May 2014

May 2014th

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A publication of First Choice Ministries First Methodist Houston

fmhouston.com

firstedition

2 May 2014

a pastoral wordDr. Steve Wende, Senior Pastor

Friends, let me share several thoughts with you this month.

First, here’s a cheer for all the volunteers who worked so hard to make Holy Week and Easter the amazing celebrations and observances they were. So many people served with such care and good will in so many events:  worship, music, education, Eggstravaganza and a host of others.  One of our visitors said, “Your church really shows the love of God!” That is true, and it is true not just in the big events, but in the everyday interactions of you, our members. You probably don’t realize it, but the grace, love and compassion we take for granted in the First Methodist family is actually rare in this broken world — and the fact that it is not rare here says some-thing powerful about all the hearts so open to Christ that His love shines through.

Thank you for those open hearts!Second, I want to invite you to join Kar-

in and me in making it possible for a child to go to Quillian Camp this summer. Our kids treasured their time at Christian camp in the summers.  It helped form them into the young Christian women they became. Wouldn’t it be great for everyone to have that opportunity? First Methodist helps people in so many ways, but it seems to me that one of the most important is through her shaping of the next generation. A key way we do that is through the Quillian Recreation Center, one of the unsung blessings of the First Methodist family. 

Quillian provides great opportunities for all ages, both singles and families. The Quillian leadership also has a special concern for children at risk. There are several different levels of support available for those who do not come from affluent homes and may be left alone for the sum-mer. Karin and I are supporting a child at camp. I encourage you to consider a simi-

lar gift. There is information about this op-portunity elsewhere in the magazine.

Third, throughout this edition of the magazine we are lifting up the mission and service opportunities of the church.

Mother Teresa once said, “We all long for heaven where God is, but we have it in our power to be in heaven now; to be happy with Him at this very moment. To be happy with Him means simply loving as He loves, helping as He helps, giving as he gives, serving as He serves, rescuing as He rescues; and in that act being with Him twenty-four hours a day. For we touch Him as we touch others for Him.”

That’s how it works, isn’t it? Too often, though, we forget. This summer, let’s re-member. Let’s “take a break” and “unwind” and “get some time off” by truly chang-ing the pace. In a world commanding us to live frantically for our own well-being, let’s claim the opportunities our church provides to serve others — and for a “sum-mer break,” let’s draw closer in the process to the God who gives all true renewal, strength and peace.

God bless,

keeping the sabbath

May 4Rev. Terence Hagans preaching

8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown

Dr. Steve Wende preaching9:15 and10:30 a.m. Westchase

May 11Dr. Steve Wende preaching8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown

Dr. Paul Clines preaching9:15 and 10:30 a.m. Westchase

May 18Dr. Steve Wende preaching8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown

Dr. Paul Clines preaching9:15 and 10:30 a.m. Westchase

May 25Dr. Steve Wende preaching8:45 and 11 a.m. Downtown

Dr. Paul Clines preaching9:15 and 10:30 a.m. Westchase

Hispanic Worship ServiceSundays at 11 a.m.

6th Floor DowntownRev. Humberto Hernandez preaching

Sunday School9:15 a.m. Westchase9:50 a.m. Downtown

Sign Language Interpretation10:30 a.m. Westchase

11 a.m. Downtown

Communion and Healing12:05 p.m. Bintliff Chapel Downtown

3May 2014 fmhouston.com

Rev. Ann and Max Spears invite you to join them for a trip of a lifetime.

Led by Biblical Archaeologist Dr. Jim Fleming, this amazing two-week trip will focus on the life of Paul: from his

shipwreck in Malta to his death in Rome. Come and meet new friends,

explore the many historical sites and grow in your knowledge of the Bible.

put a smile on a childMake a difference in the life of a child by sponsoring a summer camper.

Sponsorship:1 week tuition- $1951 day tuition- $601 month tuition- $800

For more information call Tom Gaden at713-781-9195.

www.quilliancenter.org

4 May 2014

United Methodist Men’s News

By Stephen MackeySaturday, April 12 Methodist Men host-

ed a wonderfully inspiring presentation by Sara and Henry Clines (Rev. Paul Clines’ parents) on their nine-year mission to over 500 children in one of the most poverty-stricken areas of Honduras. This moving presentation was made to a packed house of the men of Methodist Men, the ladies and gentlemen of our Missions Ministry and many other interested women and men of First Methodist!

