-732-9927 • • September 2019 Pancake ...Aug 09, 2019 · UPC September 2019—Page 1 Multitude 300 Bushnell Ave • San Antonio, TX 78212-5334 • 210-732-9927 • • September

UPC September 2019—Page 1

Multitude 300 Bushnell Ave • San Antonio, TX 78212-5334 • 210-732-9927 • www.upcsa.org • September 2019

People and Ministries of University Presbyterian Church

Our 2019-2020 School Year Kick-off is Sunday, September 1. We invite everyone of all ages to join us for a Pancake Breakfast served by the Welcome & Fellowship Committee and our Youth Group and their wonderful parents in the Community Room from 9-9:45 a.m. During this timeframe, we will give an introduction to the Christian Education opportunities for the upcoming year. Sunday school for all ages begins, September 8, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Full descriptions of classes with times and locations as well as leaders and coordinators can be found on pages 14-15. Please join us!

Pancake Breakfast to Kick-Off Christian Education

UPC is updating the photo directory. Has your family changed? Did you miss the last photography session? Are you new to the UPC community? Lifetouch will be coming back take photos and then producing an updated community book for the entire congregation. Appointments will be on Tuesday, Sept. 3, and Wednesday, Sept. 4, with sessions between 2 - 8:30 p.m. in the CE Building at UPC.

Enter the URL link: https://booknow-lifetouch.appointment-plus.com/b03l7cqy/

and follow the instructions to book your session

Plan on an hour for your professional photography session. Come prepared for your session and show the real you! As a way to tell your story, Lifetouch often photographs families and individuals with meaningful items such as special keepsakes, sports equipment, musical instruments, pets, and more.

All church members will receive a directory. Each family photographed will receive a free 8x10 standard print and have the opportunity to purchase additional photographs for your home or for gifts. There is also an opportunity to save $10 towards your purchase. If you have questions, please contact the church office or Melissa Richard ([email protected] or 915-241-6495.)

Church Photo Directory Update

mailto:[email protected]


September 1—22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time 10 a.m. Worship Service Dries Coetzee, preaching

Scripture Reading Luke 14:1, 7-14

Service Music Offertory by John Ness Beck

Adult Choir

Special Note We will celebrate both the Sacrament of Baptism

and the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper.

September 8—23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Dries Coetzee, preaching

Scripture Reading Luke 14:25-33

8:30 a.m. Service Music Mary Lowder, piano

11 a.m. Service Music Exsultate Justi by John Williams

Adult Choir

Special Note We will commission

Sunday School teachers and coordinators.

September 15—24th Sunday in Ordinary Time Marci Glass, preaching



11 a.m. Service Music Adult Choir

September 22—25th Sunday in Ordinary Time Dries Coetzee, preaching




Special Note: We will celebrate the 30-year ministry of

Cindi Catlin Gaskins, Director of the Children’s Center.

September 29—26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Dries Coetzee, preaching




Regular Sunday Schedule Returns September 8

8:30am – First Worship Service 9:15am – Coffee Fellowship 9:15am – Children’s Choir

9:30am – Sunday School for All Ages 10:40am – Adult Choir Warm Up

11:00am – Second Worship Service 12:15pm – Coffee Fellowship

Worship Information


As summer officially comes to an end with Labor Day weekend, I look forward to the beginning of fall. You might think the reason for this excitement is the prospect of cooler weather. And for good reason, as we have just lived through a summer where we experienced the third-longest stretch of triple-digit heat in the Alamo City's history! No, what excites me is that the fall gives us the opportunity to reflect on our involvement in the ministry of UPC. With the start of Sunday School, the invitation is before us to deepen our spiritual life and friendships through authentic discussion and a richer understanding of our faith. Maybe you feel inspired to join the choir or get more involved in one of our many mission outreach opportunities. This is a good time to explore opportunities for ministry listed in our bulletin, the weekly In Touch, or monthly Multitude newsletter. Beginning Sunday, September 8, we will resume our regular schedule starting with the early service at 8:30 a.m. followed by the education hour from 9:30–10:30 a.m. and then our second worship service at 11 a.m. We allow a 30-minute break between the end of Sunday School and the second service to give time to clear the parking lot by 10:45 a.m. to make room for those arriving for the 11 a.m. service. You can also help alleviate parking congestion by parking offsite and walking a short distance to church if you are able. Offsite parking is available at Parker Chapel on Trinity University Campus and where legal along Laurel Heights Pl. and Bushnell Ave.

This month I want to draw your attention to "Covenant Conversations" presented by the Covenant Network of Presbyterians and hosted by UPC on Saturday, September 14, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. We find ourselves in anxious times, and Covenant Conversations will attempt to help us live into a new day in the church's life, bringing communities together to talk about being church for ALL God's people. I am looking forward to sojourning with you this fall! Blessings,

Dries

A Note from Dries

On Tuesday, September 17 at 7 p.m., you are invited to hear about the transformative work of Charles and Melissa Johnson, who serves as PC(USA) mission co-workers in Zambia. Charles and Melissa have been invited to help the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian’s Zambia Synod expand its holistic ministry of community development, food security, and improved health. Charles serves as a Development Specialist, and Melissa serves as a Health Education Program Facilitator. Charles’ work is heavily focused on two distinct agricultural-related activities; the first consists of Charles’ efforts to develop an agricultural income generating activity-farming for profit. Funds generated will be used to help sustain Chasefu Theological College, the work of Chasefu Model Farm, and of course, reinvested in the AIGA farming activities. Charles’s other focus is teaching courses in sustainable agriculture at Chasefu Theological College, providing education to help the students feed their own families and also be able to provide training opportunities for these future pastors to teach others in new agricultural techniques. The intent is for pastors to be able to supplement their income through farming activities, and to help lift up their congregations and communities. In addition, Charles is working in support of the Model Farm Coordinator to develop Chasefu Model Farm, which is envisioned to be a training center for smallholder farmers, using appropriate technology, in a Zambian context. Melissa is working with the CCAP Zambia Health Department Coordinator and other church leaders, local stakeholders, including Ministry of Health (MOH), and the community, to identify important needs and gaps in general health education. Along with the health department coordinator, Melissa works to facilitate the development and implementation of health education programs that have been identified to improve maternal and child health, to address hygiene issues of girls and women, and to raise awareness about nutritional needs of children and adults.

