THE BRETHREN JOURNALunityofthebrethren.org/wp-content/uploads/BJ201711.pdf · 2018. 11. 3. · 2/November 2017 BRETHREN JOURNAL Visit the Unity of the Brethren Website: unityofthebrethren.org

BRETHREN JOURNAL November 2017/1

Gage Kinnibrugh, Brady Neal, Maggie and Darcy Maloney(More about Maggie and Darcy inside this issue.)

THE BRETHRENJOURNAL

BRETHREN JOURNAL January-February, 2000/1

Vol. 116 November 2017 No. 9 36 Pages

IN THIS ISSUE . . .Train a Dog, Save a Warrior . . . by Darcy MaloneyThe Fear of the Unknown . . . by Rev. Vanessa MitchellThe Board of Education . . . by Jim PokornyHuricane Help Teams Forming Now

. . . and much, much more!36/November 2017 BRETHREN JOURNAL

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Needed: FRIENDS OF THE BRETHREN JOURNAL– from the editor

The Brethren Journal has been publishing life and activitiesof the Unity of the Brethren in Texas for over 100 years. All of theseinclude records of weddings, baptisms, deaths, etc., of the minis-ters... when they were submitted. These records are invaluable forfamilies who wish to research their family history or activities thathave taken place in our congregations and the denomination. Itwould be fitting, in the eyes of the Brethren Journal BusinessCommittee, to ask for financial support for the continuation of thispublication.

If you wish to become a special FRIEND OF THE BRETHRENJOURNAL, please send your donation to the Business Manager(address inside front cover). These donations are tax deductible.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes toThe Brethren Journal, 705 Woodson Dr., Caldwell, TX 77836.

2/November 2017 BRETHREN JOURNAL

Visit theUnity of the Brethren

Website:unityofthebrethren.org

THE BRETHREN JOURNAL

EDITOR –Cathleen Schlechte

3635 CR 225, Caldwell, TX [email protected]

BUSINESS MANAGER –Ben Polasek

705 Woodson Dr., Caldwell, TX 77836;[email protected]

BUSINESS COMMITTEE –President: Kayla MarekTreasurer: Dorothy Milberger, 312 N. Lantana

Cr., Sealy, TX 77474; [email protected];979-885-7129 (h), 979-472-5091 (c)

Secretary: Stacy Hooker

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS –Daily Morsels: Dorothy Kocian,

107 S. Barbara, Waco, TX 76705-1317.Sunday School Helper: Angie Hairrell,

11482 FM 2155, Somerville, TX 77879;[email protected]

Jim Pokorny, [email protected];blog: otherbrotherjim.blogspot.com

RATE – $15.00 per year via hard copy and/or email; $7.50 after June 1st(All subscriptions expire December 31st)FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS, RENEWALS, AND GIFTSUBSCRIPTIONS, Hard Copy & E-Mail, writeThe Brethren Journal Business Manager (seeaddresses above.

FOR ADDRESS CHANGES – Include ad-dress label from your most recent issue andwrite to: The Brethren Journal BusinessManager, 705 Woodson Dr., Caldwell, TX 77836,or email [email protected].

FOR ADVERTISING –Rates (per column inch per year)

Commercial coverage – $50.00Religious coverage – $50.00

Write:The Brethren Journal Business Manager

FOR ARTICLE AND REPORTSUBMISSION – DEADLINE is the first dayof the month preceding publication.Write: The Brethren Journal Editor, 3635 CR225, Caldwell, TX 77836, or email:[email protected].

Permit #064220THE BRETHREN JOURNAL (ISSN 0006-9655)is published monthly except for January andJuly, which are bimonthly, at $15.00 per yearby The Unity of the Brethren through SuzAnneKurten dba Your Business Center, 1050 S.Hwy. 95, Taylor, TX 76574, 512-921-1068,periodical postage paid at Taylor, TX. POST-MASTER: Send address changes to The Breth-ren Journal, Attn: Business Manager, 705Woodson Dr., Caldwell, TX 77836.

The transition to the new UnityFinancial Secretary, Rev. Joe Emerson,has been completed and all contribu-tions to the Unity of the Brethrenshould be sent to him beginning inNovember. His mailing address is Rev.Joe Emerson, PO Box 1295, Belton,TX 76513.

This includes all contributions thatwere sent to Liz Ripple during thepast two years. Please continue toinclude a ‘Funds Distribution Memo’(FDM) with all mailings, and also aMinisters’ Retirement and Income Pro-tection Program coupon (if applicable)when sending to those funds. Anupdated FDM can be found on theUnity website (go to Calendar, Forms).

I have enjoyed being the UnityFinancial Secretary during the pasttwo years. Thank you for making myjob easy, and especially thank you foryour generous contributions to themany funds that support Unity pro-grams and ministries.

In Christ, Liz Ripple

Attention, all UnityCongregations...

Unity Financial SecretaryTransition Completed

MINISTERIAL CREDENTIALS BOARD(2017-2019)

Rev. James D. Hejl(Pastor to the Pastors)

Rev. Mark SebekRev. Whitney Amos

Rev. Joe Emerson


FULL TIME PASTORSRev. Linda Von Chandler, 13108 North Ridge

Circle, Leander, TX 78641. (512) 836-2712Rev. Tim Chaplin, 1326 Starlight Dr., Temple TX

76502. (254) 778-5954; [email protected]. Joe Emerson, 5404 Southern Crossing Dr.,

Temple, TX 76502. (254) 931-1653;[email protected]

Rev. Adolfo Gonzalez, 3913 Brinkman Drive,Port Arthur, TX 77642. (409) 293-2065

Rev. Michael Groseclose, 352 NelsonvilleChurch Rd., Bellville, TX 77418.(979) 865-3026

Rev. Jim Heckman, 9849 PR 1015, Rockdale,TX 76567. (979) 739-1393, leave message. Ifno answer, try 2nd number, (979) 200-0513;[email protected]

Rev. James D. Hejl, 309 Cherrywood Circle,Taylor, TX 76574. (512) 365-6890

Rev. Curtis Holland, 1017 Southwood, Waco, TX76712. (254) 776-5886

Rev. David Johnson, 902 Timberlane, Caldwell,TX 77836. (979) 567-1838(h),(979) 220-3822(c);[email protected]

Pastor Lisa Johnson, (281) 220-0280.Dr. Larry Koslovsky, 4311 Fir Valley Drive,

Kingwood, TX 77345. [email protected](281) 328-2442 (off), (713) 594-4518 (c)

Rev. John Kueker, P.O. Box 325, Buckholts, TX76518. (254) 605-0434

Rev. Denise Mikeska, 409 E. Upshaw, Temple,TX 76501. [email protected]

Rev. Vanessa Lucia Mitchell, 2070 Carter LakeDrive, College Station, TX 77845.(979) 574-0268; [email protected]: notboxingtheair.wordpress.com

Rev. Joseph Polasek, P.O. Box 54, Snook, TX77878, (979) 272-1624;[email protected]

Rev. Kay Polasek, 705 Woodson Dr., Caldwell,TX 77836. (979) 220-1289;[email protected]

Rev. Mark Sebek, 9235 FM 437, Rogers, TX76569. (254) 931-2000;[email protected]

Rev. Thomas Tallas, 3829 Sandstone, SanAngelo, TX 76904. (325) 949-7543;[email protected] (h), [email protected] (ch)

DIRECTORY OF MINISTERS

Rev. Dr. Jerry L. Terrill,[email protected]

Rev. Larry Zabcik, 2013 Burnie Bishop Place,Cedar Park, TX 78613. (512) 992-5824;[email protected]

SUPPLY OR INACTIVE PASTORSRev. Charles Amos, 845 Airville Road, Temple,

TX 76501. (254) 742-2629Rev. Whitney Amos, 845 Airville Road, Temple,

TX 76501. (254) 742-2629Rev. James Henry (retired), 1726 15th Ave.

N., Lake Worth, FL 33460. (561) 533-3893Rev. William J. Hodge, 528 N. Post Oak Lane,

Houston, TX 77024. (713) 957-8294Rev. Robert W. Janek, 261 Edinburg, San

Angelo, TX 76901. (325) 942-8515Rev. Lawrence Junek, 3316 Lyle, Waco, TX

76708. (254) 714-2622Rev. Eugene Kotrla, 4406 Antelope Trail,

Temple, TX 76504. (254) 774-7484Dr. Mark L. Labaj, 3410 Meadow Creek Lane,

Temple, TX 76504. (254) 774-8179;[email protected]

Rev. Al Newby, 2210 Forest Trail, Temple, TX76502. (254) 778-1860

Rev. Bill Rinderknecht, P.O. Box 228,Dennison, OH 44621-0228. (281) 433-7704(cell); [email protected]

Rev. Nello Strickland, 1006 Top Hill Drive,Brenham, TX 77833. (979) 836-2609

Rev. Tony Taylor, P.O. Box 1680, Hilltop Lakes,TX 77871. (936) 855-2563

Rev. Ron Winsman, [email protected]

UNDER CALL OF THE UNITYMilitary ChaplaincyCH (Maj) Daniel Husak, 1627 Lakeview

Street, DeRidder, LA [email protected]

MINISTERIAL STUDENTSBen Kruse – [email protected] (CCC of

Rosenberg)


We are living in a virtually per-petual state of fear... and we might noteven be aware of it.