Allen Houk also contributed with his always-informative Bible Study lesson re-lated to this presentation.

Methodist Men meet every second Sat-urday of the month for a great country breakfast, Christian fellowship and a timely and provocative speaker. If you haven’t at-tended one of their breakfasts lately, check them out!

Their next meeting is Saturday, May 10, where our Charles Pehl will speak on “Global Warming: End of the Age or Just Hot Air.”

Student BBQ Thank You!!!

Let’s Read Book Club will meet Monday, May 5 at 12 noon featur-ing a review of The Astro-naut Wives Club. The author is Lily Kop-pel, and our reviewer will be Debra Neighbors.

We meet on the First Floor near Hidden Treasures Books and Gifts Downtown. Everyone is invited. Bring a sack lunch and we’ll provide the coffee and iced tea.

Call Hidden Treasures Book and Gifts at 832-668-1876 for more information.

Let’s Read Book Club invites you

The Student Ministry of First Methodist Houston would like to thank all those who participated in the annual BBQ Lunch and Desert Auction.

It was an incredible success, and thanks to your generosity and the hard work of our students, we raised over $9,500 to help send students to summer camp and the interna-tional mission trip.

I can think of no greater investment of one’s resources than to invest in the spiritual growth of our students. Thank you all for your continued support of the First Methodist Student Ministry!

5May 2014 fmhouston.com

More than 300 members of the congregation visited the Jerusalem Marketplace Minis-try Fair held from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 30. The event, led by Volunteer Coordinator Carolyn Harris, was held for two main purposes: to acquaint the congrega-tion with the variety of outreach ministries sponsored by the church and to recruit more volunteers for these ministries.

Leaders from eight church ministry areas set up stalls and dispensed information about their ministry and discussed with fellow church members the many opportunities where they could volunteer and make a difference for the Kingdom of God.

Visitors who had learned about five or more ministry areas were invited to enter a ran-dom drawing for a $100 gift card. David Lin won the drawing.

“I would say that everyone who participated in the event — from ministry leaders to our fellow members who visited the booths — were all winners,” said Carolyn Harris. “Many members expressed their amazement at the many ways First Methodist serves to the community around us. Most of those visitors indicated an interest in volunteering for God’s work.”

Jerusalem Marketplace attracts new volunteers

By Carol Whitman

On April 12, more than 100 children and their families enjoyed our annual Eas-ter Egg Hunt.

This year, West University United Meth-odist Church donated 3,000 eggs, while volunteers from First Methodist Houston and First Methodist Missouri City hosted our crafts, face painting and egg decorating tables.

We also partnered with the Port Hous-ton Cavemen Cookers, a group of volun-teers who grew up in Port Houston and want to give back to the community. The group cooked 300 hot dogs and brought chips and drinks.

Thanks to everybody who made this an unforgettable event for the children of Port Houston!

Port Houston Easter Egg Hunt

Sponsor a summer camp stay for a Port Houston teen

Neighbors in Action will take its Port Houston youth group to the Stoney Creek Camp at the end of June and is looking for sponsors.

It costs only $75 to send a child to the life-changing camp.

If you are interested in becoming a spon-sor, please contact Kathrin Meier at kmei-er@fmhouston.com or 832-343-8105.

6 May 2014

Join us for Vacation Bible School!Downtown: June 16-20, 2014 - More info at fmhkids.com

Westchase: July 7-11, 2014 - Contact children@fmhouston.com

Camp In the CItyJuly 7-11

Yo u r H o m e I n t h e C i t y

1320 main Streetfmhkids.com

Register now!

REGISTER NOW

!

May 2014 7fmhouston.com

Summer is almost here. What are you going to do with your kids for those long hot days?

Here are a few ideas from Ripple Children’s Ministry to help keep everyone happy and active.

fmwestchase.com

• Weird Animals VBS: July 7-11 at First Methodist Westchase. Call 713-458-4715 for more information.

• Wesley Summer Camp: 6 months – preschool chil-dren. Call 713-266-3341 for more information.

• Quillian Summer Camp: elementary age children. Call 713-781-9195 for more infor-mation.

• June 6th: Ripple Summer-Kick-Off Pool Party, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Noah’s Ark and the Big Pool

• August 8th: Ripple End-of-Summer Pool Party, 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Noah’s Ark and the Big Pool

• Noah’s Ark and the Big Pool at First Methodist Houston-Westhcase

• Houston Zoo: Extreme Bugs exhibit coming in May!

