Cross Connection – November 25, 2014

Thanksgiving Message for Bishop Janice Riggle Huie Greetings to you friends. As we prepare to gather around our tables this Thanksgiving I ask you to reflect with me on the scripture about another table in the gospel of Luke. It's a very familiar text. We know it as the parable of the great dinner.

Then Jesus said to him someone gave a great dinner, invited many. At the time for the dinner he sent a slave to say to those invited, come now, for everything is ready, but they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, I bought a piece of property and I must go out and see it. Please accept my regrets.

Another said I bought five yokes of oxen, I want to try them out, please accept my regret. Another said I have just been married, therefore I cannot come. So the slave returned and reported this to his master. The owner of the house became angry, said to his slave, go out at once into the streets and lanes of this town and bring in the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame. The slave said, sir, what you ordered has been done and there's still more room. Then the master said to the slave, go out into the roads and lanes and compel people to come in so that my house may be filled; for I tell you none of those who were invited will taste my dinner.

What happens at table is extremely important to Luke because, as you know, he tells table stories again and again. He uses the table often as an opportunity to tell the stories of Jesus. Weaving in and out of every one of those table stories is the message that all are welcome at Jesus' table. All. Women, men, children, young, old, in between, gentiles, Jews, people with means, people without means, people who agree with us, people who don't agree. Saints, sinners, the list goes on and on.

Tables are made for people to get together. They are constructed to be accessible from all sides. A sofa, only one way in. Most chairs, one way in. A table is meant to be surrounded, and in the hours that people are away from table, the table just stands there and embodies this invitation that says, “Come. Welcome. I am ready.”

When I was growing up, virtually every important conversation in my life took place around the kitchen table. I will tell you that table isn't much, not by today's standards. Some of you may be old enough to remember those formica tables with the aluminum legs. Kind of the 1950’s variety. Really wasn't worth a lot then and less now, even if you go to some resale shop and it's classified retro. But what happened at the table - that was everything. The table, of course, was the place that our family shared meals. We shared virtually every meal as family. The table is where we gathered together and each heard from the other, my parents, sisters, what was going on in the day. It was the table where I learned the prices for corn, cotton, cattle. And that sometimes, regardless of what a farmer produced, there was something out there that was bigger and made our life change. At the table, that was when I told my parents that I would be going to seminary that fall.

My hope is that your Thanksgiving will be spent at a table with people you love. A table that as Christ urges, is open to all – a table that is a place of forgiveness and sharing. A table where our differences are set aside and we come together in the knowledge of God’s love for us and his

1

Cross Connection – November 25, 2014 command that we love one another. Let this be a time of healing for your family, for our church and for our world. Happy Thanksgiving and May God Bless you all.

Congregational Excellence Leaders Become Consultants Committee leaders under the Center for Congregational Excellence want to serve as resources to the congregations across the conference – in their respective areas of expertise. Read about the free stewardship resources available to the local church.

One of the quickest ways to bring conversation to a halt in church is to bring up the subject of money. However this is one of the topics Rev. Jeff Powers, Westminster UMC, Houston, loves to talk about as often as he can, hence he serves as the Chair of the TAC Extravagant Generosity Committee within the Center for Congregational Excellence.

Notes Jeff, “Our committee has been commissioned to teach about giving as a spiritual discipline, and serve as a resource to the local congregations and our committee is excited to do just that. We are ready and able to help churches understand how and why they should talk about money.”

He speaks from his heart -- and from experience. “I did not come out of the womb as a tither,” he admits. “I had to grow into it after studying it in the Scriptures, and being convicted to lead by example.” By viewing the tithe as a spiritual discipline, he says Westminster UMC has developed a giving-centered culture in recent years. “Our congregational giving has gone from the national average of 2.3% (adjusted gross income) per person to 4.88% in four years, and our pledged tithes this year are projected to be 17% higher than last year,” he adds. “I think we are living proof that we have a spiritual need to give, and that casting that vision by examining this spiritual discipline keeps money issues from paralyzing the church.”