PC(USA) Mission Co-Workers to Visit UPC


This year we are having a breakfast to celebrate our past, present, and future work together.

Join us at UIW on September 20, from 7:30-9:30 in the morning.

This year we will reflect on SoL at 18: Compassion in Action. Bishop Trevor Alexander will offer a reflection.

We will honor the Interfaith Welcome Coalition (IWC) and honor Sister Martha Ann Kirk, CCVI, Th.D.,

Lively music will be provided by Emmanuel AME Men’s Chorus.

Electronic donations and reservations can be made at https://sourceoflightsa.org/classes-and-events or checks made payable to The SoL Center.

Individual tickets will be sold this year at $36 each and

there are several levels of giving in support of the SoL Center.

2019 Fundraiser

Fall courses are scheduled and ready for registration. Visit https://sourceoflightsa.org/classes-and-events for information on these September classes and all the rest of the Fall courses. From Problem to Gift to Transformation: Exploring the LGBTQ+ Spiritual Journey with Brian Halderman Monday, Sept. 16; 7-9 p.m.; $10 before Sept. 9, $15 after GREEN ’19—Eco Potluck Tuesday, Sept. 17; 5:45-8 p.m.; Free, register by Sept. 10. Bring a plant-based dish to share. Navigating Life with the Prayer Wheel with Patton Dodd, Ph.D. Monday, Sept. 23; 7-9 p.m.; $15 before Sept. 16, $20 after Mormonism 101: Demystifying the Tradition with Leisa Parsons Tuesday, Sept. 24; 7-9 p.m.; $10 before Sept. 17, $15 after Voice & Power: How Your Voice Can Shape Community Dialogue and Public Policy with Maria Luisa Cesar Thursday, Sept. 26; 7-9 p.m.; $15 before Sept. 19, $20 after Enneagram Workshop I & II with Beth Mueller and Rob Mueller Workshop I: Saturday, Sept. 28; 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.; $45; Enroll by Sept. 19 (If enroll and pay for both workshops at the same time, the fee is $80 for both dates.) Awaken to Your Life as a Spiritual Journey—Inspired by Mystical Baha’i Teachings with Jacqueline Claire Monday, Sept. 30; 7-9 p.m.; $20 before Sept. 23, $25 after

The SoL Center (Source of Light)

at University Presbyterian Church

is an interfaith education center

for those who seek to encounter the full dimensions of life and faith

in the spirit of respectful curiosity.

Dhawn Martin,

Director The SoL Center

300 Bushnell Ave San Antonio, TX 78212

210-732-9927 [email protected]

www.sourceoflightsa.org

Fall 2019 Courses


Recently UPC formed the Earth Care committee. During the past few months the committee has been discussing some new ways to improve our church campus, including using rain barrels, bike racks, butterfly gardens, and LED lights. One idea that we already implemented was using earthworms to stir the soil. My sister, Marlo, and I planted the worms around the church. Earthworms help the air and water get into the soil, making the soil healthier. We were pleased to help our church with this assignment and it was a fun, and maybe a little dirty experience. Earthworms are easy to add to your garden at home, they’re a little slimy but they don’t bite. If you have any Earth friendly ideas for our church, contact a member of the Earth Care committee. The committee chair is Sandy Nicholson and her email is [email protected]. — Melayne Anderson

Earth Care News

Thanks to all who have kept up with their pledges. We have continued to have a strong year. Revenues were slower than projected and expenses higher than projected for the month, but we have a positive balance at the moment as we were well ahead of projects for much of the year.

We have a healthy balance in most of the special funds which are non-operating funds, usually designated for a particular purpose. The overall balance in the special funds account is $134,525. Interfaith Welcome Coalition (IWC) is kept separately and has a balance of $192,225. IWC helps the many immigrants put into South Texas detention centers and families seeking asylum. They are in the process of becoming their own separate legal entity—a 501c(3). The SoL Center offers interfaith adult education and has an operating budget of $33,500 and separate endowment accounts. They are planning a fundraising breakfast in September. The stock market swung higher in July which meant that the endowments gained some market value, but which are invested for the long term.

In addition to operating funds and special purpose funds, UPC also has Endowment Funds which are long term funds that help support UPC, the SoL Center, and the Children’s Center. The current market value of UPC Endowments is $592,232 and the book value is $409,773. The current market value of SoL Endowments is $124,516 and the book value is $97,436. Endowments are invested and only the earnings or a percentage of the current value may be used regularly.

—Sandy Nicholson

Treasurer’s Report


SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 8:15-9 am (R) Youth Group—Breakfast Setup 9-9:45 am (R) Pancake Breakfast 9-10 am (S) Adult Choir Rehearsal 10-11 am (S) Worship Service 11:15-11:45 am (Y) Coffee Fellowship 11:30 am-12:30pm (Off-Site) Lunch Bunch—Mama’s Cafe 4-7 pm (Off-Site) Youth Group—Dodgeball

2—LABOR DAY All Facilities Closed 6:30-7:30 pm (A) GA Group Meeting

3 1-3 pm (R) Yoga 2-9 pm (F, 4, 6) UPC Directory Photo Shoot 5:30-7 pm (A) Inklings Book Group 6:30-8 pm (S and CC) CC Open House 7-8:30 pm (3) Sierra Club Youth Outdoors

4 9:30-11:30 am (R) CC Music & Movement 2-9 pm (F, 4, 6) UPC Directory Photo Shoot 6:30-7 pm (S) Committee Gathering 7-8:30 pm Committee Meetings: CE(5),F&O(2), MOJ(3),S&F(A),W&F(1),W&A(S) 7-8 pm (R) Recovery Group Meeting

5 9:30-10:30 am (S) CC Spiritual Enrichment 10 am-2 pm (4) IWC Backpack Assembly 2-3:30 pm (Off-Site) Prison Bible Study 6:30-7:30 pm (A) GA Group Meeting 7-9 pm (4) PFLAG Meeting (6pm Board) 7:30-9 pm (R) Adult Choir Rehearsal

