connection

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St. Peter’s

CONNECTION VOL. 7, No. 2 September 9, 2016

Connecting the World with God’s Love

THIS ISSUE:

Third-graders start year of Bible study

Adult Small Groups Many of our groups start

next week, but there is still time to register at stpkaty.org.

Katy Thanksgiving Feast During the fall months we will be collecting items for those who will be attending this annual dinner. Find out how you can help.

Our third-graders received their own Bibles in worship recently. They will spend the year getting to know the Bible, how to use it, and how to apply it to daily life. All six pastors highlighted their favorite Bible verse in each Bible. The third-graders will enjoy a scavenger hunt as they dig into their Bible to find each pastor’s favorite verse. The children were encouraged to ask the pastors why they chose that Bible verse.

20775 Kingsland Blvd., Katy, Texas 77450 (281) 492-8031 www.stpkaty.org

Early Response Team training

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t. Peter’s will host Early Response Team training from the United Methodist Committee on Relief on Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Wesley. ERT training allow you to become part of the volunteer teams that help with recovery efforts on the ground during the first several weeks after a disaster. Lunch will be provided. There is no charge for St. Peter’s members. Please contact Carol Greenslate at [email protected] or (832) 758-2428 to reserve a place.

New ways to be in ministry Dear Friends in Christ, Wow! It’s hard to believe I have been in ministry for 40 years. I was 19 years old and was appointed to a four-point charge (I served four churches at the same time). I traveled from one church to the next each Sunday to preach. Some things have changed, and yet some things have stayed the same. When I started, I had a full head of hair, was in my second year of college, was about to get married, and wanted to be the best pastor I could be for the people I was given the opportunity to

Dr. Pat Sparks, Senior Pastor

serve. Today I am follically challenged. I finished college with three degrees—a Bachelor of Science, a Master of Divinity, and a Doctor of Ministry. Gina and I will be married 40 years in October, and we have two wonderful children. I still want to be the best pastor I can be for the people I have been given the opportunity to serve.

Women’s Cancer Support Group

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he Women’s Cancer Support Group meets the first and third Sundays of each month at 4 p.m. in S209. This group offers hope and support to women who are cancer survivors. We share our journey in the cancer experience with each other, gaining strength and courage from one another in our battle with this disease. Please join us or refer someone you know who could benefit from this group. For more information, contact Kim Poer at [email protected] or (281) 492-8031.

Ministry has changed a lot over the years, but the reason for ministry hasn’t. We still want to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world (the United Methodist mission statement), but it is now being done in ways that I could never have imagined 40 years ago. Change is often difficult, but it can bring new ways to accomplish ministry. I see that happening at St. Peter’s right now. When I started ministry, there was no such thing as a second campus in the United Methodist Church—in fact that was still true as recently as 15 or so years ago. However, today establishing a second campus is one of the primary ways in which United Methodist churches are reaching out into growing communities to make disciples. At St. Peter’s, it is the way that we are seeking to “Connect the World with God’s Love” in west Katy and beyond. It was 39 years ago that St. Peter’s began. The vision then was to establish a new United Methodist congregation in Katy, and some pioneers came and started this great church. Some of them are still members of our church. Because of their contributions, and the contributions of others over the years, we continue to make an impact in this community. This is an exciting time to be in ministry, and this is an exciting church in which to be in ministry! Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve alongside you. Blessings,

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Pat

Financial Peace University

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his nine-week course will show you how to get rid of debt, manage your money, and spend and save wisely using practices that are both biblical and practical. We will meet Sundays beginning Sept. 18 at 4:30 p.m. in Asbury Hall. Register at stpkaty.org. There will be a special 30-minute preview Sept. 11 at noon in the Sanctuary. For more information, contact Joel Allard at [email protected] or John Campbell at [email protected].

Church Council Meeting Tuesday, Sept. 27 7 p.m., E106 All church members are welcome to attend

Grief Share Group

Young Adults Small Group

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e will offer a new session of Grief Share beginning Sept. 15 at 7 p.m. in S209. This group, which meets for 13 weeks, is for anyone who has suffered a loss. If you would like more information, contact Rev. Kim Poer at [email protected] or (281) 492-8031.

Open Hearts Support Group

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e will meet Sept. 15 at 7 p.m. in E225. Open Hearts is a support group for families and friends of LGBT persons. We offer a safe and affirming setting for those who desire understanding, education, and support. We welcome anyone to be a part of this group, whether you need support or can provide support. For more information, please contact Elaine Saunders at [email protected] or (281) 492-8031.