Who knows when a storm or earth-quake will hit next?

Other disasters and tragedies strike,too.

Perhaps the greatest fear one canhold is the fear of the unknown.

How will my finances turn out forretirement?

How will I buy groceries this week?How will my spouse or other loved

one respond to my concerns when Ivoice them?

What diagnosis will the doctorgive me?

Will my child be okay?Will my business make it?

Fear grips us in a chokehold and cansnuff out the resurrection power ofJesus that lives within us if we let it.

Turn off the news for a moment.Put down the phone.Take a break from whatever you

are doing.

The Fear of the Unknown- by Rev. Vanessa Mitchell

Make the time to sit with Jesusand receive the encouragement Hehas for you:

“Peace I leave with you; My peaceI give to you. I do not give to you asthe world gives. Do not let yourhearts be troubled, and do not letthem be afraid.” (John 14:27)

“Jesus said to His disciples, ‘There-fore I tell you, do not worry aboutyour life, what you will eat, or aboutyour body, what you will wear. Forlife is more than food, and the bodymore than clothing. Consider theravens: they neither sow nor reap,they have neither storehouse norbarn, and yet God feeds them. Of howmuch more value are you than thebirds! And can any of you by worry-ing add a single hour to your span oflife? If then you are not able to do sosmall a thing as that, why do youworry about the rest?’” (Luke 12:22-26)

Sunday School 9:30 amWorship 10:30 am

Pastor – Rev. Joe EmersonP.O. Box 1295

Belton, TX 76513(254) 931-1653

FayettevilleBrethrenChurch.org


HOME MISSIONS BOARDMartha Dove, chair; 979-249-5591;

[email protected] Kruse (2010-2017);

[email protected] Ubanovsky (2011-2017);

[email protected] Hinson (2009-2017);

[email protected] Clark (2017); [email protected] Mikeska (2015-2017);

[email protected] Chlapek (2015-2017);

[email protected]

PASTORAL RELATIONS COMMITTEEChairman: Dr. Ron Dusek;

(979) 567-3732; [email protected] Janac; [email protected];

(979) 587-0363Trish Groseclose; (979) 865-3026Anna Wotipka; (979) 218-9043Adviser: Rev. James D. Hejl;

[email protected]; (512) 365-6890Synodical Committee Liaison:

Dr. Larry Koslovsky

DIRECTORY OF MISSIONARIES

Carolyn GrosecloseNDOP.O. Box 630260Choma, Zambiae-mail: [email protected]

Pastor Pavel and Stanya KozakNorska 4277900 OlomoucCzech Repubice-mail: [email protected]

Phil & Eunice Raiford(parents’ address in U.S.)230 SW Sandy WayPort Saint Lucie, FL [email protected]

Rob and Anne Thiessen25 E. Camino NacionalTlalixtac de CabreraOaxaca, MEXICO 68627(011) 52-1-951-145-8947e-mail: [email protected]

Michael Woo462 Lockland AvenueWinston-Salem, NC 27103e-mail: [email protected] access their pictures, go tohttp://gallery.mac.com/woofamily

SYNODICAL COMMITTEEPresident: Rev. Larry Koslovsky, (713) 594-45181st Vice President: Rev. Mark Sebek,

(254) 931-2000; [email protected] Vice President: Kayla Marek, 2703 Kelly

Dr., Taylor, TX 76574; (325) 651-8788;[email protected]

3rd Vice President: Rev. Whitney Amos,(254) 742-2629; [email protected]

Secretary: Angie Hairrell, 11482 FM 2155,Somerville, TX 77879; (979) 219-1582;[email protected]

Treasurer: Lynette Urbanovsky, 4050 PendletonDr. Apt. 628, Bryan, TX 77802;(979) 450-1820; [email protected]

Financial Secretary: Rev. Joe Emerson, PO Box1295, Belton, TX 76513; (254) 931-1653;[email protected]

Administrative Assistant: Liz Ripple, 311 W.State Hwy. 71, Fayetteville, TX 78940;(979) 378-2239; [email protected]

Ministerial Alternate: Rev. Tim ChaplinPastor to Pastors: Rev. James D. Hejl,

(512) 365-6890Non-Voting Lay Alternate:

Wiley Marx (Ocker), [email protected] Members: Austin – Eric Haynes;

[email protected] – Valerie Sebek; Kent LazaBuckholts – Charlene Vogelsang;

[email protected] – Ron Dusek; [email protected] – Debbie Clark, [email protected] Box – Roberta Brinkman;

[email protected] – Sandra Stepan;

[email protected] Shepherd – Alfredo WilsonGranger – Edwina Jezisek, [email protected] – Dorothy Hinson;

[email protected] – Joan Coufal; [email protected] – Jenell Zettel, (979) 203-8390New Tabor – Rober t Schlechte;

[email protected] – Taylor Brinkley; [email protected] – Linda Planka; [email protected] – Genevieve Elliott-Bowman;

[email protected] – Leonard Mikeska; [email protected] – Angie Hairrell (Secretary)Snook – Yvonne Kovar; [email protected] – Sidney Srnensky;

[email protected] – Kellie Chaplin; [email protected] – Robert Berrie; [email protected] – Mark SurovikWest – Roy Janek; [email protected] – Leroy Par thum;

betty_par [email protected]


“But immediately Jesus spoke tothem and said, ‘Take heart, it is I; donot be afraid.’” (Mark 6:50)

“Do not fear, only believe.”(Mark 5:36)

Jesus is telling us to take a standagainst our fears...with Him.

Will you go to substitutes to takeyour mind off things like food, work,and other activities? Or will you faceyour fears like a stubborn mule, refus-ing to be shaken up by them?

Peace is meant to be a way of lifefor those who have a deep friendshipwith Jesus.

Will you ask Jesus to strengthenyour friendship with Him?

Worry is not meant to be a way oflife for those who trust Jesus, whotrust that He is present and the Advo-cate for us at all times.

Will you ask Jesus to teach yourmind and your heart to trust Him?

The antidote to a life that is markedby fearfulness of the unknown isbelieving with all of your being thatJesus is your salvation, not just eter-nally, but in this life now.

Will you ask Jesus to help you turnoff the fear of the unknown and turnON the faith in Him, in His LovingFaithful Presence?

Jesus is the One and Only who willstand with you and FOR YOU, throughthick and thin.

Look to Jesus, your certain hope,now.

In Jesus’ Hands,Right With You,

Sister Vanessa Mitchell

HUS ENCAMPMENTBOARD OF TRUSTEES

Chairman: Kent Laza (2017),(979) 220-1957

Treasurer: Todd Corporon (2016), 210Phillips St., Hutto, TX 78634;(512) 922-9292;[email protected]

At-Large: Phil Michalik, 15918 BrookForest Dr., Houston, TX 77059;[email protected]

Christian Sisters’ Union ExecutiveCommittee Reps:

Paula Wagner (Chr.Sis. 2015), 10506Mourning Dove Dr., Austin, TX 78750;(512) 632-6644;[email protected]

Carolyn Beseda (Chr.Sis. 2016), 2515Lazybrook Dr., Houston, TX 77008;(281) 546-7941; [email protected]

Board of Christian Education Rep: TamiLaza, 4913 FM 166, Caldwell, TX 77836;[email protected]

Brethren Youth Fellowship LeadershipTeam Rep: Jordan Eilers

Friends of the Hus Encampment Rep:Todd Snelgrove; [email protected]

The Encampment is governed by a Boardof Trustees of 8 members.

Terms: 2 years, may be re-elected/re-appointed for a maximum of 4 terms or 8years (Unity of the Brethren By-Laws,Article XIV, Sec C, Par.4).

Non-Voting Appointments:

Programming Director: Amy [email protected]

Unity Youth Coordinator: JenniferChervenka; [email protected]; (254) 983-1002

Facilities Manager: Jim([email protected]) & Dawn([email protected]) Baletka;(979) 693-2710; 3501 Kanati Cove,College Station, TX 77845.

Caretakers: Robert([email protected]) & Cathleen([email protected]) Schlechte;(979) 324-5560 or (979) 255-8266.

Synodical Committee Oversight: Rev. Whitney Amos.

Hus Encampment Address: 3635 CountyRd. 225, Caldwell, TX 77836;(979) 272-8176.