6 8:30-9:30 am (3) CC Parent Meeting 12-1 pm (A) Prayer Shawl Ministry 1-3:30 pm (S and CE) Memorial Service and Reception 8-9 pm (2) AA Group Meeting

7 8:30-9:30 am (A) GA Group Meeting 10 am-2 pm (4) SoL Board Retreat 7-8 pm (R) Recovery Group Meeting

8 8:30-9:15 am (S) First Worship Service 9:15-9:30 am (F) Coffee Fellowship 9:15-9:30 am (R) Children’s Choir 9:30-10:30 am (CE and A) Sunday School 10:40-11 am (R) Adult Choir Warm Up 11 am-12 pm (S) Second Worship Service 12:15-12:45 pm (Y) Coffee Fellowship 12:15-1 pm (S) Listen & Learn Campus Planning Task Force 12:15-1:15 pm (4) College Group

9 11:30 am-1 pm (1) SACRD Board Meeting 12-2 pm (R) Staff Lunch (Dhawn) 6:30-8:30 pm (4 and F) WoW Event—Game Night 6:30-7:30 pm (A) GA Group Meeting

10 9:30-11:30 am (R) CC Music & Movement 1-3 pm (F) Yoga 5:30-7 pm (A) Inklings Book Group

11 Payroll Due 8 am-12 pm (R) IWC PDA Training 9:30-11:30 am (G) CC Music & Movement 10 am-4:30 pm (1) Thai Massage Class 1:30-3 pm (3) Book Discussion Group 6:30-8 pm (1) Deacons Meeting 6-7:30 pm (3) Jewish Voice for Peace 7-8 pm (R) Recovery Group Meeting

12 10 am-4:30 pm (1) Thai Massage Class 12-1 pm (A) PRO SA Meeting 12:30-2 pm (3) CC Accreditation Support Group 2-3:30 pm (Off-Site) Prison Bible Study 6:30-7:30 pm (A) GA Group Meeting 7:30-9 pm (R) Adult Choir Rehearsal

13 TBD (4) Covenant Network Board Meeting 8-9 pm (2) AA Group Meeting

14 8:30-9:30 am (A) GA Group Meeting 9 am-3 pm (S and CE) Covenant Conversation and Breakout Sessions 7-8 pm (R) Recovery Group Meeting 7-8 pm (4) AA Speaker Meeting

15 8:30-9:15 am (S) First Worship Service 9:15-9:30 am (F) Coffee Fellowship 9:15-9:30 am (R) Children’s Choir 9:30-10:30 am (CE, A, and R) Sunday School and Newcomers & Inquiry Class 10:40-11 am (S) Adult Choir Warm Up 11 am-12 pm (S) Second Worship Service 12:15-12:45 pm (Y) Coffee Fellowship 12:30-1:30pm (Off-Site) Lunch Bunch—Los Barios 4-7 pm (S and R) Anniversary Blessing and Dinner (Chris B.)

16 1:30-2:30 pm (A) Staff Meeting 6:30-7:30 pm (A) GA Group Meeting 7-9 pm (4) SoL: Exploring the LGBTQ+ Spiritual Journey

17 9:30-11:30 am (R) CC Music & Movement 11:30 am-1 pm (3) CC Board Meeting 1-3 pm (F) Yoga 5:30-7 pm (A) Inklings Book Group 5:45-8 pm (R) SoL Green ‘19: Eco Potluck 6:30-8:30 pm (1) CC Early Childhood Training 7-8:30 pm (4) PC(USA) Mission Co-Workers

18 9:30-11:30 am (G) CC Music & Movement 10 am-4:30 pm (1) Thai Massage Class 6-7:30 pm (3) Jewish Voice for Peace 7-8 pm (R) Recovery Group Meeting 6:30-8 pm (4) Session Meeting

19 9:30-10:30 am (S) CC Spiritual Enrichment 10 am-2 pm (4) IWC Backpack Assembly 10 am-4:30 pm (1) Thai Massage Class 2-3:30 pm (Off-Site) Prison Bible Study 4-5 pm (4) SoL Program Committee 5:30-6:30 pm (4) SoL Board Meeting 6:30-7:30 pm (A) GA Group Meeting 7:30-9 pm (R) Adult Choir Rehearsal

20 7:30-9:30 am (Off-Site) Compassion in Action SoL at 18 Breakfast Fundraiser 10 am-4:30 pm (1) Thai Massage Class 8-9 pm (2) AA Group Meeting

21 8:30-9:30 am (A) GA Group Meeting 9 am-12 pm (R) Partners of the Americas 10 am-4:30 pm (1) Thai Massage Class 7-8 pm (R) Recovery Group Meeting

22 8:30-9:15 am (S) First Worship Service 9:15-9:30 am (F) Coffee Fellowship 9:15-9:30 am (R) Children’s Choir 9:30-10:30 am (CE, A, and R) Sunday School and Newcomers & Inquiry Class 10:40-11 am (S) Adult Choir Warm Up 11 am-12 pm (S) Second Worship Service 12:30-2 pm (CE) Cindi’s Celebration

23 Multitude Deadline 1:30-2:30 pm (A) Staff Meeting 6:30-7:30 pm (A) GA Group Meeting 6:30-7:30 pm (2) AA Grapevine Meeting 6:30-8:30 pm (Off-Site) Women’s Book Group 7-9 pm (4) SoL: Navigating Life with the Prayer Wheel

24 1-3 pm (F) Yoga 5:30-7 pm (A) Inklings Book Group 6:30-8:30 pm (1) CC Early Childhood Training 7-9 pm (4) SoL: Mormonism 101

25 6-7:30 pm (3) Jewish Voice for Peace 7-8 pm (R) Recovery Group Meeting

26 Payroll Due 9-11 am (3) IWC Leader Meeting 2-3:30 pm (Off-Site) Prison Bible Study 530-10:30 pm (P) Valet Parking for Event at Landa 6:30-7:30 pm (A) GA Group Meeting 7-9 pm (4) SoL: Voice and Power 7:30-9 pm (R) Adult Choir Rehearsal