Prayer Quilt Ministry

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e will meet Sept. 14 in S201 from 9 a.m. to noon. We would love to have you come be a part of this important ministry that has distributed more than 850 quilts to people needing comfort. No sewing experience is needed. For more information, contact Tereasa Reimer at (281) 395-4730.

Job Search Assistance

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ob Search Assistance provides help for those looking for employment or job change. The group will meet Wednesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in S211 beginning Sept. 14. You will receive information on search tactics, networking, resumes, and interviewing. Please be there promptly at 6:30 p.m. and bring your most recent resume. For information, contact John Caudill at (281) 600-8138 or [email protected].

ll young adults are invited to join this new group. Our class lessons will be designed around topics that interest you. We meet Sundays beginning Sept. 11 at 11 a.m. in S101. For more information, please contact Pam Chapman at hspschapman@aol. com or (281) 398-5156.

IMPACT for kids begins Sept. 14

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hildren are invited to IMPACT, our Wednesday night program for 3-year-olds through fifthgraders. IMPACT includes Bible studies, Bible lessons, crafts, music, and peer interaction. We begin Sept. 14. Elementary children meet from 6-7:30 p.m. in E226 and preschool children meet from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in E124.

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Scarecrow Festival. Join the KEYS as we travel to the Shangri La Botanical Gardens in Orange on Oct. 18 for the largest Scarecrow Festival in Texas, with hand-crafted scarecrows displayed throughout the gardens. This is a great way to celebrate the changing season. Also, see the community creations from repurposed and recycled materials with a heap of imagination. Guided walking tour lasts about two hours. Cost is $6 per person due by Oct. 2 plus lunch at Robert’s Steak House. The bus leaves St. Peter’s at 7:30 a.m. and returns at 4:30 p.m. Sign up at the KEYS bulletin board in the Lobby. Contact Gaylene Taylor at (281) 5991064 if you have questions.

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he following adult small groups start meeting this week. Complete information is at stpkaty.org. Please register if it is required for the course.

Mondays Monday Morning Bible Study (women’s group)—E225, 9:30 a.m. The War Room (women’s study)—Off Campus, 6:30 p.m.

Tuesdays Entrusted: A Study of 2 Timothy by Beth Moore (women’s group)—morning and evening options Women of Joy—S203, 7 p.m.

Wednesdays

Soul Detox—Asbury West, 6:30 p.m. No Labels, Just Faith—No Label Brewing Co., 7 p.m. Surprised by Hope—E106, 6:30 p.m. Invitation to the Old Testament—S205, 6:30 p.m. Kingdom Man (JOURNEY–men’s Bible study)—S101, 6:30 p.m. Spiritual Parenting—S203, 6:30 p.m. 33 The Series: A Man and His Design (men’s group)—S202, 6:30 p.m.

Thursdays Thursday Morning Women’s Bible Study—E225, 9:30 a.m. The War Room (women’s study)—S209, 9:30 a.m. Mothers’ Share Group—E221, 9:30 a.m. Men’s Breakfast Group—Whataburger at 23540 Westheimer Parkway, 8:30 a.m.

Fridays

Mothers of Young Children—Asbury Hall, 9:30 a.m.

Alzheimer’s Support Group

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e will meet Sept. 19 at 1:30 p.m. in S209 for a time of caring and sharing. For more information, contact Beverly Deerhake at (281) 372-8389.

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Children’s choirs begin Sept. 14

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IDS JAM children’s choirs begin Sept. 14 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. We have four choirs: Praise Kids for 4-year-olds, Kids of the Kingdom for kindergarten-transition, God’s Kids for first and second grade, and Celebration Kids for third through fifth grade. We will be performing our Christmas musical “All About That Baby” on Dec. 11. This musical provides many speaking and singing roles. Please register at stpkaty.org. If you have any questions, please contact Anne O’Quinn at [email protected] or (832) 341-1229. We also are looking for a volunteer to lead the Kids of the Kingdom choir. Please contact Anne O’Quinn if you can help.

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord

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he Men’s Ensemble is recruiting new members who want to sing and offer praise to God through the gift of song. You don’t have to be a great singer, just have the desire to make a joyful noise unto the Lord. We accept all ages and abilities. Our first rehearsal is Sept. 12 at 8 p.m. in the Ellis Music Suite. If you would like to be a part of this wonderful music ministry, please contact David Galasso at [email protected] or join us on Sept. 12.

Youth Choir is recruiting new members

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he Youth Choir invites students in grades 6 through 12 to join us. Each year we have members graduate, so we are looking for new faces to fill out our choir. If you are someone who enjoys singing and offering praise to God, fellowship, fun times, and awesome choir trips, then consider joining the Youth Choir. All you need to do to join is show up at our rehearsal on Sundays from 3 to 4:30 p.m. in the Ellis Music Suite. Contact David Galasso at [email protected] for more information.