New Tabor – Sunday School at 9:00 AM &Worship at 10:00 AM every Sunday,“Tune Up” on Wednesdays, 7:30 PM.

– Rev. Dave Johnson

Ocker – worship at 10:15 AM everySunday. Sunday School at 9:00 AMevery Sunday.

Interim Pastor – Brad Herridge

Pasadena – Sunday School at 9:30 AMand worship at 10:45 AM every Sunday.

– Dr. Larry Koslovsky

Community Christian Church ofRosenberg –

Sundays: Adult Bible Stud y and SundaySchool for children at 9:00 AM; worshipat 10:30 AM.

Wednesdays: 5:30 PM Dinner; 6:30 PMBible Study.

– Pastor Ben Kruse

Seaton –Sunday, 9:15 AM – Prayer Gathering;

9:30 AM – Sunday School, All Ages;10:30 AM – Worship Celebration Service.

Wednesday, 6:30 PM – Kid’s and AdultBible Study.

– Rev. Denise Mikeska

Snook – Sunday School – 9:00 AM;Worship – 10:15 AM.

– Rev. Joseph Polasek

Taylor – worship at 10:15 AM everySunday.

– Rev. James Hejl

Temple – Sunday School at 9:30 AM.,Worship at 10:45 AM.

– Rev. Tim Chaplin

Vsetin – A non-official membercongregation of the Unity of theBrethren – Worship at 10:00 AM everySunday.

– Dr. Mark Labaj5th Sunday – Visiting Ministers

Wall – Sunday School (for all ages) at9:30 AM; worship at 10:45 AM everySunday.

– Rev. Thomas Tallas

Wesley – worship at 9:00 AM everySunday. Sunday School follows.

– Rev. Michael Groseclose

West – Sunday School at 9:00 AM andworship at 10:15 AM every Sunday.

– Rev. Curtis Holland

Westheimer Community – 9:30 AM,Christian Education; 10:30 AM,Worship, with Holy Communion every5th Sunday.

– Pastor Lisa Johnson

Austin – Bible Study at 10:00 AMAustin – Worship at 11:00 AM.

– Rev. Linda Chandler

Bryan-College Station – worship at9:00 AM every Sunday.

– Rev. Mark Sebek

Buckholts – worship at 9:00 AM everySunday except the 5th Sunday.Holy Communion on 1st Sunday.Guest speaker on 4th Sunday.

– Rev. John Kueker

Cade Lake Community Chapel – A HomeMission Project since 10-22-11 – SundaySchool at 11:00 AM; Fellowship Lunchat Noon; Worship at 1:00 PM.

– Rev. Jim HeckmanCo-Pastor, Rev. Kay Polasek

Caldwell – Come as you are! Sundays –explore the Bible @ 9:30 AM (all ages);KIDS CHOIR practices @ 10:15 AM; &worship @ 10:30 AM! Every 1st & 3rdWednesday, join the fun @ FamilyGame Night, 6-7:30 PM! Check outlifeatcbc.org for spiritual resources,events, videos, & more! Friend us onFacebook!

– Rev. Vanessa Mitchell

Crosby – 9:00 AM: Worship10:00 AM: Faith Adventure

– Dr. Larry Koslovsky

Dime Box – worship at 9:00 AM everySunday.

– Rev. Kay Polasek

Fayetteville – Sunday School at 9:30 AM,worship at 10:30 AM every Sunday.

– Rev. Joe Emerson

Good Shepherd Moravian – worship at11:30 AM and 6:30 PM every Sunday.

– Rev. Adolfo Gonzalez

Granger – Bible Study every Sunday at9:00 AM with worship service followingat 10:15 AM.

– Rev. Larry Zabcik

Houston – Sunday School at 9:15 AM;Worship at 10:30 AM every Sunday.

– Rev. Dr. Jerry Terrill

Industry – worship at 9:00 AM every Sundaywith Sunday School for all ages following.

– Rev. Joe Emerson

Nelsonville – Sunday School at 9:00 AMNelsonville – Worship at 10:15 AM

– Rev. Michael Groseclose

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES


Over the last few weeks I’ve beenusing my dog, Maggie, as my servicedog. Much thanks to a great organi-zation called “Train a Dog, Save aWarrior”… TADSAW. They offer train-ing at no cost to veterans who haveverification from a doctor of a bonafide reason to use a service dog.

My path to this point is much toblame to Ruth Dusek. Several yearsago I mentioned in Sunday schoolthat my back was hurting. Ruth asked,“Have you prayed about it?” Myanswer was fairly dismissal as I felt Ihad asked God for help.

When I thought further, I realizedthat beyond a simple “oh Lord” lam-entation, I had not really *asked* forhelp. So, I asked God to 1) help medeal with the pain and 2) help me finda doctor who could help. Shortly afterthat, I found some great docs in SanAntonio who have helped me managemy pain. Then, while shopping inHobby Lobby, I saw my first GreatDane (also a black and white Dane)

Train a Dog, Save a Warrior- by Darcy Maloney

service dog. I immediately asked thehandler what his disability was. Iasked in the same tone that youwould ask someone what magic actsthey can do.

Mistake number one. When youask someone why they have a servicedog, you have just asked about theirmedical history. In this man’s case, hehad PTSD. So, announcing publiclyvery likely brought bad memories tomind.

I don’t mind telling why I needMaggie, but it’s not as easy as sayingthat she helps with my pain. But thatis what she does mostly right now. Inaddition to my back problems, I havea collagen disorder called Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Collagen is theconnective tissues in the body. Col-lagen is in blood, bones, muscle, andeven in your eyes. People with EDShave a myriad of issues, but justimagine lots of micro-tears in yourmuscles and joints. After many years


Hus Encampment Capital Building CampaignPledge Form:

Please accept this joy-filled pledge.Name: ______________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________Phone _____________________ Email _____________________3-Year Pledge: [ ] $100,000 [ ] $50,000 [ ] $25,000 [ ] $15,000

[ ] $10,000 [ ] $7,500 [ ] $5,000 [ ] $2,500 [ ] $1,500[ ] Other ______________

Amount Enclosed: ___________ [ ] Check # ______ [ ] Cash(Please make checks payable to: “Hus Encampment Building Fund”)[ ] Visa [ ] MasterCard Credit Card #_____________________Exp. __________ Security #_____Remaining Amount:__________ to be paid over the next

[ ] 12 months [ ] 18 months [ ] 24 months [ ] 36 monthsMonthly Payment Amount: $__________[ ] Please charge my credit card monthly [ ] Please bill me monthly[ ] Please use electronic funds transfer from my bank acct. monthly:Bank Name ___________________________________Routing # ___________________ Account # ____________________

[ ] The Hus Encampment may list my name and pledge amount inwritten materials when giving thanks to donors.

Signature: _______________________________________________

Mail donation to:Todd Corporon, Hus Board Treasurer

210 Phillips StreetHutto, Texas 78634

Donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.


of subluxated joints, the pain comesto roost. I will learn to teach Maggiehow to pick up things for me and shewill learn how to support me. I don’thave much need of these two tasksright now, but as I age, I may needsuch help. Learning how to teachMaggie will help me teach my nextDane after Maggie is retired.

After hearing that TADSAW re-quires a doctor’s support, I got thecourage to ask my rheumatologistwhat he thought about service dogs.He was very supportive, telling methat he would write whatever sup-porting paperwork I needed. A monthor so later I had to see my family caredoc about an unrelated issue atGoodfellow. His comment was morestraight to the point. “If it reducesyour need for pharmaceuticals, thenI’m 100% in support.” After I men-tioned the second doc’s comment tomy friend Elliott Daniel, she said “Howmany doctors will you have to askbefore you believe you can use aservice dog?”

With the man at Hobby Lobby, Ifelt very comfortable around GreatDanes and began petting the dog. Hedidn’t mind and he seemed to enjoytalking to another veteran… I men-

tioned that I had been in the military,so maybe he felt a kinship.

Mistake number two. Don’t auto-matically assume you can pet a ser-vice dog. Some dogs are performingservice that you can’t see. They maybe paying attention to the handler todetect an oncoming seizure or a dia-betic emergency. It’s amazing whatour dogs can do. We’ve come a longway since the first references to ser-vice dogs in the mid-16th Century!Guide dogs for blind people came intouse more frequently after the FirstWorld War for veterans blinded dur-ing service.

Nowadays we have dogs who helpveterans with PTSD by going into aroom and turning on lights and check-ing the room for “bad guys.” ThesePTSD service dogs help calm a vet-eran during nightmares. Some dogshelp deaf people. We have dogs thatlearn to protect a person’s head ifthey have a seizure… they get theirbody under the person’s head sothey don’t bash it on the ground. Wehave dogs that can detect when adiabetic’s sugar level has dropped toan emergency level. And many stud-ies have proven that dogs can detectand reduce a person’s pain level.