27 All Day (R) Floor Cleaning 8-9 pm (2) AA Group Meeting Evening (Off-Site) Youth Group—Main Event at JKR

28 All Day (Off-Site) Youth Group— Main Event at JKR 8:30-9:30 am (A) GA Group Meeting 18-9 am (Y) Inurnment Ceremony 10 am-4 pm (4) SoL: Enneagram Workshop 7-8 pm (R) Recovery Group Meeting

29 Morning (Off-Site) Youth Group—Main Event at JKR 8:30-9:15 am (S) First Worship Service 9:15-9:30 am (F) Coffee Fellowship 9:15-9:30 am (R) Children’s Choir 9:30-10:30 am (CE, A, and R) Sunday School Newcomers & Inquiry Class 10:40-11 am (S) Adult Choir Warm Up 11 am-12 pm (S) Second Worship Service 12:15-12:45 pm (Y) Coffee Fellowship

30 1:30-2:30 pm (A) Staff Meeting 6:30-7:30 pm (A) GA Group Meeting 7-9 pm (4 and F) SoL: Awaken Your Life

ROOM KEY

N = Narthex

S = Sanctuary

R = Comm. Room

K = Kitchen

Y = Courtyard

A = Library

C = Conf. Room

O = Pastor Office

CC = CC Rooms

G = Gath. Place

F = CE Forum

1 … 7 = CE 1 … 7

SEPTEMBER 2019


Pancake Breakfast Our youth group will kick off Sunday, Sept. 1. We will have our annual pancake breakfast before worship in the Community Room from 9-9:45 a.m. Please arrive by 8:15 a.m. to help setup and to serve starting at 9 a.m. Dodgeball Our youth group will participate in the annual dodgeball tournament at Crossroads Church with other local San Antonio Presbyterian Church youth groups Sunday, Sept. 1, from 4-7:30 p.m. Sunday School Sunday School for all ages will start Sunday, Sept. 8, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Youth will meet in CE 2, Lower Elementary (ages 3 to 1st grade) in CE 6, and Upper Elementary (2nd through 5th) in CE 7. College Group UPC is kicking off our college group Sunday, Sept. 8, after worship, from 12:15-1:15 p.m. Join other college students in CE 4 for activities and planning for the upcoming year. Pizza will be served.

The UPC Women’s Book Group will gather on Monday, September 23, at 6:30 p.m. at the home of Patti Jewett to discuss the book We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie with Liz Baird leading the discussion. All are invited, simply bring a salad to share and prepare to enjoy a lively evening! Kindly notify Patti if you plan to come.

Here is a review from Goodreads: What does “feminism” mean today? That is the question at the heart of “We Should All Be Feminists,” a personal, eloquently-argued essay—adapted from her much-viewed TEDx talk of the same name—by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the award-winning author of Americanah and Half of a Yellow Sun.

With humor and levity, here Adichie offers readers a unique definition of feminism for the twenty-first century—one rooted in inclusion and awareness. She shines a light not only on blatant discrimination, but also the more insidious, institutional behaviors that marginalize women around the world, in order to help readers of all walks of life better understand the often masked realities of sexual politics. Throughout, she draws extensively on her own experiences—in the U.S., in her native Nigeria, and abroad—offering an artfully nuanced explanation of why the gender divide is harmful for women and men, alike.

Argued in the same observant, witty and clever prose that has made Adichie a bestselling novelist, here is one remarkable author’s exploration of what it means to be a woman today—and an of-the-moment rallying cry for why we should all be feminists.

Children, Youth, and College Ministry

Women’s Monday Night Book Group


We have welcomed this young couple over the past year since they started coming to UPC in the summer, and joined in the fall, of 2018. David was quick to respond when Dries asked him to be on the Stewardship & Finance Committee, and Andrea is helping the Worship & Arts Committee. After getting married in 2011, they lived in Lincoln, Nebraska while David finished his PhD in Computer Engineering. Both of these folks have had long term faith journeys and served as Deacons in Lincoln at Eastridge Presbyterian Church. Andrea grew up in the Lutheran Church and was active in Job’s Daughters in Nebraska. They moved to San Antonio in 2016 for David’s employment at Southwest Research, where he works on computer vision and robotics. Andrea works for Mothers Against Drunk Driving as the Special Events Manager for South and Central Texas. This couple found UPC from a recommendation. David's sister-in-law is a Presbyterian minister in Illinois who knew of UPC's work, and suggested they attend when they were looking for a church home in San Antonio. We are happy to have this young couple with us, and look forward to a long and mutually enriching time together. — Bonnie Bartlett

Introducing ...

Andrea and David Anthony


Janice and Fred live their lives with open hearts, welcoming not only family and friends into their home but strangers as well. Avid cyclists themselves, they participate in Warm Showers, a program in which touring cyclists can receive a shower and shelter at no cost. They have hosted at least 150 cyclists thus far and enjoy hearing where the individuals began their journey and their final destination. It is a boon for the traveler to obtain free advice on the terrain and nearby attractions and a gift for Janice and Fred to hear their travel tales. Janice grew up in Fredericksburg on a ranch that her great grandparents built in the mid- 1800s when they immigrated from Germany. She saw the hard work of her parents, raising sheep and goats assuring the ranch would thrive another generation. Janice cherishes the close- knit family she grew up in where both sets of grandparents were an integral part of her life. She wants to give that same legacy to her children and grandchildren. She has two children

from a previous marriage and Fred relishes the role of step-Dad and grandpa. Daughter, Celeste is a play therapist with two children (Ella,12 and Brant,7) and son Jonathan is the Director of University Events at Texas Lutheran University with two children (John,4 and Abigail,2). Janice, possessing a heart of gold and her fair share of the hard work ethic she admired in her parents, earned a Master’s degree in Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University. She spent most of her career working for the state of Texas. Many hats were worn during her three decades with the state but the best fit was her role as an in home caseworker for Adult Protective Services. Fred has a mind that never stops questioning and wondering how things work. A talent in innovative thinking, he earned a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering from The University of Texas in Austin. He spent a large bulk of his career in the petroleum industry designing products for oil production and exploration, used even today by corporations such as Exxon and Shell. He obtained two patents in that industry. Fred considers the high point of his career the seven years that he spent in Java, Indonesia as a Presbyterian Church USA mission co-worker at Satya Wacana Christian University (1993-2000). He served as a professor of software engineering and also taught theology as a result of his Masters in Theology from Austin Presbyterian Theological School. Today, the focus of his designs has shifted from the oil fields to his hand cycle attachments for his bicycle and a couple of trikes he and Janice will ride. When he met Janice online through OK Cupid, the first date was a bicycle ride. The two have been riding ever since and recently returned from a bicycle tour in Spain. Janice and Fred appreciate the acceptance of all God’s people found at University Presbyterian. Social justice is a strong belief in both of their lives. Janice told me, “I am a recovering Lutheran,” leaving the denomination over their refusal to accept homosexuals. They were led to our congregation through their volunteer work with the Interfaith Welcome Coalition. They met several of our members, respected them, and it led them into the door of UPC. Welcome to University Presbyterian Church, Fred and Janice! We are blessed to have you in our membership. — Bonnie Robin Simons

Introducing ...

