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St. Martin’s Episcopal ChurchSt. Martin’s Episcopal Church
STARTHE
N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
St. Martin’s Day
Veterans Day Observance
Atop each of the spires of The Church is a three-dimensional
radiant cross, a symbol of Christ, the light of the world. There
are numerous references in scripture to Christ as the light
of the world (John 1:9, 14). These include the story of the
wise men coming to see the child Jesus (Matthew 2:1-15),
when Jesus was presented to the priests at the temple
(Luke 2:30-32), and Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist
(John 1:29). May St. Martin’s always be that light of Christ
to our city and region.
Our MissionTo bring by the power of the Holy Spirit as many people as possible to know, love, and serve God as revealed through Jesus Christ; and to be transformed into spiritually renewed disciples of Jesus who know, love and serve one another and the world.
Deadline for AnnouncementsThe deadline to submit information for The Star is two months before publication on the 10th of the month.
Church Offices717 Sage Road, Houston, TX 77056
Office HoursMonday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Individual department hours vary.)
PostmasterSend address changes to St. Martin’s Episcopal Church 717 Sage Road Houston, TX 77056-2199
Phone Numbers
Office ..............................................................713-621-3040
Fax ..................................................................713-622-5701
Activity Center .................................................713-621-8625
Café St. Martin’s ..............................................713-985-3847
Event Reservations .........................................713-985-3844
Library ...........................................................713-830-4118
Prayer Requests ..............................................713-830-4124
Preschool ........................................................713-621-2944
The Hope and Healing Center & Institute ........713-871-1004
The Island/Student Ministries .........................713-871-1004
Tours ...............................................................713-830-4117
Visitor Information ..........................................713-830-4126
Additional phone numbers and email addresses are at:stmartinsepiscopal.org > About St. Martin’s > The Staff
STARTHE
The Star is an official publication of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church.
ON THE COVER
St. Martin’s Altarpiece – The carving of St. Martin from the altarpiece in the Patron’s Chapel was created in the late fifteenth century. This beautiful, winged triptych of polychromed sculptures is believed to be from the historic state of Tyrol, a region in what is now northern Italy and western Austria. It depicts four scenes from the life of St. Martin, as well as wood carvings of St. Peter and St. James-the-Greater. For more information about the altarpiece, see page 5.
Contents
N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
02 From the Rector
04 Worship, Christian Education
and Fellowship for Adults
06 Veterans Day Observance
08 Day of Hope and Advent Wreath Project
09 Programs for All Adults
10 Programs for Women
11 Programs for Men
12 Student Ministries
13 Children’s Ministry
14 Outreach and Missions
18 Parish Life
22 Hope and Healing Center & Institue
23 Giving
08 I DAY OF HOPE AND ADVENT WREATH PROJECT
Record your hopes and dreams and place them in our special “Hope Chest,” and make an Advent wreath to enjoy during the Advent season.
06 I VETERANS DAY OBSERVANCE
St. Martin’s honors the men and women of our armed forces during a special service with guest speakers and patriotic music.
05 I ST. MARTIN’S DAY
Join us in celebrating the more than 60 years of our existence as a Parish and give thanks for God’s many blessings to our Church family.
FROM THE RECTOR
The window was inspired, of course, by Jesus’ words we find
at the end of Matthew’s Gospel: “All authority in heaven and
on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples
of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of
the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have
commanded you. And surely I am with you always to the very end of the age.”
(28:18-20) Herein rests the great mission of the Church – and the great
mission of St. Martin’s – to make disciples.
Recently, St. Martin’s passed a significant moment – our 9,000th
member joined (you can read more about her and her family on the next
page). In fact, since that joining, we have had nearly 50 more people join
St. Martin’s either through baptism, the new members class or transfer
from another church. Every now and then, someone will ask me, “How
large will St. Martin’s be?” My answer is, “I don’t know…I just know that we
are called to be faithful to the Great Commission, which I don’t believe had an
expiration date…!” There’s a bit of tongue in cheek there of course, but the
reality is, for whatever reason, God always had in mind to build a large
church family here at the corner of Sage and Woodway.
I have worshipped and served in large parishes, small and everything in
between. I remember in my first position fresh out of seminary, my two
children and the children of one other family were the only youngsters
in their Sunday School program (orchestrated by, well, my bride,
Laura!). That was then, this is now; and I am blessed to be your Rector –
at this large, vibrant, busy and growing Parish.
Keeping in mind that the average Episcopal Church today has around
200 members with an average Sunday attendance of less than 100,
remember that St. Martin’s began with well over 200 members back in
1952. By 1959, only seven years later, under the direction of Dr. Bagby,
the Parish topped 2,000 members. So again, I am confident God works
in small churches, large ones and everything in between. We are a large
Parish, and I suspect we will continue to grow – as long as we are faithful
to the mission Christ has put before us – to make disciples of all nations.
The Great Commission window, located on the north wall of our beautiful nave (pictured below), is a haunting reminder of Jesus’ last great charge to the Church. A “haunting” (particularly thinking on the heels of the month of October!) is not always a bad thing – it can be a good thing – that thing, memory, thought, tune that stays in your head, or heart, and pulls you into a deeper place.
02 T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
The Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr.
F R O M T H E R E C T O R
You and I both know to those who have
been given much, much is expected. (Luke
12:48) That means as we continue to make
our way through our stewardship season
that we not only seek to encourage
members to support our Parish, but also
seek – with great thought and prayer – to
reach the most people we can with the
largest net – and we do have a large net.
Christ called disciples but for one reason:
so that, empowered by the Holy Spirit, they
would go into the world and call and make
new disciples; that they would grow the
Body of Christ. That haunting call is upon
us as well – and we should never let it
leave our hearts.
Evangelism is the work of reaching out for
the sake of Christ, in the name of Christ,
in the power of Christ to bring others to
Christ. And while not all of us are called to
be pastors or priests, all Christians are called
to be agents for Him – and let us not be
“secret agents!”
I like what my mentor John Stott writes
about this call upon us, “Although every
Christian is not called to be a minister or a
missionary, God does intend every Christian to
be a witness to Jesus Christ. In his own home,
among his friends in his college or at this place
of business, it is his solemn responsibility
to live a consistent, loving, humble, honest,
Christ-like life, and to seek to win other people
for him. He will be discreet and courteous,
but determined.”[1]
The most recent study of the demographics
in our area tells us that about 35 percent of
those living within a five mile radius of
St. Martin’s do not yet have a worshipping
community in which to grow and live out
their faith. Of that same percentage, almost
just as many stated that they are “seeking”
such a community. There is work still
to be done.
As we live out the Great Commission at
St. Martin’s, let each of us pray that we are,
by God’s grace, and in His power, doing
our own part. Let the Great Commission
of Scripture – and that great and beautiful
window at St. Martin’s haunt you a bit –
“go...make...” Where? In your home…at
the grocery…dry cleaner…on your evening
walk…at work…that person you see on the
street who just, for some strange reason,
catches your eye, and tugs on your heart
– perhaps haunts you just a bit…you are
commissioned by Christ Himself to make
disciples…what a great call that is…
[1] John Stott, Basic Christianity (Downer’s Grove, Illinois: Inter-Varsity Press, 1971), p. 141.
<
The most recent study
of the demographics
in our area tells us
that about 35 percent
of those living within
a five mile radius
of St. Martin’s
do not yet have
a worshipping
community in which
to grow and live out
their faith.
=
Thursday, September 10 – St. Martin’s welcomed the 9,000th member of the Parish when Peggy
England and her family joined the Church after transferring from St. Francis Episcopal Church in
Potomac, Maryland. (from left to right) The Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr. met with Craig England,
Elizabeth England, Carl England and Peggy England, along with the Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle,
Bishop of Texas, and Michael Donaldson, Senior Warden.
T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 03
W O R S H I P , C H R I S T I A N E D U C A T I O N A N D F E L L O W S H I P F O R A D U L T S
SEEKERS
(60s, 70s and up)
Sundays 10:15 – 11 a.m. Activity Center, Aerobics Room Clergy Liaisons: The Rev. Nick Dyke and
the Rev. Robert Wareing
Seekers is a great place for couples and
singles to meet and study the Gospel
and other readings, and then branch off
into Church history, liturgy, sacraments
and other related areas. We just have fun
learning! Please come and join our group.