The Extravagant Generosity Committee has a “portable” training workshop with handouts ready to share with any congregation wanting to know what tithing looks like and how to empower ministry exponentially in this way. He adds, “Churches of any size and individuals on any budget can all start where they are and covenant with God to increase even a percentage a year – to grow toward a tithe. Just think what that will do for the congregation both individually and collectively!” he adds.

Coming to a 2015 Lay Training Near You In January of 2014, Jeff led a workshop at the Central South District Lay Leadership meeting and will return, by popular demand to repeat this discussion for Central South leaders – as well as almost a half-dozen other district training events in January. Committee members Rev. C.J. Taylor and Carla Leavelle of Heartspring Methodist Foundation are also trained and ready to be consultants to clergy and lay leaders anywhere in the conference. Adds C.J., “Heartspring Methodist Foundation was created by the Texas Annual Conference to offer financial and stewardship resources. We are happy to provide consultations, materials, literature, annual stewardship campaign leadership and more to help churches and individuals grow in stewardship.”

Casting the Vision

2

Cross Connection – November 25, 2014

The Extravagant Generosity consultants have books and links and insight to share so that local congregations can benchmark their giving in the context of their community in hopes of elevating tithing as a lifestyle. “At Westminster UMC we share with members the ministries that are changing lives thanks to their tithes and offerings,’” Jeff shares. Westminster makes it easy to give in several ways and intentionally ties finances to ministry success by celebrating the offering time in worship year-round.

Common Questions The book the committee most often recommends is Consecration Sunday, by Herb Miller. The question he is asked most often is if pastors should know anything about the giving records of the members. “Pastors are trusted with the most personal of information in a church setting,” he shares, “so if money is deemed too sacred to talk about, it almost becomes more sacred than God.” He adds, “In effect, pastors are CEOs of nonprofit businesses. They need to know who is most passionate about the church and growing as a disciple -- and who they can continue to thank for their extravagant generosity.”

Other Committees also Providing Expertise Dr. Craig Gilbert, chair of the Passionate Worship Committee is also a willing servant when it comes to serving the local congregation in his area of expertise. Jeff Hobbs and the Faith Forming Relationships Team is yet another leader who encourages churches to tap into any resources this team might offer. Rev. Jack Womack and Rev. Christie Hale have also been prepping to share their expertise in Radical Hospitality and Age-Level Ministry. Contact any of these volunteers if you have a question or want to request resources, materials or a training workshop.

“The whole idea behind the committees at the Annual Conference level, is to be in support of the local church,” notes Dr. Jesse Brannen, Director of TAC Center for Congregational Excellence, “and our committee members are truly excited about the opportunity to serve others as resources in this new way. The Conference exists to serve the local church, not the other way around.” To reach Jeff for questions or consultations: [email protected].

Youth Leaders Pursue Certification Professional certification to specialize in youth ministry involves Bible training, skill development, experience and accountability. Hear why several TAC youth leaders believe this certification process is important.

Youth ministry certification is optional, but well worth the time, according to “freshman” Trevor Barnett who will begin Year 2 of the five-year process in January. “When I hired on at John Wesley UMC in Houston, certification was something I had been wanting to pursue and it was highly recommended by the church,” notes Trevor. “So far, it has been a great way to learn about youth ministry as well as a great way to expand connections with those in similar roles across state lines.”

The process toward earning a Perkins Youth Ministry Certification under the leadership of the General Board of Higher Education, centers on a week of intense training each January. There are reading and writing assignments leading up to the week of group training and several follow up projects or papers related to the topics being studied.

3

Cross Connection – November 25, 2014

“Last year the focus was on the adolescent world, with discussions about how the changes in culture affect young people age 10-20 both psychologically and spiritually,” shares Trevor. “This year’s focus is on United Methodist studies, which will cover the history of the church as well as Wesleyan practice and theology.”

Rev. Thera Freeman, Young Adult Ministries Director for TAC, believes continued education and theological training are two immensely important components to an effective, happy, empowered youth worker. “A commitment to a program like Perkins School of Youth Ministry (PSYM) gives continued longevity for the youth worker as they earn their certification,” she says, “while giving them the tools to avoid burn out in an extremely demanding job. Strangers in the classroom become acquaintances then colleagues and friends through this residential process creating a unique community of people whose main priority is the spiritual development of young people.”