Janice Zitelman and Fred Johnson


It is with great joy that we formally welcome Keith Martinez as our new Director of Choral Music. In his approach to music, Keith embraces authenticity and vulnerability, resonating with our community and the expression of faith embodied in our Welcome Statement. Keith has the gifts, skills, and experience needed to fulfill UPC's mission to facilitate "music which engages people spiritually, intellectually, and emotionally." Since graduating from UTSA, Keith has excelled in choral directing at the high school level. He has taught at John Marshall High School as an Assistant Director since 2015. The program has grown and produced several Texas All-State singers for the first time since 2010. He has specialized in working with the men's ensemble and is very well-liked by his students. Among his choral-director colleagues, he was elected to the prestigious office of Region XXIX Vocal Chair, May 2017-present. Keith has served in various church music positions. Between 2014 and 2016, he worked as Choir Director at St. Peter Prince of the Apostles Catholic Church, San Antonio. There he led music in worship and selected anthems that fit the liturgical season. At First Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, he has worked eight years as a singer and Assistant Director, leading rehearsals and substituting in the Director's absence.

Keith has been active in community service with both his school and church groups. He has continued his professional in-service training by attending a Summer Educators’ Workshop held at Carnegie Hall, NYC, in July 2016. From a field of eleven candidates, Keith was unanimously recommended by our Search Committee for Choral Music Director. Pastor Andries Coetzee states that "over the interview process, he excited us with his energy, inspired us with his talent, and affirmed us with his loving-kindness and compassion." John Silantien, Keith's university professor and former UPC Director of Choral Music, wrote, "I think that Keith will bring a breath of fresh air to the choir and worship experience at UPC. He possesses solid musical skills, church worship experience in the Presbyterian tradition, and an outgoing, charismatic personality. He also brings a notable humility and ability to work with the team." Join us Sunday, Sept. 1 to formally welcome Keith Martinez to University Presbyterian Church during the 10 a.m. service.

Introducing ...

Keith Martinez


The Welcome & Fellowship Committee will host a Newcomers & Inquiry Class on Sundays, September 15, 22, and 29, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. in the Community Room. If you are a new member, someone considering membership, or someone wanting to become a more informed participant in the UPC community, this is the class for you! Attendance in no way obligates you to become a member. Rev. Dries Coetzee will lead discussions and reflections designed to inform participants about the practices, beliefs and mission of UPC. Childcare provided. Please RSVP to Melissa Richard at 915-241-6495 or mrichard0219@gmail on or before Thursday, September 12.

Newcomers and Inquiry Class

Please help the Library committee by taking a short survey regarding our congregation’s library awareness at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/J3MNC6L. Please take a moment to answer seven little questions to make a big difference.

Library News

The regular meeting of the UPC Shawl Ministry is the first Friday of every month in CE #1. The weekly Wednesday morning Shawl Ministry Auxiliary meets at the Corner Bakery in the Quarry Market from 7:30-9 a.m. New members are eagerly sought and warmly welcomed. One Sunday each month, shawls will be made available in the Narthex after the worship service. During the rest of the month, shawls may be found in the UPC library. You are encouraged to sign out a shawl or lap robe for anyone who is facing a crisis, challenge, or change. For further information, please contact Caryl Gaubatz at 210-651-0208 or [email protected].

Prayer Shawls

Parking Update UPC is a committed Earth Care congregation. With sustainability of the earth a basic tenet of our faith, we have sought and secured an alternative to destroying more green space and removing heritage trees to provide more onsite parking. You can be a part of this transformation toward a more sustainable future by parking offsite and walking a short distance to church if you are able. Offsite parking is always available at Parker Chapel on Trinity University campus and in the unrestricted areas along Laurel Heights Pl. and Bushnell Ave. During Trinity holidays and breaks, there are also spaces at Heidi Circle to the east of our campus off Bushnell.


Within this amazing group of early childhood educators for the 2019-2020 school year, there are:

18 full time, 3 part time staff and 5 substitute teachers.

Overall tenure of 1 – 37 years and an average tenure of 14 years at UPCC.

Lots of education! 4 have Bachelor’s degrees and 1 with a Master’s degree in early childhood education; 3 others

have Bachelor’s degrees in other areas and one of these is currently working on a Master’s in School Counseling; 14 have AA degrees in early childhood education and 3 others have all but a few classes left to earn their Associates degree in early childhood studies. 4 of the substitute teachers are currently working on their Bachelor’s Degrees, with 2of the 4 studying early childhood education.

15 studied in the early childhood studies department at San Antonio College and over half of this group completed

their last semester student teaching experience at UPCC. Every year UPCC serves as a practicum and student teaching site for 2 - 5 SAC students.

All staff and substitutes earn 24 – 35 hours of professional development every year depending on their assigned role

at the Children’s Center .

Over half of the staff are bilingual and regularly use Spanish in the classroom with the children during learning

activities, caregiving routines, meals and interactions during play.

All have a passion to provide high quality care and education for infants, toddlers and preschool, and school age children!

For the 2019-2020 UPCC Board of Directors, church members Jeanna Balreira, Bonnie Flake, and Dennis Richard will serve on the board along with Dries for the next two years. In addition, the following UPCC parents or grandparents will help with the board in the coming year: Lindsay Evans, Dan Fernandez, Ashely Indorf, Katherine Lackey (vice-chair), Christina Lechelop (treasurer), Carol Lee (secretary), Cassandra Ortiz, Christy Rosenfeld (interim chair), and Natalie Tate.

