T H E B R I D G E B U I L D E R - Clover Sitesstorage.cloversites.com/covenantlutheranchurch/documents...TH E BR I DG E B UI L D ER Page 3 I N R E L A T I ON S H I P . . . B Y G I

The Newsletter of Covenant Lutheran Church

Covenant Lutheran

Church joins with God

in creating Christ-

centered community

where grace happens

and people are

equipped and sent to

serve.

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S E P T E M B E R 2 0 0 9

T H E B R I D G E B U I L D E R

W O R S H I P S E R I E S S C H E D U L E

What if you had one month to live?

September 13

Living the Dash

September 20

Live Passionately

September 27

Love Completely

October 4

Learn Humbly

October 11

Leave Boldly

October 18

Living with No Regrets

Covenant’s Vision for Ministry is

to be a Faithful Church…

Thoughts from Pastor Fred 2

A Note from Mutual Ministrie s 2

In Relationship by G inny

Buschbo m

3

Children’s Church Workshop 3

Kung Fu Panda

Good & Faithful Servant

4

Social Services Fall Project s 5

Music Notes 5

Community of Hope 5

GriefShare 5

Bits & Piece s 6

Bits & Piece s 7

Inside this issue:

Call Committee Update

The Covenant Call Committee has been formed and has met nearly once-a-week since July. The committee

consists of Chris Krummel and Kirt Tabbert (co-chairpersons), Rudy Flores and Marian Shelton (spiritual

leaders), Desi Lancaster (secretary), Nancy Benthien, Lorna Blount, and Forrest Croom. We have met with

the Synod-assigned transition coach who described to us the call process and the various roles and responsi-

bilities within the process. The committee is currently working on our Ministry Site Profile, a detailed docu-

ment describing Covenant and the broader community in which we operate. This document must be com-

pleted before the next step in the process is taken. The call committee has created a binder that contains the

call process, the ministry site profile template, and other documentation related to calling our new Senior Pas-

tor. This information binder is available for viewing at the Welcome Desk in the lobby. The Call Committee

asks that everyone continue to pray for us during this time of discovery, discernment, and transition.

Page 2 T H E B R I D G E B U I L D E R

San Jacinto Day 2009 and Covenant Lutheran Church

“But filled with the Holy Spirit, he (Stephen) gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God and Jesus

standing at the right hand of God.” (Acts 7:55)

It might be a coincidence (or, as I am accustomed to saying – a “providence”) that I arrived in Houston

for my initial visit at Covenant on Tuesday, April 21 – San Jacinto Day.

A recent segment on the TV series “Postcards from Texas” featured General Sam Houston’s historic

defeat of General Santa Anna, thus securing Texas’ independence from Mexico and the birth of the republic. In the episode,

two things caught my attention: Santa Anna followed the military model of defeated French General Napoleon Bonaparte,

while General Sam Houston chose a different model. Sam Houston spent his time to study the landscape surrounding the

Lynchburg Ferry landing, and he used his superior knowledge of the surrounding terrain to his army’s tactical advantage and

ultimate victory. General Houston caught the opposing general by surprise as Santa Anna waited, hunkered-down in tall prai-

rie grass.

I often wonder if Santa Anna knew of Bonaparte’s defeat at Waterloo at the hands of the British Army some twenty -years ear-

lier? Had Santa Anna known the outcome of that military battle, might he have chosen a different approach at San Jacinto?

And, might the Battle of San Jacinto have ended with a different outcome?

In Acts 7, the soon-to-be-martyred Deacon Stephen stood before a hostile crowd. Fists filled with stones, hands destined to

take a human life. Stephen was faced with a difficult choice. His decision was clear, concise, and did not waver as he

squarely faced the end of his earthly life and the beginning of eternal life. Stephen did not look back, but pointed his face to-

ward the heavens to plead his case to the Almighty God, his maker. Where had Stephen learned this posture? Was his an

example from Jesus Christ of Calvary who faced his creator before his own death?

When a congregation is in transition, it can choose to turn its face in a number of directions. Some look back at the appare nt

safety of familiar places and events. Others reach up to the stars and skies of heaven, seeking the promises of God. Still oth-

ers reach forward, seeking new or renewed direction and purpose.

How might Stephen’s witness guide us at Covenant during our time of transition? Consider these questions. Prior to this re-

corded event, might Stephen have already looked within himself? Might he have completed his personal life review? Of his

faith in God? We are not given any of those details.

When a congregation and its members are in transition, where are we looking? Back, or beyond this moment? Within our-

selves, or to the potential that awaits us? Might we follow his example: Stephen looked up and saw the Glory of God.