CHRISTIAN BOOK STUDYSundays 10:15 – 11 a.m. Vestry Conference Room
Clergy Liaison: The Rev. R-J Heijmen
Our Sunday School classes emphasize
Christian education and fellowship while
reading various Christian books, and
provide a community in which you can
develop your Christian understanding, a
sense of belonging and lasting friendships.
COVENANT GROUPS
The Rev. Rob Dixon, our new Associate
Rector for Pastoral Care and Outreach, is
meeting with members throughout the
fall to consider ways in which we can
respond to a need expressed by members
to connect beyond our regular worship
and programming, specifically in small
group gatherings for fellowship and
discipleship. He would welcome your
input and an opportunity to visit with
members who have an interest in this
initiative. Feel free to contact the Rev. Dixon at 713-830-4131 or [email protected].
BASIC BIBLE STUDY
Singing a Song of the Saints of God: A Year-long Look at Biblical Heroes Sundays 10:15 – 11 a.m. Bagby Parish Hall Led by Dr. Matt Stanford, Chief Executive Officer, Hope and Healing Center & Institute
As the old All Saints Day hymn goes,
“one was a doctor, and one was a queen,
one was a shepherdess on the green…one
was a soldier, and one was a priest, and
one was slain by a fierce wild beast.” The
point, of course, is that Christian saints
can be found anywhere and everywhere,
because being a saint is not chiefly about
what we do or don’t do, but rather about
trusting in Jesus, who “paid it all” (in
the words of another great hymn). The
saints of God are people like you and
me, ordinary men and women through
whom God has done extraordinary
things. This will be a chance to “get real”
about who we actually are and wonder
once again at God’s amazing grace
through Jesus Christ. For more information about Basic Bible Study, contact Deb Tisch at 713-985-3817 or [email protected].
Thanksgiving Day Service
Thursday,
November 26
10 a.m.
The Church
Holy Eucharist
Christmas Eve Services
Thursday, December 24
1 p.m.
The Church
Family Service (no Eucharist)
3 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
The Church
Holy Eucharist with nativity liturgy;
festive music by the Parish Choir,
Gloria Dei Organ, Brass and Tympani
Christmas Day Service
Friday,
December 25
11 a.m.
The Church
Holy Eucharist
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29
Adult Sunday School will not meet due to the Thanksgiving holiday.
04 T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
About Our Patron Saint Martin was born in
modern-day Hungary in
316 and grew up in Pavia,
Italy where his father was
a tribune for the Roman army. He converted
to Christianity before following in his father’s
footsteps and joining the Roman army when
he was 15. When his faith conflicted with
serving as a soldier, he resigned his post but
was imprisoned as a traitor and later released.
He then followed a simple life as a monk and
helped found the first monastery in Gaul
in about 360.
Martin traveled by donkey and boat to spread
the news of Jesus Christ and was sought out
for his healing prayers for the sick. He was
appointed Bishop of Tours in 371 by the will
of the people and recognized as one of the
greatest evangelists of the Church. He died
in November 397. In the Middle Ages, more
churches chose Martin as their patron saint
(naming their parishes for him) than any
other saint. November 11, the day St. Martin
was believed to have been buried, has been
celebrated as St. Martin’s Day for more
than 1,600 years.
W O R S H I P , C H R I S T I A N E D U C A T I O N A N D F E L L O W S H I P F O R A D U L T S
The St. Martin’s Altarpiece This altarpiece depicts figures clothed in costumes typical of the time when the piece was created in the 1400s. The two wings doors are carved with scenes from the life of St. Martin while the center of the triptych holds sculptures of St. Martin flanked by St. Peter on his right and St. James-the-Greater on his left. The altarpiece and the Patron’s Chapel where it is located were blessed by The Most Rev. and Rt. Honorable Dr. George L. Carey, 103rd Archbishop of
Canterbury, on January 5, 2008.
Upper left wing: This scene from the early life of St. Martin illustrates the well-known episode when young Martin, then a Roman soldier, divided his cloak with his sword to share with a shivering beggar.
Lower left wing: St. Martin appears to be blessing three lifeless nuns. This panel probably refers to the legend that
“St. Martin said that in his dreams he conversed with three saints: the Virgin Mary, St. Agnes and St. Thecla.” At the time the piece was produced, it was customary to
portray all canonized women as nuns.
Upper right wing: This panel shows the elevation of a reluctant St. Martin to Bishop of Tours in 371 A.D. Despite the ornamental trappings of a bishop, his eyes remain fixed
on his heavenly mission.
Lower right wing: This scene commemorates St. Martin’s death in November 397. It is thought to depict the legend that, at the moment of death, Ambrose, Bishop of Milan (St. Martin’s friend and brother in Christ), “was said to have been transported in a
dream to Gaul to perform the last rites.”
Center left: St. Peter, standing on St. Martin’s right, holds the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven.
Center: Under delicately carved Gothic tracery, St. Martin stands, crozier in hand,
wearing the miter and cope of a Bishop.
Center right: St. James-the-Greater, on his left, wears a pilgrim’s hat. The cockleshell on the brim of the distinctive hat was the hallmark of pilgrims visiting the shrine of
St. James, the first apostle to be martyred.
CELEBRATING ST. MARTIN’S DAY Sunday, November 15 You are invited to join us in celebrating the more than 60 years of our existence as a Parish and help us remember all those who have gone before us as laity and Clergy in this wonderful Parish. Please come and give thanks for Martin, our patron saint, and God’s many blessings to our
Church Family.
Special Guest Preacher The Rt. Rev. Edward L. Salmon, Jr. (retired) 8 a.m., 9 a.m.
and 11:15 a.m.
The Church
Bishop Edward L. Salmon, Jr. (retired) is the former Dean and President of Nashotah House Theological Seminary in Nashotah, Wisconsin. Prior to that appointment, he served as Bishop of South Carolina from 1989 to 2008. A native of Natchez, Mississippi, Salmon received his Bachelor of Art degree in history from Sewanee: The University of the South and Master of Divinity degree from Virginia Theological Seminary. He was ordained a deacon in 1960 and priest in 1961. Bishop Salmon first served missions in northwest Arkansas and became involved with The Anglican Digest, for which he serves as Chairman of the Board today. He went on to become Associate Rector and then Rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Fayetteville, Arkansas, before serving as
Rector of The Church of St. Michael & St. George near St. Louis, Missouri. While there he founded the Anglican Communion Institute, which seeks to promote the cause of traditional and biblical Anglicanism. Bishop Salmon was a member of the Board of Trustees for Sewanee for more than 30 years, as well as the Board of Regents. After retirement, he served alongside the Rev. Alex Large as Rector for All Saints Church in Chevy Chase, Maryland. Bishop Salmon still has Episcopal oversight of two congregations, and also leads retreats for
vestries and preaches.
PARISH FAMILY PICTURE 10:15 a.m. Sharp In front of The Church
T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 05
Veterans Day Observance
W O R S H I P , C H R I S T I A N E D U C A T I O N A N D F E L L O W S H I P F O R A D U L T S
SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKERS
United States Army Lieutenant General Rick Lynch (retired)
General Lynch attended the United States Military Academy at West Point, graduated
in 1977 and was commissioned as a regular Army Engineer Officer. As an Engineer, he commanded both a Mobile Assault Bridge Company and Combat Engineer Company in the 2nd Armored Division. He then branched transferred to Armor and subsequently commanded both a tank battalion (1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry, 1st Cavalry Division) and tank brigade (1st Brigade, 4th Infantry Division).
Sunday, November 15
6 p.m.
The Church St. Martin’s salutes the many military men and women of our Parish who have served our country. Please join us for this special service honoring our veterans that is set within the context of Evening Prayers and patriotic music. Child care is available for newborns – pre-K during this service.