We need some welcoming faces!

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f you are interested in being an usher in the Sanctuary, a greeter, or a greeter for The Element service and you are high school age or older, you are invited to a short, fun Welcome Ministries recruiting event at 6:30 p.m. on Sept. 12 in Asbury Hall. Child care is available. Register at stpkaty.org. Please join us and see if this is a way you can serve God and St. Peter’s.

Welcome to Our New Members Paul Heggem, Fay Pye, and Rachel Shepherd

ST. PETER’S ATTENDANCE August 28 Traditional Worship 8:30 185 9:45 248 11:00 388 The Element 9:45 74 11:00 162 SPLASH 76 West Campus 196 West Campus Students/Kids 109 TOTAL 1,438

September 4 Traditional Worship 8:30 153 9:45 167 11:00 386 The Element 9:45 70 11:00 61 SPLASH 60 West Campus 179 West Campus Students/Kids 100 TOTAL 1,176

In Our Prayers

PRAYERS Sabrina Allard, Marci Barnes, Lynn Bortka, Dennis Bowling, Anne Carder, Lorkeshia Davis, Faunelle Deaton, Bob Harris, Art Henderson, Mike Ibarguen, Brian Jones, Maggie Jones, Oscar Jones, Ralph Lovell, Neil Pickthall, Janice Remmele, Virginia Reper, Fay Smith, Cheryl Swift, and Annabelle Turner. SYMPATHY To Jim, Joanie, and Cameron Andrew and family on the death of their son and brother, Kaplan. To Nancy Boeer and family on the death of her brother. To Ryan Hundemer and family on the death of his father. To Beth McKitterick and family on the death of her mother. To Lael Portwood and family on the death of her son. To Gail Shipley and family on the death of her mother. PRAYERS FOR OUR MILITARY Tim and Alison Batig, John Belsha, Will Brandt, John Buck, Skyler Cook, Austin Foster, Westley Freeze, James Gilbert, Tyler J. Gorcie, Dylan Greismeyer, Stephen Travis Harding, Adam Higdon, Matthew Ivester, Mike Linn, Ryan Lueders, Blake Nunes, Cameron Nunes, Ryan O’Quinn, Matthew Platz, Shawn Platz, Hamilton Rencurrel, Jack Ritchie, Don Rolleg, Ben Saunders, Jacob Shinkle, John Simmons, and Jasen Wilson.

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Communion volunteers

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e need volunteers for the traditional worship Communion Setup/ Cleanup Team for the first Sunday of each month— one each at the 8:30 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. services. Please contact Mark Liles at [email protected] if you can help.

ADHD Parent Support Group

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lease join us Sept. 11 at 6:30 p.m. in S201 when Joy A. Pellerin, MA, LPC, with Stokan, Jaggers and Associates, presents “Managing Meltdowns.” Joy has more than three years’ experience working in a residential treatment facility for adolescents displaying maladaptive behaviors such as self-harming, verbal and physical aggression, running away, and other self-destructive tendencies. She is a licensed professional counselor who specializes in helping children learn how to manage their feelings and behaviors in a healthy manner. For information, contact Laura Peddicord at (281) 392-6064 or laurapeddicord@comcast. net .

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Connecting the World With God’s Love Katy Thanksgiving Feast Every year, St. Peter’s joins with several local churches and ministries to host a Thanksgiving meal for those who might not otherwise have one. While there is a perception that Katy does not have a large impoverished population, the need is substantial and growing. The Katy Thanksgiving Feast is a wonderful opportunity to serve in a meaningful way. Below is an explanation of ways we will be helping. Donated goods: We offer winter coats, blankets, canned goods, and baby supplies for the guests. The feast committee has decided to take donations on a rotating schedule from September to November to better accommodate the storage of the goods offsite. In September, we will be collecting new or gently used/freshly laundered blankets and sleeping bags. In October, we will be collecting new or freshly laundered winter coats and jackets. In November, we will be finishing up the drive with nonperishables (diapers, baby supplies, food such as beans, rice, canned food, etc.). If you have goods to donate outside of that schedule, we will find a place to store them! Additionally, we encourage Sunday school classes and small groups to purchase items to donate. Preparing food: This is done by the congregations involved. St. Peter’s brought an impressive showing last year, so thank you! This year, we’re supplying the dressing/stuffing. This is a pretty easy way to help, as it just involves doubling an item you may already be making. Please prayerfully consider this as an option. Pans for the dressing with instructions will be available in November. Volunteers: Serving food is always a popular choice for volunteers on Thanksgiving Day. Please know that while we wish we could take everyone who has that giving spirit, there simply isn’t enough space to allow for it. Volunteer spots fill up fast, and they’re going to be on a first-come, first-served basis when they’re released. Greeters (bilingual is an asset) and set-up and take-down are all very worthwhile positions as well and are deeply needed. Sign-ups for volunteers are not ready yet but will be posted when we know specifically which volunteer spots St. Peter’s is being asked to fill. Monetary donations: And if all that doesn’t work well for you, you can donate monetarily. Holy Covenant United Methodist Church pays out of pocket for all the supplies (hairnets, plates, napkins, gloves, utensils, and to-go boxes, etc.) and also for the outsourced preparation and packaging of the donated turkeys. They will accept checks for reimbursement for their considerable expense. Please make checks out to Holy Covenant UMC and write “Katy Thanksgiving Feast” in the memo line. Mail them to Holy Covenant or drop them off at the church, and we’ll get them where they need to be. Thank you all for your help in making this event such a blessing to our community!

