Shaped by Miracles: Dr. Mary Spradlin

How very good and pleasant it is
  when kindred live together in unity!
It is like the precious oil on the head,
  running down upon the beard,
on the beard of Aaron,
  running down over the collar of his robes.
It is like the dew of Hermon,
  which falls on the mountains of Zion.
For there the Lord ordained his blessing,
  life forevermore. (Psalm 133, NRSV)

Wow! How abundant is our life together when we seek to love our God and love our neighbor through ministries of service, fellowship, and Christian formation. I believe one important blessing that God gives to us is the knowledge that we can participate with God in changing lives for the better.

Some of these stories may be new to you: perhaps you didn’t realize that our church was involved in some of these ministries. But, even so, please know that you are an important part of each of these ministries. Your financial gifts to the operating budget allow us to provide staff, curriculum, facilities, and “starter budgets” for the many ministries of our congregation. “Second-mile gifts,” those we give above our pledge, help make many of these ministries possible. Your gift of presence at worship on Sunday morning helps create a vibrant community where guests feel drawn to linger and return. All of the many ways that you are faithful to AHUMC make these miracles – and many more – possible. Thank you for being a vital part of this faith community. Thank you for your part in changing lives and making of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

God Bless,

New Heights Sunday School: Brenda Roberts

I began attending Arlington Heights United Methodist Church at approximately the same time that Dr. Jim Pledger, Associate Pastor, began teaching a new Sunday School class - NEW HEIGHTS. God led me to this church, and He also led me to this class. We meet in the first room on the left after entering from the door across from the parking lot - the awning door.

Upon entering the room, one immediately feels the presence of a spirit  - the Holy Spirit - I would presume. There is a feeling of belonging and anticipation. Dr. Pledger helps to create the “feeling.” His sense of humor and humble demeanor are contagious. He wanted his class to know each other in a  social, friendly way, and he  encouraged us to meet monthly at a casual dinner party. Sue Newby organizes the parties with themes and casual food that we all provide. Generous members open their homes for our gatherings. The women in the class also meet casually once a month. Dr. Pledger knew what he was doing because we have “bonded,” so to speak. Lifetime friendships have been formed. 

Not all of the class members attend the parties; the parties are only a small part of this class; however, they do provide time and opportunity to support one another. The class sessions are the crux of the matter. Dr. Pledger is so well prepared and so well read that one feels as though he or she is attending a graduate school course taught by a good friend of Jesus. The lessons are truly gifts to us. They inspire, comfort, promote thought, and leave one wanting more. Spirited applause and conversation often follow the lesson. What a treat - trusted, enthusiastic Christians and friends gathering for worship. The room itself is filled with the presence of God. How lucky was I to have timed my joining of this church when I did. Love lives here. Join us!

New Heights Sunday School: Joni Wells

Since joining AHUMC I have been amazed with the friendliness and “can do” attitude of so many members. I knew but a few people when joining, but through the Service Matters program I met so many more. When Dr. Pledger mentioned his idea for a new class, I was hesitant; I had not belonged to a Sunday School class since high school. I volunteer in the office and attend many of the Heights Nights, but one more thing to do on a Sunday morning. Hmmmm.

Dr. Pledger gathered several souls from various other classes and prospective members and those who did not attend a class. And, then . . . a class was formed: New Heights. His interpretations of the Bible and the lessons taught have been eye-opening and his side comments make us smile and laugh. Our ages range from early 20s to mid to late 70s. All of us seem to have found a common bond through our study, questions and socialization.

After one year, we have selected leaders in the class as well as mission project leaders, social organizer and a PR person to spread the word. We even have a newsletter with “Jim’s Gems” that is sent each week to recap our last meeting and to remind of future lessons and events at the church. Recently, we studied “Alcohol, Tobacco, substance abuse and other medical issues and what the Bible says” led by Dr. Michael Jann. This month we are discussing “The Will of God” and reading Leslie Weatherhead’s book of the same title.

Visit the class to find out the reason we are growing and loving our worship more and more.

Sacred Circle Time: Addie Klemm

Sacred Circle Time is a weekly service during our church’s 10:50 and 11:03 services for preschool aged children. Each week we learn about stories from the Bible and spend time worshiping our God. We start by creating a sacred space, we hear a story from the Bible and do activities or crafts that relate to our story. I am often surprised by what the kids find most interesting and I love helping them learn Bible stories through questions and crafts and activities. But every week, it is the end of our lesson that is most impactful to me.

Every child is individually told that they are a blessing from God. They get a blessing on their hand with our special “blessing balm” and their excitement and joy is overwhelming. As adults, it seems obvious that these beautiful children are blessings, but even still, it can’t be repeated enough. I am so grateful that I get to help to remind them that they are all blessings from God. And every Sunday at Sacred Circle Time I too am reminded that each one of us are wonderful blessings.

