St. Martin’s Episcopal ChurchSt. Martin’s Episcopal Church
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D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5
Christmas at St. Martin’s
Atop each of the spires of The Church is a three-dimensional
radiant cross, a symbol of Christ, the light of the world. There
are numerous references in scripture to Christ as the light
of the world (John 1:9, 14). These include the story of the
wise men coming to see the child Jesus (Matthew 2:1-15),
when Jesus was presented to the priests at the temple
(Luke 2:30-32), and Jesus’ baptism by John the Baptist
(John 1:29). May St. Martin’s always be that light of Christ
to our city and region.
Our MissionTo bring by the power of the Holy Spirit as many people as possible to know, love, and serve God as revealed through Jesus Christ; and to be transformed into spiritually renewed disciples of Jesus who know, love and serve one another and the world.
Deadline for AnnouncementsThe deadline to submit information for The Star is two months before publication on the 10th of the month.
Church Offices717 Sage Road, Houston, TX 77056
Office HoursMonday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Individual department hours vary.)
PostmasterSend address changes to St. Martin’s Episcopal Church 717 Sage Road Houston, TX 77056-2199
Phone Numbers
Office ..............................................................713-621-3040
Fax ..................................................................713-622-5701
Activity Center .................................................713-621-8625
Café St. Martin’s ..............................................713-985-3847
Event Reservations .........................................713-985-3844
Library ...........................................................713-830-4118
Prayer Requests ..............................................713-830-4124
Preschool ........................................................713-621-2944
The Hope and Healing Center & Institute ........713-871-1004
The Island/Student Ministries .........................713-871-1004
Tours ...............................................................713-830-4117
Visitor Information ..........................................713-830-4126
Additional phone numbers and email addresses are at:stmartinsepiscopal.org > About St. Martin’s > The Staff
STARTHE
The Star is an official publication of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church.
ON THE COVER
During the design and construction of The Church, it was decided that historical figures of noted preaching gifts would be carved and placed into the pulpit as a reminder of the call to excellence in preaching and as a reminder to pass on the faith handed down to us. The pulpit is crafted of quartered white oak wood and features sculptures of: Jesus, the Christ, at the center of the pulpit; the Rev. John Wesley, Anglican cleric and Christian theologian; St. John Chrysostom, the fourth-century Bishop of Constantinople; St. Paul, the Apostle, who often referred to himself as the “Apostle to the Gentiles”; the Rev. Charles Simeon, an English and Anglican clergyman; and the Bible verse I Corinthians 2:2, “…For I resolved to know nothing while I was amongst you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified...”
Contents
D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5
02 From the Rector
04 Worship, Christian Education
and Fellowship for Adults
09 Programs for All Adults
10 Programs for Women
11 Programs for Men
12 Student Ministries
13 Children’s Ministry
14 Outreach and Missions
17 Parish Life
23 Hope and Healing Center & Institue
24 Giving
21 I JOY OF GIVING MARKET MARKS 25TH ANNIVERSARY
The Episcopal Church Women of St. Martin’s Joy of Giving Market kicked off the holiday season and helped raise funds for Outreach grants benefitting organizations in the community.
19 I CELEBRATING POINTS OF LIGHT
The special interfaith and ecumenical service of prayer, reflection and song was hosted by a broad range of faith leaders from throughout the Houston area.
04 I CHRISTMAS AT ST. MARTIN’S
Rejoice in this blessed and joyous season with St. Martin’s Parish family during traditional worship services. Our wonderful Parish Choir is joined by the Gloria Dei Organ, brass quintet and timpani during the evening services.
T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 01
FROM THE RECTOR
The fact that we have four Gospels
– where some of the same stories
are contained in each – tells us
that the words of Jesus’ mouth
were, in fact, shared by word of mouth.
They also tell us the value of telling and
re-telling stories again and again so they
weave their way into our hearts and lives.
Advent and Christmas are upon us again
– and we will hear, tell and share a story
that has been told for more than 2,000
years. “So Joseph also went up from the town
of Nazareth in Galilee in Judea, to Bethlehem,
the town of David, because he belonged to the
house and line of David…While they were
there, the time came for the baby to be born,
and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son.
She wrapped him in cloths and places him in
a manger, because there was no room for
them in the inn.” (Luke 2:1-7)
We will hear this story again – and
many like it – in the weeks to come. It is
important to revisit what God’s Word,
and its stories, have to tell us. In an essay
on Church life, the author John Updike
suggested when we Christians regularly
recite what we believe, those oft cited
recitations are “like paths worn smooth in
the raw terrain of our hearts.” In other
words, telling and re-telling shapes
who we are.
You probably don’t know “Thomas,” but
you have likely seen him. He is one of the
many “sign spinners” who work in the
Houston area. I’ve been intrigued by these
fellas for some time. A modern take on the
walking billboard, they grab hold of large
cardboard signs shaped like an arrow –
pointing the way to new apartments,
a sale or a new restaurant.
There’s usually one at the corner of South
Post Oak and Woodway. That’s where I met
Thomas – on my way to vote (I hope you
voted!). On my walk back to the Church,
I struck up a conversation with Thomas.
I wanted to know how you get a job as
a “sign spinner.” My questions included
things like, “Do you have a natural knack
for that?,” “Do they teach you how to do
that?” and “Where are you from?”
I was struck by his answers. The company
he works for employs a number of young
people…the company houses them
together…provides them with insurance…
and a wage well above minimum. “But
how do you learn to spin?,” I pressed the
point. “Well, those who know how, teach
us; and then we practice together. When
someone learns something new, he shares
it; and then tries to teach it to us. We all
learn from learning and living together…
it’s really been a pretty good job for me…”
So our city’s “sign spinners” evidently
live together in community, learn from one
another, and then go out and “point the
way.” Sound familiar?
<
It is important to revisit what God’s Word,
and its stories, have to tell us.
=
Why do we return to the same stories again and again?
While preachers at times get ribbed a bit for repeating themselves, some Biblical scholars have suggested that our greatest preacher, Jesus, may have repeated similar parables and stories not dozens of times, but perhaps hundreds of times.
02 T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5
The Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr.
F R O M T H E R E C T O R
We will come together much over the
next few weeks – some of you will get with
old friends and family, but in addition to
that, we will worship over the four weeks
of Advent up until Christmas Eve and
through the Twelve Days of Christmas up
until Epiphany. We will hear the old, old
story again…and it is worth telling…and
re-telling…hearing and re-hearing…
It’s the story of God’s love for us, made
manifest in a child born to a young Virgin
Mom and a homeless carpenter Dad.