General Lynch was promoted to Brigadier General in 2001 and served as the Assistant Division Commander, 4th Infantry Division, Chief of Staff, Kosovo Forces, and Deputy Chief of Staff, Operations for Joint Force Command Naples, Italy. He served in Iraq as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Strategic Effects and the spokesman for Multinational Forces Iraq from 2005 to 2006. General Lynch went on to command the 3rd Infantry Division from 2006 to 2008, during which time he deployed the Division to Iraq as part of the Surge, and commanded Task Force Marne in Iraq for 15 months. After redeployment, General Lynch was selected to command III Corps and Fort Hood, Texas. His last position in the Army was as the Commanding General, Installation Management Command and Assistant Chief of Staff for Installation Management. He was responsible for 163 Army installations worldwide with an annual budget of $12 billion and workforce of 120,000. After retirement, General Lynch became the Executive Director of The University of Texas at Arlington Research Institute, a multi-million dollar facility focused on advanced technology to help humanity and finding
affordable solutions to complex problems. He is now the Chief Executive Officer of his own consulting company, RLynch Enterprises. General Lynch recently published a book on adaptive leadership entitled Adapt or Die: Leadership Principles from an American General. He and his wife, Sarah, reside in Southlake, Texas.
United States Navy Captain Eugene A. Cernan (retired)
During 20 years as a Naval Aviator, including 13 years with the National Aeronautics and Space
Administration (NASA), Captain Eugene A. Cernan left his mark on history with three historic missions in space as the Pilot of Gemini IX, Lunar Module Pilot of Apollo X, and Commander of Apollo XVII. After flying to the moon not once, but twice, he also holds the distinction of being the second American to walk in space and the last man to have left his footprints on the lunar surface. Among his numerous honors, the most significant are the Navy Distinguished Flying Cross, Distinguished Service Medal with Star, NASA Distinguished Service Medal, FAI International Gold Medal for Space, induction into the U.S. Space Hall of Fame, enshrinement into the National Aviation Hall of Fame, Naval Aviation’s Hall of Honor and International Aerospace Hall of Fame. Captain Cernan received a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University and Master of Science degree in Aeronautical Engineering from the United States Naval Post Graduate School. He authored the book The Last Man on the Moon, which tells about the fear, love and sacrifice demanded of the few men who dared to reach beyond the heavens for the biggest prize of all – the Moon.
06 T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
Veterans Day Observance
W O R S H I P , C H R I S T I A N E D U C A T I O N A N D F E L L O W S H I P F O R A D U L T S
United States Navy Vice Admiral William E. Ramsey (retired)
After completing flight training at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida, Admiral Ramsey went on to
become the first pilot to make a nose-tow catapult launch from a carrier, first pilot to conduct a single-engine landing aboard ship in both the F-4B and E-ZC, and first pilot to fly a turbo prop aboard ship. He became the first commanding officer of the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower and upon the carrier’s commissioning took her to sea in October 1977. Admiral Ramsey retired with more than 35 years of active duty, including nine sea tours, 15 deployments of longer than six months each, and 138 sorties
over North Vietnam.
The Very Rev. Anthony P. Clark, Command Chaplain, Florida Army and Air National Guard (active)
Chaplain (Colonel) Anthony P. Clark
currently serves as the Command Chaplain for the Florida Army and Air National Guard. His 30 years of uniformed service includes enlisted service in the Military Intelligence Corps, training as a Chaplain Candidate and 20 years of experience as a Chaplain in the Florida Army National Guard. Chaplain Clark is endorsed by The Episcopal Church and has served more than 23 years as a parish priest in the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida, most recently as Dean of the Cathedral Church of St. Luke, Orlando. A graduate of Stetson University and Virginia Theological Seminary, Chaplain Clark served on the Diocesan Board, Standing Committee, diocesan Finance Commission and as a three time Deputy to General Convention. He is currently a pursuing a Doctor of Ministry through Trinity School for Ministry.
The Honorable James A. Baker, III James A. Baker, III
served as the 61st
U.S. Secretary of
State under President
George H.W. Bush,
as the 67th Secretary
of the Treasury under President Ronald
Reagan, and as White House Chief of Staff
to Presidents Reagan and Bush. He also
served as Under Secretary of Commerce
to President Ford. He led five presidential
campaigns from 1976 to 1992. Baker
graduated from Princeton University and
received his J.D. with honors from The
University of Texas School of Law. He is
presently a senior partner in the law firm
of Baker Botts. Baker was born in Houston
in 1930. He and his wife, the former Susan
Garrett, currently reside in Houston, and
have eight children and 17 grandchildren.
Susan Garrett Baker
Susan Garrett Baker
is a founding member
of the National
Alliance to End
Homelessness, which
began around her
dining table in
1983. She and Tipper Gore founded the
Parents’ Music Resource Center, which
convinced major recording companies
to voluntarily label violent and sexually
explicit music. In 1999, Susan helped
organize “A Gathering of Friends” in
Amman, Bethlehem and Jerusalem to
celebrate the 2000th birthday of Jesus
of Nazareth. She has served on the
boards of several organizations, including
Neighborhood Centers, Inc. and the
Houston Food Bank. Her autobiography,
Passing It On, was published in
October 2010.
United States Army Lieutenant Colonel James B. Montgomery (retired)
After receiving his commission into the Army
Medical Service Corps, Lieutenant Colonel James B. Montgomery went on to serve as a Medical Platoon Leader, 1st Battalion, 63rd Armor (Opposing Forces) at the National Training Center, Fort Irwin, California; Commander of Delta Company, Walter Reed Army Medical Center; Comptroller and Deputy Commander for Administration, Ireland Army Community Hospital, Fort Knox, Kentucky; Deputy Commander for Administration, US Army Health Clinic, Vicenza, Italy; and Senior Program Analyst, Office of the Army Surgeon General. Among Jim’s numerous military awards and decorations are five Meritorious Service Medals, three Army Commendation Medals and four Army Achievement Medals. After retiring from military service, he joined the Carilion Clinic, Roanoke, Virginia, as a Senior Performance Improvement Consultant.
Military Members of St. Martin’s Parish Family
The Rev. John R. Bentley, Jr.United States Marine Corps Reserve
The Rev. James CunninghamUnited States Air Force 1st Lieutenant
Arlen FergusonUnited States Coast Guard Reserve HM 2nd Class
Adams C. McHenry, Jr.United States Marine Corps Corporal (veteran)
John E. OlsenUnited States Air Force Lieutenant Colonel (retired)
Paul PianaUnited States Navy Ensign
Pamela J. Smith United States Army Nurse Corps 1st Lieutenant (veteran) The Hon. John T. Wooldridge United States Navy Captain, JAGC (retired)
T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 07
W O R S H I P , C H R I S T I A N E D U C A T I O N A N D F E L L O W S H I P F O R A D U L T S
“ AN ADVENT WREATH DEVOTIONAL
1
”Both adult and children’s versions now available for purchase in St. Martin’s Bookstore & Gift Shoppe
With this devotional, we hope to provide you with a framework to travel within the circle of God’s love throughout the Advent season. Using a question, some Scripture, a brief meditation and a closing prayer, we will offer you what we hope will be a regular companion in your Advent journey for years to come.
– Laura and Russ Levenson
DAY OF HOPE AND ADVENT WREATH PROJECT Sunday, November 29
10:15 a.m.
Bagby Parish Hall
Join together with our Parish family as we
record our hopes and dreams for our church
family and ourselves. You’ll have the
opportunity to write them down and place
them in the “Hope Chest” (pictured right)
that has a permanent home in the Rector’s
office where it is prayed over throughout
the year. Supplies also will be available
so that church members can design their
own personal or family “Hope Chest.”
This little box will be filled with hopes and
dreams, and can be placed in your home as
a reminder to not only dream, but also to
trust in the hope we have in Christ.
Additional supplies will be on hand to
make an Advent wreath with fresh greens
and candles. It will be yours to take home
and enjoy as you and your family and
guests celebrate the Advent season.
08 T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
P R O G R A M S F O R A L L A D U L T S
INFORMATION MEETING FOR NEW YORK CITY TOUR Sunday, November 15
Following the 11:15 a.m. service
Bagby Parish Hall
Come fly away to the city that never
sleeps for an arts and leisure tour
March 29 – April 3, 2016, that can be
customized to accommodate personal
interests and tastes. This trip, which
is open to all members and friends of
St. Martin’s Parish, includes airfare,
transfers from the airport to the hotel,
tickets to some of the best Broadway
shows, several meals, guided tours
and great accommodations in the
heart of one of the most exciting
cities in the world.