Thera highly encourages churches to help their youth workers apply to PSYM and to have regular continued education and opportunities for creating solid theological frameworks. She adds, “Investing our youth workers and our money in PSYM continues to build a firm, distinctly United Methodist foundation for our young people.”

Why Certification? Certification is the United Methodist Church’s recognition that an individual has been called, made a commitment to serve, and has fulfilled the required standards for academic training, experience, and continuing study to serve with excellence in an area of specialized ministry. Those who earn this United Methodist certification demonstrate that they are explicitly prepared to lead others in United Methodist churches and contexts. Professional certification is available via three tracks: professional, undergraduate, or paraprofessional certification.

Youth ministry leader Mak Young, Parkway UMC, Sugarland struggled a bit with the decision to pursue this leadership training. “It sounded fancy enough, so I looked into it and upon discovering how long it takes to complete certification, the commitment scared me,” she shares.

She admits to ignoring the option while secretly yearning for something more -- more than just curriculum suggestions, innovative spiritual activities and a weekend conference. “I longed to be fed and motivated spiritually so that I could, in turn, feed and motivate the youth in my community. And just like that, I became the stereotypical student that always complains about wanting more but never commits to the solution. That is until the same annoying friend who shall remain nameless (Eddie Erwin), called me and reminded me that the deadline for certification registration was the next day and I should get on it.”

The next day Mak completed all required paperwork, requested her undergrad transcript be sent to Perkins, and received approval from her pastor and SPR committee to attend the certification class. “Just when I thought the hard stuff was over with, I received my syllabus for class. God knocked my ego back where it belonged. I had no idea what to expect, but I did know that God’s hand was in this journey. ” She is quick to admit, “God changed me at Perkins. He changed my heart and challenged me to reconsider my approach to youth ministry. I went to school thinking that life was about black

4

Cross Connection – November 25, 2014 and white answers that I need to know so that I can give them to my students, but I left there with more questions than answers… and that is a very good thing.”

According to Trevor, “There are about 30 in our class, so we are able to have pretty intimate discussions and opportunities to work in small groups on projects in the evening – and help each other with ideas and challenges. After our January training, we will each be tasked with developing 6-week lesson plans for teaching junior high students about United Methodist principles as well as lesson plans for high school students.” Youth ministry leaders can jump into the training cycle at any time, as the topics repeat every five years.

Mak left certification school with a new perspective on youth ministry, the Methodist church, and herself. “I now have confidence in my calling from God that I never knew I needed. I realize this might sound like a promotional article to persuade people to pursue their certification in youth ministry, but it is just my honest experience. An experience that I am eternally grateful for and I look forward to class next year.”

Tradition Beckons: Get Youth Registered for Ignite*MidWinter 2015 Planning is well underway for this conference-wide youth retreat held at Lakeview and Forest Glen in February. Get registered and get ready for new relationships and new insights on “Redemption.”

“This year’s Ignite curriculum and schedule is really shaping up to create a space for deep thinking and growth for both students and adults,” says Rev. Thera Freeman, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries for the Texas Annual Conference. “The Ignite*Midwinter planning team has been in prayer and hard at work for a wonderful retreat at all camps.”

Ignite*Midwinter, the conference-wide youth retreat, is a longstanding tradition for the students of the Texas Annual Conference. These weekend retreats will provide the backdrop for students and volunteers to spend time in scripture, make new friends, hang out with old friends and spend time in God’s creation.

Adds Thera, “Along with traditional camp activities (zip-line, canoeing, and camp fires), Ignite*Midwinter focuses on furthering spiritual development in students, and deepening relationships with our triune God. The theme for the 2015 retreats is Redemption with scriptural focus on The Lord’s Prayer as found in Matthew 6:5-14.”

Students will explore this well known prayer in its familiar prayer format, how we find the prayer in scripture, the history of the Lord’s Prayer, as well as, different interpretations from around the world.