There’s the manger and the star, shepherds,
angels, the magi – they are all, really, signs
pointing us back to God. And when we
gather to share the community of prayer,
song, lesson…when we gather around our
Lord’s Table to be fed by the Bread and
Wine, when we do it again and again –
indeed, the “again-ness,” is like “…like
paths worn smooth in the raw terrain of
our hearts…”
Perhaps there’s a lesson worth learning
from our sign-spinning friends, fed together
with the knowledge of God’s deep and
abiding love for each of us. We can go into
the world and point the way for those who
don’t yet know where to find just what
they are looking for – joy, peace, hope,
love, salvation…
Hear the story; tell the story; become part
of the story – it shapes who we were created
to be – the children of God, in a world
that so needs to know of His love. Blessed
Advent…Merry Christmas…again
and again…
<
We can go into the world and
point the way for those who don’t yet know
where to find just what they are
looking for – joy, peace, hope, love, salvation...
=
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W O R S H I P , C H R I S T I A N E D U C A T I O N A N D F E L L O W S H I P F O R A D U L T S
ADVENT QUIET DAY WITH ST. MARTIN’S CLERGY AND HOUSTON BOYCHOIR How Better to Start the Advent Season Than to Stop! Sponsored by St. Martin’s Clergy and Daughters of the King Saturday, December 5
9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
The Island
Spend a day with your Clergy team!
We offered this unique opportunity to
our Vestry last year and when we finished,
a long-time member of the Parish and a
member of our Vestry commented, “This
has been the most meaningful program
I have ever participated in during my
years at St. Martin’s.”
We will begin with coffee and light
refreshments, and a special performance
by the Houston Boychoir, then reflections
by Clergy on their own perspectives on
the Advent season and the Feast of the
Incarnation. This will be interspersed with
moments of quiet reflection with your
Rector and Associate and Assisting Clergy
team members. A light lunch will be served,
and the reflection time will close with Holy
Eucharist. There is no cost, but a donation
to cover the cost of meals is requested.
Registration is required; child care
is available. To register, visit stmartinsepiscopal.org/programs-for-adults. For more information, contact Jennifer DiMichele at 713-985-3845 or [email protected].
Advent and Christmas at St. Martin’s
LESSONS AND CAROLS SERVICESunday, December 6
11:15 a.m.
The Church
Our annual Lessons and Carols Service
is a wonderful testament to the season
celebrating the birth of our Lord.
CHRISTMAS EVE WORSHIP SERVICESThursday, December 24
1 p.m.
The Church
Family service (no Eucharist)
This service is perfect for families with
young children. It lasts approximately
35 minutes and features wonderful music
of the season and Nativity liturgy.
3 p.m., 5:30 p.m., 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.
The Church
Holy Eucharist
The Parish Choir, Gloria Dei Organ,
Brass and Tympani provide the perfect
setting for the celebration of our Lord’s
birth. As the sun sets in the west, the
lights shining through our beautiful
stained glass windows set the mood of
wonder as we celebrate the triumph of
light over darkness with the first of our
traditional liturgies. Seating is more
readily available during the 8 p.m.
and 10:30 p.m services.
If balcony seating or parking a distance from
The Church causes difficulty for you and
your family, please consider attending one
of these services later in the evening.
Parking
Overflow parking for all services has
been arranged at the garage on South
Post Oak at Riverway. For those who
need assistance, golf carts will pick up
pedestrians from this parking garage,
as well as from the parking lots on
Woodway and near Regions Bank.
For more information, contact Bruce Smith at 713-985-3801 or [email protected].
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CHRISTMAS DAYFriday, December 25
11 a.m.
The Church
Holy Eucharist
After opening your Christmas presents,
bring your family to Church and celebrate,
“for unto us a child is born; unto us a son
is given.” The Choir will be accompanied
by the Gloria Dei Organ.
CHRISTMAS COMMUNIONIf you know of a homebound person, or
you are homebound yourself and want to
receive Christmas communion from one
of the Clergy, please call Cyndy Ensign
in Pastoral Care at 713-985-3808 or
CHRISTMAS OFFERING The Christmas Offering is a longstanding
St. Martin’s tradition. We truly have so
much for which to be thankful, and we
are blessed to be able to share our gifts
with others in the community through
this Outreach offering. Your generosity,
especially this time of year, will bring hope
to others. Envelopes are available in the
pews and Church information display racks,
and can be placed in the offering plate
during the Advent and Christmas
worship services.
FEAST OF LIGHTS SERVICESunday, January 11
6 p.m.
The Church
This beautiful candlelight service takes the
light of Christ into the world literally with
our actions and symbolically through
candles. Everyone is then invited to go to
The Island for fellowship and a reception. Youth interested in assisting with the service or reception should contact Will Kulseth at 713-830-4148 or [email protected].
HOLIDAY HOURSChurch Offices
In recognition of Christmas, the Church offices will remain open on Thursday, December 24 until 5 p.m. (individual department hours may vary) and will be closed Friday, December 25. In recognition of the New Year’s holiday, the Church offices will be closed beginning Thursday, December 31 at noon through Friday, January 1.
Activity Center
The Activity Center is open Thursday, December 24 until 1 p.m., and then closes through Saturday, December 26 for Christmas. The Activity Center also closes at noon on Thursday, December 31 and reopens on Monday, January 4 in
recognition of New Years.
St. Martin’s Bookstore & Gift Shoppe
The Bookstore & Gift Shoppe will close on Thursday, December 24 at 2:30 p.m. and reopen on Monday, January 11
following their annual inventory.
Café St. Martin’s
Café St. Martin’s will not be open Monday – Wednesday, December 21 – 23 for Christmas and Monday – Wednesday,
December 28 – 30 for New Years.
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W O R S H I P , C H R I S T I A N E D U C A T I O N A N D F E L L O W S H I P F O R A D U L T S
CLERGY RECOMMENDED READING
To follow are a number of books
recommended by members of our Clergy
for some suitable reading for pleasure or
study purposes. Some of these books, in
addition to NIV study Bibles, NRSV study
Bibles and The Book of Common Prayer,
are either available for purchase in
St. Martin’s Bookstore & Gift Shoppe
or can be ordered for pick up.
The Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr.