• Attend a free Brown Bag concert at a local Chick-fil-A. Check ksbj.org for more de-tails

• Lone Star Flight Museum in Galveston

• Check http://citycentrehous-ton.com and www.sugar-

landtownsquare.com for fun events all summer long or just take a walk and window shop

• Ride or walk the trails at Terry Hershey Park

• Moody Gardens in Galveston• Go camping or hiking at Bra-

zos Bend State Park• Stewart Beach in Galveston

- $8/car; restrooms, showers, chair rental, snack bar and lifeguards

• Rosenberg Railroad Museum• Check out Cinemark Sum-

mer Movie Clubhouse: 10 kid-friendly movies for $1 each, or $5 for all 10 movies when tickets are bought in advance

• Tour historic George Ranch in Richmond, Texas

• Check www.pickyourown.org to find local farms where you can pick your own fruits and veggies

• Visit a museum: Buffalo Sol-diers National Museum (free Thurs. 1-5), Children’s Muse-um (free Thurs. 5-8), Freeman Weather Museum (free Thurs. 12-4), Houston Museum of Natural Science (free Thurs.

3-6), Museum of Fine Arts (free Thurs. 10-9)

• Find your local library and check out their Story Time and other fun activities for kids

• Tomball Railroad Depot• Ride the Galveston-Bolivar

Ferry. It’s free!• Tour the Port of Houston

for free! http://www.portof-houston.com/community-outreach/sam-houston-boat-tour/

• Froberg’s Farm in Alvin, Texas – pick your own straw-berries (while in season)

• Find your local fire depart-ment and take the firemen a “thank you” treat

• Santikos Palladium in Rich-mond:

o 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of every month at 6 p.m. – catering to families with special needs adults and children

o 1st Saturday of every month at 11 a.m. – catering to families with special needs adults and children

May 20148

LOCAL OUTREACHESLIFELINELifeline, a ministry to Downtown’s homeless and

transient population, aims to provide dignity and honor to each person who enters our doors. The minis-try provides items to provide for clients’ physical needs. Lifeline ministers listen to and pray with each client, as well as refer them to local agencies that provide additional resources. (Downtown)

NEIGHBORS IN ACTION - PORT HOUSTON NIA is committed to helping families in the Port Houston Community grow spiritually, physically, emotionally and mentally, resulting in a community that is self-sufficient and focused on serving others. Port Houston is located four miles east of Downtown. The majority of its residents are Hispanic and many live below the poverty line. The NIA community center provides programs for people of all ages and volunteers serve by leading Bible studies/education programs and events for children and adults. (Downtown)

REFUGEE ASSISTANCE MINISTRYWe reach out to refugees living near the Westchase

Campus to introduce them to programs available at our church and local area agencies. First Methodist Houston is working to provide events to raise awareness of the diffi-culties faced by refugees, to help refugees become integrat-ed into our community, and to provide material assistance. (Westchase)

ONLINE MISSIONARIES Each day people look to the internet to find answers about

God and about life issues. First Methodist Online Missionar-ies respond to emails/texts and Facebook messages from seek-ers, new believers and struggling Christians all over the world, responding to one message each week, sharing the hope and love that Christ offers from their own computer on their time. (Both Campuses)

He defended the cause of the poor and needy. Is this not what it means to know me? declares the LORD.

- Jeremiah 22:16As followers of Christ, we are called to serve the poor and oppressed and to proclaim the Good News of Christ to the entire world. First Methodist is accomplishing this through local and global church ministries and through strategic partner ministries. On these pages, you will see what we are doing as a congregation to respond to God’s call and the list of ministry partners who we serve alongside for more strategic results. If you are not currently involved in service to the poor, oppressed and those who have not yet heard of Jesus, please consider service in one of the following ministries.