T H O U G H T S F R O M P A S T O R F R E D

A Note from Mutual Ministries

In September let’s all wish Pastor Brad Otto a very Happy Birthday! God's blessings to you, Pastor

Brad, on this very special day.

Also, in September, we recognize and congratulate Sue Tabbert, our office man-ager, for 13 years of service to Covenant! Thank you, Sue, for your faithful and

dedicated service to this church and to our Lord. We appreciate all you do, and the helpful,

cheerful manner in which you do all the many tasks of the office manager job. May God bless you!

Page 3 T H E B R I D G E B U I L D E R

I N R E L A T I O N S H I P . . . B Y G I N N Y B U S C H B O M

Well, here we are, four months into our transition, and I don’t know about you, but it sometimes feels a little

unnerving. So let me take a moment to thank you, thank you for continuing with “church” in the present,

even though we don’t yet know who God has chosen for us in the future.

The close of summer and the upcoming Rally Day bring us many reasons to celebrate! A few things we are

celebrating include: forming the Call Committee, LIFT camp, June Leadership Retreat/update POP, Voice

Class, Synod Assembly, Walk for Water, Volunteer Workshops, Crocodile Dock VBS, existing groups continu-

ing to meet and add new members, National Youth Gathering, Krause Center, revamped Playdate group,

Astros Family Nights, the recent Synod Leadership Summit held here, and everything in between. Thank

you.

I’m always amazed at all we continue to do in the summer, but to add transition to the mix and still continue our offerings says

much about who we are as Covenant and our mission to join with God in creating Christ -centered community where grace hap-

pens and people are equipped and sent to serve!

With regard to transition, we heard from the Call Committee last week and got an update to our questions. Where are we? We

are in the middle of what our Synod calls the “Transition Process.” What’s been going on? Our awesome group of individuals

on the Call Committee is working with Pastor Larry Keene in developing our Ministry Site Profile. They are meeting weekly,

praying, discerning, and following the Transition Process Manual. Are we any further along in the process? Yes. This is a Spi rit-

filled process. It is one in which we take the time to find out who we are and who God is calling to Covenant. This process takes

time. Are we interviewing? No. We won’t for some time. The Call Committee will continue updating us, so be on the lookout for

communications from them.

So, what does all of this mean? It means we are doing exactly what we are supposed to be doing. We are doing God’s work. We

aren’t getting bogged down, slowed down, or discouraged by change. We are embracing this time and remembering who we

are. We are looking at each new circumstance as an opportunity. I couldn’t be more proud to be a member of this Christian

community, and I thank you for counting me among you.

“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not wo rry

about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And

the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally beloved,

whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, i f

there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things you hav e

learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.” (Philippians 4:4 -9)

Children’s Church Leaders and Assistants Workshop

Saturday, September 19, 2009 9:30 am - 12 noon in the community room

All current children’s church adult leaders and youth assistants, as well as anyone interested in learning about children’s

church, are invited to attend a morning full of learning and sharing of teaching techniques, and new ideas, as well as previe w-

ing new materials for the children’s church program.

Children’s church is a special worship, learning and singing time for all children age 2 through 2 nd graders during the 11:00 am

church service every Sunday. During the Pastor’s sermon time, the children are dismissed to the community room where the

adult leader and several assistants teach a Bible story object lesson, followed by singing songs and sometimes doing a simple

art project.

We encourage all current leaders and assistants, as well as anyone interested joining us as a children’s church leader or ass is-

tant, to attend. We especially invite parents of children age 2 through 2nd grade! If you are curious and just want to find out

more about the children’s church program, please come to the workshop and learn what it’s all about.

If you are planning to attend, please contact Martha Steele at 281.256.9146 or [email protected] by September 15.

Page 4 C O V E N A N T L U T H E R A N C H U R C H

Kung Fu Panda, a Good & Faithful Servant

So, I was watching “Kung Fu Panda” the other night, and it dawned on me that this movie is, without a doubt, one of the great-

est stewardship movies……. ever! OK, this probably doesn’t fit perfectly, but so many of the elements are so obvious…

The cast of characters includes Panda (Po) (the every-man/woman); Oogway (the Christ figure – I

mean, really, he actually ascends to heaven amid the blossoms of the Peach Tree of Heavenly

Wisdom); the furious five (the masters of kung fu); Shifu (the at-first reluctant teacher who be-

comes ardent after Oogway makes him promise to believe) and Tai Lung the ultimate adver-

sary. And don’t forget the dragon scroll (the Bible).