The First to Follow by John R. Claypool
Tracks of a Fellow Struggler: Living and Growing Through Grief by John R. Claypool
Grace: More Than We Deserve, Greater Than We Imagine by Max Lucado
Finding God at Harvard: Spiritual Journeys of Thinking Christians edited by Kelly Monroe Kullberg
The Last Man on the Moon by Eugene Cernan
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
The Rev. Martin J. Bastian
Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners by John Bunyan
The Acceptable Sacrifice: The Excellency of a Broken Heart by John Bunyan
Things Hidden: Scripture as Spirituality by Richard Rohr
The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics by Daniel James Brown
The Rev. Mary Wilson
Reclaiming the Great Commission: A Practical Model for Transforming Denominations and Congregations by Bishop Claude Payne and Hamilton Beaszley
Self Talk, Soul Talk by Jennifer Rothschild
Home by Another Way by Barbara Brown Taylor
The Rev. R-J Heijmen
Heretics and Heroes: How Renaissance Artists and Reformation Priests Created Our World by Thomas Cahill
American Catholic: The Saints and Sinners Who Built America’s Most Powerful Church by Charles R. Morris
Law & Gospel: A Theology for Sinners (and Saints) by Will McDavid, Ethan Richardson and David Zahl
Luther for Armchair Theologians by Steven D. Paulson
The Rev. Alex Large
Five Women of the English Reformation by Paul F.M. Zahl
Mockingbird Devotional: Good News for Today and Every Day
The Collects of Thomas Cranmer by Paul F.M. Zahl and Fred Barbee
Glorious Companions: Five Centuries of Anglican Spirituality by Richard Schmidt
Luther for Armchair Theologians by Steven Paulson
The Rev. Chad T. Martin
What’s So Amazing About Grace? by Philip Yancey
The Reason for God by Timothy Keller
Nudge: Awakening Each Other to the God Who’s Already There by Leonard Sweet
An Advent CompanionAn Advent Companion
Meditations and Prayers by Russell J. Levenson, Jr.
ROOMpreparing
AN ADVENT COMPANION
A Collection
of Scriptures,
Meditations
and Prayers
Russell J. Levenson, Jr.
Available for purchase in St. Martin’s Bookstore & Gift Shoppe
“Advent is the season where we turn once again to the beginning of the Christian story as it centers on Jesus. The pieces of this story come together not from one set of hands, but many – and they are not of one texture, but many. In these pages, I hope to offer several gifts: Scriptures key to telling the story, a brief meditation, and avenue for “preparing room” and a prayer. This collection is designed to carry one through the season of Advent.”
From the Introduction of Preparing Room
Preparing Room – A Collection of Scriptures, Meditations and Prayers by Russell J. Levenson, Jr.
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W O R S H I P , C H R I S T I A N E D U C A T I O N A N D F E L L O W S H I P F O R A D U L T S
“ AN ADVENT WREATH DEVOTIONAL
1
”Both adult and children’s versions now available for purchase in St. Martin’s Bookstore & Gift Shoppe
With this devotional, we hope to provide you with a framework to travel within the circle of God’s love throughout the Advent season. Using a question, some Scripture, a brief meditation and a closing prayer, we will offer you what we hope will be a regular companion in your Advent journey for years to come.
– Laura and Russ Levenson
The Rev. Rob Dixon
The Will to Live On: This Is Our Heritage by Herman Wouk
The Prodigal: A Ragamuffin Story by Brennan Manning and Greg Garrett
In the Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership by Henri J.M. Nouwen
The Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Manning
The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
The Rev. Suse McBay
Suffering and the Heart of God: How Trauma Destroys and Christ Restores by Diane Langberg
Bold Love by Dan B. Allender
Café Theology by Michael Lloyd
Healing Agony: Re-Imagining Forgiveness by Stephen Cherry
The Life of St. Anthony by Athanasius
The Rev. Sarah Condon
Grace in Practice: A Theology of Everyday Life by Paul F.M. Zahl
Jeremiah: Pain and Promise by Kathleen M. O’Connor
The Prodigal God: Recovering the Heart of the Christian Faith by Timothy Keller
Bed and Board by Robert Farrar Capon
The Rev. Nicholas R.D. Dyke
Psalms Now by Leslie F. Brandt
Your God Is Too Small by J. B. Phillips
The Good Shepherd by Lesslie Newbigin
The Collects of Thomas Cranmer by C. Frederick Barbee and Paul F.M. Zahl
Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time by Marcus J. Borg
The Rev. Robert E. Wareing
Works by Henri J.M. Nouwen, R.C. Sproul or Andrew Murray
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Professional Blend
Parlor
Clergy Liaison: The Rev. Marty Bastian
This class is for professionals who desire
fellowship centered on the word of God.
40s and 50s
The Scout Center
Clergy Liaisons: The Rev. R-J Heijmen
and the Rev. Rob Dixon This group is looking forward to another
great year. We hope that you will join
us for wonderful times of teaching,
discussion and fellowship.
60s+
Activity Center, Upper Hall East
Clergy Liaisons: The Rev. Marty Bastian
and the Rev. Mary Wilson
This class is for those 60 and above
who are eager to grow deeper in their
relationship with Christ. In-depth Bible
and book studies promise to be both
engaging and challenging as we apply
what we learn to our everyday life. It
will be a time of learning coupled with
an opportunity for great fellowship and
spiritual support.
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION PEER GROUPS Sundays
10:15 – 11 a.m.
Peer groups provide an opportunity for
fellowship with other people of your age,
and some great teaching from fellow
parishioners and our Clergy. Peer groups
will focus on Singing a Song of the Saints
of God: A Year-long Look at Biblical
Heroes. They will meet again in February
and April.
20s and 30s Activity Center, Fellowship Room
Clergy Liaison: The Rev. Suse McBay
This group is geared toward both young
adults and young families. We are excited
to study scripture and get to know one
another better.
Parents of Young Children
Payne Education Center, Room 210/212
Clergy Liaisons: The Rev. Alex Large
and the Rev. Chad Martin
This group offers parents of young
children (infants through 5th grade) a
welcoming place to discuss the joys and
challenges of being moms and dads.
SEEKERS
(60s and up)
Sundays 10:15 – 11 a.m. Activity Center, Aerobics Room Clergy Liaisons: The Rev. Nick Dyke
and the Rev. Robert Wareing
Seekers is a great place for couples and
singles to meet and study the Gospel
and other readings, and then branch
off into Church history, liturgy,
sacraments and other related areas.
We just have fun learning! Please
come and join our group.
CHRISTIAN BOOK STUDYSundays 10:15 – 11 a.m. Vestry Conference Room
Clergy Liaison: The Rev. R-J Heijmen
Our Sunday School classes emphasize
Christian education and fellowship while
reading various Christian books, and
provide a community in which you can
develop your Christian understanding,
a sense of belonging and lasting
friendships.
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P R O G R A M S F O R A L L A D U L T S
ST. MARTIN’S 20S & 30S Christmas Party
Wednesday, December 16
7 – 9 p.m.
Home of Katie and Ryan LaRue
Bible Study and Dinner First, second and third Wednesdays
of the month
7 – 9 p.m.
Visit stmartinsepiscopal.org/young-adults
for a current listing of locations.
Social Events
Last Wednesday of the month
7 – 9 p.m.
Visit stmartinsepiscopal.org/young-adults
for a current listing of locations. For more information, contact the Rev. Alex Large at [email protected] or check out our Facebook group of more than 175 members at Facebook.com and search for St. Martin’s 20s & 30s.