9fmhouston.comMay 2014

HOME REPAIRMembers of our home repair teams make

minor home repairs for elderly members and friends of First Methodist Houston who are living on a fixed income. From gardening to painting to heavy lifting, all help is needed. (Both Campuses)

BUSH ELEMENTARYBush Elementary is an urban school

in the Southwest part of Houston. First Methodist volunteers work with Commu-nities in Schools, a dropout prevention and empowerment program. Volunteers help tutor students in math and reading and assist with special events and outreaches to the families. (Westchase)

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL MENTORING PARTNERSHIPS

Mentoring can change the direction of the life of a child in need. We mentor through Bush Elementary, Gregory Lin-coln Education Center and Port Houston Elementary schools. You can choose a day and time to mentor/tutor students each week and make a significant difference. (Both Campuses)

SEWING CONNECTION & STITCHES OF GLORYLadies at First Methodist have been sewing to support mis-

sions for many years. Making dresses for refugee girls in Thai-land, caps for cancer patients, ????? these ministries are bringing hope to people who may feel forgotten. (Both Campuses)

MEDICAL APARTMENT MINISTRYFirst Methodist Houston leases seven apart-

ments in the Brompton Court Complex which we furnish and stock with televisions, kitchen and bath supplies. These apartments are leased at a reduced rate to people who are undergoing cancer treatment in the Texas Medical Center. (Downtown)

May 201410

GLOBAL OUTREACHES LOCAL PARTNERS

GLOBAL PARTNERS

BORDER MINISTRIESIn EAGLE PASS, TEXAS, our teams

work with Mission Border Hope to do home repairs, light construction projects, serve the food pantry and Juvenile Reha-bilitation Center to empower children and families. Across the border in ACUÑA, MEXICO, we work with a local pastor and church to support ongoing ministry in the colonia of Martinez Martinez and support the White Stone Orphanage.

HAITIFirst Methodist has adopted an im-

poverished village, Source Matlas, and is working with FUMC Conroe and FUMC Kingwood to develop infrastructures and ministries, in partnership with Mission of Hope Haiti, an organization that seeks to empower the people of Haiti.

HONDURASFirst Methodist sponsors a daily feeding

program to children from the mountain village of Los Pinos through Jeremiah Mis-sions.

CUBA Ninety miles off the coast of Florida,

Cuba is a country that has been cut off from outside influence for more than 50 years. Although the limitations are great, the opportunities for evangelism through creative means are strong. Our sister church just outside Havana is reaching the island with the Gospel. Our teams work closely with the sister church to lead train-ings for Cuban pastors and do community outreach.

BURMESE REFUGEE MINISTRYFirst Methodist Houston supports a chil-

dren’s home and training center for refugee children and teens in Mae Sot, Thailand. The home and training center is a place for children and teens to go to school and learn life skills to help them be leaders as they return to Burma to attend the Univer-sities. In addition, teams travel each sum-mer to serve the needs of the school and home.

INTERNATIONAL TRAINING MINISTRY

The International Leadership Institute accelerates the spread of the Gospel around the world by training and mobilizing lead-ers of leaders to reach their nations with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. First Method-ist sponsors two training conferences each year in parts of the world where most peo-ple have not heard about Christ (Central Asia, Middle East and India)

May 2014 fmhouston.com

LOCAL PARTNERS

GLOBAL PARTNERS

Join us in ministry in 2014. Go with us

as we take the love of Jesus to those who are

hurting around the country and the world.

For more information about any of these

trips, contact the Missions Office at 832-668-

1819 or kjames@fmhouston.com.

Cuba | May 21-28 | $1,800

Our teams provide training, encouragement

and much-needed support to Cuban believers

at our sister church just outside Havana.

Honduras (Students) | July 11-18 | $1,500

Working with Jeremiah Mission, we will

participate in construction projects, VBS

and community outreaches.

Honduras | August 20-25 | $1,500

Help deliver the hope of the Gospel by

digging a water well with MANNA Water

for Life.

Guatemala | October 4-11 | $1,800

Be a part of this general surgical mission

team delivering medical care to Quiche

Indians in the west central highlands of

Guatemala.

El Salvador | November 9-15 | $1,900

Be part of this team that delivers the

hope of the Gospel by digging a water well

with Living Water International.

Around the world in 2014...• Wesley Community Center

• Christian Alliance for Humanitarian Aid• Life Center for the Homeless• Covenant House• Home of Hope• House of Amos• West Houston Assistance Ministries• Skills for Life• Bethel Port Ministries

• Faith Comes By Hearing• Project AIDS Nigeria• ZOE Ministry• Salvation to Children Project• BASTA • White Stone Orphanage• Becas Con Bendiciones• Mission on the Move

May 201412

May Message Series Downtown• May 4 - God’s Heart for the World - Rev. Terence Hagans preaching

• May 11 - God’s Heart for the Poor and Oppressed - Dr. Steve Wende preaching• May 18 - God’s Heart for the Unreached - Dr. Steve Wende preaching

Change the World Sunday Downtown• May 25 - God’s Heart for His People - Dr. Steve Wende preaching

The Bible references over 500 verses regarding God’s heart for the poor and justice for the oppressed. Even today, over 3 billion around the world are

still waiting for the Good News of Jesus Christ.This month peer inside God’s Heart for the world and for His people who are

called by His name.