TAYLOR BRETHREN CHURCHTAYLOR BRETHREN CHURCHTAYLOR BRETHREN CHURCHTAYLOR BRETHREN CHURCHTAYLOR BRETHREN CHURCHSeventh Street at Sloan in Taylor, Texas

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 351, Taylor, TX 76574512-352-6423

Sunday School: 9:00 a.m. Worship: 10:15 a.m.Pastor Board President Secretary

James D. Hejl Buddy Michna Mary Kokes512-365-6890 512-365-1621 M-Th 8 a.m.-noon


Hus Encampment Capital Building CampaignThe Needs

Since its founding in 1914, the Hus Memorial School/Hus Encampment hassought to teach and encourage young people to become Christian leaders.Since that time, the programs have grown to include 6 different summer campexperiences for youth ages 7 - 19, and a variety of other Christian programs forpeople of all ages.

Due to continued growth and demand for our summer youth camp programs,and a desire to make the Hus Encampment more accessible for groups of allages, our current facilities are in need of renovation or replacement toaccommodate the needs of our mission. The Hus Planning/Building Committeehas determined that the most pressing needs are:

Main Building/Kitchen RenovationNew Dorm/Housing Construction

Outdoor Gym/Pavilion ConstructionParking & Walkway Construction

The SolutionThrough Prayerful consideration, the Hus Planning/Building Committee rec-

ommends the launch of a $4,000,000 Capital Building Campaign for the HusEncampment. Through a UNITED effort of support from our Unity Congregations,Friends of the Hus Encampment, Hus Camp Alumni, and fellow Christians likeyourself, it is our belief that the Lord will bless our efforts and continue to blessthe Hus Encampment and its programs for generations to come! Through Christ,all things are possible…won’t you join in the dream by making a pledge today!

The PlansIf you would like to see the details of each of the renovation/construction

plans presented at the Unity Convention in Temple, please visit the campwebsite on the internet at: www.huscamp.org

The WayIf you would like to join in the dream by making a pledge, here are some ways

you can do so:• Fill out the form in this issue and send to the address at the bottom of the

form – or –• Download form to mail from the camp website at www.huscamp.org, or• Donate online at www.huscamp.org

If you are not able to make a monetary gift, please keep the Hus Encampment,the Hus Planning/Building Committee and this campaign in your prayers.

We appreciate you and your support!


Call us if you have questionsabout naming your churchor a Unity of the Brethrenagency as a beneficiary

in an existing or newSPJST insurance certificate.

SPJST520 NorthMain StreetTemple, Texas 76501

(800) 727-7578www.spjst.org

MembershipBenefits

• Life Insurance• Annuities• Family Activities• Community Involvement• Youth Activities and Camp• Scholarships• Vestnik weekly newspaper

Insuring & Enriching Lives

A fraternal benefit societyserving Texans

and their familiessince 1897.

There’s some sort of chemical that isoften increased just prior to a musclespasm. Sometimes Maggie comes upto me and I think she’s just wantingattention. When I think about it, it’soften just prior to a good musclespasm!

Having said not to pet a dog, oneof the number one criteria of TADSAWis that a dog must be calm and accept-ing around people and other dogs.So, I don’t mind if you pet Maggie.She enjoys the social atmosphere ofchurch just as I do.

With our church family, I certainlydon’t mind Maggie getting some at-tention. Please just don’t ask her forkisses… she isn’t a “kissy” dog. Justlike you don’t want your children tobe required to kiss someone theydon’t want to kiss, I need to protectMaggie from attention she might not

really want. This is also a great oppor-tunity to teach our youngest kids toalways ask before they pet any dog inpublic. We can’t take it for grantedthat all dogs are calm around children.

On the opposite end of “not touch-ing the dog” are those who flattenthemselves against the wall as wepass by. There is no need to do thisunless you are afraid of dogs; that ismy assumption if I see you do thisand I’ll do my best to keep Maggieaway from you! Just as you and Ibrush shoulders as we pass one an-other, Maggie should learn not toreact to brushing shoulders with you.

Maggie and I are both learninghow to handle each other in public.We really love our church family andappreciate all you do to help accom-modate us in our service dog journey!


BOARD OF FOREIGN MISSIONS

Chairman:David Miller (2015), Wall Brethren

Church; cell 325-245-5616,[email protected]

Unity Representatives:Arnold Cuba (2015), Taylor Brethren

Church; cell 512-247-8019, or work512-352-3646, [email protected]

John Brinkley (2011), Ocker BrethrenChurch; cell 254-721-3196, home 254-742-2771, [email protected]

Reesa Ueckert (2015); phone 979-472-0559, [email protected]

Board of Christian Education:Tammy Laza, Bryan/College StationBrethren Church; home 979-690-7068,or cell 979-777-6044,[email protected]

Christian Sisters Representative:Paula Wagner (2015), Taylor Brethren

Church; home 512-996-8846, or cell512-632-6644,[email protected]

BYF Representative:Erin Brinkley (2015), Ocker Brethren

Church; [email protected]

Synodical Committee Liason:Rev. Mark Sebek, Bryan/College

Station Brethren Church; cell 254-931-2000, [email protected]

ADVISORY MEMBERSRev. Lawrence & Barbara Junek (Unity

at large); 254-714-2622,[email protected]

MISSIONARIESRobert & Anne ThiessenMichael & Caroline WooPhil & Eunice RaifordPastor Pavel & Stana KozakCarolyn Groseclose

Knesek FamilyFuneral Chapels

“Neighbors helping NeighborsSince 1914”

• Service all Pre-Arranged Funeral Plans

• Share Plan Concept with Pre-Arranged Funerals

• Sponsor Mission Pre-Arranged Funeral Plans

Bellville Sealy Wallis865-3121 885-3535 478-6311

In God’s Hands MinistryP. O. Box 321

Caldwell, TX 77836979-574-7134

Everyday Ministries to Meet Everyday NeedsA Home Mission Work to Cade Lake and Burleson County

BOARD OFCHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Chair: Peggy Hejl – Taylor, (512) 365-6890, [email protected]

Debbie Clark – (2014) CrosbyAngie Hairrell – (2016) SnookAngie Labaj (2016)Sandra Merz (2016) NelsonvilleJennifer Chervenka – Youth

Coordinator, OckerSynodical Liaison – Rev. Whitney Amos,

3rd Vice-President; [email protected]

The Community Christian Churchof Rosenberg

5220 Reading RoadRosenberg, TX 77471

(832) 449-3358

Sunday School 9:00 AMWorship Service 10:30 AMWednesday Eve. 5:30 PM

Prayer Service and Bible Study


We have seen them in movies, ontelevision and in works of art – thosequaint one-room schoolhousesfrom19th and early 20th CenturyAmerica and the teachers who taughtin them. They remind us of a time longago when the Three R’s were taught –Reading, Writing, and Arithmetic. Aschildren born in the 1920’s, my par-ents attended such schools. Dad neverspoke much about his school days.Mom, on the other hand, shared a fewof her memories with me from thisportion of her life.

Mom’s family moved several times.When they settled near Taylor, it wasdecided that three of the childrenwould attend the one-room school-house located in Circleville, whichlies just north of Taylor. My mother,Martha, her sister, Lillie, and herbrother, Willie, walked to the school-house from the family farm. The olderchildren stayed home to help with thework.

This trio of children grew morenervous as each step of their walkbrought them ever closer to the struc-ture. They had no idea what awaitedthem there. They spoke very little inthe way of English. As they steppedthrough the doorway into this strangeand new environment, this little bandof reluctant adventurers clung verytightly to each other. They felt theeyes of their new classmates carefullylooking them over. They also felt theeyes of the schoolteacher as shemade her initial assessment. Herthoughts were probably along thelines of: “Heavens, three more! I will

The Board of Education- by Jim Pokorny

likely have to teach them Englishbefore I am able to teach them any-thing else.”

Like her contemporaries, this oneteacher was responsible for teachingseveral grades in several subjects atthe same time. To be successful, astrict code of discipline had to beenforced. To assist her in this enter-prise, this teacher had at her disposala heavy wooden yardstick. Althoughdesigned to be a measuring device forsome burly carpenter, it happened toserve other purposes equally well.Having been a boy myself, I suspectit was they who dared to test theteacher’s patience more than the girlsdid. More than a few certainly foundthemselves at the business end ofthis contraption. No doubt deviceslike this added new meaning to theterm “board of education.”

Another reason this teacher, andothers like her, may have been stricterwith the boys was because she in-stinctively knew she was likely tohave less time with them. Althoughshe taught grades one through six,many of the boys would leave schoolsooner because their help would beneeded on the farm. This was simplya reality of that era.

