December. Come, bring a friend or two, and make a real difference in the world.

St. John's Breakfast - Saturday, December 1. Anna DeJoya, a physical therapist with Memorial Hermann T.I.R.R. (The Institute for Rehabilitation & Research), will present our program. This will cover brain trauma and injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other related issues. Come at 8 a.m. for breakfast with the program starting at 8:30. (Do you remember Gabbie Giffords was treated at T.I.R.R.?)

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

A Great Big Thank You to all who chose to bake and buy for the bake sale on

November 11. Braes Interfaith Ministries received $676.76.

November 18 Weekly Highlights

November 18 - 25 Weekly Calendar

Sunday, November 18 – Harvest Sunday - Beacon Deadline

  9:00 am  Church School   
10:30 am  Worship Service
11:45 am – 12:15 pm Children’s Choir, Room 209

12:00 pm   Sunday Circle

12:00 pm  Ghanaians Choir Robe Dedication, McPhail Hall

  4:00 pm  Community Thanksgiving Service, Willow Meadows Baptist Church
  4:30 pm  Cub Scout Pack 8 Den Meeting
  5:00 pm  Presbyterian Youth Fellowship

Monday, November 19

  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  No Bell Choir

Tuesday, November 20

  9:30 am  Presbyterian Women’s Activity Day

  9:30 am  Beacon assemblers, Room 205
  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, November 21

12:00 pm  Centering Prayer, Pastor Jon’s office
  6:00 pm  Girl Scout Troup 21151, Scout Room  7:30 pm  No Chancel Choir

Thursday & Friday, November 22 & 23 – Thanksgiving

Church offices closed

Saturday, November 24

  8:00 am  Women’s Bible Small Group
  5:30 – 9:00 pm  Ghanaians Choir Practice, Scout Room
Sunday, November 25

  9:00 am  Church School    
10:30 am  Worship Service

11:45-12:15 pm  Children’s Choir, Room 209

  4:30 pm  Cub Scout Pack 8 Den Meeting

November 18 - 25 Weekly Calendar

St. John's Epistle for November 15, 2012

Dear grateful people of God,

Last Sunday our congregational bake sale brought in over $600 for Braes Interfaith Ministries (BIM). Thank you to all who participated. This Sunday is Harvest Sunday when you may bring canned goods or money to donate to BIM which is a local food pantry supported by a dozen or so churches including ours.

Here is the worship bulletin for the Community Thanksgiving Service this Sunday, November 18, at 4 pm at Willow Meadows Baptist Church in Houston. This promises to be a powerful service. All are welcome to attend and participate.

Here is a little haiku (or my version of a short poem) for your consideration.

fresh air

cool sun

feels so good

Thanksgiving

Your thankful 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

St. John's Epistle for November 15, 2012

Harvest Sunday, November 18

On Harvest Sunday you have an opportunity to share your blessings with those in our community. All contributions from Harvest Sunday go to Braes Interfaith Ministries.

You can share your harvest with a contribution of food and toiletries, putting your bags in the Narthex next Sunday or money. (Make check out to St. John’s with BIM on the memo line.) Donations of money can be used by BIM to purchase food from the Houston Food Bank. ($1 dollar buys $27 worth of food.)

Suggested Toiletries:
Toilet paper
Bar soap
Deodorant
Shampoo
Toothpaste and toothbrushes

Suggested Food Items:
Beans (2 lb. packages)
Pasta (2 lb. packages)
Rice (2 lb. packages)
Macaroni and cheese
Pork and beans
Canned and/or dry soup
Canned vegetables & fruit
Canned meat (tuna, chicken, Vienna sausage, Spam)
Cereal & dry milk

Harvest Sunday, November 18

Weekly Calendar: November 11 - 18

Sunday, November 11 – Celebration of All Saints Day

  9:00 am – 12 pm  Bake Sale, McPhail Hall
  9:00 am  Church School   

10:30 am  Worship Service
11:45 am  Fellowship Meeting, Library, McPhail Hall

11:45 am – 12:15 pm Children’s Choir, Room 209
  4:30 pm  Cub Scout Pack 8 Den Meeting
  5:00 pm  Presbyterian Youth Fellowship

 

Monday, November 12

  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 Choir

Tuesday, November 13

  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, November 14

12:00 pm  Centering Prayer, Pastor Jon’s office
  1:30 – 3:30 pm  Trafton Teacher Memorial Service, McPhail Hall

  6:00 pm  Girl Scout Troup 21151, Scout Room
  6:00 pm  “Wonder Team” Sandwich Makers, McPhail Hall
  7:30  pm  Caring Committee

  7:30 pm  Chancel Choir

Thursday, November15

  8:30 am – 12:30 pm  Community Bible Study, Buildings l and 2

  6:30 pm  “Stay Young, Stay Strong” Rm. 209
  7:30 pm  Christian Education Committee

  7: 30 pm  St. John’s Book Group

Saturday, November 17

  8:00 am  Women’s Bible Small Group - Elaine’s house, 5027 Cheena
 10:00 am  Worship Committee Work Day, Sanctuary

