Dear church members and friends of St. John's,
Thank you for the 83 pledges we have received for 2011 totaling $337,076. Last year's total number of pledges was 90 and the total pledges received was $380,728. Pledge cards are available on the table in the foyer of the sanctuary (also known as the narthex) and in the church office. The number and amount of pledges we receive will help to determine our church budget for next year so we are truly grateful to all who have pledged.
Come and bring a friend to the Advent Family Festival this Sunday, December 4, at 5 pm in Fellowship Hall. Activities will include Advent wreaths, arts and crafts, decorating bags for Meals on Wheels, and a Christmas sing-a-long. Soup will be served for dinner. This event is for all ages and skill levels.
We received a "Thank You" from Small Steps for the hats we gave their students. We hope they enjoy them during these chilly winter days.
Information about this year's annual Youth Conclaves in Feb. and March, offered by the Presbyterian Youth Connection Council (PYCC) of the Presbytery of New Covenant and hosted at Camp Cho-Yeh, is now available online.
Here are photos of Sabrina's baptism last Sunday taken by Diane. It was great to have a large contingency of Sabrina's family on hand to celebrate this joyous event.
Here are some more photos of the Holiday Gift Market from Jana and Kay. We raised over $10,000 for missions at this fun event.
In our discussion in the Officer Training Class, some questions were raised about the new confession being considered by our denomination. If you'd like to know more about why we write confessions and why this one in particular, here is a link to Union Presbyterian Seminary webinar about the newly written PC(USA) confession called the Belthar Confession. You will have to click on "Register" and follow the directions to "attend" the webinar next Tuesday, Dec 7, at 4:30 pm.
In addition, speaking of additions to our constitution, here is a link to info about the Proposed New Form of Government that would replace our current Book of Order from New Covenant Presbytery's website. There is also info at that site about the Proposed Belthar Confession mentioned above.
Lois has been moved to Houston Hospice and is on the second floor if you would like to visit her there. Remember her and Ellen in prayer.
Parnell is receiving occupational therapy at T.I.R.R. Hospital in the Medical Center. He and Gloria would appreciate your continued prayers.
Mary Hz is receiving outpatient therapy at another T.I.R.R. Hospital. It was great to have her back as Clerk to Session and in worship on Sunday.
Frances is home recovering from broken ribs and Helen is recuperating from surgery at her daughter's house. George is also at home recovering from surgery. We remember them all in prayer.
This Saturday morning at 8 am the Breakfast club invites you to hear a surprise musical group — in costume! In addition, I will lead the group in a devotional and homily about Christmas. Invite your friends to our 8 am breakfast in Fellowship Hall and don't forget your camera.
You are invited to a Christmas Open House at Braes Resale and Consignment Shop (10319 S. Post Oak) on Saturday, December 4th from 10am-5pm. Come enjoy 50% Off All Clothing, Accessories and Orange Tag Items.
Mark your calendar for our Christmas Eve services at 6 pm and 11 pm on December 24. Think about whom you may invite to attend with you. People are more likely to attend a service on Christmas Eve than any other day than Easter so let's take advantage of this opportunity by inviting unchurched family, friends and colleagues to come to St. John's on Christmas Eve.
Peace of Christ be with you during this Advent season,
Pastor Jon --
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