When I was still a boy, past stu-dents of this old schoolhouse beganorganizing reunions. Mom, Dad, andI then made the annual pilgrimage toCircleville to attend these reunions.They were held in the same buildingwhich had since been converted intothe local VFW Hall. I would spend afair amount of my time playing with


DAILY BIBLE READING GUIDEDaily Morsels for November 2017

Dorothy E. Kocianwith Mari-Anne Kocian Gordon

All Scripture from the New International Version

1. I will give thanks to the LORD

because of His righteousness.Ps. 7:17a

2. LORD my God, I will give You thanksforever. Ps. 30:12b

3. I will give You thanks in the greatassembly. Ps. 35:18a

4. We give thanks for Your name isnear; men tell of Your wonderfuldeeds. Ps. 75:1b

5. My heart leaps for joy, and I willgive thanks to Him with song.Ps. 28:7b

6. Give thanks to the LORD, for He isgood; His love endures forever.Ps. 118:1

7. I will give You thanks, for Youanswered me; You have becomemy salvation. Ps. 118:21

8. Give thanks to the God of heaven.His love endures forever.Ps. 136:26

9. Praise the LORD, O my soul; all myinmost being, praise His holyname. Ps. 103:1

10. Praise the LORD, O my soul, andforget not all His benefits.Ps. 103:2

11. Shout for joy to the LORD, all theearth. Ps. 100:1

12. Worship the LORD with gladness;come before Him with joyfulsongs. Ps. 100:2

13. Know that the LORD is God. It is Hewho made us, and we are Hispeople, the sheep of His pasture.Ps. 100:3

14. Enter His gates with thanksgivingand His courts with praise.Ps. 100:4a

15. Give thanks to Him and praise Hisname. Ps. 100:4b

16. For the LORD is good and His loveendures forever. Ps. 100:5a

17. His faithfulness continues throughall generations. Ps. 100:5b

18. Thanks be to God for Hisindescribable gift! II Cor. 9:15

19. Give thanks in all circumstances;for this is God’s will for you inChrist Jesus. I Thess. 5:18

20. Do not be anxious about anything,but in everything, by prayer andpetition, with thanksgiving, presentyour requests to God. Phil. 4:6

21. I thank my God every time Iremember you. Phil. 1:3

22. How can we thank God enough foryou in return for all the joy wehave in the presence of our Godbecause of you? I Thess. 3:9

23. Let the peace of Christ rule in yourhearts, since as members of onebody you were called to peace.And be thankful. Col. 3:15

24. Thanks be to God! He gives us thevictory through our Lord JesusChrist. I Corinthians 15:57

25. Therefore, since we are receiving akingdom that cannot be shaken,let us be thankful, and so worshipGod acceptably with reverenceand awe. Heb. 12:28

26. You are worthy, our Lord andGod, to receive glory and honorand power, for You created allthings, and by Your will theywere created and have theirbeing. Rev. 4:11

27. So whether you eat or drink orwhatever you do, do it all for theglory of God. I Cor. 10:31

28. So then, just as you receivedChrist Jesus as Lord, continue tolive in Him. Col. 2:6

29. {Live} rooted and built up in Him,strengthened in the faith as youwere taught, and overflowing withthankfulness. Col. 2:7

30. I lie down and sleep; I wake again,because the LORD sustains me.Ps. 3:5


the children and grandchildren ofthose who attended the old school. Iwould also spend time listening to thestories of those who attended the oldschoolhouse. The boys that werenow aging men were more than happyto share their tales of strictness, dis-cipline, and the legendary yardstick.This merely confirmed my earliersuspicions.

One year, as the occasion drewnear, Mom informed me that her teacherwas expected to make an appearanceat the reunion. When we arrived forthe reunion, this was the main topic ofconversation. The teacher had notyet made her appearance, but each ofher students eagerly anticipated herarrival.

My mind, young as it was, hadalready painted a picture of the scenethat was about to unfold. Someonewho had been keeping lookout at awindow suddenly announced, “She’shere!” All eyes turned to the door,and the reality that unfolded wasunlike anything I had imagined. Thedoor was held open and an elderlywoman seated in a wheelchair wasrolled in. I wondered who this personmight be. The next thing I knew ev-eryone stood up and a round ofapplause issued from the small crowd.“That must be her,” I concluded. Intime, the applause died down andeach of her students with families intow lined up to speak with her. As theline moved along my apprehensionsgrew, having heard the stories.

When Mom’s turn came, she intro-duced Dad and me. As this womanstudied me I imagined her wonderingwhere her yardstick might be found.She said very little. Time had un-doubtedly taken its toll on her mind

as well as on her body. Mom and Dadreturned to our table, but I decided tostay nearby, and I am glad I did. Iwatched and listened as student afterstudent visited with her. Some askedif she remembered them; others, if sheremembered them getting into mis-chief. Practically everyone, just likeMom, left her with: “I love you.”

To the best of my memory, that wasthe only reunion the teacher everattended, but I learned a great dealthat afternoon. As I reflected on ityears later, I concluded that alongwith the Three R’s, she also managedto teach a fourth… Respect. Despitememories and stories of strictness,yardsticks, and other things suffi-cient to provide imaginative childrenwith nightmares, one thing came intoclear focus for one small boy that day.Qualities I admired in my parents,their siblings. and their friends werenurtured when they were young byadults who cared; adults like thisteacher.

On November 14, 2015, I attendedthe history symposium on the rel-evance of Jan Hus that was held inBrenham, Texas. One of the speakersat the symposium was the Rev. Dr.Craig Atwood. One of the things hestated during his presentation rever-berated within me and stuck. Atwoodstated that discipline is that whichmade punishment unnecessary. Re-flection on that statement was theinspiration for this piece.

In closing, I simply must share onemore of Mom’s memories of her teacher.It was a memory Mom recalled fondlyand often throughout her lifetime.Shortly after their days in schoolbegan, this same teacher recognized


SAVE THE DATES . . .

January 6-7, 2018 – BYF Winter Retreat at the Hus Encampment.Registration deadline December 15, 2017.

January 26-28, 2018 – Ladies’ Campference at the Hus Encamp-ment. Presented by the Life of Love Ministries and New TaborBrethren Church. Registration $50. Find registration information at:www.TheLifeofLove.org or www.NewTaborChurch.com. For moreinformation, contact Rhonda Johnson at [email protected] information to come next month!

February 17, 2018 – Seaton Brethren Sausage Supper Fundraiser.(See invitation in this issue.)

February 24, 2018 – State Children’s Rally at Hus Encampment.

For more information about the Hus School Encampment, go to:www.huscamp.org

Does your church/organization have an activity that you would like toinclude in this listing? Please send activity information including a contactname, phone number, and/or email address to the Brethren Journal Editor at:[email protected]. Information must be received by the firstday of the month immediately preceding the month of publication.

CALDWELL BRETHREN CHURCH401 South Main Street

(979) 567-7203Sunday School

9:30 AMChildren’s ChoirPractice, Sundays

10:15 a.m.Sunday Worship

10:30 AM

Come as you are . . .

Church email: [email protected]

Wednesday Family Night Gathering:1st & 3rd Wednesdays each month

Rev. Vanessa Mitchell, [email protected]

(979) 574-0268

www.lifeatcbc.org Friend us on Facebook!


the natural ability Mom and her sisterhad in singing in harmony (those whoknow me will willingly confirm that Ifailed to inherit this trait). Knowing ofa talent show in the county seat ofGeorgetown, she wanted my grand-parents to enter Mom and her sisterLillie in it. This would require thechildren to travel to Georgetown andhave something nice to wear for thecompetition.

This cost of two new dressesseemed like more than the familycould absorb with so many mouths tofeed, but this teacher went above andbeyond the call of duty. She informedmy grandparents that if they wouldbe willing to purchase the material,she would find someone willing tomake dresses for the pair. She wouldalso arrange for transportation to andfrom the event.

Somehow my grandparents man-aged to come up with enough moneyto buy the material. From this, some-one made two sailor dresses for Momand her sister. When they returnedfrom the contest in Georgetown, aribbon came home with them.

This was a memory Mom treasuredand I am so glad she found opportu-nities to share it with me and othersthroughout the course of her lifetime.After all, memories should be moreabout love and less about yardsticks.

To communicate with the Hus Encampment . . .. . . regarding scheduling* of meetings or events there, contact:

Dawn Marie Baletka3501 Kanati Cove

College Station, TX 77845 (979) 777-9940 or (979) 693-2710

[email protected]*This must be done well in advance.

BYF LEADERSHIP TEAM2017-2018

Youth:Allyson [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Adults:Taylor [email protected] [email protected] Reithmayer,[email protected] [email protected]

Pastor:Rev. Whitney [email protected]

Unity Youth Coordinator:Jennifer Chervenka,[email protected]


Schedule and Details of Upcoming Unity Activities

November 4, 2017 – Seaton Brethren Church Christian SistersBake Sale and Quilt Show, 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the church,12451 State Highway 53, Temple (Seaton Community). Open to thepublic with free admission. See invitation story in this issue for moreinfo.