Central Texas Conference Youth in Mission: Christine Coleman

Each summer, we send students to serve in various places as construction missionaries. This summer, 27 students and adults to serve in Caldwell, Texas with CTCYM.

CTCYM, or Central Texas Conference Youth in Missions, seeks to place students where justice, kindness and grace are needed. On the first night work team students and adults are divided up into teams with students and adults from the other churches, (we had 14 teams from 7 churches this past year!)

From a logistics stand point, it may seem to be a bit of an organizational nightmare - 80-120 people sleeping in a single church, needing showers daily, sending teams out to complete painting, wheel chair ramps, and more.

But from a relational standpoint, it is amazing. The students rarely complain. They experience the heat, the humidity, the too-loud ice machine drop every hour nightly, and wake up each morning with smiles, ready to serve. And they (or a parent, or close friend) paid to do this. We had 11 adults who were running around getting food, supplies and getting tools so to that the teams could do the work, and they were always kind, always helpful and always encouraging.

Part of CTCYM is building relationships with other churches and with the clients, which is what stands out about this trip over others: it’s not just building the immediate church body, but the larger church body with other churches who serve and other people people served. It creates a connectional ministry that is bigger than you can imagine.

Companions in Christ: Linda Allen

“Companions” is also AHUMC shorthand for the group of women who meet each Wednesday morning to share lives and further our Faith journeys in loving community.  I have been a part of this group for 10 years.  Others longer, others less.  Currently, we have about 20 regular attendees.  Together, we share a journey of holy discerning about our Discipleship to Jesus Christ.

We prepare ahead to discuss a lesson each week using the curriculum from is a multi-topic collection of curriculum for small group study and spiritual formation (click here to go to the curriculum). We’ve been through the Companions curriculum more than once and in  between, we read books or other short studies on various topics. As we journey together, we have become familiar faith fiends. I know that I can safely admit my struggles and lean on knowing and empathetic shoulders. Whether it is again reminding myself that I am not in control (as much as I’d like to be) or admitting that I do not stop often enough to quiet my distractions and simply listen for the whisper of the Divine, I am strengthened by the deep knowing that my sisters also share this journey.

I have especially been blessed to find new ways to practice and deepen my Discipleship.  Barbara Williams, a longtime Companion and life artist, brought to us the book Praying in Color which has transformed my prayer life.  The encouragements and faith challenges offered by ancient mothers and fathers of our faith included in the book, Devotional Classics, have inspired me to change my habits of intentional gratitude and to seek my Christ-serving purpose in everyday tasks (like washing dishes or saying hello to the grocery clerk).

Ultimately, growing my faith in this loving, intimate Christian community has encouraged and challenged me to keep moving on my path to knowing and following Christ. Sometimes the path is unpleasant but rewarding (such as when I first journeyed through the Forgiveness lessons and unflinchingly faced how I do, or do not, forgive myself and others). At other times, the path is enlightening and full of surprising new perspectives (such as when I first met author Barbara Brown Taylor through her book An Altar in the World).

I recently heard an analogy comparing Christian Discipleship to a cellphone. We are all keenly aware that our cell phone has a charge, and are contentious about maintaining that charge. We know which cords and devices we need to charge it. We know we have to plug it into an active power source. We probably have a set routine to safeguard  it’s charge: we plug it in consistently overnight, have charging gear with us when we travel, and we make sure the power outlet is the real deal, not one that’s switched off or inactive.

Likewise, as children of God, we have a charge. We were created with the Divine Spark within us. To maintain that spark, we must safeguard its charge. My Discipleship practices (worship, prayer, study, service, community, and others) are the routines I use to keep it charged. My fellowship with Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit are my charging gear - only through knowing and being close to them can I stay connected to the source of the Divine Spark, the one and only Holy and Living God of all creation. If I fail to recharge, my Divine Spark will be used up by the wear of daily living, just like my cell phone charge. I must be intentional about the care and nurture of my Divine Spark. When I need it most (for me or for someone else) it will shine bright, not dwindle.

I pray you also have a holy community that encourages and builds your faith in the ways Companions continues to build and nurture mine. Because to “make disciples for Jesus Christ” we must first be disciples, and for that, we must know whom we follow. Blessing in your Discipleship journey and May your Divine Spark be fully charged always!

Graceful Souls: Robin Burroughs

In March of 2015, a group of women from the Horizon Seekers class decided to start meeting

outside of our Sunday School time for a bible study. This unnamed group was an answer to

what the men had already been doing for about a year with their group, Journeymen. We

picked a book, a location and eventually a name, Graceful Souls.