Youth workers at all churches ideally should have received printed registration forms and event posters to launch the sign-up process. TAC offers three events on two weekends next year, each bringing a unique setting and opportunities for growth and rest with fellow United Methodist students from across the Conference connection:

o Lakeview on February 20-22 o Forest Glen1 February 20-22 (Cap registration: 400)

5

Cross Connection – November 25, 2014

o Forest Glen2 February 27-March 1 (Cap registration: 250)

Lakeview will have combined worship with students from junior high and senior high worshiping together in Copeland and breaking out into age-level small groups with plenty of time for fun and games around camp. Forest Glen1 will operate a junior high camp and a senior high camp, each camp with a speaker and band, across the lake from one another. Forest Glen2 will also share together in worship across age groups, staying on one side of the lake, and breaking out into age-level small groups. Both Forest Glen gatherings will have the zip-line, canoeing and other camp activities open for Saturday’s free time. Call to action Looking for prices? Ready to register? Want to volunteer for a weekend? Do you have a workshop you would like to lead for junior or senior high? Need a poster or extra registration forms? Visit the Ignite*Midwinter 2015 website [http://www.txcumc.org/ignitemidwinter] for more information or contact Rev. Thera Freeman at [email protected] with questions.

Kaleidoscope Study of Lakeview Camp Ministry Begins in January The TAC Conference Camping committee, the Cabinet, and Lakeview's Board of Directors will partner with retreat and camp consulting firm in 2015 to Invest in the Young in new ways.

Matt Idom, President of Lakeview is excited about the year ahead. “Beginning this January,” he shares, “Kaleidoscope, Inc., will conduct a study and submit recommendations that will influence the future of the District Camp ministries of the Texas Annual Conference. Kaleidoscope is the premier company in the U.S. that specializes in guiding retreat, conference, and camping centers. Mr. Jody Oates, president of the company, will be the lead consultant.”

Three groups of the Annual Conference are partners in this ambition: the Conference Camping Committee, the Cabinet, and Lakeview's Board of Directors. “The goal,” he explains, “is to determine how to serve more children and youth and to improve the quality of camp in the areas of program, curriculum, worship, schedule, and shared resources. Presently, each District Camp is independent and there are several models within each week of camp.”

The study will be concluded by May, 2015. In addition to the District Camp portion of the study, Kaleidoscope will also evaluate and make recommendations for the future business model of Lakeview Methodist Conference Center. "The important question we are asking," says Matt, "is how decisions regarding District Camp will need to be reflected in the staff and operations at Lakeview."

Three points of importance that Kaleidoscope is asked to see as critical to the future of the camping ministry include sustainable cost for conducting excellent camps, quality and committed volunteers, and being anchored in Wesleyan theology. District Camp in the Texas Annual Conference is one of the largest youth and children's ministries in all of Methodism. This past summer saw a modest growth to over 3,600 participants, adults and campers. Lakeview currently has the capacity to double the number of participants, and with the anticipated completion of the new Camp Hearn dorms, that capacity will increase yet again. Adds Matt, “The study will help identify the challenges and opportunities to improve and serve more children and youth, building on a very positive and strong tradition of young people claiming and growing in their faith in Jesus Christ.”

6

Cross Connection – November 25, 2014

New Church Spotlight: Rev. Eric Huffman introduces The Story A handful of United Methodist congregations are taking courageous steps toward making church relevant to young adults. Rev. Eric Huffman is planning a third preview worship service for The Story, with support from St. Luke’s UMC, Houston, to be held at River Oaks Theater on December 18.

“Statistics paint the painful picture,” Rev. Eric Huffman shares, “in that less than one in five young adults (age 18-25) participate regularly in a community of faith. Therefore, making Christianity compelling for new generations won’t happen by accident and should be the top priority of churches everywhere.” Houston is adding over 2,000 new residents every single week, and has truly become a global mega-city. The new service will be called The Story because sacred stories cut through differences and have the power to start movements and change the world. Eric is passionate about teaching the scriptures in compelling ways to people who've never been to church and those who feel burned by the church. “Our purpose will be to inspire nonreligious Houstonians to play their part in the unfolding story of God’s love in Jesus Christ. My wife, Geovanna, and I are excited to tackle this challenge on behalf of St. Lukes’ UMC, Houston, and with your help and God’s grace, we know big things are in store.” He says that regular worship services won’t begin until the Launch Team surpasses 200. To accelerate the timeline, he suggests going to www.facebook.com/TheStoryHouston and sharing it with friends online.