2019-2020 Children’s Center Staff


Come Celebrate Cindi!

Cindi Catlin Gaskins is celebrating 30 years as University Presbyterian

Children’s Center Director

Join us on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019 for Worship at 11:00am

and a Reception at 12:00pm

University Presbyterian Church 300 Bushnell Ave

San Antonio, TX 78212

Monetary donations will go to a fund in honor of Cindi that supports scholarships for children attending UPCC.

Please make checks payable to “UPCC”

with “Cindi’s 30th” in the memo line.


Fall Sunday Morning Christian Education—Adult

Fall Sunday Morning Christian Education—Youth

Bible Study Class (9:30-10:30 a.m. in CE #1) This is a study focused class that delves into the Bible as a personal religious or spiritual practice. The class is friendly and open to those with any level of familiarity with the Bible. This group rotates leadership and facilitation of the study sessions from among the participants and throughout the year looks to a variety of Bible Study resources for fresh and relevant material. In September, the group will collaboratively generate ideas and areas of study to explore together throughout the year. Shared leadership among participants. Coordinated by Robert Browning. Living Our Faith Class (9:30-10:30 a.m. in CE #4) This class explores a variety of topics with the intent of forming participants into those who consistently live out what they learn about. In September, the group will collaboratively generate ideas and areas of study to explore together throughout the year. Shared leadership among participants. Coordinated by Sandy Nicholson. Book Group (9:30-10:30 a.m. in CE #3) The Sunday Book Group has been meeting regularly since the 1970s to read and discuss books that explore aspects of different faith traditions, as well as the intersection of faith and the secular world. Selections may include biography, history, theology, personal memoir, social commentary, and more. Members of the group nominate and vote on which books to read. The group has a standing moderator, but individual members take turns leading the weekly discussion, usually one or two chapters at a time. Beginning September 8, the group will complete the final four chapters of Crucible of Faith: The Ancient Revolution That Made Our Modern Religious World by Philip Jenkins. An announcement of the next book selection will made later in September. Coordinated by Barry Hubbard. Families with Young Children Group (9:30-10:30 a.m. in the Library) Parents of children of any age are invited to gather in the UPC Library for fellowship and conversation about the struggles and joys of raising children. Questions are asked like, “How do children develop a faith that becomes their own?” or “What are appropriate ways that children can learn to serve others?” Occasionally the group engages in a book study. This group is for any of those who are seeking support, encouragement, ideas, or friends. Coordinated by Coco Anderson.

Breakfast Club (9:30-10:30 a.m. in CE #2) The youth gather for food, fellowship, games as well as genuine conversation and meaningful activities. They meet with the full group or in smaller group settings. They intentionally grow in relationship with God, serve others generously and joyfully, and are transformed by the good news of Jesus Christ, by together studying Scripture, praying and singing, learning about the history of our own and other faith traditions, and exploring topics relevant to our lives. Todd McGraw coordinates the class and occasionally leads, along with a committed group of UPC adults.


Fall Sunday Morning Christian Education—Children

Melanie Rush Davis Featured in Fotoseptiembre

This year we are offering two classes that will again be using the PC(USA) Growing in Grace and Gratitude curriculum. Each session of this curriculum is rooted in Bible stories that reveal God’s grace. Children and their leaders will celebrate the meaning of this grace in their lives as they encounter and listen for a living God. Upper Elementary Sunday School Class (9:30-10:30 a.m. in CE #7) A multiage environment is a wonderful place for children of various ages to grow in faith. Differences in the experiences, knowledge, and abilities of the children can be celebrated. It is a joy to observe older children as they help their younger friends. They do so with great pride. As we watch older children respectfully interact with younger ones, we see their poten-tial unfold. Younger children benefit by modeling actions from their older peers. Led this fall by Andrew Wilson and assisted by Jaden Wielden. Preschool and Lower Elementary Sunday School C (9:30-10:30 a.m. in CE #6) Children this age play and learn by pretending and mimicking what the adults around them do. They learn about spiritual matters the same way they learn about other things: through relationships with caring people, through their senses, through hands-on experiences, through play, through curiosity. While children this age think literally, listening to stories helps spark their young imaginations. Led this fall by Safira Carpenter and Cindi Catlin, assisted by Helen Tellegen. Children’s Choir (9:15-9:30 a.m. in the Community Room) UPC Children’s Choir is open to all interested children in grades 1-8. Rehearsals are every Sunday morning in the Community Room (or in the Sanctuary on singing Sundays.) Choir members learn about music and scripture as they prepare anthems to offer in worship. Come share the love of singing our praises to the glory of God! Directed by Maggie Sorrell. Nursery Care for Infants through Kinder (8:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. in UPCC Room 5) We are blessed to have long-time, weekday Children’s Center teachers and staff to help with childcare on Sundays. Rose Ann Martinez coordinates this effort.

Photoseptiembre is an annual photography festival founded by Michael Mehl in 1995. It’s a community-based festival where anyone can participate and organize their own exhibits. Images used to be printed in catalogs and now they are featured in an online gallery. There are also exhibits displayed at physical galleries around San Antonio.

One of the three big shows that are being shown is UPC’s own Melanie Rush Davis, who passed away last year. “A Requirement of Time” explores her work as a photographer and teacher. Her exhibit, put together by her husband Kemp Davis and Angela Lawson, will include her images of San Antonio scenes, local celebrities, and Fiesta events. Most of the photos will be pinhole pictures, since Melanie was known as the “pinhole queen of San Antonio.” The exhibit will be at Russell Hill Rogers Gallery at the Southwest School of Art (1201 Navarro St., 78205) through September29. Visit https://www.swschool.org/exhibitions/current-exhibitions for more information.

(This article was compiled from information in a San Antonio Express-News article by Deborah Martin shared with UPC by Marge Clyde.)