Families are welcome and encouraged
to go together. However, because
of the fast pace, amount of walking
required and full schedule of
activities, this trip is recommended
for physically fit adults and mature
teenagers.
For more information, contact Bruce Morgan at 713-985-3810 or [email protected].
ORDER OF ST. LUKE THE PHYSICIAN
Wednesdays,
November 4,
11 and 18
5 – 6 p.m.
Payne Education
Center, Room 207/209
St. Martin’s chapter of the Order of
St. Luke (OSL) the Physician is part
of an international organization that
is dedicated to the Christian healing
ministry. The group studies Holy Scripture
and books written about the healing
ministry with the purpose of being
equipped to offer this ministry to others.
OSL invites those interested in knowing
more about Jesus’ healing today to “come
and see” the Wednesday class. For more information, email [email protected], or contact Jennifer DiMichele at 713-985-3845 or [email protected].
FESTIVAL CHORAL EUCHARISTSunday, November 8 6 p.m.
The Church
The brass principles from the
Houston Symphony will join us in the
presentation of thrilling works for choir,
organ, brass and tympani.
SERVANT HEARTS The Servant HeARTS ministry offers
parishioners a new avenue to utilize
their creative gifts, talents and abilities
to serve God and His Church by creating
a strategic plan and outlet designed
for these purposes. Based on responses
from the Spiritual Gifts Assessment from
the Membership 101 Class, we have
discovered that parishioners who have
a heart for service and creative abilities
would benefit from this structured
ministry to utilize and explore their gifts.
Through Servant HeARTS, parishioners
will be able to use their God-given talents
to support various projects and events
at St. Martin’s. This ministry will be
coordinated and orchestrated through
the Office of Creative Ministries.
For more information, contact Bruce Morgan at 713-985-3810 or [email protected].
T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 09
P R O G R A M S F O R W O M E N
DAUGHTERS OF THE KINGSaturday, November 7
10:30 a.m. – noon
Payne Education Center, Room 202/204
Dr. Matt Stanford, Chief Executive
Officer of the Hope and Healing Center
& Institute, will speak about
“Gratefulness and Mental Health” at the
monthly meeting for the Order of the
Daughters of the King. The vision of this
order is to know Jesus Christ, to make
Him known to others, and to become
reflections of God’s love throughout the
world. Membership is open to women and
girls at every stage of life – from ages seven
to 107.
For more information, contact [email protected], or Deb Tisch at 713-985-3817 or [email protected].
EPISCOPAL CHURCH WOMEN ANNUAL RETREAT AT CAMP ALLENFriday – Sunday, November 20 – 22
Navasota, Texas
Come hear great speakers and attend
wonderful workshops focusing on the
theme “And Who Is Your Neighbor?”
to help you refuel before the holidays.
For more information and to register,
visit epicenter.org/ecw-annual-retreat.
THE MOMS’ GROUPWednesdays,
November 4, 11
and 18
9:15 a.m.
Payne Education
Center, Room 207/209
Join The Moms’ Group as we discuss
together the joys and struggles of raising
young kids. Mothers of young children
ranging in age from infants to early
elementary meet for a time of fellowship,
teaching, prayer and support. The group
is led by Emily Large.
OUTREACH PROGRAMWednesday, November 18
Noon – 1 p.m.
Activity Center, Upper Hall East
Join members of St. Clare’s Needlepoint
Guild and Saintly Stitchers as they make
sandwiches for Kids’ Meals, the nation’s
only meals-on-wheels service for children
that provides healthy, home-delivered
lunches to hungry children under the
age of five who live in poverty.
Trim and TinselA Holiday Hostess Workshop
Share a fun evening with ECW friends at a holiday workshop. Learn decorating tips for your next holiday event complete with a custom wreath and centerpiece.
Tuesday, November 17 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
The Island$25 per person
Event ChairsKelly Leonard, Katie LaRue, Mary Susan McDowell and Elle Wiens
Register online by Friday, November 13 at stmartinsepiscopal.org/registration.
10 T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
An Advent CompanionPreparing Room – A Collection of Scriptures, Meditations and Prayers by Russell J. Levenson, Jr.
“ Advent is the season where we turn once again to the beginning of the Christian story as it centers on Jesus. The pieces of this story come together not from one set of hands, but many – and they are not of one texture, but many. In these pages, I hope to offer several gifts: Scriptures key to telling the story, a brief meditation, and avenue for “preparing room” and a prayer. This collection is designed to carry one through the season of Advent.”
From the Introduction of Preparing Room
ROOMpreparing
AN ADVENT COMPANION
A Collection of Scriptures, Meditations and Prayers
Russell J. Levenson, Jr.
Available for purchase in St. Martin’s Bookstore & Gift Shoppe
YOUNG DADS’ BIBLE STUDY
Wednesdays, November 4, 11 and 18
7 – 8 a.m.
Bride’s Room
Join the Rev. Alex Large and other dads of
young children for Bible study as we seek
to connect the Gospel to our lives today.
For more information, contact the Rev. Alex Large at [email protected].
P R O G R A M S F O R M E N
THURSDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY Thursdays
7 – 8 a.m.
Bagby Parish Hall
This group is open to all men of the
Parish of all ages, and any male guests
and visitors. We gather each Thursday
morning through May for a brief Bible
reflection and then break into groups
for discussion, fellowship and mutual
support, along with several special guest
speakers. Breakfast is available for a $5
donation. Reservations are not required.
NOVEMBER 5 Chapter 7 – Mark 6:30-56 Amazing Compassion
NOVEMBER 12 Chapter 8 – Mark 7:1-37
The Heart of the Matter
NOVEMBER 19 Guest Speaker
Brian Jamison,
East West Ministries
Brian Jamison
spent seven years in
East Africa teaching
at a Bible college
and later training
evangelists working
among unreached
tribes of Samburu, Maasai and Sabaot.
In 2008, God moved him northward to
begin working with Muslims in North
Africa and the Middle East. Having spent
time in more than 20 countries with a
Muslim majority, his individual gospel
presentations to Muslims have grown to
more than 100. Brian has partnerships
with other organizations in Iraq and
Algeria, and oversees staff in Turkey,
Jordan, Egypt and the Philippines. He
holds a master’s degree from Dallas
Seminary and has served with East West
Ministries the past 13 years.
NOVEMBER 27 No Meeting – Thanksgiving
KIDS’ MEALS – MEN’S OUTREACH PROGRAM Tuesday, November 10
5 – 6:30 p.m.
Activity Center, Fellowship Room
Join the Men of St. Martin’s to make
sandwiches for hungry children. We
make approximately 10,000 sandwiches
annually that are delivered for lunch to
preschool children living in poverty.
T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 11
S T U D E N T M I N I S T R I E S
FOR ALL STUDENTS
Sunday Morning EYC 10:15 – 11 a.m. The Island
Let’s get started with Sunday mornings!
Meet downstairs for donuts, fun and
to learn more about God through the
Bible. If you are visiting or looking to
check out our middle school group for
the first time this would be the perfect
place to start! For more information, contact Florence Ritchie at 713-985-3843 of [email protected].
MIDDLE SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
8th Grade Confirmation Classes Sundays, November 1 – February 21
10 – 11:10 a.m.
Hope and Healing Center Auditorium
Confirmation Retreat (required)
Friday – Sunday, January 8 – 10
Carolina Creek Christian Camp, Huntsville
The St. Martin’s 8th grade Confirmation
class runs from November – February and
gives students an opportunity to learn
about and think through the Christian
message in a more intentional manner
than ever before. Through classes,
discussion, fellowship and retreat, these
students will be led through the journey
from childhood to adult faith. For 8th grade Confirmation information, contact Will Kulseth at 713-830-4148 or [email protected].
HIGH SCHOOLSchool-based Fellowship Groups
Our school-based Bible studies continue
this fall. We believe meeting students
where they are gives us the greatest
opportunity to reach them and their
communities. The times and locations
of these groups are tailored to their
specific schools.