               5:30 – 9:00 pm  Ghanaians Choir Practice, Scout Room

Sunday, November 18 Harvest Sunday – Beacon deadline

  9:00 am  Church School    

10:30 am  Worship Service

11:45-12:15 pm  Children’s Choir, Room 209

12:00 pm  Sunday Circle
12:00 pm  Ghanaian Choir Robe Dedication, McPhail Hall
  4:00 pm  Community Thanksgiving Service, Willow Meadows Baptist Church

  4:30 pm  Cub Scout Pack 8 Den Meeting
  5:00 pm  Presbyterian Youth Fellowship

Weekly Calendar: November 11 - 18

November 11 Insert Reminders

Presbyterian Youth Fellowship (PYF): Meeting today at 5 pm to begin preparations for our Holiday Gift Market booth. Money raised at the booth will benefit summer PYF trips. For more information, contact Mary at mary2d@yahoo.com or 713-723-6262.

Beacon Newsletter Deadline: Please deliver all Beacon articles for the upcoming 2012 November/December issue by email (office.sjpc@gmail.com) or hand deliver to Room 209. The last chance to be part of this issue is Sunday, November 18, at 12 noon.

Dedication of New Choir Robes, November 18, 12 Noon: The United Ghanaian Presbyterian, led by Evangelist Ebenezer Boateng, will hold a special Praise and Worship Celebration Sun., Nov. 18, at noon, in McPhail Hall. All are invited to the church for this Choir Inauguration Day when new choir robes will be dedicated.

Community Thanksgiving Service, November 18: All are invited to this 4 pm service at Willow Meadows Baptist Church, 4300 W. Bellfort, with music provided by the BIM choir. A special offering will benefit Braes Interfaith Ministries.

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. The items and donations make wonderful Christmas gifts!

Blood Drive, Sunday, December 2: Start adding iron to your daily diet so you can donate. The Gulf Coast Blood Drive will be back on campus on the first Sunday in December. Come, bring a friend or two, and make a real difference in the world.

November 11 Insert Reminders

St. John's Epistle for November 8, 2012

Dear dedicated people of God,

Stewardship Dedication was a great celebration last Sunday. Thank you to all who pledged! We are off to a good start as we have now received 73 pledges for $319,586. Last year we ended the campaign with 83 pledges for a total of $353,250. We appreciate the Caring Committee for the delicious brunch after worship last Sunday. All in all, last Sunday was a great Stewardship Dedication day.

This Sunday we will celebrate All Saints Day. You will be able to come forward to the altar and light a candle in memory of a loved. We also will remember members of our congregation who have died in the previous year. Make it a point to be present this Sunday as we remember those who have gone before us.

This Sunday we will have a congregational bake sale to raise money for Braes Interfaith Ministries (BIM). You may bring your baked goods to Fellowship Hall and buy them there too from 8 am until noon. All proceeds will go to BIM to help feed and clothe the poor in our community.

As we approach the holidays, save your money and mark your calendar on December 2 for our annual Living Gift Market. This alternative gift market will be held in Fellowship Hall immediately after worship on December 2. Based on the planning that has gone into it, this year's Living Gift Market promises to be one of the best in recent memory. 

Your grateful for those who came before us pastor,

JON BURNHAM

--
Rev. Dr. Jonathan L. Burnham (Jon's Blog, Facebook, Twitter) 

Pastor of St. John's Presbyterian Church (Church's Website, Blog, Facebook) 

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

St. John's Epistle for November 8, 2012

Socks Needed

Bring children’s socks, infants to kindergarten size.

any color or style.

Please start on the first Sunday of Advent, December 2, to help decorate our two Christmas trees. One tree will stand in the Narthex and one by the church office. St. John’s Presbyterian Women will deliver the socks to the House of Tiny Treasures and Small Steps.

Socks Needed

Living Gift Market, Sunday December 2

Come to the Living Gift Market, an alternative gift-giving opportunity in McPhail Hall.The gift you buy for a friend or family member provides help to families in need. All of the money collected supports the charitable
organizations present:

10,000 Villages
Braes Interfaith Ministries
Coalition of Appalachian Ministries
Delicious Peace Coffee
Grace International Children’s Foundation (GIF)
Heifer International
Living Waters for the World
Matthew’s Market/Presbyterian Border Ministry
Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services (PCHAS)
Presbyterian Youth Fellowship Mission Fund

Small Steps Nurturing Center
St. John’s Apartment Ministry

Living Gift Market, Sunday December 2

Holiday Treats

Congregational Bake Sale

Sunday, November 11

McPhail Hall

8 am - 12 Noon
(or as long as the goodies last!)

Holiday Treats

Circles 1 & 2 Meet November 6

Circles 1 and 2 will meet Tuesday, November 6 at 9:30 am in Building 1. Lesson 3 (1 Peter 2:11-10; 3 John 1-8) will be discussed.