The Covenant Network of Presbyterians is undertaking a new effort in partnership with congregations and councils around the country to speak a hopeful and helpful word into anxious times for church and society. Covenant Conversations will help Presbyterians live into a new day in the church’s life, bringing communities together to talk about being church for ALL God’s people. Join us on Saturday, Sept. 14, 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. at UPC in the Sanctuary with breakout session in the CE Building. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

8:30 a.m. Registration opens 9:00 a.m. Opening plenary and keynote address: “Covenant Conversations in Difficult Days” 10:45 a.m. Workshop #1 12:00 p.m. Lunch 1:00 p.m. Workshop #2 2:15 p.m. Closing Worship 3:00 p.m. Go in Peace

WORKSHOP OPTIONS

LGBTQ 101 The basis of welcoming, affirming, creating safe space

Navigating Difficult Conversations

How to talk about controversial things in helpful ways

“Religious Freedom”

A dive into one of today’s hottest public policy issues

The Bible & Sexuality

What the scriptures really say … and don’t say

Inclusive & Welcoming Liturgy Worship language for all God’s people

Intersections

The meeting of immigration, race, and LGBTQIA inclusion in our witness and common life

One Church

The global church and LGBTQIA issues facing our mission workers and ecumenical partners

To register: https://upcsa.org/event/covenant-conversation/ and click on the registration link at the bottom of the page.

Covenant Conversations


Listen & Learn Opportunity The Campus Planning Task Force has moved into a new phase as we address the need for space and renovation at UPC. We want to enlarge the conversation and give you an opportunity to hear what needs have been identified and to voice your own observations. The discussion is open to anyone - new members, long time members and everyone in between! Among the questions we might consider

Is there a program that could be enhanced with additional space?

What changes to the facilities would make your participation easier?

Can you envision new activities we could add if we had more space?

What changes might appeal to Trinity students or our neighbors?

Are there any "sacred cows" that should not be modified?

What is important to you in choosing options for sustainability?

Please join us Sunday, Sept. 8, immediately after the 11 a.m. worship. We will remain in the sanctuary for a brief exchange of ideas about our facilities. Your voice is important in this process to the Campus Planning Task Force. — Patti Jewett & Lou Williams, Co Chairs

Session Highlights—August Minutes David Anderson reported on the June meeting of Mission Presbytery in San Antonio, where some of the highlights were

Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services President David Thompson sharing information about the new capital improvement project at their San Antonio campus and the Mission Responsibility Through Investment (MRTI) discussing engaging oil and gas corporations in Texas to promote sustainable energy and environmental stewardship.

The Session approved an earlier starting time, 6:30 p.m., for future Session meetings.

The Session approved time off for Pastor Dries Coetzee, including his October 13-30 trip to South Africa, a November 7-10 trip to Houston for a Network meeting and to officiate at a wedding, and his November 24-December 5 trip to South Africa for a family wedding.

Women’s Retreat Save the date for Annual Women’s Retreat at The Church of Reconciliation on Friday, Jan. 24 and Saturday, Jan. 25. The theme will be “A Heart of Wisdom” and all women and individuals who identify as women of all ages are invited. More information to come in the following issue of the Multitude from leaders Jan Williams and Tamara Apgar. So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom. (Psalm 90:12) As modern women, we know that our lives are made up of hours and days, yet we too often move through time without fully noticing what is around us. After all, we have responsibilities, deadlines, family commitments, appointments. Because we are so busy, it can take a jolt—a loss, a birth, an emergency—to bring us fully into the moment we’re actually living. This familiar verse from the Psalms, though, reminds us to number our days, by which is meant to consider, rather than to count. Moreover, the verse promises that doing so may lead us to a heart of wisdom.

But where shall we start? According to Plato, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” Personal memoir is a process that allows for a gentle probing into one’s life as she is living it. Women of every age can benefit from this quiet examination of self. I have seen memoir expressed through art, photography, music, and of course, writing. What is your way of marking your days? How do you keep alert? Please join us as we consider this essential question posed by poet Mary Oliver: “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?”


We rejoice this baptism: Reaffirmation of Baptism and Name Claiming

for Daniel Jude Fisher on Aug. 11.

We celebrate these birthdays: 1-Crystal Cox

2-Alazar Coetzee 2-Mark Lewis

3-Barry Bartlett 3-Glenn Jensen

3-Don White 5-Jeanette Clark

6-David Anderson 6-Tom McIver

6-Kelli Weedon 7-Todd McGraw

8-Julian Dupertuis 8-Ariel Simpson 10-Keith Kendall

12-Mickey Parsons 13-Jamie Thompson

14-Maggie Giust 16-Spencer Smith

17-Anastasia Bernal 17-Carol Brown 19-Marc Raney 19-Bill Weller 20-Bud Eaton

22-Dave Garber 23-Cheo Martinez

23-Louise O'Donnell 23-Anne Pearson 26-David Sanders 27-Janice Zitelman

28-Rosalinda Maldonado 29-Cynthia Smith 30-Melody Hull 30-Brynn Owen

We celebrate these anniversaries: 13-Ariel Simpson and Joseph Luedecke

27-Tracy and Mark Lewis

Please note the following staff vacation, staff leave or closing days:

All Facilities Closed: Sept. 2 Anastasia: Sept. 10 and 19

Todd: Sept. 19-20 Cindi: Sept. 25-27

Loaves & Fishes Sunday, Sept. 1:

Toiletries needed are toilet paper, tissues, hand soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes.

Monetary donations are also welcome. Please mark checks or envelopes with “Loaves & Fishes.”

Got Photos?

Have you taken a picture of a UPC event, worship service, or activity? Do you have a snap shot of a Sunday school class

or youth group activity? What about a SoL Center class? If so, email them to [email protected]

to be considered for the church website or publications.

Photo Exhibit: The photography of Melanie Rush Davis, UPC member who passed away last year, is being featured as one of three exhibits of

San Antonio’s Fotoseptiembre. See page 15 for details.

Congregational News

Dear UPC Congregation and Choir,

Thank you for your generous gifts, a beautiful last worship service, a lavish retirement reception, and many happy sacred hours together.