First UMC Bryan: Anniversary Marks 20 Years of Mobility-Centered Mission Vital congregations often find a ‘signature ministry’ that exhibits their passion for others in a unique way. First UMC, Bryan recently celebrated the 20th anniversary of their P.E.T. ministry.

In Ogbomosho, Nigeria, Seun Oke contracted polio as a child and was forced to quit school. When she received a Personal Energy Transportation (P.E.T.) cart, it changed her life. This three- wheeled, hand cranked cart made especially for mobility-impaired people in developing countries, enabled Seun to finish regular schooling and complete vocational school.

Last month, Seun was the special guest of First UMC, Bryan at the celebration luncheon for the 20th anniversary of this longstanding mission project: the Brazos Valley P.E.T. project. Brazos Valley P.E.T. is one of 22 P.E.T. shops in the United States and one in Zambia. Before Seun shared her transformative story, West District Superintendent Rev. Wanda Bess, led over 130 guests in the invocation. Rev. Rick Sitton of FUMC Bryan says, “This ministry receives support from the entire church and puts dozens of men and women to work with their hands so that others may know the hand of God touching their lives.”

In the beginning The P.E.T. project began 20 years ago when Rev. Larry Hills, a Congo missionary, told the Rev. Mel West of the need for a three-wheeled hand-cranked wheelchair for victims of birth defects, polio and land mines. Earl Miner, a product designer, designed and built the first prototypes that

7

Cross Connection – November 25, 2014 could stand up to the difficult terrain often found in developing countries. Since that time over 48,000 P.E.T.s have been built and delivered to people in need. According to volunteer Margot Newcomb, the Brazos Valley shop, which moved to Bryan five years ago, has built over 1,600 P.E.T.s. Adds Margot, “The Bryan shop is currently building 175 P.E.T.s to be sent to Vietnam and 50 to be sent to Honduras.”

FUMC Bryan provides the Brazos Valley shop with funding and many volunteers. However, with the encouragement of the church, the Brazos Valley P.E.T. shop has volunteers from many different Methodist churches in Bryan/College Station, the West District and from other denominations. FUMC La Grange provides both financial and volunteer support along with Methodist churches in Brenham, Alvin and Beaumont. The West District Missions Committee, at the encouragement of D.S. Wanda Bess, has also provided funding. FUMC Bryan leads an ecumenical effort to provide mobility to people in need. D.S. Bess, who has worked in the shop herself, says, “FUMC Bryan is leading the community in the effort to provide mobility throughout the world.”

The need is great The United Nations estimates that over 7 million people with mobility disabilities do not have the use of a wheelchair. These people are forced to crawl on the ground or must rely on relatives to carry them. They often face a stigma and prejudice because of their disability. Once a person receives a P.E.T., they can go to school, to work, care for their families and overcome the stigma of prejudice. “We need more P.E.T. carts for them so that their lives will be changed as my own life has been changed,” says Seun. FUMC Bryan is helping to change lives through the gift of mobility. For more information on the Brazos Valley P.E.T. project visit their website at: http://petbrazosvalley.org/

Lon Morris Baptismal Font Dedicated A refurbished baptismal font, formerly part of the Lon Morris College Chapel, was rededicated for use at the Rusk First United Methodist Church in October. Under the leadership of the Rev. Jacob Smith, the font was brought to the church and used in the baptism of one infant and three children on that same day.

The history of the font dates back to Jan. 31, 1987, when the Lon Morris College Chapel was “consecrated to the glory of God and became a house of worship within the United Methodist Church,” the Rev. Dr. Jimmie A. Reese told members of the Rusk church at its rededication. Bishop Ben Oliphant presided at the chapel dedication, assisted by Dr. Faulk Landrum, Lon Morris College president; the Rev. Virgil Matthews, college academic dean; and the Rev. Dr. Jimmie Reese, college chaplain. The chapel was deconsecrated in a special service of worship on Nov. 4, 2012. District Superintendent Rev. Sandra Smith, assisted by the Rev. Steven C. Newcomb, director of religious life; Dr. Landrum, former college president; Dr. Reese, former professor and college chaplain and the Rev. Rhett Ansley, former college chaplain, led the deconsecration service.