The “grace” part of our name has two meanings; to emphasize our deep gratitude for the grace and love God bestows on us, and also “grace” in the action of giving thanks for food. You see, each time we meet we share a meal. From the outside looking in, it may look like the first half of our meeting is just eating and chit-chat, but it’s so much more. This is where we talk with each other about our jobs, our families, and our struggles. By the time our bible study part of the evening starts we are all close, and have even been able to start praying for the needs of our friends.

Stage HOPE: Suzanne Bramlett

Stage HOPE is a cancer support group that meets on the second Monday of each month in the Church Library at 6:00 PM.  This group provides a community for newly diagnosed, those in treatment, post treatment patients, and their caregivers.  We recognize the need to maintain confidentiality in all areas of discussion and fellowship.  We emphasize the power of God as the foundation of shared hope, love, and support.

We are survivors.  No matter what type of cancer has been diagnosed, we all share one thing in common--HOPE.  Even though we are on individual paths, our journey is the same. A bond is formed between us that allows us to be one. The meetings are a wonderful opportunity to express feelings, emotions, and seek answers to questions from someone who has been on the same journey. And we manage to find humor and laughter while sharing our experiences.

Stage HOPE is a welcoming group and open to all seeking this type of support.

United Methodist Men: Van Burroughs II

The men of Arlington Heights United Methodist Church loosely organize ourselves into a cohesive group in order to achieve a few certain, and some uncertain tasks. While being a man certainly allows you membership in the group by simply showing up (key point being to show up), being a woman does not necessarily exclude you, as we have had lots of help and participation from some women in the church for various events and fundraisers. But, generally speaking, it’s a group for guy’s that focuses on providing avenues to serve the community, grow ourselves spiritually, and build relationships that provide support, motivation, and challenge us to be better servants of the Lord. We are chartered members of the national United Methodist Men organization, and we sponsor our local Boy Scout Troop (Troop 43, which is fast approaching 100 years old. The 2^nd oldest troop in North Texas by last account, and 30 boys strong as of the meeting last week).

All that being said, the core of the group continually tries to find additional avenues for discipleship by periodically starting up new bible studies or devotional groups at different times to try to ensure we have a community available for everyone given the great variety of schedules, demands, and responsibilities we all juggle. Just recently, we started another bible study meeting at Vickery Café Friday mornings. There’s the long storied men’s prayer breakfast Mondays at Old South Pancake House. Journeymen Meets the 2^nd and 4^th Thursday’s, and there are a small few who participate in a focused bible study of no more than 4 members meeting once or twice a month before church on Sundays.

All of those programs generally take care of themselves, which leaves the majority of the “formal” group of AHUMC Methodist Men to focus on our community service and fundraising. Every year we have the Methodist Men Pancake breakfast headed up by Jack Smith whose proceeds go towards awarding students in our community financial assistance in the coming school year. We also come together twice every year to cook 20+ briskets for our church to help with fundraising for the respective programs (Lord’s Acre, and Lightfoot). Most importantly, however, we meet in these different ways and establish relationships which enable us to grow as Christians, and through each other find the strength and the resources to be the best we can be.

Jo's Love: Betty Nethery

Our lives are fundamentally affected by “connections” e.g., family connections; friends, church and work connections.  “Jo’s Love” is all about connections; however, one of the most compelling features of these connections is that most of the people receiving JO’S LOVE have no personal connection with each other.

The first connection was formed with Jane Williamson and Carol Jackson through the marriage of their children.  When Caroline was first diagnosed with breast cancer, Jane designed and made a post-mastectomy pillow for Caroline and called it “Caroline’s Pillow.”  The second connection came because of Jane’s volunteer involvement with the Greater Fort Worth Susan G. Komen Affiliate which brought her in contact with many breast cancer patients and survivors.  One of those survivors and Komen volunteers was the third connection, Jo Robinson from AHUMC.

            Jane decided to make the “Caroline Pillow” and distribute them as gifts of love and support to post-mastectomy patients at Harris Methodist Hospital.  As a breast cancer survivor, Jo Robinson wanted to be a part of this ministry and helped with the cutting and sewing of the pillow forms.  For a number of years Jane and Jo were a team of two  making and distributing the pillows.

In 2012, Jo Robinson died a few weeks after being diagnosed with brain cancer.  Jo was an active member at AHUMC and to honor her memory and help Jane continue her “Caroline Pillow” ministry, Jo’s AHUMC friends formed “Jo’s Love”.   The main work of this group is stuffing the pillows.  The fourth connection came from another group of ladies (Zeta Amicae Auxiliary of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and Greater Fort Worth Area Negro Business & Professional Women's Club) led by Delores Simmons) who knew both Jane and Jo through Komen volunteer activities and also wanted to became  part of Jo’s Love.  These connections have resulted in over 8000 women receiving this gift of love when they wake up from their life altering mastectomy surgery.  Each time Jo’s Love meets to stuff, they honor Jo Robinson’s life and always stop in the middle of their work to pray for the women who will receive the pillow. 