Blessings, John Silantien


UPC John Silantien Music Fund in honor of John Silantien Judy and Garry Cole Ron Tefteller Larry Adamson Jocelyn Miller Jeanette and Gene Clark Bonnie Flake and Frank Garcia-Treto Barry Hubbard Miriam and Leslie Ellison Charlotte Jensen Marcia Ellison Gail and Marc Raney Bernice Buxbaum Barbara and Jim Warren Ruth Ann and Tom McIver Frank Seaman Joan Hildreth

UPC Memorial Fund in memory of Mike Lance Bernice Buxbaum

UPC Memorial Fund in memory of Tony Smith Marica Ellison Charlotte Jensen Gail and Ben Plummer Gail and Marc Raney

UPC Memorial Fund in memory of Bill Spinks Linda and Jim Ireland Marcia Ellison Charlotte Jensen Gail and Marc Raney

UPC Memorial Fund in memory of Pat Konstam Thurman Adkins

UPC Memorial Wall Inscription for Jane Keller Thurman Adkins

UPC Deacons Fund / Grief Books in memory of Tony Smith Cynthia Smith

SoL Center 2019 Fundraiser—Programming Gayle Kipp Frank Seaman Barry Hubbard Larry Adamson Gail and Marc Raney Marcia Weser Joyce and Luke McDaniel Melody and Andy Hull Dhawn Martin

SoL Center 2019 Fundraiser—Enndowment Barry Hubbard

IWC General Fund in memory of Freida Lanton Covenant Baptist Church

The Multitude is published monthly for

members and friends of University Presbyterian Church

to highlight the people and ministries of the church.

Submit articles to the church office at [email protected]

by the 20th of each month. Submissions may be edited.

Staff

Andries Coetzee Pastor

Anastasia Bernal Administrative Assistant

Allan Catlin Facility & Event Steward

Cindi Catlin Gaskins Director, Children’s Center

Todd McGraw Director, Children’s & Youth Ministry

Mary Lowder Organist

Dhawn Martin Director, SoL Center

Keith Martinez Director, Choral Music

Leroy Sebesta Music Administrative Assistant

Maggie Sorrell Director, Children’s Music

Frank Villalpando Custodian

Session Committee

Melissa Almsted Christian Education

David Anderson Stewardship & Finance, Chair

Robert Browning Christian Education, Chair

Eva Dupertuis Youth Elder

Terry Fried Stewardship & Finance

Devon Hile Youth Elder

Keith Kendall Mission Outreach & Justice, Co-Chair

Hanna Kuykendall Worship & Arts, Co-Chair

Melinda Louden Mission Outreach & Justice, Co-Chair

Art Nicholson Facilities & Operations and

Co-Clerk of Session

Dennis Richard Welcome & Fellowship

Molly Roth Facilities & Operations

Ariel Simpson Personnel

Sally Smith Welcome & Fellowship ————————————————————————————————————————————————————

Ben Henderson Facilities & Operations, Chair

Sandy Nicholson Church Treasurer

Betsy Pasley Co-Clerk of Session

Melissa Richard Welcome & Fellowship, Chair

Lou Williams Personnel, Chair

Tom Williams Worship & Arts, Co-Chair

Board of Deacons Parish

Carol Brown Northwest Parish

Margaret Cairnes Moderator

Bonnie Flake Northwood Parish

Marlyn Gibbs Windcrest Parish

Paula Henderson Castle Hills North Parish

Linda Ireland Northeast Parish

Karen Jensen College Students, Secretary

Gail Olsen Alamo Heights Parish

Carlos Rodriguez Fredericksburg Parish

David Sanders University Parish

Don Sheldon Stone Oak Parish, Treasurer

Nancy Vaughan Olmos Parish, Vice-Moderator

Gifts & Memorials


The next women’s fellowship is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 9, 6:30-8:30 p.m. with a Game Night at the Church. Please RSVP by Wed., Sept. 5 to the church office at 210-732-9927 or [email protected]. Please give your Central Market meal choice with your reply. (i.e. 1 or 2c or 3e.) We hope to see you there for fun and fellowship!

1. No Meal = $0 2. Sandwich Box Lunches = $12

(Include mixed berries, penne mozzarella salad, and a chocolate chunk cookie.) a. Classic Chicken Salad on 9 Grain d. Tomato Mozzarella on Sourdough b. Ham and Swiss on Rye e. Turkey Havarti on 9 Grain c. Pimento Cheese on Rye

3. Salad Box Lunches = $12 (Include mixed berries, mini baguette, and a chocolate chunk cookie.) a. Caesar d. Spinach Strawberry b. Athenian (Greek) e. Kale, Cranberry, and Pepita c. Garden f. Caprese

Women of the Word (WoW) Event

Join a UPC Dinner Group The UPC Dinner Groups are a great way to really get to know a small group of people really well. While we see each other at worship, that may not be the best way to truly know the other people who worship with you. The groups provide an opportunity to visit with members of the UPC community. The 7-9 member groups change every year to give people a chance to interact with more people—so everyone needs to sign up, even if you’ve participated before.

Your middle name does not have to be Emeril. You do not need to be a gourmet cook. You do not need to be a certain age. You don’t need to have a large home. You do have to like to be with people and like to eat. Each group will get together for dinner 3 to 5 times during the year and each group decides when and where to meet. Some groups eat in members homes while others gather a local restaurants. If you are interested, fill out the form below and get it to the Church Office by October 6. Some people hesitate to sign up because they are busy and might not be able to commit for the entire year. If this is the case, we can put you on a list to be invited occasionally. Contact Carol Brown ([email protected]) with questions.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

UPC Dinner Clubs ~ Deadline: October 6, 2019 Name(s) _________________________________________________________ Phone(s) __________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________________ Zip ______________ Email(s) ____________________________________________________________________________________________ _____ I would like to be in a group that meets at lunch, rather than dinner. _____ Yes, I want to be in a Dinner Club that includes children. _____ Yes, I am willing to be a group coordinator to make sure the group decides when and where to meet. _____ I can’t commit to a club, but would like to be invited occasionally. Special Needs or Dietary Restrictions: ____________________________________________________________________ I would like to get to know ________________________________________________________better and be in their group.

Documents

-732-9927 • • September 2019 Pancake ...Aug 09, 2019 · UPC September 2019—Page 1 Multitude 300 Bushnell Ave • San Antonio, TX 78212-5334 • 210-732-9927 • • September