PARENTS OF YOUNG CHILDRENChristmas Party
Saturday, December 19
7 – 9 p.m.
Federal Grill, 510 Shepherd Drive
This group for parents of young children
(infants through 5th grade) also meets
for Sunday School, playdates and
mom’s nights.
Young Dads’ Bible Study
Wednesdays, December 2, 9 and 16
7 – 8 a.m.
Bride’s Room
Join the Rev. Alex Large and other dads of
young children for Bible Study as we seek
to connect the Gospel to our lives today.
Wednesday, October 21 – Dave Zahl,
Founder and Director of Mockingbird Ministries
and Editor-in-chief of the Mockingbird blog, was
the special guest speaker at a recent meeting
of St. Martin’s 20s & 30s. This ministry is a
fellowship group for singles and couples of the
Parish that meets regularly for social events,
Bible studies and speakers.
The Moms’ Group
Wednesday, December 2, 9 and 16
9:15 a.m.
Payne Education Center, Room 207/209
Mothers of young children ranging in age
from infants to early elementary meet for
a time of fellowship, teaching, prayer and
support. The group is led by Emily Large. For more information, contact the Rev. Alex Large at 713-985-3849 or [email protected].
T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 09
P R O G R A M S F O R W O M E N
CHANGE OF HEARTNow offered
at two times
Hosted by
The Moms’
Group and led
by Janie Putman
Wednesdays, January 6 – March 2
9:15 – 10:30 a.m.
Payne Education Center, Room 207/209
Childcare is provided. To sign up or for more information, contact Emily Large at [email protected].
Led by Janie Putman
Wednesdays, January 20 – March 9
1 – 2:30 p.m.
The Island, Room 201
To sign up or for more information, contact Janie Putman at 713-782-3077 or [email protected].
Women are invited to this study group
on the mother-in-law/daughter-in-law
relationship. If yours is difficult, we can
offer hope; if yours is great, we can learn
from you. The class book A Change of
Heart is available for purchase in
St. Martin’s Bookstore & Gift Shoppe.
Session one should be completed for
the first meeting.
EPISCOPAL CHURCH WOMEN OF ST. MARTIN’S “MARATHON FOR LIFE: LIVING LIFE ON PURPOSE LUNCHEONFriday, January 15
11 – 11:30 a.m. Check in
11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Program
Bagby Parish Hall
Author, marathoner and pastor
MaryAnn McKibben-Dana speaks about
her book Sabbath in the Suburbs...and
Beyond: Finding Rest, Play, Renewal
and Delight.
OUTREACH PROGRAMWednesday, December 9
Noon – 1 p.m.
Activity Center, Upper Hall East
Join members of St. Clare’s Needlepoint
Guild and Saintly Stitchers as they make
sandwiches for Kids’ Meals, the nation’s
only meals-on-wheels service for children
that provides healthy, home-delivered
lunches to hungry children under the
age of five who live in poverty.
Please Join Us for the Episcopal Church Women of St. Martin’s
Annual Christmas CoffeeMonday, December 7
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
At the home of Jennifer and Tadd Tellepsen; call 713-985-3844 for location information.
Valet parking provided
Event ChairsSusan McConn, Mary Majors Payne and Jennifer Tellepsen
In the spirit of the season, please bring a new, unwrapped toy to be distributed by the DePelchin Children’s Center.
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KIDS’ MEALS – MEN’S OUTREACH PROGRAM Tuesday, December 15
5 – 6:30 p.m.
Activity Center, Fellowship Room
Join the Men of St. Martin’s to make
sandwiches for hungry children. We
make approximately 10,000 sandwiches
annually that are delivered for lunch to
preschool children living in poverty.
LAZARUS GUILD The Lazarus Guild consists of a group
of men who are ushers for funerals and
memorial services at St. Martin’s. There
are three teams of Guild members who
serve for one month in each quarter of the
year. Their duties include escorting family
members from the Parlor to their seats
in the Church, assisting those who need
help opening the doors and entering the
Church, serving as ushers, helping with
any other assigned duties, and cleaning
the pews and straightening the pew racks
at the conclusion of the service. For more information about becoming a Lazarus Guild member, contact Cyndy Ensign at 713-985-3808 or [email protected].
P R O G R A M S F O R M E N
THURSDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY Thursdays
7 – 8 a.m.
Bagby Parish Hall
This group is open to all men of the
Parish of all ages, and any male guests
and visitors. We gather each Thursday
morning through May for a brief Bible
reflection and then break into groups
for discussion, fellowship and mutual
support, along with several special guest
speakers. Breakfast is available for a $5
donation. Reservations are not required.
DECEMBER 3
Guest Speaker the Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson Jr., Rector,
St. Martin’s Episcopal
Church
DECEMBER 10 Christmas break begins after
this meeting; classes resume January 14.
Available for sale in St. Martin’s Bookstore & Gift Shoppe
A Festival of Lessons and CarolsWith readings by Lord Carey, Mr. Waterston and Dr. Levenson,
and featuring the music of St. Martin’s Parish Choir
The Most Rev. and Rt. Hon. Dr. George L. Carey103rd Archbishop of Canterbury
The Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr.
Rector, St. Martin’s Episcopal Church
Mr. Sam WaterstonAward-winning Actor
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S T U D E N T M I N I S T R I E S
FOR ALL STUDENTS
Sunday Morning EYC 10:15 – 11 a.m. The Island
Let’s get started with Sunday mornings!
Meet downstairs for donuts, fun and to
learn more about God through the Bible.
If you are visiting or looking to check out
our middle school group for the first time
this would be the perfect place to start! For more information, contact Florence Ritchie at 713-985-3843 of [email protected].
HIGH SCHOOL
School-based Fellowship Groups
Our school-based Bible studies continue
this fall. We believe meeting students
where they are gives us the greatest
opportunity to reach them and their
communities. The times and locations
of these groups are tailored to their
specific schools.
Please check theislandlive.com for all the details.
MIDDLE SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
8th Grade Confirmation Retreat (required) Friday – Sunday, November 13 – 15
Carolina Creek Christian Camp, Huntsville
Students taking part in the Confirmation
class are required to attend the retreat
where they will have the opportunity
to learn about and think through the
Christian message in a more intentional
manner than ever before. For 8th grade Confirmation information, contact Will Kulseth at 713-830-4148 or [email protected].
Middle School Fall Retreat The weather was great, the lake was
beautiful, and the entire weekend
was awesome according to teens who
spent a weekend in mid October
at the Middle School Retreat at
Lake Livingston.
Will Kulseth led an enthusiastic group
of teens through lessons and discussion
about how Jesus took the world’s
message of hatred for enemies and
exacting revenge on those who harm
you, and flipped it to show us how and
why we are to love our enemies and
pray for them.