As the movie opens, Po is a noodle maker. But, his passion is kung fu and the furious five. He

denies his passion to neighbors, to his father, afraid of what they might think. He doesn’t be-

lieve he has what it takes to be a master, he simply wants to be near them… And then, as often happens when God is at the

helm, the universe intervenes, and Po is thrust into the arena where the dragon warrior is to be chosen. He revives from this

intervention to see Oogway pointing at him, choosing him as the dragon warrior, saying, “The Universe has brought us the

Dragon Warrior.” And Po cannot believe it! There must be some mistake! How can he possibly be the next dragon warrior?

Aside here….OK, so I have to stop here for a bit. This is so like my own story. I know most of you have heard it, but for those

of you who haven’t…. There I was living my life “making noodles.” Out of the blue, Debbie Kendall (apparently Oogway takes

many forms!) nominates me to represent Covenant at the next synod assembly. So, I go, never dreaming that this is going to

change my life. While there, I get to choose which break out session I want to attend. One calls to me intellectually, one

speaks to my soul. I have always had a passion for stewardship, but NOT as usually presented in the church. But this session

was all about year-round stewardship... It sounded like just what I wanted to hear. It wasn’t. So, I write the presenter and ask

why the church always talks about financial stewardship and never seems to talk about stewardship of all the other wonderful

things with which God has gifted us. I was invited to “Come and See.” I went, and somehow I became the ”eco-warrior” for

the synod stewardship team. Man, O man, was I in over my head!!!

Now, back to our story! So Po goes to the Jade Palace to learn. He “knows” he is not worthy, isn’t good

enough. But, he sticks with it… “A real warrior never quits.” He endures his defeats. He eats out of

frustration. (Boy, can I relate to that!) Finally, Shifu finds the key to train Po. And train him he

does. Turns out that the very “flaw” that is so obvious in Po’s character is the very thing that makes

him succeed. He defeats Tai Lung.

So, where am I? Over the last three years I have grown more than I can say. I have done things I

never imagined I could. Have I defeated my Tai Lung? Not yet. My Tai Lung is public speaking. And I

am going to face him (it) at the Leadership Summit to be held at Covenant August 28 – 29 (fortunately

it is only one small 5 minute section plus one 10 minute section.). Nancy Benthien has agreed to

stand by my side. Say a prayer for me!

So, do you have a passion, a dream? Invite yourself to the party! You will be welcomed with the open arms of grace! What

you see as your “flaws” may well be the very thing Covenant needs. Remember you are “fearfully and wonderfully made; your

works are wonderfully made.” All you need do is read the dragon scroll and “believe.”

Don’t know what your gifts are? Attend Covenant University class 301. Our own “Shifu” will assist you in finding and honing

your gifts.

Don’t be a wallflower! Join the dance! You (and the rest of Covenant) will be glad you did!

Joyce Kuhlman

Stewardship


WORSHIP/EUCHARIST CLASS ON

WEDNESDAY NIGHTS

I am currently in the middle of completing

my third course for my doctoral program at

the Robert Webber Institute for Worship

Studies (www.iwsfla.org). The title of the

course is “The Renewal of Sunday Worship:

Music and the Arts.” For my course project,

I am teaching a four-week class on wor-

ship, specifically dealing with the Eucha-

rist, or Holy Communion. This will be an in -depth look at the

meaning and significance of the Eucharist. We will also ex-

plore what the Bible says about worship and where our

model for worship is found.

The class will also take part in designing and planning the

portion of our service where we celebrate Holy Communion.

As a group, the class will collaborate on how this part of the

service should be designed, then implement it on a Sunday

morning during the service.

The class will take place on September 9, 16, 23, and 30

from 7:00 – 8:30 pm in the Community Room. Anyone is

welcome to attend and nursery will be provided.

M U S I C N O T E S B Y C L A Y T O N F A U L K N E R

SOCIAL SERVICES FALL 2009 PROJECTS

Rebuilding Together Houston is a nonprofit organization

which provides home repair services for low income, elderly

and/or disabled Houston Area homeowners.

All exterior repair work provided by RT-Houston on qualified

homes is done by volunteer crews sponsored by corporations,

churches, schools & organizations.

There is no charge to the homeowner.

OCTOBER 17 AND 24

www.rebuildingtogetherhouston.org

For more information contact Jerry Viel at

[email protected]

The painting class from LIFT Summer Arts Camp showing off their work.

GriefShare

GriefShare is a support group for anyone who has lost a

loved one. It is a 13- week program held at Covenant each

Monday evening from 7-830 pm. We will be starting again

sometime in the fall. The program is Bible-based,and each

week there is a different topic regarding some aspect of the

grief process, presented through a series of videos. There is

a discussion and a workbook to use during the week. There

have been many losses in our congregation lately, and I en-

courage you to take advantage of this very helpful program.

You can contact the church office, Robin Larsen at

281.858.1906, or Marion Beall at 281.861.9590 for more

information.