November 5, 2017 – “Honor Our Veterans” Service presentedby Industry and Fayetteville Brethren Churches at 9:00 a.m. atIndustry Fireman’s Hall, Industry, TX. Contact Liz Treybig [email protected]; 512-217-2140, or Liz Ripple [email protected]; 979-378-2239, with any questions or veteransto be honored.

December 1, 2017 – “What Child is This” Cantata Honoring theBirth of Christ at Caldwell Brethren Church. The performance willbegin at 6:30 p.m. with a fellowship meal to follow.

December 9, 2017 – “What Child is This” Cantata Honoring theBirth of Christ at Snook Brethren Church. The performance willbegin at 6:30 p.m. with a fellowship meal to follow.

December 16, 2017 – “Hey! Day” for College Students andYoung Adults. More details to come.

HOUSTON BRETHREN CHURCH6207 North Main, Houston, TX 77009 – (713) 864-6707

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO WORSHIP WITH USSunday School 9:15 a.m. – Church Service 10:30 a.m.

Pastor: Rev. Dr. Jerry L. Terrill

Dorothy Hinson John David SkrivanekPresident Secretary

7331 Misty Morning Lane P.O. Box 1605Humble, TX 77346 Bellaire, TX 77402

(281) 620-0480 (713) 626-0522


Mailing Address: Church 9:00 A.M.P.O. Box 9283 Sunday School 10:45 A.M.College Station, TX 77842 Off: 979-693-3606

email: [email protected]

BrBrBrBrBryyyyyan/College Stan/College Stan/College Stan/College Stan/College Staaaaat ion Brethren Churchtion Brethren Churchtion Brethren Churchtion Brethren Churchtion Brethren Church2650 Earl Rudder Freeway South

www.unityofthebrethren.org

Rev. Mark Sebek

Howdy Mission Board Members/ Unityof the Brethren:

With this September being veryactive with hurricanes, there are needsin Texas, Florida, and all over theCaribbean. In Texas alone, we knowthe Houston and surrounding areasdown to the coast have been hit hard.Bro. Larry Koslovsky, Bro. MarkSebek, and I (David Miller), alongwith Justin Rabbach (director ofMoravian Disaster Relief), have sur-veyed and decided that our focusright now will be on the Port Arthurarea. We have identified 10 housesand the Good Shepherd MoravianChurch for disaster relief initially. Thereare many in and around the unitywanting to know how they can help.Watch and share emails. Feel free tocontact me any time (leave a mes-sage), David 325-245-5616.

Ways to help: 1. Many have asked about mon-

etary help. All donations should besent through your congregation tothe Unity treasurer marked Harvey

Hurricane Harvey Relief Updaterelief (they will be put in a dedicatedaccount set up for relief). These fundswill initially be used directly for relieffirst in Port Arthur.

2. Work crews: we are looking forwork crews to go to the Port Arthurarea. Skill sets; hanging sheet rockand taping and floating sheet rock.Crew size is 3 to 4 with at least oneexperienced crew worker. A MDR trailerfull of tools is already in the PortArthur area. By the time you read this,supplies will possibly be there also.Interested crews contact David 325-245-5616.

3. Anybody who has a campertrailer to loan to the Unity to housework crews in Port Arthur, contactKent Laza.

4. Many have asked about sofas,love seats, chairs, pianos; there is agreat need, but not until November orDecember. Let us know so we cantake inventory.

Thanks,David Miller, chairman,

Unity Mission Board


On Sunday, September 17, 2017,the Westheimer Christian Sisters So-

Westheimer Christian Sisters Officer Installation

Pictured L to R: Mrs. Denise L.Lloyd Vice, President; Mrs. CarolynF. Beseda, President; Ms. Ann Sebesta,Christian Sisters Union President;Mrs. Betty Parthum, Treasurer.Not pictured: Ms. Bessem Mfontem,Secretary.

ciety was re-activated at its meetingwith seven ladies present, includingone guest. Following a luncheon,Carolyn F. Beseda gave the openingprayer, and a devotional was pre-sented by Christian Sisters’ UnionPresident, Ms. Ann Sebesta.

New business was conducted. Goalsof this local society were discussedand an altruism project was chosen toimplement. Regarding filling the va-cant position of Vice-President, Mrs.Jackie Blackmon, a motion was made,seconded, and passed that Ms. DeniseLloyd now assume this position.

President Sebesta installed the newofficers as follows: President: CarolynF. Beseda; Vice-President: Denise L.Lloyd; Treasurer: Betty Parthum. Sec-retary, Bessem Mfontem was notpresent due to problems caused byHurricane Harvey. The meeting wasadjourned with a prayer by Rev. LisaJohnson.

SNOOK BRETHREN CHURCH9882 FM 2155/P.O. Box 247, Snook, TX 77878

Church Phone – (979) 272-3303COME WORSHIP WITH US

Sunday School – 9:00 AM; Worship – 10:15 AMBible Study – Each Tuesday, 9:00-10:00 AM

Pastor Board of Elders President Youth DirectorsRev. Joseph Polasek Justin Lewis Randall & Jonna See

P.O. Box 54 P.O. Box 222 P.O. Box 345Snook, TX 77878 Snook, TX 77878 Snook, TX 77878

(979) 272-1624 (979) 220-4732 (979) 272-8179

ADERHOLDFUNERAL HOME, INC.“Thoughtful Service –

A Payne Family Tradition”West, Texas254/826-5321

Unity ArchivistClint Machann

[email protected] or 979-845-4898


The Board of World Missions isnow ready to start sending volun-teers to assist with the rebuildingwork following Hurricane Harvey. Ourwork will be in partnership with theUnity of the Brethren (UOB) Churchin Port Arthur, Texas. The Good Shep-herd Moravian Church (a UOB Con-gregation) sustained significant flood-ing damage, as did numerous mem-bers of the congregation. An MDRtrailer of tools is on site and ready foruse by teams.

At the moment options for housingare limited due to flooding damage tohomes and nearby hotels. The initialplan will have teams staying in RV trail-ers until the church can be fixed for useas possible team housing, or other ar-rangements can be made.

Initial work will continue some teardown within flood damaged proper-ties, followed by re-framing or drywallwork. The need for assistance is greatto help individuals get back into theirhomes or to help clean up homeswhere individuals have continued tolive despite unsafe conditions.

While further dates will be avail-able moving forward, or formed teamscan suggest dates for us to checkavailability, the BWM is hoping tohave a four-week “blitz” to moveahead on some of the damaged prop-erties prior to the holiday season.

The dates currently seeking teammembers are:

November 5-11November 12-18The dates above represent a Sun-

day-to-Saturday timeframe, with the

Teams Forming NowPort Arthur, TX

hope being team members can arriveon Sunday evening and plan to workMonday-Friday, with a departure af-ter work on Friday or Saturdaymorning.

Due to a shortage of housing ar-rangements, teams are currently be-ing limited to 6 members and will befilled based on skills-needed and a“first-come, first-to-serve” basis.

Participants will cover the cost oftheir own transportation to Port Arthur.

A skilled volunteer should be onsite to help guide teams and get themstarted, but previous experience, or awillingness to learn and work a bitindependently, is preferred.

This is a joint project between theUnity and the Moravian Church. Thefirst push before Thanksgiving. CallDavid Miller at (325-245-5626) andleave a message.

PLEASE JOIN US AS WE

“Bear ye one another’s burdensAnd so fulfill the Law of

Christ.” (Gal. 6:2)

THE MUTUAL AIDSOCIETY

Rev. Joseph J. Polasek, PresidentDaniel Vojtek, Vice-PresidentNatalie Outlaw, Gen. SecretaryRuth Ann Wuensche, TreasurerDorothy Hinson, Jr. Dept. SecretaryAnn Sebesta, Board MemberRev. Michael Groseclose,

Synodical Liaison


Check out the blog and for more ideas and links!

http://sundayschoolhelperbrethrenjournal.blogspot.com/

3. We may feel like this worm at times, small with not muchpower. But remember to look at yourself like God looks atyou. You are an important part of His kingdom.

4. Read Proverbs 30:24-28 together.Four things on earth are small, yet they are extremely wise:Ants are creatures of little strength, yet they store up theirfood in the summer; hyraxes are creatures of little power, yetthey make their home in the crags; locusts have no king, yetthey advance together in ranks; a lizard can be caught withthe hand, yet it is found in kings’ palaces.