The group spent most of the day Saturday
out on the lake, on paddleboards and
kayaks, spending time with old friends
and new, and enjoying the Texas
sunshine. Everyone had a wonderful
time and wished it would last longer.
The best part, though, might have been
after the retreat ended – hearing from
parents how their children were still
talking about the retreat, and sharing
what they learned with friends and
even teachers.
12 T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5
Holy Spirit.” Breathe that in, breathe that
out. Repeat. I’m drawn to the power of
the Holy Spirit. Not the thought of a Holy
Spirit. Not a figurine of a Holy Spirit. Not a
Holy Spirit made from flammable material.
Rather a belief in a power that I do not
have and that I cannot find in shopping
centers or decorations. A belief in a God
of hope is my ticket to finding the spirit
I seek. Going there, doing that, seeking
that and it has helped. Spirit.
– Holli Kight, Lay Minister for Children’s Christian Education
CHORISTERS’ CHRISTMAS PROGRAM AND RECEPTION
Sunday, December 20
Program
9:15 a.m.
Old Church
Reception
10 – 11 a.m.
Bagby Parish Hall
Join us at the Family Table service as the
Choristers’ children’s choir presents the
annual Christmas program. Told through
anthems and narratives, the Choristers
bring the traditional Christmas story to
life. Children’s Ministry will host a
reception in Bagby Parish Hall for all
families and children immediately
following the Choristers’ program. We
look forward to another wonderful year
bringing in the Christmas season together.
Children’s Sunday school will not meet
on this day so all can attend the special
Christmas festivities. For more information, contact Kellen Gray at [email protected].
C H I L D R E N ’ S M I N I S T R Y
GOT SPIRIT?When I wrote
this piece, I was
enjoying hot sunshine
pouring through my
office windows. It
was a clear, 90 degree
day in October and
I hadn’t even bought pumpkins for the
season yet. So when asked to write
something for a December issue under
these conditions, I found myself having
to dig deeply to find something
December-esque about which to write.
Here’s where I landed:
Spirit…either Christmas or otherwise.
Do I have it? Do I even want it? If so,
how do I get it? One might say an outing
to Hobby Lobby could help. Christmas
exploded on their shelves in June, and now
the poor little pumpkins and pilgrims are
marked down to rock bottom prices as their
irrelevance gleams on the price tags. Been
there, done that, bought that and it hasn’t
helped. Next.
I venture out to the shopping center in
search of some spirit. Upon entering the
parking lot, I have to swing my car wide to
avoid hitting the oversized gold ball and
red bow ornament adorning the entryway.
All the glitter and tinsel and fake garland
and pre-placed lights that are meant to
entice me simply disappoint me in their
contrived nature. Been there, done that,
seen that and it hasn’t helped. Next.
I decide to think on Christmas – nothing
but Christmas – spend time dwelling on
Christmas. Planning a Christmas service,
writing a feel good December story,
gathering Christmas lists from loved ones,
deciding meal plans and settling on dates
for entertaining company in hopes of
warming up a spirit. Been there, done that,
thought about that and it hasn’t helped.
Next.
Out of desperation, I seek the wise council
of Pinterest only to discover Romans 15:13.
It says, “May the God of hope fill you with
all joy and peace in believing, so that you
may abound in hope by the power of the
Children’s Christmas PartySponsored by Episcopal Church Women of St. Martin’s
Saturday, December 1210 a.m. – noon
St. Martin’s Activity CenterFree Admission
Refreshments Festive Crafts Entertainment Pictures with SantaEvent Chairs Elizabeth Dwyer and Aubrey Slye
For more information or questions, email [email protected].
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20
Sunday School for children in kindergarten through 5th grade
will not meet so that all may attend the Christmas Celebration.
T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 13
Christian Community Service Center Jingle Bell Express
Monday – Wednesday, December 7 – 9
6 – 8 p.m. Sort and set up toys
Friday – Saturday, December 11 – 12
7:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Assist with toy distribution
Bellaire United Methodist Church
4417 Bellaire Boulevard
Volunteers are needed to help sort and
set up toys donated for needy children in
the Houston area, and then assist parents
as they select toys, books and food for
their children.
The Beacon Day Center
Saturday, December 12
10:45 a.m. – 2 p.m.
1212 Prairie
The Beacon is a day shelter in downtown
Houston that provides the homeless with
a meal, laundry services, shower facilities
and assistance.
Church Under the Bridge
Tuesday, December 22
6:30 p.m. Leave from St. Martin’s parking lot
7:30 p.m. Worship service
2800 St. Charles Street
Church Under the Bridge ministers to
the homeless in downtown Houston by
serving a meal, serving as prayer partners
and providing praise music for the
worship service once a month.
bags and more benefitting our Outreach
programs. Creative coaching is included!
All paper, embellishments, adhesive and
tools are provided.
Lord of the Streets
Wednesdays, December 2, 9 and 16
9 a.m. – noon
3401 Fannin
Lord of the Streets ministers to
individuals living in the Houston area
who are homeless and disadvantaged, or
in transition. St. Martin’s assists clients
with clothing, food and other needs.
DePelchin Children’s Center’s Angel Tree Christmas Gift Program
Drop off filled gift bags
Sunday, December 6
Activity Center
during the morning services and
to the ushers during the evening service
Saturday, December 5
Activity Center
The DePelchin Children’s Center is
committed to meeting the needs of
children as one of the largest providers of
mental health, foster care and adoption
services in Texas. Through St. Martin’s
Angel Tree Project, volunteers sign up
to fulfill the Christmas gift wish lists
for these children. Gifts should be
unwrapped and new. If all items will
not fit in a bag, please label items with
the child’s name and wish list number.
Toys are not recommended that imply
violence, such as toy guns, water pistols,
military or wrestler action figures,
punching bag clown or boxing gloves.
Please adhere as much as possible to the
gift list provided and focus on needs,
with a recommended donation of $50
to $100 total per child. Gift cards from
Target or Walmart are welcome.
OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE AND MENTOR Whether you are reaching out to help
others less fortunate here in Houston or
another country, doing so “makes the
heart happy!” St. Martin’s partners with
more than 50 agencies in Houston and
abroad. Each week there is an organized
effort to serve others and share in
fellowship with other parishioners. For more information about St. Martin’s volunteer opportunities, contact Outreach Ministry at 713-985-3811 or [email protected].
Kids’ Meals
Tuesday, December 1
4 – 5 p.m.
Activity Center, Community Room
Kids’ Meals provides and distributes
nutritious lunches to hungry preschool
children throughout Houston.
Stamping It Forward
Tuesday, December 1
9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
and 4 – 5 p.m.