Favorite Bible Verses We’ve been asking St. Peter’s members to send us their favorite Bible verse and tell us a little bit about why it’s their favorite. Here are a few of the responses we received. If you would like to submit you own favorite verse, send it to [email protected].

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. If we believe in God as he instructs us, then it stands to reason that we will follow His word, have faith in His promises with the hope of eternal life as our reward. —Virginia Goff

Matthew 17:20

And Jesus said unto them: “ Because of your unbelief: for verily I say

unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and

nothing shall be impossible unto you!

This is the verse I underlined, as a child in the Bible given to me in 1955 by my Grandmother! And I follow it with this prayer: DEAR LORD, let us NEVER forget that it is JUST THAT SIMPLE! Help us to NOT complicate our lives! All we have to do is JUST HAVE FAITH in YOU! —Gail Land

Matthew 7:12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets. This verse is phrased proactively so that whatever support, assistance, encouragement, or kindness that we would wish from someone, we should model that behavior ourselves. So it is much more than just “I wouldn’t want someone to bully me, so I shouldn’t bully another person,” although that is also an important test of our behavior. —Tony Custer

Daily Bible Reading Sept. 12 – 18 MONDAY Romans 13:1-10 TUESDAY John 5:1-15 WEDNESDAY John 8:1-11 THURSDAY Psalm 25 FRIDAY Ephesians 2 SATURDAY Romans 6:1-14 SUNDAY Romans 3:21-31 Sept. 19 – 25 MONDAY Matthew 18:21-35 TUESDAY Ecclesiastes 9:13-18 WEDNESDAY 1 Kings 3:3-28 THURSDAY James 3:13-18 FRIDAY Ephesians 3:1-20 SATURDAY 2 Corinthians 6:1-10 SUNDAY 1 Corinthians 4:1-13

Genesis 1:2

And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the

face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. The idea of the Spirit of God patiently hovering over a dark and sterile world, waiting for the seeds of life to form in the sea, reminds me that God is present for all time and not just my time. —Dave Palmer

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S u nday Worship 8:30 a.m.

Traditional Worship with Holy Communion

9:45 a.m.

Traditional Worship The Element Contemporary Worship Sunday School for All Ages

10:30 a.m.

St. Peter’s West Campus at Cinco Ranch High School

11:00 a.m.

Traditional Worship The Element Contemporary Worship SPLASH Children’s Worship Sunday School for Adults

St. Peter’s Events Calendar Sunday, Sept. 11 5:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 12 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13 1:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14 9:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 15 9:30 a.m. 7:00 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 18 4:00 p.m. Monday, Sept. 19 1:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 21 10:00 a.m. 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22 9:30 a.m. 7:00 p.m.

Senior High Life Groups begin ADHD Support Group

Off-Campus S201

Welcome Ministries Meeting

Asbury Hall

KEYS Council Women of Joy

E225 S203

Prayer Quilt Ministry S201 UMW Board Meeting E106 Wednesday Nights at St. Peter’s begins Mothers’ Share Group Finance Committee Grief Share Group Open Hearts Support Group

E221 Conference Room S209 E225

Women’s Cancer Support

S205

Alzheimer’s Support Group Trustees

S209 Conference Room

UMW Agape and Miriam Circles E106 Wednesday Nights at St. Peter’s Mothers’ Share Group Grief Share Group

E221 S209

Detailed weekly calendars of St. Peter’s events are available on our website.

This Sunday 11:00 a.m. Young Adults Small Group 12:00 p.m. Holy Land Trip Information Financial Peace University Preview Pizza With the Pastors More information about these opportunities will be in your Sunday bulletin or at stpkaty.org.