13fmhouston.comMay 2014

Weekly ScheduleSunday Morning

9:30-10:10 a.m.Hang out & eat breakfast

10:10-10:50 a.m. Sunday School

11-11:55 a.m. Launch Youth Service

CalendarMay4: Confirmation ‘Working Lunch’10-11: Mother’s Day Roses Fundraiser18: Confirmation Sunday18: Graduation Banquet

June16-20: VBS Volunteering23-27: Student Life Camp

July11-19: Honduras Mission Trip

For more information or to sign up, contact Amy Coleman [acoleman@fmhouston.com] or Aaron Ferguson [aferguson@fmhouston.com].

http://launchFMH.weebly.com

14 May 2014

Reading Circle NewsThe Reading

Circle will meet at the home of Mary Beyer, 3306 Merrick, Houston 77025, on Tues-day, May 20. Joyce Zotz will be our co-hostess.

• 10 a.m. -  Refreshments

• 10:30 a.m. Business & Program

• 12 Noon - AdjournMary Marriott will review the book, This

Side of Heaven, by Karen Kingsbury.Annie Warren always wanted the best for

her son, Josh. Years of bad choices and fail-ure created a heartbreaking difference that grew worse after Josh was hit by a drunk driver. Now on medical disability with his life on hold waiting for the insurance settlement, Josh was told by a scheming woman that he is the father of her seven year old daughter named Savannah. When the settlement that rightly belongs to Josh is threatened, Annie sets out to defend her son.  But she might find a treasure more valuable than money, one she never expect-ed. This is one of the greatest gifts her son could give her THIS SIDE OF HEAVEN.

Kingsbury is a New York Times best-selling author of over 60 works of fiction and nonfiction. This story is based loosely on her own brother’s death. It is a story of a strained relationship between picture-perfect parents and their tow truck driver son who has been a disappointment to them. The author is best known for draw-ing unforgettable characters and stories that evoke a range of emotions.

Thanks to Mary Marriott for sharing this review with us. Mary and her husband, Terry, belong to First Methodist. She is a long-time faithful member of our choir.

The Reading Circle meets the third Tuesday of each month (except July and August). Visitors are always welcome. For more information contact Ruth Palmer at ruthgp@swbell.net.

1999 was quite a year for this bustling planet we inhabit. The Dow Jones Industrial Av-erage rose above the 10,000 mark for the first time in history, and later in the year, above the 11,000 mark. The proclaimed six billionth living human being in the world was born. The space shuttle Discovery first docked with the International Space Station, and after 22 years of restoration, Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, “The Last Supper,” was put back on display for the world to ponder. It was a remarkable year by anyone’s standards.

One of the reasons that year was so remarkable for First Methodist Houston – West-chase, was because the “Stitches of Glory” ministry was born! Two faithful members, Paula Ray and Brenda Yurkovich, began talking together about ways to reach out to the community and the city of Houston through a ministry of sewing. They took their idea to then-associate pastor, Ed Jones, he loved it, came up with a name for it, and 15 years later they are still a thriving, dynamic ministry!

Stitches of Glory has grown from a handful of women sewing in Paula’s garage to a much bigger group serving in the largest meeting room in the Westchase office building! They’ve cut out, sewn and given away nearly 10,000 cancer caps to individuals and to six different hospital cancer clinics in the area. They also make and sell for missions, neck pillows, adult bibs, crocheted necklaces and coughing pillows for those recovering from chest surgery. They have donated thousands of dollars to the church from their profits, as-sisting with all sorts of mission needs like missionary sponsorship, apartment ministries, Quillian Recreation and the campus Helpline. Their charity and influence reaches far beyond our Texas borders, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg!

Recently, the members of the Stitches of Glory ministry hosted a party to honor and bid farewell to co-founder, Paula Ray. After 15 years of leading, teaching and encourag-ing, Paula made the decision to be more a part of her children and grandchildren’s lives through participation and service at their home church just outside of Houston. It was a bittersweet evening, filled with wonderful memories, lots of laughter, and a few tears. Paula was the backbone of the ministry, but to her credit has “grown up” very capable leaders. We have no doubt this ministry will be around to celebrate its 20th anniversary, and beyond. In Paula’s words, “It was God all the way.” We agree, but we also know He chose her to bring His vision to life.