Activity Center
No experience is required to help make
paper creations such as cards, boxes,
O U T R E A C H A N D M I S S I O N S
14 T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5
O U T R E A C H A N D M I S S I O N S
HOUSTON: reVISIONreVision works to transform the lives
of at-risk and gang-affected youth by
connecting them to positive adult role
models, building a new community
around strong, affirming peer groups,
and preparing the youth for promising
futures through education and jobs.
Team Sports
Tuesdays, December 1, 8 and 15
7 p.m.
Spring Spirit Baseball, 8526 Pitner Road
Weather permitting
Seafarers’ Christmas Gift Boxes Through Sunday December 13
Payne Education Center, Room 202
The Children’s Ministry will collect, package and send care-boxes to the Seafarers’ Center of Texas. As sailors travel through the Port of Houston during the Christmas
season, they are often away from home for weeks at a time and are in need of supplies.
Children’s Ministry will pack, wrap and decorate these boxes in Sunday School on Sunday, December 13. Outreach Ministry will then deliver our gift boxes to
the Seafarers’ Center just in time for Christmas!
GumHard candyKey chains
PaperEnvelopes
PencilsPens
Playing cardsPuzzlesGames
PostcardsSocks
StampsTexas souvenirs
Baseball capsBand-aids
CombsDental flossFlashlightKleenexQ-tips
LotionLip balm
Nail clippersSoap
ShampooToothbrushToothpaste
Disposable camera
For more information, look in the Children’s Ministry e-newsletter for details. To sign up for the e-newsletter, contact Holli Kight at 713-985-3816 or [email protected].
Volunteer Orientation
Thursday, December 3
6 – 7 p.m.
The Island
Community Nights
Thursdays, December 3, 10 and 17
6:45 – 9 p.m.
The Island
Prison Ministry
Friday, December 4
10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Texas Department of Criminal Justice
Clemens Unit
T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 15
RECIPIENT 2
Recipient name(s)
Address
City, State and Zip
Donor name to appear as
Ministry Amount: $
THE GIVING TREE CHRISTMAS CARD PROGRAMCelebrate the holiday season with family and friends by making a donation in their
honor to your favorite ministry. Simply fill out the form below and return it to St. Martin’s
Episcopal Church by mail, fax or email by Sunday, December 15. Feel free to attach the
names of additional recipients. The cards shown below will be personalized and mailed to
each person on your list. Your tax deductible gift can be paid by credit card or check
payable to St. Martin’s Episcopal Church.The Giving Tree
MINISTRY YOUR GIFT WILL...Christian Community Service Center $45 provides rice and beans for the food pantry.Open Door Mission $30 provides 12-step recovery books and telephone cards.The Prison Ministry $30 provides a storytelling DVD for 10 inmate dads.Yellowstone Academy $40 provides two students with Bibles.Yellowstone Boy Scouts $100 provides a tent.ReVision $50 provides dinner for Community Night at The Island.The Gathering $20 provides a day of fellowship and entertainment for seniors with Alzheimer’s.World Mission Christmas Gifts $100 provides Christmas gifts for children at Amistad mission.Outreach Ministries Any amount will support outreach ministries by donating a Giving Tree card.
RECIPIENT 1
Recipient name(s)
Address
City, State and Zip
Donor name to appear as
Ministry Amount: $
DONOR AND PAYMENT INFORMATION
Name
Address
City, State and Zip
Phone
Number of cards ordered Total donation: $
Payment method (circle one) Check VISA AMEX MC DISC
Credit card number
Expiration date Auth. Code
Signature
Mail: 717 Sage Road, Houston, TX 77056 Email: [email protected] Fax: 713-622-5701
Christmas (1) Christmas (2) Christmas (3)
O U T R E A C H A N D M I S S I O N S
16 T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5
P A R I S H L I F E
Sunday, October 4 – St. Martin’s celebrated Hope and Healing Sunday in early October with special
guest preacher the Rev. Kate Picot, former Associate Rector for Pastoral Care and Prayer Ministries at
St. Martin’s who now serves as the Director and Chaplain of the Harnhill Centre of Christian Healing
in England. Parishioners also enjoyed her Sunday School presentation, “What I’ve Learned from the
Mission Field Called Home.”
REMEMBERING TO CARE October marked the 16th anniversary
since Interfaith CarePartners started
the Alzheimer’s Care Team®
Gathering Place at St. Martin’s. Team
leader Kathy Tellepsen has served since
the inception of the team alongside
many tireless volunteers who have
made the Gathering Place what it is –
a time of companionship, laughter and
joy for those suffering from memory loss
and their families. Since 1999, there have
been 225 care partners (families) served,
15,411 hours of dedicated service and
92 Care Team members.
“The love, commitment and compassion
of each volunteer are testaments to their
faith and answer the call to know, love
and serve one another and the world,”
said Karen J. Pettit, Care Team
Coordinator for Interfaith CarePartners.
“Their ministry has a positive effect on
the Care Partners and their loved ones
which cannot be measured. Truly, they
‘glorify God in all they do!’”
Many thanks to all our wonderful
volunteers!
T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 17
P A R I S H L I F E
Wednesday, October 7 – The Rev. Rob
Dixon, Associate Pastor for Pastoral Care and
Outreach, gave the blessing and welcomed
attendees to the HOUSTON: reVision Volunteer
Appreciation Luncheon at The Island (photo
above). Ken Chickering (photo above; right)
received the Volunteer of the Year award at
the event.
Wednesday, October 7 – Dr. Matt Stanford,
Chief Executive Officer of the Hope and
Healing Center & Institute, was the special
guest speaker at the monthly Order of St. Luke
Healing Service that focused specifically on
mental illness. This service is held the first
Wednesday of the month in the Old Church
from 5 – 6 p.m.
Sunday, October 4 – Parishioners celebrated the first anniversary of the Altar worship service with
a fun family picnic followed by Texans football game on the big screen. This contemporary service
for students, families and adults of all ages offers church members another opportunity to worship
together while maintaining St. Martin’s tradition of excellence in inspirational music and preaching
set within our Episcopal liturgical style. The service is held Sundays at 11:15 a.m. at The Island.