Please check theislandlive.com for all the details.
.
CUB SCOUT PACK 354 AND BOY SCOUT TROOP 354Scouting with Cub Scout Pack 354 and
Boy Scout Troop 354 at St. Martin’s is fun
and a wonderful opportunity to teach
life skills – leadership, ethics and more.
The three promises of the Scout oath are:
Duty to God and country; Duty to other
people; and Duty to self. Based on this
premise, the adult leadership works to
bring the young men in the organization
to independence and true self-reliance as
they progress through the advancement
program. This “boy-led” concept enables
young men to lead, make decisions,
budget and plan for events. It is through
these experiences they gain a greater
understanding of themselves. More
than 145 Eagle Scouts have come from
Boy Scout Troop 354 since 1957. The
troop meets every Monday at 7:30 p.m.
at The Scout Center. Visitors are always
welcome.
For more information, contact Walt Schroeder, Scout Master, at [email protected], or visit houstontroop354.org.
Every year Scouts attend the Scout Sunday service during which they act as ushers, greeters and flag bearers, and participate in the service.
12 T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
C H I L D R E N ’ S M I N I S T R Y
ABOUT OUR SUNDAY SCHOOL PRESCHOOL PROGRAMOur communication to parents regarding
Children’s Ministry often is overly specific
to grade school children. But what about
the little guys, our precious preschool
children? What does their Sunday
morning look like? Well, for starters,
preschool meets in an entirely different
building: Founders’ Hall. This is where
we minister to children ages newborn
through prekindergarten. Every age has
their own room that is age appropriate,
beginning with the Stork room that is
open to newborn babies until they reach
one year of age. Children then move to
the Bunny room where they remain until
they turn two when they become a Lamb;
three-year-olds are in the Butterfly room;
four-year-olds are in the Turtle room; and
children in prekindergarten are in the
Owl room. Children can be promoted to
an older classroom as their development
demands between the Stork and Bunny
rooms. Once they reach the Bunny room,
promotion takes place for children in
August in conjunction with back to
school. It’s an exciting time for both
children and parents!
Within the preschool program, we have
a curriculum designed for our smallest
parishioners called God Loves Me. Our
classrooms have teachers who are ready
to receive children during all the morning
worship services. In the early part of the
morning we offer music to the preschool
kids taught by Ophelia Pujol, Children’s
Choir. She has been involved in
St. Martin’s Music Ministry for 29 years
and we’re honored to have her with our
kids every Sunday! After music, teachers
guide the kids through the Bible lesson
and activity before parent pick up.
Our preschool program is overseen
by Ursella Rylander, Children’s Ministry
Coordinator, who has a 20+ year preschool
teaching background. Our preschoolers
are nurtured and loved on every Sunday
while they learn about Jesus’ love for them
at a very early age. After all, it’s never too
soon to know how much we’re cherished
by Him!
Collections for the Children’s Christmas Outreach Project
Sunday, November 7 – December 13
Payne Education Center, Room 202
The Children’s Ministry will collect, package and send care-boxes to the Seafarers’ Center of Texas. As sailors travel through the Port of Houston during the Christmas season, they are often away from home for weeks at a time and are in need of supplies.
Collections include:
• Gum and hard candy • Key chains • Paper and envelopes • Pencils and pens • Playing cards • Puzzles and games • Postcards and stamps • Socks and baseball caps • Texas souvenirs • Toothbrush and toothpaste • Dental floss • Kleenex and combs • Band-aids and Q-tips • Lotion and lip balm • Nail clippers • Shampoo • Disposable camera
Children’s Ministry will pack, wrap and decorate these boxes in Sunday School on Sunday, December 13. Outreach Ministry will then deliver our gift boxes to the Seafarers’ Center
just in time for Christmas!
For more information, look in the Children’s Ministry e-newsletter for details. To sign up for the e-newsletter, contact Holli Kight at 713-985-3816 or [email protected].
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29
Children’s Sunday School* will not meet due to the Thanksgiving holiday.
*Child care for infants through pre-K will continue to be offered during all morning worship services.
T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 13
O U T R E A C H A N D M I S S I O N S
PARTNERING WITH AMAZING PLACE TO HELP THOSE WITH MEMORY LOSS Numerous St. Martin’s parishioners are
devoted volunteers and supporters of
Amazing Place. Founded in 1996,
Amazing Place is Houston’s only day
program devoted to adults with mild to
moderate memory loss. Its participants,
ranging in age from 50 to 90, benefit
from invigorating programs that promote
health, wellness and fellowship. Amazing
Place also provides support for families
and the community.
Each November, St. Martin’s Outreach
ministry sponsors a Turkey Trot event at
Amazing Place where volunteers host a
Thanksgiving party for clients. During
Outreach Sunday, we create 50 beautifully
decorated Easter wreaths and deliver them
to Amazing Place families. Additionally,
our volunteers repurpose flowers leftover
from memorial services by taking them
to Amazing Place for clients to arrange.
Our partnership with Amazing Place is
commended in the note below from the
Episcopal Health Foundation President.
“I visited Amazing Place last week at
the invitation of a good friend who is on
the board – and I was amazed. I was very
proud that our congregations are
participating supporters. The work of
Amazing Place is outside the scope of
Episcopal Health Foundation’s grant
funding parameters, which they
understood when they invited me to
tour, but like so many necessary and
worthy organizations, it deserves the
support of our diocese. Thanks for what
you do for this great organization,
and so many others.”
Elena M. Marks
President and CEO
Episcopal Health Foundation
For more information about Amazing Place, visit amazingplacehouston.org.
UPCOMING EVENTS IN COLLABORATION WITH AMAZING PLACE
Worried About Your Memory? It May Not Be Dementia!
Wednesday, November 11
Noon – 1 p.m.
Hope and Healing Center
Join Sally Davis, Amazing Place Health
Services Director, in reviewing situations
attributed to age-related changes and
sharing lifestyle habits that can increase
your chances of aging successfully.
Memory lapses are not always caused by
dementia. Many adults over 50 worry
about becoming forgetful; it is natural to
feel uneasy when you forget something.
However, many memory lapses are
simply the result of normal aging
changes, not a serious illness.
The event is free of charge. Registration is required. For more information and to register, visit hopeandhealingevents.org.
Turkey Trot Tuesday, November 24
10 – 11 a.m.
Amazing Place, 3735 Drexel Drive
Amazing Place provide a safe, spiritual
and nurturing program for older adults
with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s or
similar dementia, while offering respite,
education and support to their caregivers
and families. St. Martin’s hosts this
Thanksgiving party each year
for the clients.
14 T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
Prison Ministry
Friday, November 6
10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Clemens Unit
Team Sports
Tuesdays, November 3, 10 and 17
7 p.m.
Spring Spirit Baseball, 8526 Pitner Road
Weather permitting
Bo’s Place Holiday Dinner
Monday, November 2
5:30 – 7 p.m.
Bo’s Place, 10050 Buffalo Speedway
Bo’s Place is a non-profit, free-of-charge
bereavement center that offers multiple
grief support services for children,
families and adults in their grief journey,
and provides education and resources
for those who assist people in grief.
St. Martin’s volunteers serve a holiday
meal to these families twice a year.
O U T R E A C H A N D M I S S I O N S
GET INVOLVED WITH OUTREACH AND MISSIONS Whether you are reaching out to help
others less fortunate here in Houston or
another country, doing so “makes the
heart happy!” St. Martin’s partners with
more than 50 agencies in Houston and
abroad. Each week there is an organized
effort to serve others and share in
fellowship with other parishioners. For more information about St. Martin’s volunteer opportunities, call 713-985-3811 or email [email protected].
HOUSTON: reVISIONreVision works to transform the lives
of at-risk and gang-affected youth by
connecting them to positive adult role
models, building a new community
around strong, affirming peer groups,
and preparing the youth for promising
futures through education and jobs.
Community Nights
Thursdays, November 5, 12 and 19
6:45 – 9 p.m.
The Island
Volunteer Orientation
Thursday, November 5
6 – 7 p.m.
The Island
Kids’ Meals
Tuesday, November 3
4 – 5 p.m.