The “Stitches of Glory” Story can’t end without an invitation being extended to all the women of First Methodist Houston. Come join with them and experience the fun, friendship and ministry that takes place every Monday evening at the Westchase Campus! They share a meal together from 6-6:45 p.m., then get to cutting, sewing, stuffing, cro-cheting, knitting … whatever the medium … to be a blessing to their church, their com-munity and their Heavenly Father. And if you don’t know how to do any of those things, they will be happy to teach you! You can call the west campus office at 713-458-4700 for more information, or just show up next Monday evening and they’ll get you started.

Hebrews 13:16 instructs us, “But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.” Come “do good” with some of the kindest, most generous women in our church. There will always be room for more!

The Stitches of Glory Story

Stitches of Glory today.

May 2014 15fmhouston.com

Church Circle News

Praying in Color

Church Circle, a part of United Meth-odist Women, will meet Tuesday, May 13 Downtown at 10:30 a.m. in the small li-brary on the Second Floor.

Susan Gallman, assistant leader, will have a wonderful program regarding “Angels.” We look forward to her inspiring program.

We have no birthdays for the month of May.

We wish Sherrill Mason good luck as she moves out of the area. We will miss you, Sherrill!

Jane Thompson, our Church Circle lead-er, will conduct a short business meeting. Afterwards, we will have our super-duper luncheon! Please bring your favorite food dish to share.

Please come and visit Church Circle on May 13. You will receive a blessing!

Ladies of First Methodist, join us in the Stansbury Building at the Westchase Cam-pus Saturday, May 17 for a wonderful morn-ing of fellowship! A delicious brunch will be served at 10 a.m., and then one of the most innovative theatre companies in this country will perform Pearl Talk by Jeannette Clift George.

You don’t want to miss this humorous and thoughtful look at biblical principles and life around us. Based on the parable of the “Pearl of Great Price,” Pearl Talk is the funny, heart-warming story of friendship that journeys different paths toward treasured discoveries. Tickets ($5 per person) may be purchased at the Westchase Campus through Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 11.

Childcare for children six months through fifth grade will be available by reservation only, made no later than Monday, May 12. (713-458-4700)

Invite your family, friends and neighbors and let’s celebrate together the joy of being sisters in Christ!

Women’s Brunch and Play featuring A.D. Players

Have you noticed some of the women in the church seem “different” or “unusually happy” or just more than content? You have seen them at church many times. You know their circumstances have not changed. But they seem unruffled when circumstances say “They should be ruffled.” Ask them what has made the difference…you may find out that they recently spent a relaxing weekend on a spiritual retreat at Laity Lodge in the hill country. They were at the Women’s Spring Retreat.

Do you want to have a great weekend away from everything that overwhelms you? Make plans to attend the Fall Retreat at Camp Allen on October 4, 5, and 6. Get away for a girls’ weekend with God…you will never regret it.

For information, call Ursula Huhn at 281-217-1312 or piggyhuhn1@aol.com.

Reflections on Women’s Spring Retreat

Do you think that the only way for you to commune with your God is by talking about theology and spiritual ideas? Is there no time for childish play in the serious business of understanding God? Have you “put away childish things” and relegated your spiritual life to the confines of your mind? This new prayer form, Praying in Color, requires no words. There are many acceptable ways to pray, and by Praying in Color you can spend time almost every day coloring pictures with Jesus.

16 May 2014

Summer is just around the corner, and so is summer camp at Camp Quillian! Regis-tration is now open for our 30th anniver-sary of Camp Quillian.

If you are looking for a fun, safe environ-ment for your children this summer, look no further. Quillian Center has many ex-citing activities planned to keep your child entertained and happy.

If your child goes to Camp Quillian, they can participate in activities such as rock climbing, swimming in our swim-ming pools, specialty camps, and much more.

We have camp for children ages five to 12, and we have a special teen camp with activities geared towards 13 and 14 year olds.

For more information or to sign up, head over to www.quilliancenter.org or call 713-781-9195.

Camp Quillian ready to start its 30th summer

Looking for an exciting summer destina-tion to have your child’s birthday party? How about a place for your family to have a cool and relaxing family reunion?