God makes a house a home by forming the children of God into a dwelling fit for the Holy Spirit, with Christ as chief cornerstone. When God’s children extend genuine hospitality to others, they set God’s household apart from all other earthly structures.

Circles led by Rev. Linda Herron. Walk-ins are always welcome

Circles 1 & 2 Meet November 6

November 4 - 11: Week Schedule

This Week at St. John’s

Sunday, November 4 – Stewardship Dedication Sunday and Crop Walk

  9:00 am  Church School
10:30 am  Worship Service

11:45 am  Barbecue lunch, McPhail Hall

 2:00 pm  Crop Walk   4:30 pm  Cub Scout Pack 8 Den Meeting

Monday, November 5

  9:00 am  Staff Meeting

10:00 am  Bob’s Crew (Property grounds projects)
  6:00 pm  Cub Scouts 8, Scout Room

  6:30 pm  Walking Together, Room 210

  7:00 pm  Bell Choir

  7:30 pm  Worship Committee

Tuesday, November 6

  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”

  7:00 pm  Scout Troop 688, Scout Room

Wednesday, November 7

12:00 pm  Centering Prayer, Pastor Jon’s office

  6:00 pm  Girl Scout Troup 21151, Scout Room

  7:30 pm  Chancel Choir

  7:30 pm  Session Meeting

Thursday, November 8

  8:30 am – 12:30 pm  Community Bible Study, Buildings l and 2

  6:30 pm  “Stay Young, Stay Strong”

Friday, November 9

Saturday, November 10

  8:00 am  Women’s Bible Small Group meet at 5027 Cheena

  4:00 pm  Johnston Middle School overflow parking

               5:30 – 9:00 pm  Ghanaians Choir Practice, Scout Room

Sunday, November 11 –  Celebration of All Saints Day and Bake Sale

  9:00 am  Church School
  9:00 am Congregational Bake Sale, McPhail Hall

10:30 am  Worship Service

11:45-12:15 pm  Children’s Choir, Room 209

11:45 am  Fellowship committee

  4:30 pm  Cub Scout Pack 8 Den Meeting
  5:00 pm  Presbyterian Youth Fellowship

November 4 - 11: Week Schedule

Sunday Insert Reminders, November 4

Presbyterian Women Bible Study: Circles 1 & 2 will meet Tuesday, November 6, at 9:30 am. Lesson 3 (1 Peter 2;11-10; 3 John 1-8) will be discussed.

Bake Sale, November 11: Goodies are needed from the congregation for an all-church bake sale, sponsored by Presbyterian Women. Everyone is invited to bake and to buy. All proceeds will benefit Braes Interfaith Ministries.

Community Thanksgiving Service, November 18: All are invited to this 4 pm service at Willow Meadows Baptist Church, 4300 W. Bellfort, with music provided by the BIM choir. A special offering will benefit Braes Interfaith Ministries.

Harvest Sunday, November 18: The congregation is invited to celebrate Harvest Sunday by sharing non-perishable food, toiletries or monetary contributions. Your gift of $1.00 will buy $27.00 of food at the Houston Food Bank. Please bring your contributions on November 18. All donations will be given to Braes Interfaith Ministries.

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. The items and donations make wonderful Christmas gifts!

Signatures Needed: The Caring Committee ask that you stop in the Narthex for a moment and sign the cards on the table.

 ____________________________________________________

Why have a garage sale?

Donate your items to the Braes Resale & Consignment Shop.
10319 South Post Oak Road, at West Bellfort

 

Got just few items? Not enough for a garage sale? Do you have things you want to get rid of such as furniture, silverware, dishes, bric-a-brac, holiday decorations, clothes etc.? Call Braes Resale Shop (10:00 a.m. to 4:00 pm) and they will come to your home, pick them up and leave you with a tax receipt.

Braes Resale and Consignment Shop
benefiting Braes Interfaith Ministries, 713-728-0024.

10319 South Post Oak Road, at West Bellfort, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Sunday Insert Reminders, November 4

St. John's Epistle for November 1, 2012

Dear good stewards,

This weekend we will celebrate the life of Gloria Avery in a memorial service at 11 am in the sanctuary. Gloria was a dear lady and well beloved in this congregation. We will miss her and join her husband, Parnell, and her children and the rest of her family in mourning her loss yet celebrating all within her that was good and kind and faithful.

On Sunday we will celebrate the stewardship of our resources as we give our offerings and make our pledge to St. John's for 2013 during our annual Stewardship Dedication Service. The Lord is moving in our midst and we give out of gratitude for God's rich blessings upon us. May the Lord make this a memorable service. The brunch after worship features home-made brisket and fixings prepared by the Caring Committee. Come and least us feast and celebrate God's blessings in our lives.

Your blessed to be your servant leader pastor,

JON BURNHAM

--
Rev. Dr. Jonathan L. Burnham (Jon's Blog, Facebook, Twitter) 

Pastor of St. John's Presbyterian Church (Church's Website, Blog, Facebook) 

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

St. John's Epistle for November 1, 2012