Activity Center, Community Room
Kids’ Meals provides and distributes
nutritious lunches to hungry preschool
children throughout Houston.
Stamping It Forward
Tuesday, November 3
9:30 – 11:30 a.m. and 4 – 5 p.m.
Activity Center
No experience is required to help make
paper creations such as cards, boxes,
bags and more benefitting our Outreach
programs. Creative coaching is included!
All paper, embellishments, adhesive and
tools are provided.
T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 15
O U T R E A C H A N D M I S S I O N S
of mental health, foster care and
adoption services in Texas. Through
St. Martin’s Angel Tree Project, volunteers
sign up to fulfill the Christmas gift wish
lists for these children. Gifts should be
unwrapped and new. If all items will not
fit in a bag, please label items with the
child’s name and
wish list number.
Toys are not
recommended
that imply
violence, such as
toy guns, water
pistols, military
or wrestler action
figures, punching bag clown or boxing
gloves. Please adhere as much as possible
to the gift list provided and focus on
needs, with a recommended donation
of $50 to $100 total per child. Gift cards
from Target or Walmart are welcome.
Please bring donated toys by Sunday,
December 6. To volunteer for this project or request information, contact Rachel Brownlie at 713-985-3811 or [email protected].
The Beacon Day Center Thursday, November 19
10:45 a.m. – 2 p.m.
1212 Prairie
The Beacon is a day shelter in downtown
Houston that provides the homeless with
a meal, laundry services, shower facilities
and assistance.
Houston Food Bank/San Mateo Episcopal Church Food Fair Saturday, November 21
8:30 – 11:30 a.m.
San Mateo Episcopal Church
6635 Alder Drive
St. Martin’s coordinates quarterly food
distribution to hundreds of families in
the underserved San Mateo community
located in southwest Houston.
The Gathering
Monday, November 23
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Bagby Parish Hall
The Gathering endeavors to use its time
and gifts to serve Church members and
others in our community who suffer with
memory loss. The program provides a
safe and loving environment filled with
creative and stimulating activities for
care partners, and allows their care givers
respite from the day-to-day care and
often difficult support required by care
partners. For more information, contact Kathy Tellepsen at 713-621-6485 or [email protected], or the Rev. Suse McBay at 713-985-3823 or [email protected].
Church Under the Bridge
Tuesday, November 10
6:30 p.m. Leave from St. Maritn’s parking lot
7:30 p.m. Worship service
2800 St. Charles Street
Church Under the Bridge ministers to
the homeless in downtown Houston by
serving a meal, serving as prayer partners
and providing praise music for the
worship service once a month.
DePelchin Children’s Center’s Angel Tree Christmas Gift Program
Pick up wish list bags
Sunday,
November 15
8:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
and 5:45 – 7:15 p.m.
Sunday, November 22
8:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Angel Tree table in The Church Narthex
Drop off filled gift bags
Sundays, November 22 and 29
and December 6
Activity Center during the morning services,
and to the ushers during the evening service
Weekdays and Saturday, December 5
Activity Center* * The Activity Center is closed November 25 – 28 for the Thanksgiving holiday.
The DePelchin Children’s Center is
committed to meeting the needs of
children as one of the largest providers
16 T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
O U T R E A C H A N D M I S S I O N S
RECIPIENT 2
Recipient name(s)
Address
City, State and Zip
Donor name to appear as
Ministry Amount: $
THE GIVING TREE CHRISTMAS CARD PROGRAMCelebrate the holiday season with family and friends by making a donation in their
honor to your favorite ministry. Simply fill out the form below and return it to St. Martin’s
Episcopal Church by mail, fax or email by Sunday, December 15. Feel free to attach the
names of additional recipients. The cards shown below will be personalized and mailed to
each person on your list. Your tax deductible gift can be paid by credit card or check
payable to St. Martin’s Episcopal Church.The Giving Tree
MINISTRY YOUR GIFT WILL...Christian Community Service Center $45 provides rice and beans for the food pantry.Open Door Mission $30 provides 12-step recovery books and telephone cards.The Prison Ministry $30 provides a storytelling DVD for 10 inmate dads.Yellowstone Academy $40 provides two students with Bibles.Yellowstone Boy Scouts $100 provides a tent.ReVision $50 provides dinner for Community Night at The Island.The Gathering $20 provides a day of fellowship and entertainment for seniors with Alzheimer’s.World Mission Christmas Gifts $100 provides Christmas gifts for children at Amistad mission.Outreach Ministries Any amount will support outreach ministries by donating a Giving Tree card.
RECIPIENT 1
Recipient name(s)
Address
City, State and Zip
Donor name to appear as
Ministry Amount: $
DONOR AND PAYMENT INFORMATION
Name
Address
City, State and Zip
Phone
Number of cards ordered Total donation: $
Payment method (circle one) Check VISA AMEX MC DISC
Credit card number
Expiration date Auth. Code
Signature
Mail: 717 Sage Road, Houston, TX 77056 Email: [email protected] Fax: 713-622-5701
Christmas (1) Christmas (2) Christmas (3)
T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 17
P A R I S H L I F E
THE ROAD TO EMMAUSThat very day two of them were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles
from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened.
While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with
them. But their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What is this
conversation which you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still,
looking sad. Luke 24:13-17
A beautiful bronze
sculpture was
recently donated to
St. Martin’s by Marion
E. Mundy in memory
of her husband Joseph
S. Mundy that depicts the amazing story
of two disciples and their walk with Jesus,
the resurrected Messiah. The sculpture is
currently on display in the Narthex of The
Church until it will be moved at a later
date to the hallway outside the Chapel.
The sculpture was created by the Rev.
Craig Biddle III, a retired Episcopal priest
living in Maryland, who shares his
reflections on making the sculpture:
“After many years in the active ministry
The Road to Emmaus became for me the
most significant Bible story, the one that
influenced me the most. It is a wonderful
story, pregnant with meaning, about
the warm, affectionate and energizing
relation between divine power and
ordinary human beings. I found it startling
to discover how simple, straightforward
and honest is our connection with God.
The sculpture is a narrative about
a human interaction between the
resurrected Jesus and two humble people,
walking home after witnessing the
staggering events of Jesus’ crucifixion
and its aftermath. Only one of them is
given a name, Cleopas.
With his hand extended and his fingers
gathered, Cleopas is struggling for
preciseness – he is trying to capture in
words the unfathomable events they had
witnessed in Jerusalem. I see him as very
much the ‘believer,’ straining to convey
his insights to his companion while
gently holding her with his left arm. The
difficulties in creating the appearance of
the resurrected Jesus were and remain a
complex task. Where did he get his clothes
after he left the ‘empty tomb?’ What do
I put on his feet? How can I depict hands
or wrists scarred by crucifixion? These are
sculptor’s questions that drift in to
theological conundrums.
Barely visible under his humble mantle,
Jesus seems larger than life yet stunningly
intimate and completely present. His arms
embrace his companions much as ‘a hen
gathers her brood under her wings.’ (Luke
13:34) I have made Jesus a ‘mother hen’
of sorts, affectionately corralling Cleopas
and his wife with encompassing arms
and over-sized hands that bear the scars of
crucifixion. His feet are naked, touching
the ground the way lightning strikes,
reminding us that all of Earth is holy.
(Exodus 3:5) Jesus is now certain that death
is not the final answer; he is confident
about the future, and assured of the
creative possibilities that lie ahead. He
wants to tangibly transmit this confidence
to Cleopas and his wife so he touches them
lovingly. The power of touch has profound
significance for me. It is the ultimate form
of human communication. And Jesus is
telling this couple in no uncertain terms
that his resurrection means new life is
available for everyone.
The basic meaning of my sculpture is
that The Road to Emmaus represents the
beginning of Christian life. Even today
we do not walk alone on our complicated
journey. We have a Loving Companion
who joins us along the way even if we
do not recognize Him.”
18 T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
P A R I S H L I F E
Sunday, September 13 – St. Martin’s
Children’s Ministry Sunday School teachers
were commissioned during the Family Table
worship service in the Old Church before the
kick off of the new program year. Our wonderful
teachers focus on the importance of each child’s
spiritual life and look forward to nurturing
that all year long.