Quillian Center’s pool party packages are just the ticket. We have the famous Noah’s Ark pool, which is great for younger chil-dren. We also have a big pool with slides and diving boards that is great for older children or bigger parties.

For more information on pool packages and our swimming pools in general, head over to www.quilliancenter.org, or con-tact William Melton at 713-458-4712 or wmelton@quilliancenter.org.

Pool parties at Quillian Center

Put a Smile on a ChildScholarship Fund

Calling all kids ages five to 14! It’s time to grab your shoes and head to Quillian for the next Youth Basketball season.

Quillian’s Youth Basketball program is a top-notch program that boasts great coach-ing and fun competition. Quillian Youth Basketball is a coed league that is perfect for children of all skill levels.

Equal playing time, weekly practices, a Christian atmosphere, jerseys and awards for all, and the unique Q-Star All-star weekend are all part of this great program. You do not want to miss out on this upcoming season!

Registration is available now at www.quilliancenter.org. We are still looking for vol-unteer coaches as well. If you are interested in coaching, or if you have more questions, please contact William Melton at wmelton@quilliancenter.org or 713-458-4730.

Registration open for Summer Youth Basketball Season

Camp Quillian is celebrating 30 years this summer. Thousands of children have experienced the fun that comes with camp — sports, games, crafts, special events, guest speakers, VBS and the opportunity to make new friends for a lifetime.

Camp Quillian provides a full day of activities all summer long for children ages 5-14. Unfortunately, many of our campers cannot afford the $195 weekly tuition.

If you can help send a child to camp, please consider this opportunity. Camp Quillian is accredited by the ACA and provides working parents a safe haven for their children when school is out for the summer months. Our staff is built with energetic young Christians ready to make a difference in child’s life this summer.

If you are interested in “Putting a smile on a child,” please contact Tom Gaden at 713-468-4705 or Tgaden@quilliancenter.org.

17fmhouston.comMay 2014

Wesley Academy

CCAAMMPP June 2-August 4

Ages 6 months- Pre-K

2, 3, or 5 day program available

For information visit:

www.wesleyacadey.net

or call 713-266-3341

18 May 2014

joys and concernsBaptismsNicole Ruth Perrin, 03/30/2014, Daughter of Thomas & Ashley PerrinAudrianna Dianne Schaefer, 04/06/2014, Daughter of Scott Schaefer & Shauna Oakes

DeathsMr. George Beebe, 03/10/2014Miss Ingree Peterson, 03/12/2014Mrs. Gwen Ridley, 03/18/2014Mr. Robert Louis “Bob” Dyer, 03/22/2014Mrs. Wendy Beecher, 03/24/2014Dr. Roger W. Birkman, 03/26/2014Mrs. Marjorie McMetcalf, 04/01/2014Mrs. Jean Miller, 04/08/2014Mrs. Genevieve Engel “Gen” Adair, 04/12/2014Mrs. Elizabeth “Betty” McAlexander, 04/14/2014

Open Enrollment for Wesley Academy has begun. To learn more about Wesley Academy, visit our website:

www.wesleyacademy.net or call the School Office (713-266-3341) to set up a visit.

A pencil maker told the pencil five im-portant lessons just before putting it in the box:

1. Everything you do will leave a mark.2. You can always correct the mistake

you make.3. What is important is what is inside of

you.4. In life, you will undergo painful

sharpening, which will only make you bet-ter.

5. To be the best, you must allow your-self to be held and guided by the hand that holds you.

We all need to be constantly sharpened. This parable may encourage you to know that you are a special person, with unique God-given talents and abilities. Only you can fulfill the purpose which you were born to accomplish. Never allow yourself to get discouraged and think that your life is insignificant and cannot be change and, like the pencil, always remember that the most important part of who you are is what’s inside of you.

“In the fear of the Lord there is strong confidence, and his children will have a place of refuge.” Proverbs 14:26

The Pencil MakerBy Gary Culbreath

19May 2014

FIND US ON:TV: Sundays live on KUBE-TV, channel 53 (Comcast) and channel 653 (Comcast HD). Dish & Direct TV subscribers will find us on channel 57. Channel 13 (KTRK) carries the sermon portion of the service at 5 a.m., delayed by one week.Radio: KHCB-FM 105.7 on Sundays at 8 p.m.Internet: fmhouston.comVideo streaming: fmhouston.com/communications/livestreaming.aspxBy phone: 832.668.1800 (DT) or 713.458.4700 (WC)

PASTOR ON CALL:When the church offices are closed, you may dial the “Pastor on Call” and leave your name, a number where you can be reached, and a brief word about the nature of your emergency.