BAPTISMS
October 3 Benjamin Edward Neal October 4 Thomas Price Wilson
October 8 Carys Boyleston October 10 Matthew Bishop Gray Hunter Ross McKey William James Nelson October 11 Hallie Marie Guerrini October 17 John Austin Ahlrich Wynn Paul Barnhart Robert William Brown III Augustus Toombs Imel Dominic Matthew Valvano October 23 Jacob William Duin October 24 Hudson Finn Fisher Olivia Skye Fisher Michael Nwachinemere Nwaiwu III October 31 William Reese Jones
MARRIAGES
October 10Amber Marie Mueller and Michael Ross Wendt October 24 Emilie Ross Beeman and Ky Daniel Cooksey
SYMPATHY
October 16 Ortrud Lefevre Much October 17 Bonner Baker Moffitt
18 T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5
POINTS OF LIGHT INTERFAITH AND ECUMENICAL SERVICE The mid October service celebrating the
25th anniversary of the Points of Light
Foundation brought together 30 faith
leaders from the greater Houston area
and more than 800 members of the
Parish and community for prayer,
reflection and song. The Rev. Dr. Russell
J. Levenson, Jr., Rabbi David Lyon and
Imam Wazir Ali served as hosts for the
event that included remarks given by
Jon Meacham, Executive Editor and
Executive Vice President of Random
House. The service was the kick-off
P A R I S H L I F E
event for the Points of Light’s Conference
on Volunteering and Service, which is the
largest gathering of volunteer, national
service and civic leaders in the world.
<“The freedom to believe or not, as one’s consciousness dictates, is inextricably
bound up in the American heart and the American mind. The good news about
the country is that faith shapes our public life without strangling it, and the ecumenical nature of our time together on this occasion –where so much light shines –bears unmistakable witness to the role that belief in God can play in inspiring acts of service and sacrifice.”
– Jon Meacham
T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 19
P A R I S H L I F E
THANK YOU
“The Interfaith Prayer Service and
Sunday Supper was an extraordinarily
special and beautiful way to kick-off
our time in Houston. Thank you for
your leadership and partnership,
and your wonderful hospitality, too.
I simply can’t imagine a better way
to begin our weeklong convening of
change-makers; or a more meaningful
way to commemorate our 25th
anniversary and honor our founder.
Thank you especially for your words
of inspiration and call-to-action for
the important work ahead.
On a personal note, I want to thank
you for the invitation to gather in
your beautiful sanctuary…and to
be filled-up by the wonderful spirit
present there. It was a special gift,
particularly on the eve of what is
usually the most mentally and
physically exhausting week of my
year. Truly, it gave us strength for
the journey. So much so, that I left
Sunday night imagining what a
perfect church-home St. Martins
would be – well, if I weren’t
Atlanta-based. Thank you for the
joy this visitor found in
worshiping there.”
With appreciation and admiration,
Tracy Hoover
Chief Executive Officer
Points of Light
Sunday, October 18 – The Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr. (left) joins Rev. Father Lubomir Kupecz
of St. Vladimir’s Russian Orthodox Church, Deacon Stepan Nazarian of St. Kevork Armenian Church
and First Lady Barbara Pierce Bush following the Points of Light service.
20 T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5
The 25th Annual Joy of Giving Market marked the start of the holiday season with three days of shopping October 21 – 23 in Bagby
Parish Hall, the Activity Center and breezeways that featured more than 85 high-end merchants offering gifts for everyone. The event
also included daily silent auctions and frozen entrées from the Episcopal Church Women (ECW) of St. Martin’s Pantry. The event,
which netted more than $97,500, is the primary fundraiser for ECW’s outreach grants that benefit organizations in the community.
25th Annual Joy of Giving Market
P A R I S H L I F E
T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 21
P A R I S H L I F E
22 T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5
H O P E A N D H E A L I N G C E N T E R & I N S T I T U T E
Lunch and Learn: Starting the End-of-life Conversation
Wednesday, December 9
Noon – 1 p.m.
According to one national survey nine in
10 Americans want to discuss their own
and their loved ones’ end-of-life care. But
only about three in 10 Americans have
actually done so. It’s always too soon
until it’s too late. We know that no single
conversation can cover all the decisions
that you and your family may face. What
a conversation can do is provide a shared
understanding of what matters most
to all. This can make it easier to make
decisions when the time comes. Bring
your lunch; we will provide drinks.
All classes, seminars and special events are free of charge unless
otherwise noted. Reservations are requested. Activities are held in
the Hope and Healing Center & Institute that is located on the
eastern side of the St. Martin’s Episcopal Church campus.
For more information or to register, visit hopeandhealingcenter.org.
ABOUT THE HOPE AND HEALING CENTER The Hope and Healing Center (HHC)
is a comprehensive mental health
resource dedicated to transforming lives
and restoring hope through education,
training, and supportive services.
Every week, the Center offers educational
seminars and programs to inform the
community on issues related to mental
health and wellness. These include our
popular Lunch and Learn series, a monthly
Mental Illness Q&A, as well as more
formal presentations by leading experts
and professionals. Some areas we focus on
include substance abuse disorder, aging,
adoption/foster-care, serious mental
illness, anxiety, end of life and special
needs parenting.
Support groups for individuals and
families struggling with mental health
problems and addiction are offered during
the day and in the evening at the Center.
Mental health coaches are available daily
to offer personal guidance and support to
individuals and families seeking answers
and care. The Center also offers continuing
education training for mental health and
medical professionals in the community.
Services offered at the Center are free or
low cost, and available to everyone.
Mental Illness Q&A Thursday, December 17
Noon – 1 p.m
Dr. Matthew Stanford, Chief
Executive Officer,
Hope and Healing Center & Institute,
offers caregivers and family members of
individuals living with serious mental
illness the opportunity to ask honest
questions in a supportive environment,
equip them to better interact with and care
for their mentally ill loved ones, and learn
how to navigate the mental health care
system. Join us on the third Thursday of
every month. No reservations are required.
Bring your lunch; we will provide drinks.
Monday, October 19 – Ruth Ebenstein (right), an American-Israeli writer/activist, shared her
journey from breast cancer to lobbyist for women’s health in her talk at the Hope and Healing
Center & Institute.
T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5 23
To the Endowment Fund In Memory of:
Claire Elizabeth Ryan by Laura and Michael RyanBlanche Palmer Craig by Harriet and Ralph Cousins Virginia and Cal Cialdella Haynes and Boone LLP Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP
Earl M. Gilbert by Dee Gilbert
Daniel William Benthall by Ingrid Benthall
To the Endowment-Inreach Fund In Memory of:
Blanche Palmer Craig by Tish and David Peden
Mary Jane “Janie” Martin by Jennifer and Marty Gueho
To the Endowment-Choir Fund In Memory of:
Susan Ray Mayfield by Lydia Mayfield Abbott
To the Alzheimers Care Team Fund In Memory of:
Grace Compton Vinson by Helen Joyner Carter Christie The Tellepsen Family
June Dyke Jo Kitt and Robert Vinson and Family Victoria and Marshall Jeffus and Family Russell Copeland Betty and Dan Montgomery
To the Outreach Ministries Fund In Memory of:
Gary Barton Edward H. Bodde III Steven A. Forsythe Billye Stevens Halbouty Dr. Lake Littlejohn, Jr. The Honorable Virginia Kilpatrick Shehee Daniel G. Stephens Jerene Jones Winocour by Beth Sanders Moore and Jess Moore
To the Hope and Healing Center Fund In Memory of:
Thomas W. Ford by Betty and John Cabaniss Barbara and Bob Collie Betty Hendrix Mary Frances Monteith Cynthia and Fisher Trigg
To the Endowment Fund In Honor of:
Robert Patrick Ryan by Laura and Michael Ryan
GUIDELINES FOR YEAR-END CONTRIBUTIONSThe Internal Revenue Service requires
that, in order to be tax deductible in 2015,
cash, check or credit card contributions
to St. Martin’s Episcopal Church must be
received by the Church or postmarked by
the United States Postal Service no later
than Thursday, December 31; this would
include prepayment of your 2016 pledge.