C O M M U N I T Y O F H O P E

“Adopt” A College Student

We're looking for people to "adopt" our members attending

College this fall. Can you commit to sending an encouraging

note or e-mail every few weeks and regularly pray for their

physical, emotional, and spiritual needs? If so, please con-

tact the church office.

http://www.iwsfla.org

http://www.rebuildingtogetherhouston.org

mailto:[email protected]


B I T S A N D P I E C E S

Justice & Sustainability Team is starting

up at Covenant!

If you are interested in how we can have an impact within

Covenant, have an impact in the Houston area, and have an

impact on lives of those who, because of circumstances, are

unable to speak for themselves, then this group is for

you. We will work on activities that will be determined by the

group during the first meeting. If you are interested, please

contact Joyce Kuhlman.

“But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-

failing stream! “ (Amos 5:24)

The Texas Impact Advocacy Camp is coming to

Covenant, featuring guest speaker

Reverend Brian McLaren.

Advocacy Camp 2009 will be held on October 24. Our key-

note speaker is renowned author and pastor Brian

McLaren. His public speaking covers a broad range of top-

ics, including spiritual formation, inter-religious dialogue,

ecology, and social justice. Rev. McLaren will be discussing

topics from his book “Everything Must Change”, such as

the importance of individuals and communities of faith in

social transformation.

Advocacy Camp is a citizen leadership development pro-

gram that teaches people of faith in Texas how to engage

in the public policy process. Guest speakers discuss issues

such as health, immigration and environment, provide up -

to-date information on the topic at hand, and explain why

these issues are important to the faith community.

Workshop topics will include immigration, health care, envi-

ronment, and election-year information for faith communi-

ties.

October 24, 2009

8:45 am to 4:00 pm

There is a $25.00 registration fee for the workshop, which

includes lunch and materials. You will be able to register

online at www.texasimpact.org/advhou.

Water to Thrive Family Fun Walk

The 1st Annual W2T Family Fun Walk will be held at Terry Her-

shey Park. The Fun Walk will go to building water wells in

Ethiopian villages. By bringing drinkable water to villagers,

you can help reduce the numbers of children dying from ill -

ness and help girls have time to go to school. Please partici-

pate! Bring a friend, or the entire family for a morning of fit-

ness and fun, complete with prizes, food, and more.

Saturday, October 3rd, 2009 at Terry Hershey Park, 5200

Memorial Drive, Houston, 77079. Registration is $25.

The Covenant Justice Team is working to create a walking

team as well as having volunteers to help with the walk. If

interested, contact Nancy Benthien at 713-722-8321 or

[email protected].

Dear Members of Covenant Lutheran Church,

One of the finest ministries we provide to children and families is Christian outdoor ministry at Lutherhill Ministries. Lutherhill

Ministries has served the congregations of our Synod for more than a half a century and has provided a setting where Christ's

love has been shared, where faith has been nurtured, and where lives of children and families have been strengthened in

faith.

Lutherhill Ministries now needs our help to continue the vision of the founders and expand facilit ies to serve more children and

families. A special project has been undertaken to replace old infrastructure and complete new facilities that will serve peo ple

of all ages.

During the weeks ahead, you will learn more about this important effort, called A Place For All People , to strengthen Lutherhill

Ministries and to open more doors for ministry in the future. We pray that your commitment to this ministry will encourage yo u

to become involved.

Yours in Christ,

Larry and Sue Bathe Chair, A Place For All People

http://www.texasimpact.org/advhou



B I T S A N D P I E C E S

Lunch Bunch Update

Join us for lunch at Ruby Tuesday’s at 17790 Katy Fwy on

Friday, September 11. See you there!

Mary Harper

[email protected]

281.858.8062

Covenant Women's Group

We will be leading services at Krause Children's Center on

Sunday, September 6th at 3pm. Even if you do not wish to

lead, please join us - the youth enjoy and appreciate your

presence.

We need your input for our Fall Retreat! Please join us Sun-

day, September 20th at 6:30 pm in the Community Room.

Please remember that we're collecting shoeboxes for our

Seafarers project. These can be placed under the WG table

in the Community Room.

XYZ Seniors Hit the Road Again

On Saturday, August 15, 15 seniors visited the Dunham

Bible Museum on the campus of Houston Baptist University.

The museum creatively displays one of America's most dis-

tinctive collection of Bibles and manuscripts. We all came

away with a greater appreciation of the history, preservation

and influence of the one book that has touched so many

individuals’ lives and the culture of civilizations. Many sacri-

fices made it possible for us to have access to the printed

word. Our trip concluded with lunch at the Golden Corral.