The pastor “on call” will return your call as quickly as possible.

Pastor on Call: 832.668.1800, option 7

PRAYER REQUESTSIf you or someone you know needs prayer, fill out a prayer card at church, call the church office or submit your request through our website. Because of your support, First Methodist Houston provides Stephen Ministers, Good Neighbors, Hospital Visitation, CanCare, AIDS Care and Alzheimers Care.

“First Edition” (USPS 015-624) is published monthly for $25 per year by First United Methodist Church, 1320 Main Street, Hous-ton, TX 77002-6803. Phone 832-668-1800. Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, Texas and at additional Mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to First Edition, 1320 Main Street, Houston, Texas 77002-6803.Website: fmhouston.com

In Honor Of: Designated Fund: Given By: Helen Cummings Woodward Fund Pat BonnerFrances Luna Woodward Fund-Happy Birthday John Woods Family

In Memory Of: Designated Fund: Given By: Clifford Trevathan FUMC Foundation M/M Robert ReynoldsRon King First Choice Ministries Martha MooreRon King General Ministries Harry ReedRon King First Choice Ministries M/M Glen SeversRon King Downtown Renovations Betty MetzlerRon King DT Renovations/Fellowship Hall M/M Dick BaileyRon King FUMC Foundation M/M Kurt NondorfRon King General Ministries M/M Robert HamptonDonald Robertson First Choice Ministries Mary ParkerRon King Downtown Renovations M/M Major CollinsWayne Huse First Choice Ministries Fidelis Sunday School ClassLiz Vondy First Choice Ministries Lois GingerRon King First Choice Ministries Brenda ShieldRon King DT Renovations/Fellowship Hall Adelphi Sunday School ClassJanet Brodie DT Renovations/Fellowship Hall Adelphi Sunday School ClassRobert (Bob) Dyer First Choice Ministries Shirley HerbertRon King First Choice Ministries M/M Wes HallIngree Peterson FUMC Foundation M/M Ed WalkupRoger Birkman Downtown Music Worship Program Harry ReedKay Jennings First Choice Ministries M/M Warren DavisGwen Ridley First Choice Ministries M/M Warren DavisRoger Birkman Woodward Fund/Music & Fine Arts M/M Bernie EmbreyRoger Birkman First Choice Ministries M/M Glen SeversRon King DT Renovations/Fellowship Hall Eleanor SmithWendy Beecher DT Renovations/Fellowship Hall Eleanor SmithRobert (Bob) Dyer DT Renovations/Fellowship Hall Eleanor SmithRoger Birkman Downtown Music Worship Program Eleanor SmithRoger Birkman First Choice Ministries Dorothy GallowayJames (Jim) McConnell Woodward Fund/Music & Fine Arts Fidelis Sunday School ClassRoger Birkman Woodward Fund/Music & Fine Arts Alvin Balzer-Balzer CompaniesRoger Birkman First Choice Ministries Martha MooreRoger Birkman Woodward Fund/Music & Fine Arts M/M Clifford EslingerWendy Beecher First Choice Ministries Brenda ShieldRoger Birkman First Choice Ministries Brenda ShieldRoger Birkman Woodward Fund/Music & Fine Arts Mary Grace RandersonWendy Beecher FUMC Foundation Mary Grace RandersonRoger Birkman Woodward Fund/Music & Fine Arts Suzan CotellesseRoger Birkman Woodward Fund/Music & Fine Arts M/M Rex KingRoger Birkman Woodward Fund/Music & Fine Arts Human Potential Sunday SchRoger Birkman Woodward Fund/Music & Fine Arts M/M Perry CarrisonRoger Birkman First Choice Ministries Dorris MaynardRobert (Bob) Dyer First Choice Ministries Dorris MaynardRobert (Bob) Dyer DT Renovations/Fellowship Hall M/M Rex KingWendy Beecher FUMC Foundation M/M William DaviesRoger Birkman Woodward Fund/Music & Fine Arts Edmondson Consulting GpRoger Birkman Woodward Fund/Music & Fine Arts Pat HodgesRoger Birkman Woodward Fund/Music & Fine Arts The Soderquist CenterRoger Birkman Woodward Fund/Music & Fine Arts Beverly Martin

honorariums and memorials

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First United Methodist Church1320 Main StreetHouston, TX 77002

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