Thursday, September 10 – Members of the
Clergy went on a Prayer Walk of our campus
that included stops in both sacred spaces and
work spaces, from The Church and Chapel to
Activity Center and Café. Staff members and
lay members of the Parish also joined in the
prayers in numerous areas.
Mid September – Daughters of the King gather throughout the year for meetings as they welcome
new members to their group of women of all ages to live out the things Jesus has taught concerning
prayer, service and evangelism. Meetings are held the first Saturday of the month. For more
information see page 10 or contact Deb Tisch at 713-985-3917 or [email protected].
Thank You Throughout the year St. Martin’s supports other organizations both financially and through Outreach activities. In recognition of this assistance, we receive numerous notes of thanks that have recently included the following:
<“Thank you for your gift to Berkley Divinity School at Yale.”
Pamela Wesley Gomez Director of Development,
Berkley Divinity School at Yale
“Thank you for your recent gift to Camp Allen’s 2021 Centennial Fund, ‘Awaken Your Spirit.’ Your contribution is most appreciated and will go a long way towards helping us complete our fundraising goals.”
George Dehan, President, Camp Allen
“Thank you from all of us at the Living Church for your generous support of our ministry…Your support literally makes our ministry possible.”
Christopher Wells, Executive Director, The Living Church Foundation
“What a thoughtful response St. Martin’s has made to All Saints’, Hitchcock, to help cover some of the loss sustained following their recent theft.”
The Rt. Rev. C. Andrew Doyle
Ninth Bishop of Texas
“With the help of supporters like you, we continue to increase the number of children we serve each day, with the hope of ending hunger among preschool-aged children in Houston.”
Cristina Vetrano Executive Director, Kids’ Meals
“…Please allow me to express our gratitude for your recent service project benefitting our food pantry…Your donation came at the perfect time to help us meet the needs of our clients.”
Courtney Hagen Emergency Services-Central Manager, Christian Community Service Center
T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 19
P A R I S H L I F E
Tuesday September 22 – Ladies from
Episcopal Church Women of St. Martin’s
gathered for the fun and inspiring “Crossing 40”
fall luncheon that featured a delicious catered
lunch and presentation by Chris Seay, founder
of Ecclesia Houston. (photo left) Event chairs
Shelly Newton (left) and Terrie James welcomed
guest speaker Chris Seay. (photo below) (from
left) Martha Bair, Maurine Alfrey, Sara Anne
Kerley and Gerry Eversole were among the
approximately 140 who attended the luncheon.
BAPTISMS
September 12 Elizabeth Grace Carter Grace Anna Fanning Swayze Quinn Lomax
September 19 Savannah Evonne Franz
September 26 Alice McIver Wright
MARRIAGES
September 12 Caroline Margaret Barrow and Thomas Parker Bates September 19 Loren Elizabeth Phillips and Edward Primeau Reardon III September 26 Elizabeth Grant Gay and Matthew Charles Spade
SYMPATHY
September 2 Earl Merril Gilbert September 17 Grace Peckham Compton Vinson September 24 Sandra Settegast Thompson Mewhinney September 29 Mary Jane (Janie) Martin
Episcopal church WomEn of st. martin’s
Challenge Yourself to Make A Difference
CrossingGuest speaker Chris Seay, founder of Ecclesia Houston, shares the story of his “40 Days of Solidarity with the Poor,” and will inspire
and challenge each of us to begin a similar journey of our own.
Tuesday, September 2211 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Bagby Parish Hall
Tickets are $20 each. Register online by Tuesday, September 15 at stmartinsepiscopal.org.
EvEnt chairs tErriE JamEs and shElly nEWton
child carE gEnErously sponsorEd by parEnts of young childrEn ministry
THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY
The Church offices will be closed beginning
Wednesday, November 25 at noon through
Friday, November 29.
20 T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
P A R I S H L I F E
Christmas Flower and Decorations
It is a tradition at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church to have Christmas poinsettias decorating The Church and Old Church
as we celebrate this special holy season. Parishioners are invited to make a donation for these beautiful flowers in
memory of a loved one who has passed away, or in thanksgiving for blessings of living family members or friends.
If you would like to give a special Altar poinsettia at Christmas, please send your check, made payable to St. Martin’s
Episcopal Church, together with this page to St. Martin’s Flower Fund, 717 Sage Road, Houston, TX 77056.
All contribution requests received before Monday, December 1 at 5 p.m. will be included in the worship booklet
available at all Christmas services. Any requests received after the deadline will be published in a future issue of
The Star. Poinsettias will be available for pick up by donors under the porte cochere on Saturday, December 27
from 8:30 to 11 a.m. If you have any questions, please contact Gena Lewis at [email protected] or 713-785-9006.
Christmas FlowersPlease print clearly.
Given by __________________________________________________________________________________
Address __________________________________________________________________________________
Phone ____________________________________________________________________________________
Email Address ______________________________________________________________________________
h In memory of __________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
h In thanksgiving for ____________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
h I wish to remember a loved one by having flowers placed in The Garden of the Holy Cross.
22 T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 4
Christmas Flowers and DecorationsIt is a tradition at St. Martin’s Episcopal Church to have Christmas poinsettias decorating The Church and Old Church as we
celebrate this special holy season. Parishioners are invited to make a donation for these beautiful flowers in memory of a loved
one who has passed away, or in thanksgiving for blessings of living family members or friends. If you would like to make a
donation for the Christmas altar flowers, please visit stmartinsepiscopal.org > Giving > Christmas Altar Flowers
(stmartinsepiscopal.org/christmas-altar-flowers) to fill out the online Christmas Flower Fund donation form and pay by credit
card, or send your check, made payable to St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, together with this page to St. Martin’s Flower Fund,
717 Sage Road, Houston, TX 77056.
All contribution requests received before Monday, November 30 at 5 p.m. will be included in the worship booklet available
at all Christmas services. Any requests received after the deadline will be published in a future issue of The Star.
If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Van Arsdel at [email protected] or 713-572-9944.
P A R I S H L I F E
T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 21
H O P E A N D H E A L I N G C E N T E R & I N S T I T U T E
Friends of UT Lunch
Monday, November 2
11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m
The Friends of the Medical School seek
to bring to the Houston “Orange Blood”
community and their friends the latest
cutting edge medical information from
The University of Texas Medical School
at Houston and its Texas Medical
Center affiliates.
How to Beat the Odds of Heart Disease
Tuesday, November 3
6:30 – 8 p.m.
Heart disease is the #1 killer in the United
States. Are you at risk for heart disease?
Please come and learn about cardiac risk
factors and how you may be able toprevent
heart disease. Join St. Martin’s Parishioner
Catharine (Catey) Carter, RN, UT Health
Weatherhead PET Center for Preventing
and Reversing Atherosclerosis and Research
Manager, Century Health Study, to learn
about heart disease prevention and a state-
of-the-art comprehensive cardiac health
study now underway. The Century Health
Study seeks to prove that an aggressive
preventative treatment plan of diagnostic
testing, appropriate medication, and
lifestyle improvements can prevent
heart disease.
All classes, seminars and special events are free of charge unless
otherwise noted. Reservations are requested. Activities are held in
the Hope and Healing Center & Institute that is located on the
eastern side of the St. Martin’s Episcopal Church campus.
For more information or to register, visit hopeandhealingcenter.org.
Psychotherapy & Faith Conference: Illuminating the Sacred In Healing Relationships
In collaboration with The Institute for
Spirituality and Health, The Menninger Clinic
and Baylor College of Medicine
Friday, November 6
7:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m
This annual conference has grown to be
the educational resource for mental health
professionals and others who meet the
needs of people with a faith tradition.
Lunch and Learn: Worried About Your Memory? It May Not Be Dementia
With Sally Davis, RN, MSN, Health Services Director, Amazing Place
Wednesday, November 11
Noon – 1 p.m.
For more information, see page 14.
Mental Illness Q&A Thursday, November 19
Noon – 1 p.m
Dr. Matthew Stanford, Chief
Executive Officer,
Hope and Healing
Center & Institute,
will offer caregivers
and family members of individuals living
with serious mental illness, the opportunity
to ask honest questions in a supportive
environment, equip you to better interact
with and care for their mentally ill loved
ones, and learn how to navigate the mental
health care system. Join us on the third
Thursday of every month. No reservations
required. Bring your lunch; we will
provide drinks.