Lesson 4: Fishers of Men1. Read Matthew 4:17-222. Worms are attractive to fish. Discuss the following

questions:• What are some things that are attractive to people?• What things does the world go fishing for?• What are we to fish for as Christians?• Is a person a fisherman if year after year he never goes

fishing?• Is he a fisherman if he never catches a fish?• Is someone a true disciple of Jesus Christ if he never

attempts to win a soul for Christ?3. As a fisherman, do we cast our nets in our backyard, or do

we go to a place where fish can be found? Jesus neversuggests that the world should come to the church, butcommands the church to go into the world to witness. Jesushas given us the example – He goes to the people, He neverwaits for the people to come to Him. How is telling othersabout Jesus similar to fishing?

4. Lures are attractive to fish. How can you make the GoodNews of Jesus attractive to your friends? What can you dothis week to be more effective as a fisher of men?

BRETHREN JOURNAL July-August 2017/25


Caldwell Brethren 1st Annual Church Picnic

What a beautiful afternoon Sunday, October 8th, as the Caldwell BrethrenChurch Family shared in our 1st Annual Church Picnic! Thank you, Jesus, forthe love we feel for one another and the awesome opportunities You bring topass that love on to others! We are living out Acts 2:46-47 from the Holy Bible:

“Day by day, as they spent much time together...they ate their food with gladand generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people.And day by day the Lord added to their number...” (NRSV)


Here are four easy lessons from the lowly gummy worm!

Lesson 1: Sweet and SourYou will need a bag of sweet gummy worms and a bag of sourgummy worms for this lesson.

1. Read Job 20:14, “Yet his (the godless person) food will turnsour in his stomach.”

2. Show kids life with God. Read Psalm 119:103, “How sweetare your words to my taste, O Lord.”

3. Explain that when we don’t live by God’s laws, but by ourown, life can feel sour. You have no hope, no faith, and noone to help you. But with God, life is sweet.

4. Taste-test the worms. Which one is sour? Which one issweet? Which one do you like best? Which kind of lifeshould we want?

Lesson 2: God Stretches Us1. This little worm is made of gelatin and sugar. We can pull

him a bit and stretch him out; however, if we pull him toohard, we will break him.

2. The Bible says, “Yet You, LORD, are our Father. We are theclay, You are the potter; we are all the work of Yourhand.” (Isaiah 64:8)

3. Sometimes potters have to stretch the clay to make it into anew shape. If they didn’t, the clay would remain a lump, notuseful for anything.

4. Let’s see how far we can stretch this worm. (Stretch theworm using your hands.) Wow, that stretched a lot, but I’mnot a good potter like God. When God stretches us to makeus into something awesome, He won’t break us.”

Lesson 3: Small Things Matter1. Explain: God’s kingdom is different from the kingdoms of the

earth. He values everything, even if it is small, like thisworm.

2. Pretend this candy is a real worm. What does a worm do?Worms wiggle through the dirt, making room for seeds togrow into plants, flowers, trees, and food. Without this littleguy, it would be hard to have all the things we love.


14/November 2017 BRETHREN JOURNAL BRETHREN JOURNAL November 2017/23

This month our candy is Gummy Worms! I know my kidshave always loved them, especially the sour ones! Eventhough they look a little strange and you may feel odd eating“worms”, there are several powerful Bible lessons we can pullfrom the yummy, gummy treat.

Yet You, LORD, are our Father. We arethe clay, You are the potter; we are all

the work of Your hand.Isaiah 64:8

Sunday School Helper


Seaton BrethrenSausage Supper

Invitation

The Seaton Brethren Churchannual sausage supper fund-raiser will be held Saturday,February 17, 2018, beginningat 4:00 p.m. until the sausageis gone. The menu consists ofhomemade pork sausage,sauerkraut, new potatoes, sea-soned green beans, bread,homemade desserts, and teaor coffee. Dine in or drive thruplates will be available for$10.00 each. The LOCATIONof the supper is at Seaton StarHall, 10842 State Hwy 53,Temple (Seaton). There will bea bake sale consisting ofkolaches, pies, cakes, strudels,other baked goods & jellies, araffle, and a silent auction.Proceeds benefit the ministryof the church, community, andother projects. The public isinvited.

Temple Brethren ChurchTemple Brethren ChurchTemple Brethren ChurchTemple Brethren ChurchTemple Brethren Church2202 Birdcreek Drive2202 Birdcreek Drive2202 Birdcreek Drive2202 Birdcreek Drive2202 Birdcreek DriveTemple, Texas 76502Temple, Texas 76502Temple, Texas 76502Temple, Texas 76502Temple, Texas 76502

(254) 778-8759(254) 778-8759(254) 778-8759(254) 778-8759(254) [email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]

Sunday School:Sunday School:Sunday School:Sunday School:Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.9:30 a.m.9:30 a.m.9:30 a.m.9:30 a.m. Tim Chaplin, Interim PastorTim Chaplin, Interim PastorTim Chaplin, Interim PastorTim Chaplin, Interim PastorTim Chaplin, Interim PastorWorship:Worship:Worship:Worship:Worship: 10:45 a.m.10:45 a.m.10:45 a.m.10:45 a.m.10:45 a.m. (254) 718-3898(254) 718-3898(254) 718-3898(254) 718-3898(254) 718-3898

CHRISTIAN SISTERS’ UNIONOFFICERS

President: Ann Sebesta, P.O. Box115, Snook, TX 77878.(210) 244-3362;[email protected]

Vice President: Paula Wagner,10506 Mourning Dove Dr.,

Austin, TX 78750. (512) 632-6644;[email protected]

Secretary: Anna Wotipka, 652County Rd. 324, Caldwell, TX77836. (979) 218-9043;[email protected]

Financial Secretary: Lydia Faust,P.O. Box 125, Snook, TX 77878.(979) 272-8317;[email protected]

Treasurer: Linda Planka,(632) 335-2248 or (713) 472-3192;[email protected]

Hus Encampment Rep.:Carolyn F. Beseda, 2515Lazybrook Dr., Houston, TX77008. (281) 546-7941;[email protected]

Unity Mission Board Rep: PaulaWagner, 10506 Mourning DoveDr., Austin, TX 78750.(512) 632-6644;[email protected]

Synodical Committee Liaison:Rev. Larry Zabcik, 3rd Vice-President, (512) 992-5824;[email protected]


Thoughts about giving…

Remembering the Unity of the Brethren or anyof its ministries is a fitting testimony of yourbelief. Your gift in a will can be a legacy thatcontinues to affect the Christian values, mission,and ministry that is important to you.

You can give without restrictions and let us use the funds forthe most pressing needs or you can specify how, when, orwhere you want the funds used.

You can require that we hold the principle as an endowmentand use only the earnings each year.

You can give in memory or in the honor of someone.

Your gift can be contingent. The funds go to someone if theysurvive you and if not, then to the Unity.

You can tell us now that you have named the Unity in yourwill and allow us to express our gratitude…or you can let itbe known later.

There are many other ways to give. Contact any Board ofGrants and Bequests member about what you can give andhow you can give.

Leroy Parthum, Chair – Westheimer – 713-826-7993;[email protected]

Eugene Haisler, Secretary – Ocker – 254-985-2316, [email protected] Tyson, Treasurer – Houston – 281-373-4376 (home),

[email protected] Urbanovsky, 4050 Pendleton Dr., Apt. 628, Bryan, TX

77802; (979) 450-1820; [email protected]. Joe Emerson – 254-931-1653Alan Tomasek – 512-859-2197, [email protected]


SUBSCRIPTION RENEWAL FORMYour Brethren Journal Subscription Expires

December 31stAnnual Subscription Rate – $15.00/year

PLEASE CONSIDER making a donation . . . to support the publication of TheBrethren Journal. We depend on gifts from those who read and appreciate theinformation we share each year. Your gift is tax deductible.

Send your check, payable to The Brethren Journal, to the Business Manager:Ben Polasek, 705 Woodson Dr., Caldwell, TX 77836

Please note: Whenever sending address changes, always include old address.

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Prayer and PraiseLord, we pray:

• That the Woo family hears Yourvoice and is willing to follow.

• That You open the right door atthe right time for Michael’s work/ministry opportunities.

• May the Woo kids have peace intheir hearts and a growing love fortheir Savior.

• For Caroline’s whole family asthey continue to move through theprocesses of grief.

• That OMF continue to be a rel-evant mission-sending organizationwith focus to the unreached peoplegroup.

WALL BRETHREN CHURCH12 miles east of San Angelo, Loop 570, Wall, Texas

P.O. Box 195, Wall, Texas 76957Phone: 325-651-4444 ~ Fax: 325-651-5100

Pastor: Rev. Thomas TallasHome: 325-949-7543 Cell: 325-656-8558

Home: [email protected]: [email protected]

www.wallbrethrenchurch.org

Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Worship: 10:45 a.m.