Our next bus trip will be Saturday, October 3 . We will take a

guided bus tour of Huntsville, including the Texas Prison

Museum. Watch email for more information.

Sunday, November 8 - Theater trip to Rosenberg for matinee

performance and dinner following. Reservations will need to

be made individually with the Theater. Time and number to

call will be available in late September. Any questions, call

or email Roy and Annette Peters or Nancy and Forrest

Croom at [email protected] (281.693.2634),

[email protected] (281.647.0952).

ELCA Subscriptions for the Family

The ELCA has two fantastic publications for families with chil-

dren:

The Little Lutheran is a monthly (with combined May/June

and July/August issues) 24-page picture book, intended for

children six and younger. By ordering as a group, we can

save nearly 50% off the single-subscription (pay $12.95 in-

stead of $24.95) ~ and it will still be delivered directly to your

home. This makes a great gift! You can find more informa-

tion at thelittlelutheran.org.

Davey and Goliath's Devotions is a quarterly devotional

magazine created for families with children ages 5 -10. Each

issue features a flexible, weekly format that makes it easy for

families to share faith with each other. The classic television

characters, Davey and Goliath, bring even more faith and fun

through Bible -based activities and games that engage kids

and keep up with "families on the go!". The cost would be

determined by the number of subscribers (approx $6/year).

You can find more information here:

www.augsburgfortress.org/learning/dg/devotions/.

If you are interested in receiving a group discount for either

or both of these great resources, please contact the church

office.

XYZ Seniors enjoyed shopping at Farmer’s Market

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

3785 Barker Cypress Road

Houston, TX 77084

281.578.8799

Fax: 281.578.8798

C O V E N A N T L U T H E R A N

C H U R C H . . . W H E R E G R A C E H A P P E N S

We are on the web!

www.covenantlutheran.org

October newsletter deadline:

September 21

Send submissions to

[email protected].

Congregational Council Leaders Covenant Staff

Jenny Krummel, Treasurer

Suzanne Goins, Financial Secretary

Emily Thompson, Recording Secretary

David Steele, Property

Ginny Buschbom, President

Carol Flores, Mutual Ministries

Mary Hupp, Worship & Music

Jerry Viel, Social Services

Larry Manton, Finance

Jim Dyess, Vice President & Evangelism

Joyce Kuhlman, Stewardship

Debbie Winkelmann, Youth & Family

281.345.0561

281.224.3584

281.859.5850

281.579.3781

281.858.5957

281.855.4153

832.443.3209

281.785.1838

281.256.1809

281.463.2402

281.933.7441

713.937.4670

The Reverend Frederick Hill, Interim Sr. Pastor

The Reverend Brad Otto, Associate Pastor

Clayton Faulkner, Director of Music

Joanna Thornton, Accompanist

Sue Tabbert, Office Manager

Mechele Mayoski, Nursery Supervisor

Gene Kendall, Property Manager

Renee Butler, Accountant

Church Office

Partners in Ministry

Impact for Life (BCAM)

Gulf Coast Synod, Bishop Mike Rinehart

847.525.1966

713.966.0809

832.615.7683

832.752.1340

281.859.2208

281.745.1416

713.231.8130

281.579.8899

281.578.8799

281.855.0014

281.873.5665

Due to the high cost of postage and changes in our bulk mailing numbers, and after a

mainly positive response from the survey we took, we have begun sending out the monthly

newsletter by email. We will continue to have “hard copies” available at the Welcome

Desk, so you may pick them up at church. We will also continue to have the newsletter

available on our website, www.covenantlutheran.org.

If you would still like to receive your Bridge Builder by mail, please contact Sue in the

church office, 281.578.8799 or [email protected], and she will be happy to mail

it to you!

http://www.covenantlutheran.org


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Think Orange! By Pastor Brad

Orange is one of my favorite colors. Blue and orange together is actually my favorite combo. You can imagine my excitement when I heard I was to begin to think orange when it came to Youth and Family Ministry. It was right there on the shelf in Mardels. And under the title it said, “Imagine the impact when church and family collide...” Collide? Hmmm...that can’t be good, can it? Well, I suppose things can collide and it can be a good thing. For four years now I have been speaking about the power of the church and families working together to raise faithful children. I have spoken about the renewal the church can have if they would only give our youth a voice and involve them in ministry, but do we get it? Is it happening? At some levels yes, but there is evidence in other

places that we aren’t. It’s okay if you disagree with me on this. We can’t expect to get different results if we keep doing the same thing over and over again. But if you don’t agree with me on everything I say regarding youth and family, can you agree with me on the following: There is a powerful influence in the church and home; they both exist because God initiated them; they both exist because God desires to use them to demonstrate God’s plan of redemption and restoration If they work together, they can potentially make a greater impact; too much is at stake if either one fails. I hope you come to our Rally Day service on the 13th of September during the 9:30 a.m. worship service time. We will be kicking off our new youth and family year and talking a bit more about