22 T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
A gift to the Saint Martin’s Endowment is a wonderful way to remember or honor your loved ones. The funds of the
Endowment may be designated as you wish, strictly for special needs within St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, or for needs of those
outside St. Martin’s. Giving gifts to the Endowment in memory of loved ones who have died, in honor of someone, or for any
other reason, are excellent ways to ensure that the heritage of St. Martin’s will continue. Those honored and the families of those
remembered will be notified of your gift. Checks may be sent to St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, 717 Sage Road, Houston, TX 77056,
with an enclosed note indicating the names of those being honored or remembered. Please include your name, address, telephone
number and information on others to be notified. For more information, contact Lynda Eyberse at 713-985-3833 or
G I V I N G
To the Endowment Fund In Memory of:
Eleanor Brooks Brown
by Lettalou Whittington
Barbara Chiles
Nolan Henry King
by Ginya and Clayton Trier
Lida and John Herring
Elizabeth and Robert Harris
Martha Bair
Mr. and Mrs. K.M. Williams
Carol and Charles Mitschke
Joseph D. Radzwill
Esther V. Houser
Patricia Ann Bodley
Thomas L. Branch
Linda Wallis
Royden Stanley Bair
Edward Albert Blackburn III
Remembering and Honoring Loved Ones and Friends
Susan Matthews Ellerbeck
Hazel Muckley
Peter Voskamp
Brad Burton
Carol Howard Turtur
Linnie Burton Donnelly
Mary Ruth Reese
William R. Parkey
Gerald R. Westbrook
Sandra Nixon Kennard
Eleanor Brooks Brown
Addaleigh Brooks Hamilton
Nolan Henry King
Blanche Palmer Craig
Thomas W. Ford
by Laura and Russ Levenson
Blanche Palmer Craig
by Rae and Jon Royle
John Kutinac
Aimee and Michael Peay
Kathryn Avellanet
Elizabeth and Richard Hagens
G.M. Rowe III and Family
J.A. Robins
Mary Lynn and Ned Ross
Julie B. Harrell
Joan and Daniel Cohen
Peter Voskamp
by Carole Sue Fenoglio
Rachel and Peter Voskamp
John Voskamp
Katie and Drew Marye
Emily and Berke Marye
Melinda and Bill Kelley
Linnie Burton Donnelly
by Carolyn Cowden Little
T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 23
To the Endowment-Outreach Fund In Memory of:
Royden Stanley Bair by Candance and Michael Leskin Martha and James Buck
To the Endowment-Inreach Fund In Memory of:
Blanche Palmer Craig by Charles Meacham
Thomas W. Ford by Bruce McIntyre
To the Outreach Ministries Fund In Memory of:
Linnie Burton Donnelly by Sandra and Smith Ray
To the Docent Guild Fund In Memory of:
Tom and Scott Johnson by Susan and Mike Phelps
To the Hope and Healing Center Fund In Memory of:
Thomas W. Ford by Sue and Jerry Botts
Teresa and Rick Witte
Peggy Roe
Beverly and Dan Arnold
Peter Jameson
The Sikes Family
To the Christian Life Study Fund In Memory of: Elaine Illig Davis by Ollie Kensinger
To the Flower Fund Fund In Memory of
Dorothy Hightower by Ollie Kensinger
To the Christian Life Study Fund In Honor of: Christy Dauphin by Kris and Thomas Dill
To the Endowment-Choir Fund In Memory of:
Susan Ray Mayfield by Pam and Steve Wakefield
To the Order of St. Luke Fund In Memory of: Gerald R. Westbrook by Betty and Don Douglas
Jane Seiffert
Doreen Haaland
To the Serenity Garden Fund In Memory of: Nan Luckett Williams by Elizabeth Williams
To the Saintly Stitchers Fund In Memory of: Sissy Lipscomb by Ann and Gerald Thurmond
Linnie Burton Donnelly by G. Arthur Donnelly III
To the Endowment Fund In Honor of: Nancy Shelton by Gloria Herman
To the Music Ministry Fund In Honor of: Carolyn Thompson and Gwynne Old by Mark Davidson
G I V I N G
24 T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5
G I V I N G
Altar Flowers Given to the Glory of GodTo give Altar flowers for The Church, Narthex, Old Church or Chapel in memory of a loved one or to celebrate a special occasion,
please contact Barbara Piana, Worship Services Coordinator, at 713-830-4116 or [email protected]. Floral gifts also
may be given to the Garden of the Holy Cross flower fund in memory or in honor of a loved one.
September 6 The Church
In thanksgiving for the 63rd anniversary of St. Martin’s Parish and the anniversary of the Wayside Chapel for All People by Marcia and Martin Taylor
September 13The Church On the occasion of their marriage by Caroline Margaret Barrow and Thomas Parker Bates
In thanksgiving for the 80th birthday of Martin Taylor by his family, Marcia Taylor, Carol, Mike, Grace and Ryan Trautwein and Saralee, Daniel, Garrett and Haley Parker The Chapel In memory of William W. Bryan and F.L. Bryan by Ruth Bryan
In thanksgiving for the baptism of Anna Grace Fanning by Rhonda and Thomas Fanning
September 20 The Church
On the occasion of their marriage by Loren Elizabeth Phillips and Edward Primeau Reardon III The Narthex In thanksgiving for our 6th wedding anniversary by Dean and Meredith Huffman The Chapel In thanksgiving for the baptism of Elizabeth Grace Carter by Fowler, Lucy, Laura and Thomas
September 27 The Church On the occasion of their marriage by Elizabeth Grant Gay and Matthew Charles Spade In memory of Nancy Elizabeth Garfield by Carolyn In memory of Mary Gray Lester by Linda Lester Griffin and Earl L. Lester, Jr. The Chapel
In memory of Rody Olvera by the Olvera and Morgan families
T H E S TA R I N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 5 25
Volume 21, Issue 9, November 2015
© 2015 St. Martin’s Episcopal Church
The Star (USPS 013-054) is published monthly by St. Martin’s Episcopal Church. Periodicals postage paid at Houston, TX. Address changes may be emailed to [email protected]. All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A.
PostmasterSend address changes to St. Martin’s Episcopal Church 717 Sage Road Houston, TX 77056-2199
PERIODICALSPOSTAGE
PAIDHOUSTON, TX
PERMIT NO. 013-054717 Sage RoadHouston, TX 77056
WORSHIP SERVICES
With an emphasis on beautiful liturgy and excellence in music, worship at St. Martin’s provides an opportunity to give thanks and praise to God. Rite I is the form regularly used. All Christians baptized in the name of the Trinity are welcome to receive Holy Eucharist in the Episcopal Church.
Facebook.com/StMartinsEpiscopalHouston
SUNDAY
8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist, The ChurchSpoken service with sermon
9:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist (first, third and fifth Sundays) or Morning Prayer (second and fourth Sundays), The ChurchFamily service with hymns, anthems and full Choir; feast days and other special events may affect the 9:00 a.m. worship schedule.
9:15 a.m. Family Table, Holy Eucharist, Old Church Family-friendly contemporary worship
11:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist, The Church Traditional service with hymns, anthems and full Choir
11:15 a.m. The Altar, Holy Eucharist, The Island Contemporary worship for all ages
6:00 p.m. Holy Eucharist, The ChurchTraditional service with hymns, choir and organist; casual attire
Healing prayer, or prayer for any need, is offered after each service in The Church in the Patron’s Chapel located to the left of the Altar.
Child care is available for newborns – pre-K for all Sunday morning services.
For the sermon schedule and sermon audio, visit stmartinsepiscopal.org.
Audio copies of Sunday sermons also are available through the Bookstore & Gift Shoppe for just $3.
WEDNESDAY
7:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Chapel
Noon Holy Eucharist followed by the Sacrament of Healing (Holy Unction), Chapel
6:00 p.m. Holy Eucharist, Chapel.
The Order of St. Luke the Physician offers a Healing Prayer service from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. in the Old Church on the first Wednesday of each month.