The finance staff is required to check the
post office cancellation dates on all
receipts in early January to ensure our
legal compliance to this rule.
To better assist you with end-of-year contributions, the finance office will be open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Wednesday, December 30. The campus, including the finance office will be closed at noon on Thursday, December 31.
GIFTS OF STOCK OR OTHER SECURITIESGifts of stock or other securities must also
be physically received by the Church by
4 p.m. on Wednesday, December 30, or
posted to our brokerage account by close
of business on Thursday, December 31
in order to be tax deductible in 2015.
We strongly suggest that stock transfers
be initiated by mid-December and you
advise the finance office of the pending
transaction.
For specific information about how to make a gift of appreciated securities, please visit stmartinsepiscopal.org/giving.
St. Martin’s is required to comply with
these IRS guidelines in order to maintain
our charitable tax status as delineated
under the IRS Code section (501)(c)(3).
Online payments via credit card can be
made at stmartinsepiscopal.org/giving.
For more information, contact Debbie Hutchison at 713-985-3803 or [email protected], or Becky Werlla at 713-830-4145 or [email protected].
G I V I N G
A gift to the Saint Martin’s Endowment is a wonderful way to remember or honor
your loved ones. The funds of the Endowment may be designated as you wish, strictly
for special needs within St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, or for needs of those outside
St. Martin’s. Giving gifts to the Endowment in memory of loved ones who have
died, in honor of someone, or for any other reason, are excellent ways to ensure that
the heritage of St. Martin’s will continue. Those honored and the families of those
remembered will be notified of your gift. Checks may be sent to St. Martin’s Episcopal
Church, 717 Sage Road, Houston, TX 77056, with an enclosed note indicating the
names of those being honored or remembered. Please include your name, address,
telephone number and information on others to be notified. For more information,
contact Lynda Eyberse at 713-985-3833 or [email protected].
Remembering and Honoring Loved Ones and Friends
24 T H E S TA R I D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 5
G I V I N G
Altar Flowers Given to the Glory of GodTo give Altar flowers for The Church, Narthex, Old Church or Chapel in memory of a loved one or to celebrate a special occasion,
please contact Barbara Piana, Worship Services Coordinator, at 713-830-4116 or [email protected]. Floral gifts also
may be given to the Garden of the Holy Cross flower fund in memory or in honor of a loved one.
October 4 The Church
In thanksgiving for Fred M. Schall on his 100th birthday by his family
The Chapel In thanksgiving for the baptism of Thomas Price Wilson by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Carson Wilson IV
October 11The Church On the occasion of their marriage by Amber Marie Mueller and Michael Ross Wendt
In thanksgiving for the 5th wedding anniversary of Mary and Will Williams by Ruth Giampietro
In memory of Paula Chandler by the Craig Chandler family and the Robert O’Brien family
The Chapel In thanksgiving for the baptism of William James Nelson by Debbie and Paul Berner
October 18 The Church
In thanksgiving for Judith Ann Dunbar by Lynn and Doug Dunbar
In thanksgiving for the baptism of Augustus Toombs Imel by Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Allen Imel
In memory of Marie and Ebert Boylan by Michael Boylan
In memory of Sarah Dumond Vidrine by Lynn and Doug Dunbar
The Chapel In thanksgiving for our 24th wedding anniversary by Myra and Martin Schexnayder
October 25 The Church On the occasion of their marriage by Emilie Ross Beeman and Ky Daniel Cooksey
The Chapel
In thanksgiving for the baptisms of Olivia and Hudson Fisher by Mr and Mrs. James Fisher, Jr.
In thanksgiving for the baptism of Michael Nwachinemere Nwaiwu III by Christabel Nkiru Ebuzoeme and MacMichael Kelechi Nwaiwu
T H E S TA R I DECE M B E R 2 0 1 5 25
Volume 21, Issue 10, December 2015
© 2015 St. Martin’s Episcopal Church
The Star (USPS 013-054) is published monthly by St. Martin’s Episcopal Church. Periodicals postage paid at Houston, TX. Address changes may be emailed to [email protected]. All rights reserved. Printed in U.S.A.
PostmasterSend address changes to St. Martin’s Episcopal Church 717 Sage Road Houston, TX 77056-2199
PERIODICALSPOSTAGE
PAIDHOUSTON, TX
PERMIT NO. 013-054717 Sage RoadHouston, TX 77056
WORSHIP SERVICESSee page 4 for Christmas service times.
With an emphasis on beautiful liturgy and excellence in music, worship at St. Martin’s provides an opportunity to give thanks and praise to God. Rite I is the form regularly used. All Christians baptized in the name of the Trinity are welcome to receive Holy Eucharist in the Episcopal Church.
Facebook.com/StMartinsEpiscopalHouston
SUNDAY
8:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist, The ChurchSpoken service with sermon
9:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist (first, third and fifth Sundays) or Morning Prayer (second and fourth Sundays), The ChurchFamily service with hymns, anthems and full Choir; feast days and other special events may affect the 9:00 a.m. worship schedule.
9:15 a.m. Family Table, Holy Eucharist, Old Church Family-friendly contemporary worship
11:15 a.m. Holy Eucharist, The Church Traditional service with hymns, anthems and full Choir
11:15 a.m. The Altar, Holy Eucharist, The Island Contemporary worship for all ages
6:00 p.m. Holy Eucharist, The ChurchTraditional service with hymns, choir and organist; casual attire
Healing prayer, or prayer for any need, is offered after each service in The Church in the Patron’s Chapel located to the left of the Altar.
Child care is available for newborns – pre-K for all Sunday morning services.
For the sermon schedule and sermon audio, visit stmartinsepiscopal.org.
Audio copies of Sunday sermons also are available through the Bookstore & Gift Shoppe for just $3.
WEDNESDAY
7:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Chapel
Noon Holy Eucharist followed by the Sacrament of Healing (Holy Unction), Chapel
6:00 p.m. Holy Eucharist, Chapel.
The Order of St. Luke the Physician offers a Healing Prayer service from 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. in the Old Church on the first Wednesday of each month.