what it means to “think orange” (don’t worry; it will all be explained to you)! It’s a radical, different, and challenging way to think about youth and family ministry, but I hope you will join in on the conversation. My hope is that you will begin to think orange, and begin to help us make a lasting impact on the lives of our youth and their families! So come prepared to think orange, and while you are at it, why don’t we all try and wear orange for that day? We will be having a luncheon after the 11:00 a.m. service where we will talk about the new calendar year and all that it holds. Come and see that it’s not either/or, but it’s both/and!

YOUTH AND FAMILYSe

ptem

ber

“Renewing the church, through the faith of our youth.”

2

Life Hurts, God HealsNew Start Time

This spring we are proud to be offering this 8-step program for students with pain and addiction. Right now, there are students around us who are

desperately hurting - hurting from the pain of a broken home, struggles with depression, abusive relationships, loss, and more. Life Hurts, God Heals is a

program to help those students in pain. We will be the only church in our area that will be offering this program and will join hundreds of thousands of others

around the country who are already offering Life Hurts, God Heals.

If you are familiar with the 12-step program called Celebrate Recovery, then you may understand how Life Hurts God Heals works. Life Hurts God Heals is

an 8-step small group biblical study written by John Baker, Doug Fields and Megan Hutchinson, providing lifelong tools to help students heal from their

hurts.

Any teenage student is welcome! We are excited that Cy-Fair ISD has agreed to promote this to their counselors in their schools as well. It is a wonderful outreach opportunity for the ministry of Covenant Lutheran Church. NOTE THIS CHANGE IN START TIME! We will be holding informational meetings and training nights throughout the fall term. More information to follow!

Interested in being a small group leader? We need adults who care! If you are, please see Pastor Brad for more information.

Fall Sunday School Begins SoonSeeking Teachers for Fall/Spring -2009/10

Mission: “Renewing the church, through the faith of our youth.”

This fall and spring we will be using an all-new curriculum called “Buzz!” Group’s Buzz will give your son or daughter a strong theological framework as to who God is. Over two years, children will know and understand eight foundational truths about God—He is loving, perfect, forgiving, faithful, real, giving, powerful, and good. Every quarter, each age level focuses on a different attribute of God through unique, fun themes and age-appropriate Bible lessons.

Our classes will once again be divided by age groups: Toddlers, Pre-K-K, 1st and 2nd, 3rd and 4th grades. They will come together before breaking up into their classes for an introduction for the day, a time that will include song, prayer, and taking up an offering. Parents are then welcome to stay for an all-new Sunday school class especially for parents. 5th graders will continue in their own class, as well as junior and senior high.

We need teachers! If you are interested in helping to teach a class this fall and spring, please email Pastor Brad or come by for a visit. The curriculum is fun and engaging, and easy to plan! Come and see what all the Buzz is about!

3

At Covenant, we NEVER want a young person not to go on a trip because their family can’t afford it. We have a special fund set aside called the Scholarship fund to help. Well, that fund is getting pretty low. Would you like to help sponsor a child this year? If so, that would be GREAT, and we appreciate any donation you can give. Just place your donation to the scholarship fund in the offering plate and mark it youth scholarship fund, and again, thank you for helping a young person attend one of our many retreats and gatherings!

Scholarship Help!

L I F T

Rally Day 2009A new Youth and Family year is quickly approaching! Rally Day 2009 is

set for Sunday, September 13th!

We are continuing our theme of Storyline for this next year.

Our theme for this year’s Rally Day will be “Think Orange”

We will have a unique and special service at 9:30 a.m. We will also be installing the new youth volunteers and dedicating a special gift received

for youth and family ministry. A special luncheon will follow, where we will discuss the new calendar!

We are excited to announce new Covenant Kids one day events for this new 2009-2010 year. These one day events will be a chance for parents and kids of our youngest youth group to be together for fun and fellowship. Our first One Day event will be on September 26th for a skate day at Memorial City Mall. It will be from 1:30 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Cost is $10 per child. For

more information, contact Pastor Brad, Vicki Powers, or Kimberly Griffin.

4

Our small group ministry starts THIS MONTH! The primary biblical

purpose for small groups is fellowship. Our greatest desire for our small

groups is that it BE a place where believing students can connect with

one another and form relationships with two significant adults. The

second biblical purpose for small groups is discipleship. Each time they

meet, they will discuss biblical passages and the application of those

passages to their lives. Some of the benefits of small groups are:

students can be known and accepted for who they are, students can be

verbal and discuss important issues, students can be accountable to

spiritual mentors and challenged to spiritually grow, and students can

get personalized applications of biblical truths and find real help for the

real problems they face. Your son/daughter should be in a D-Group

(disciple group) and a group leader will contact them soon! We

encourage all of our high school students to be involved in this new

ministry!