After the font was brought to the Rusk church, David Hendley of Old Farmhouse Pottery, provided a new basin and pitcher. The basin features an inlayed fish design harkening back to the original baptismal fonts of the ancient church that were called piscina, literally “fish pond” in

8

Cross Connection – November 25, 2014

Greek. Retired UMC Elder Rev. John Birkelbach provided the eight wood panel carvings out of mahogany wood which included ancient Christian symbols for baptism such as a fish and a sea shell, a Christogram, the Holy Spirit, the Jesse Tree, the Sacraments and the United Methodist Cross and Flame.

Children Present La Fiesta de la Posada On December 14, at 5 p.m., the children and youth of Westbury UMC, Houston will present an adaptation of Dave Brubeck’s musical masterpiece, La Fiesta de la Posada. Las Posadas is a Latin American custom depicting Joseph and Mary’s search for lodging on the eve of Christ’s birth. The celebration features the participation of the Hispanic ministries and centers around festive music, rich food and a dramatic retelling of the Christmas story. Westbury UMC’s version of La Fiesta de la Posada will include a participatory Christmas pageant with costumes, staging, jazz music, piñatas and a fajita dinner. The event is free and open to the public; attendees can bring desserts to share. Westbury’s multiracial, intergenerational congregation focuses on worship, discipleship and transformational missions. The church is located in southwest Houston just outside the 610 Loop on the corner of W. Bellfort and Willowbend. For more information, contact the church office at (713) 723-0175 or visit www.westburyumc.org.

Advent eRetreat Participate in Taste and See, The Upper Room’s 2014 online Advent eRetreat, beginning Nov. 30 through Dec. 27. Engage your imagination and become a part of the events surrounding the birth of the Christ child. This eRetreat includes a live session with author Jan Johnson, audio recordings of scripture passages, video introductions to each week’s theme, a guided group discussion and more. The cost is $50. For more information and to register, go to http://elearning.upperroom.org/events/160.

Free 2015 Planning Calendars Pastors, worship leaders and planners, musicians, choirs, committee members, Sunday school teachers and others will use the 2015 Worship & Music Planning Calendar throughout the year. It includes seasons, special days, celebrations and observances from both the church and civil calendars, plus lectionary reading citations for the entire year. To download the free calendar from Discipleship Ministries, go to http://bit.ly/144Upii.

Laity Award Nominations Perkins School of Theology is accepting nominations for the 2015 Woodrow Seals Laity Award through December 5. This annual award is presented to laypersons embodying the Christian faith and commitment of service to Christ as exemplified by Judge Seals, a distinguished layperson whose interest and energy were instrumental in establishing the Perkins Theological School for the Laity. Nominations must include a four-page biographical narrative, up to 12 letters of recommendation and contact information for the nominee’s primary sponsor. More Information about the Seals Award and Nominations Criteria (Website | PDF Brochure) Sponsors should compile all materials and email to Rev. Connie L. Nelson, [email protected] or mail as one package to: Office of Public Affairs and Alumni Relations, Perkins School of Theology PO Box 75013, Dallas, TX 75275-0133.

Giving instead of Getting

9

Cross Connection – November 25, 2014

On December 2, United Methodists once again are invited to extend the spirit of giving thanks into the Advent season by participating in UMC #GivingTuesday. And every gift made online through The Advance at www.umcmission.org/give on December 2, 2014 will be matched up to $1 million. In 2013, United Methodists donated a record $6.5 million online! This provides an alternative to the consumer-driven shopping traditions in the United States of Black Friday, Local Business Saturday and Cyber Monday. UMC #GivingTuesday offers an opportunity to begin the holiday season by giving instead of getting, by supporting organizations and missionaries who have been researched and approved by the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries. And 100 percent of all gifts made through The Advance are given directly to the project designated by the giver.

10