President Pastor/Director of Youth Church OfficeBoard of Elders and Young Family Ministries Secretary

Josh Holik Ryan Volkman Johnie Smith325-234-8667 325-213-0671 Tu-F: 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

• For the workers in the field, fortheir families, and for the people theyare working with.

• That as a group on Friday nightsyou would answer prayers that wouldincrease our faith and have an impacton the city and world we live in.

• That joy would be not from ourcircumstances, but from the certaintythat Christ brings.

Serving together,

Michael, Samuel, Ian,Zach, Isaac, & Salem

KUBENA Funeral Home507 South Main St.

Hallettsville, Texas 77946Pre-Arranged Funerals

Low Cost Funeral InsurancePhone 361-798-3271

GRANGER NATIONALBANK

Ryze Ceska Banka, Member F.D.I.C.Granger, Texas

www.grangernationalbank.com


Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ:

Caldwell Brethren Church will be having a Cantata this yearhonoring the Birth of Christ! We would like to invite you to come andbe a part of this time to serve and honor our Lord. If you enjoy singing,please come and join us!

The Cantata is a 27-minute mini-musical called “What Child is This.”A few short narrations are featured throughout that share the storyof Christ’s extraordinary life.

The songs are: Born Is the King (It’s Christmas) (Opener), Joy to theWorld (Shout for Joy), What Child Is This?, All Rise with Holy, Holy,Holy! Lord God Almighty, Born Is the King (It’s Christmas) (Closer)

All are welcome, whether you have experience or not! The simpleseries arrangement is easy for every voice to learn. Please come andjoin us for this amazing time of fellowship and service!

If you are interested, please let your church representative orcontact 979-450-1820 by text or voice, or email [email protected] Brethren will be ordering books for the participants; the costof the books is $6.99 per person. Please let us know if you areinterested in participating as soon as possible so that we can order abook for you. We will not turn anyone away, but would like to knowif you plan to attend by October 15, 2017.

Weekly Schedule:• Fellowship Meal from 6:00pm to 7:00pm – Caldwell Brethren

Fellowship Building• Practice from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. – Caldwell Brethren Sanctuary

You are Invited to Participate in a Cantata

Honoring the Birth of Christ!

“What Child is This”

Brethren Book StoreP.O. Box 321

Caldwell, TX 77836(979) 200-0513

Diane Heckman, Manager


But when we returned from the“cancer year” she sensed a changecoming. We returned to an emptynest, and to an increased need for life-long learning among the Mexican mis-sionaries we work with. As she steppedinto that, she realized that the pull oftwo foci was too much. At the sametime, Ruth, a past student, returned tohelp out teaching at OCS, and wasfilling in more and more. This all ledAnne to begin to plan for a formal endto her involvement at the school, andtoday’s class was the final one.

She will help out on the Tuesdaysthat we are around here, but theywon’t be more than one or two amonth from now on, it looks like. Sheis also working on a Masters of Inter-cultural Studies from William Carey inPasedena, CA. With all the rest, shehas lots to do.

As post-animists, we thank youfor your prayers.

Robert and Anne

From the Woo’s …

September 28, 2017

Dear Friends and family,Life is a journey. Where would we

be without Jesus who gives livingwater without cost? The hope ofChrist is what I hold on to daily as Iask the questions about what thefuture holds. But life does go on, andas we go through the process of griefI feel a growing hope beyond mea-sure. I can’t thank you enough foreveryone who has held my family upin prayer.

People have constantly asked mehow the kids are doing. I want tobelieve they are adjusting to life in

Winston-Salem. Each has a friend ortwo and we are managing the newschool year. I will admit that I amchallenged with the need to changeparenting tactics to fit each currentage. Samuel is a freshman in highschool!

People also ask me about work. Ioften tell people that God has pro-vided for this month, but I am explor-ing a few different avenues of minis-try. In September I have traveled toCO to speak with OMF staff aboutdifferent roles in mobilization workingfrom NC. I have also put an applica-tion in to a local church looking for amission pastor.

I believe as the Lord reveals mynext steps the vision will becomeclearer. Soon I desire to communicatea strong vision for the gospel ofChrist that challenges people fromtheir comfort zone into works of faiththat reach people in the farthest cor-ners of the earth. So much needs to bedone and we each play such a uniquepart in how that is fulfilled.

Finally, people ask how I am doing.I can honestly say that I am learningto love and laugh and rejoice again ina new way.

My hope is you would continue topartner with me and my family inprayer and support as I continue to“figure things out”.


Performance dates:• Our main performance will be at Caldwell Brethren on December

1st at 6:30 p.m. in our Sanctuary with a fellowship meal following.• We will have an additional performance at Snook Brethren on

December 9th at 6:30 p.m. in their Sanctuary with a fellowshipmeal following.

• We will have an outreach performance at Copperas HollowNursing home December 10th at 1:00 p.m.

• We will have an outreach performance at the CHI St. Joseph ManorNursing Home, December 17th at 1:00 p.m. in Caldwell, Texas.

Practice Dates:• Thursday, October 19, 2017, 6:00-8:00 p.m.• Tuesday, October 24, 2017, 6:00-8:00 p.m.• Thursday, November 2, 2017, 6:00-8:00 p.m.• Tuesday, November 7, 2017, 6:00-8:00 p.m.• Thursday, November 9, 2017, 6:00-8:00 p.m.• Thursday, November 16, 2017, 6:00-8:00 p.m.• Tuesday, November 28, 2017, 6:00-8:00 p.m.• Thursday, November 30, 2017, 6:00-8:00 p.m.• Thursday, December 7, 2017, at Snook Brethren 6:00-8:00 p.m.

OCKER BRETHREN CHURCH17454 State Highway 53, Temple, TX 76501

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 806, Rogers, TX 76569

Preaching the Word, Loving the PeopleSunday School 9:00 AM

Worship 10:15 AM

Elder Board PresidentDavid Sebek

3910 Red Ranger Rd.Temple, TX 76501

(254) 985-2578

Youth DirectorJennifer Chervenka

9494 Big Elm Creek RoadRogers, TX 76569

(254) 983-1002

CemeterySharon Marek

23383 Milam RoadBurlington, TX 76519

(254) 869-2845


In Christ’s Love . . . from the ForeignMission Fields

From the Thiessen’s . . .

September 19, 2017Subject: Wrath of the gods

Dear friends,Anne and I were just finishing a

late breakfast downtown to “celebrate”her last day of being a “proper”teacher when the latest earthquakehit. We got out of the building, andthen commiserated with the manyothers (hundreds!) that also rushedout. Not even two weeks after the bigone off the coast. Not sure yet aboutdamages from today’s, but the Sep-tember 7th one was bad in some partsof our state. We were woken from adeep sleep in the middle of the shak-ing, with all kinds of crashing noise asthings came smashing down on thefloor. Some of our furniture fell over,others moved away from the wall, andmany items fell down. Thankfullynothing of great worth, and not evendamage to the two-story building welive in (we are on the bottom floor - solots to fall in on us). We were tryingto get out of the house, but only madeit to one of the intermediate doorwayswhen we had to huddle together aseverything roiled around us. Thiswas by far the biggest “temblor” thatwe have been through.

One of the couples in our churchgroup is from the worst-hit town,Juchitan. They’re part of a group ofyoung professionals and studentswho are reaching out with aid in thatarea, and we’ve been directing helpthat way. It is so hard in these situa-

tions to know who is who, and whichcases require the most help. Unfortu-nately, too many people (both peopleat the top and the bottom) take ad-vantage of these situations and try totake when they don’t really need.

Anne’s sister lives just outside ofHouston, but was spared any realdamage from Harvey. Anne’s parentslive in central Florida, and other thanbeing without power for a handful ofdays, they too were not terribly af-fected by Irma. Then, last Thursday Idrove down to the coast of Guerreroto see friends from when we livedthere, and went right into Max. I spenta wet afternoon and night, but thatwas all; and just now a second largeearthquake. Good thing we’re notanimists who fear the wrath of thegods, otherwise we’d be wondering ifwe’ve prayed enough lately, or donesome other thing to tick God off.

Back to the reason for our celebra-tion today. Anne is finally closing avery important chapter of her “pro-fessional” life. We moved to OaxacaCity in 2004 so that the kids could goto a U.S.-type school, and so thatAnne could help out with teachingEnglish literature. She had been need-ing this kind of regularity in her life,and teaching at OCS has providednot only that, but many friends withboth staff and students. She hasgrown in her own grasp of how Godspeaks through many mediums, andhas honed her abilities to analyze andto write even as she encouraged thatamong the students.

Documents

THE BRETHREN JOURNALunityofthebrethren.org/wp-content/uploads/BJ201711.pdf · 2018. 11. 3. · 2/November 2017 BRETHREN JOURNAL Visit the Unity of the Brethren Website: unityofthebrethren.org