Confirmation StartupConfirmation orientation is set for September 9th from 7-8 p.m. in the

Fellowship Hall (new location). We are excited about new opportunities for

families and students this year! So all current 6-8 graders and their

parents are asked to attend. 6th graders, please bring $20 for a Bible to use

during your confirmation years.

DIVE RETURNS!

SEPTEMBER 14TH

IT’S ALL NEW! TO CELEBRATE, WE WILL BE MEETING AT ALAMO DRAFT HOUSE ON

MASON ROAD!

MOVIE IS FREE! BRING MONEY FOR FOOD OR SNACKS IF YOU LIKE!

5

What happens to kids at Covenant when they graduate from high school? Well, what happened to YOU when YOU graduated from high school? In many congregations, as well as ours, the only place for them was to suddenly become adults – attend worship and do adult things in congregational life. The fact is, many kids aren’t ready for that step. They feel out of place and many, quite literally, ARE out of place when they head off to college. This summer we decided to turn that around.

More of our college students are sticking close to home for their first two or more years of college. Other kids come home on breaks or for the summer. All of them have friends. And all of them are living that chaotic and stressful time of life between being “adults and not-yet-adults.” The KAIROS group is an effort to bring kids together with and for one another.

KAIROS is from a Greek word which means the “fullness of time”, it means a “critical time” when lives are transformed. The challenge we put to our college kids when gathering them together in the KAIROS fellowship is that they make the most of this critical time. We want to grow leaders in the church, not just people who attend. And we don’t want to lose this critical age group until later in their lives. We need their energy and idealism and they need our care, support and encouragement.

More to come soon!

Kairos Young Adult Ministry

We are the next generation, our time is now!

Youth and Family Wish ListEveryone has a wish list; well, so do we. Can you help?

Bus: $3000 (AC tune up and repaint roof)Check In/Out System for Sunday School: $800-$1000

Defibrillator that also comes with free CPR/First Aid Training for all youth workers: $1400

Covenant Lutheran Church’s Youth and Family Ministry

Vision

As we continue to grow, we seek to provide a Christ-centered community where we equip our families and youth to faithfully walk with Jesus and serve our world.

Mission

Renewing the church, through the faith of our youth.

Values

We provide activities that help to establish a personal relationship with Christ.

We support a partnership between the congregation and home.

We encourage active adult participation in the lives of youth.

We will assist in providing healthy relationships between youth and Authentic, Available and Affirming adults.

Youth will find a safe haven at all church activities.

COVENANT LUTHERAN CHURCH3785 Barker Cypress RdHouston, TX 77084

7:00pm Worship Class

7:00pm Ginny Buschbom

8:00pm Kairos Group

309:00am Bible Study

6:00pm Cub Scouts/Annex 9

6:30pm COH Circle of Care

7:00pm Covenant Job Connections

295:00pm PDAP/Annex 9

288:00am Worship

9:30am Christian Ed. Hour

9:30am Worship

11:00am Worship

2:00pm Men's Tennis

27

7:00am Men's Breakfast/IHOP

26259:30am Interim Pastors Mtg/CR

6:00pm Pack1455/FH

6:00pm Girl Scouts/lc1

7:00pm Worship Band

7:00pm Handbell Choir

8:00pm Worship Choir



8:00pm Kairos Group




7:00pm RGHOA/CR

22Bridge Builder Deadline

5:00pm PDAP/Annex 9

218:00am Worship

9:30am Worship


11:00am Worship

12:00pm Covenant U 101

6:30pm Women's Group

20


9:30am Children's Church Workshop

9:30am COH to Oakmont

19Tween Girls Carwash

6:30pm Piecemakers/CR

186:00pm Pack1455/FH


7:00pm Worship Band





8:00pm Kairos Group


4:00pm DKG Teachers/FH



7:00pm Council Meeting


7:00pm DIVE/Alamo Drafthouse

14Rally Sunday

8:00am Worship

9:30am Worship


11:00am Worship

12:00pm Y & F Kickoff Luncheon

13


10:00am Krause Center Visit

1212:00pm Lunch Bunch/Offsite


6:00pm Pack1455/FH


7:00pm Worship Band


107:00pm Confirmation Orientation


8:00pm Kairos Group

99:00am Bible Study



7:00pm Addicks MUD/cr

7:00pm Men's Group Dinner/off site


78:00am Worship


9:30am Worship

11:00am Worship

6


56:30pm Piecemakers/CR

46:00pm Pack1455/FH


7:00pm Worship Band



38:00pm Kairos Group

29:00am Bible Study



7:00pm Mutual Ministry/L

1

SaturdayFridayThursdayWednesdayTuesdayMondaySunday

September 2009

Building Bridges through Willing Service 2009

Please contact the church office for assistance in determining where your talents may provide the greatest service.

Service Teams September 6 September 13 September 20 September 27

Assisting Ministers

Clayton Faulkner

E Gail Peart

M Ross Benthien

L Carol Flores

E Forrest Croom

M Susan Pride

L Rudy Flores

E Stephen Blackmore

M Nancy Benthien

L Kirt Tabbert

E Denise Shiver-Blackmore

M Marcia Karns

L Debbie Kendall

Greeters

Judy Larson

E Martha/Velon Burnett

M OPEN

L Sue/Larry Manton

E Corky/Wally Boutilier

M Joyce/Greg Gedovin

L Jan/Pat Troutt

E Roy/Annette Peters

M Judy/Mark Larson

L Judith Richey & Frank Fogal

E Patricia/Sig Cornelius

M Chris Dyess & Gail Peart

L Lori Stuart & Jeff Denecamp

Refreshments

Evalyn Leonard

E Patricia Cornelius

L Mary Sohlin

E Scott Neumann

L Kimberly Griffin

E Corky Boutilier

L Kate Casso

E OPEN

L Lorna Blount

Children’s Church

Leaders

Martha Steele

Debbie Winkelmann

(Amy and Christian)

Cristi Dungan

(Patrick and Matthew)

Stacie Otto

(Beverly and Cortney)

Martha Steele

(Lindsay and Theresa)

Acolytes

Clayton Faulkner

Kylie Gutierrez

Chloe Powers

Avery Griffin

Tyler Landua

Laura Flores

Austin Landua

Travis Fuchs

Brys Chiasson

Counters

Gisela Hopkins

Barbara/George Richards John Jeanes

Rosemarie Martin

Suzi/Bob Bussone Patricia/Sig Cornelius

Ushers

TBA

Team 1

Jon Baak

Team 1

Jon Baak

Team 1

Jon Baak

Team 1

Jon Baak

Altar Guild

Pat Hillen

Sharon Dozier

Team 3 Team 4 Team 1 Team 2

Flowers

Pat Hillen

Rosemarie Martin in memory of

Charlotte Alworth

The Lancaster family in honor of

Ashlyn’s 14th Birthday

Pat and Dan Hillen in celebration

of their 30th wedding anniversary

Annette and Roy Peters in celebra-

tion of their 52nd wedding anni-

versary

Welcome Team

Bill Broddle

E Marlene Cook/Clayton Sather

L Rich Geisler/OPEN

E Denise/Stephen Blackmore

L Jim Dyess/Beverly Will

E Nancy Croom/Gail Peart

L Julie/Scott Neumann

E Rosemarie Martin

Eloise Willingham

L Gene Kendall/Jamey Hooks

Keynote Speaker: Rev. Brian McLaren author of Everything Must Change: Jesus, Global Crises, and a

Revolution of Hope EVENT: The Texas Impact Advocacy Camp WHERE: Covenant Lutheran Church WHEN: October 24, 2009 8:45am to 4:00pm

Advocacy Camp is a citizen leadership development workshop for people of faith in Texas. The purpose of the workshop is for people of faith to learn how to engage in the public policy process. This event helps those who want to work on justice issues get past their own inertia toward action in society. Sessions include policy issues such as health, immigration, criminal justice, and environment. These sessions will provide up‐to‐date information on the topic at hand and explain why these issues are important to the faith community. There will also be interactive sessions on the church’s role in the upcoming elections and how your faith community can get more active in justice and advocacy.

Dear Covenant Lutheran community: The Covenant Justice team is looking for a few people to help us host this event by handling a few jobs. Specifically, we are looking for the following tasks to be handled by volunteers from the congregation: I. Food and Beverage – We need 2 people who are willing to set up the Coffee/Tea/breakfast rolls and set out the lunch boxes. (start at 7:30 am ) II. Greeters/Helpers – We need 2 people who are willing to greet at the door in the morning (8:15 to 9 am)

III. Clean Up to prepare for Sunday – this event takes place on Saturday, so we’ll need the sanctuary to be prepared for Sunday. We need 4 people for this task.

If you are willing to work at this event, you are also invited to attend it. Your $25 registration fee will be waived! Contact Nancy Benthien at [email protected] or 713‐732‐1660 to sign up. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!!


Documents

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