The final and everlasting connection is the one we can imagine in Heaven between Caroline Jackson and Jo Robinson. Jo and Caroline were both courageous women who led lives of service, love and joy.  Their connection will continue to be felt by all those who make up JO”S LOVE and who receive the pillows.

Comments from recipients:

There are really not enough words to say “thank you” to you.  I felt your gift was a true gift from God and for that I am so very grateful.  Blessings on you and your sweet ministry….

TOP TEN REASONS TO USE CAROLINE’S PILLOW

•        It provides comfort.
•     It is pretty.
•       It is soft to your skin.
•       It provides support for your arms.
•       It folds into a table on your lap.
•       It can travel with you.
•       It is like a friend that never leaves you.
•       It can bend around you.
•       It is the perfect size.
•       It is made with love!

What a blessing your pillow has been for me

Whatever moved you to this ministry, please know you are still deeply blessing women every day at an especially vulnerable time.

Your pillow is more than a “pillow,” it was an unexplainable feeling of even strangers caring about what’s going on in our world.  Keep up the magnificent work.  .  I think you are awesome to do this for people you don’t even know.  God bless you as you bless others

God bless you in your ministry of love, your kindness, your graciousness.  Your reward is storing up in heaven, waiting for you.  What a special, wonderful work you do.  I am 80 yrs. old and this gift has touched my heart. God bless and thank you.           

Youth Group: Emily Leschber

The AHUMC Youth group is a ministry that changes lives. This ministry is an extremely important part of my life, and others lives. It is a place where people can get together and talk about God and their religion with other people their age, which is an amazing opportunity. It is a really fun group of people to talk to, and it is a good opportunity to talk with people I wouldn’t have the chance to talk to otherwise. Our youth group host several life-changing events throughout the year, the biggest being youth mission trip, along with other amazing experiences.

 People served by this ministry include people from mission trips as well as some members of the congregation. I have been told several times by multiple adults how cool it is that a group full of young people are working to make such a difference, and talking about God so early on in life. Youth group is an amazing opportunity to learn about God with people your age, and spread his love to people of every age.

United Methodist Women: Nancy Smith

United Methodist Women (UMW) have participated in helping with several Jo Kelly school carnivals. The students that go to this school have challenges that make it impossible for them to be a part of a carnival without help. The kids are severely disabled and some of them have multiple disabilities. We have pushed wheelchairs, helped the kids roll a ball to hit stacked aluminum cans, put their hands on a noise maker, helped with a catapult that shoots stuffed animals into a playpen or helped them take part in the wheelchair cake walk where the kids win a bright colored leis that they wear. There is a small noticeable reaction from some of the kids either in a sound or a little smile and the teachers feel our support in helping with this event. There is something that all of us can do to help, even with vision problems like Jeanne Boyd has, who helps with the rhyym band or physical issues like Nancy Boddie has, who has helped with name tags. 

We also have helped serve a Thanksgiving feast for the teachers,  helped push wheelchairs for their themed prom and helped with the modified Special Olympics in the spring.

UMW has also had work sessions to make cloth bibs that the students wear.  Again, there is something that everyone can do, from cutting out the material to sewing them to stacking the completed bibs. It is a rewarding gathering as we talk while we work and watch our pile of finished bibs grow.

Most of the ladies who have helped at Jo Kelly school have been there more than once-we have been able to shine a light in an otherwise dreary day and given of ourselves to those whose reactions are limited and subtle. But we know what we did in Christian love and service.

Houses for Christ: Allen Lutes

For three years now, members of AHUMC have partnered with UUMC and the TCU Wesley Foundation on a mission trip to Acuna, Mexico.  We work in Mexico with a missionary, Nick, of Casas por Christo.  During the week, a complete house is built from the slab to the final nail for a family in need. 

To see the power of Christ in followers of all ages getting out of their comfort zone to literally change a family's life is an amazing experience.  The relationships formed with the family, with neighbors and with each other are powerful reminders of God's transforming presence among us.  One of my favorite parts about this trip is after the house is framed out, everyone gets a sharpie marker and writes scriptures, prayers and words of encouragement on the 2x4's before the walls are put up.  The family is part of this and they know that for as long as they live in this house, the word of God resides there as well. 

This trip is a reminder for all about what is means to be the hands and feet of Christ in our community and our world.  AHUMC is planning another international mission trip in 2019 to Puerto Rico to assist with hurricane damage relief.  If you would like more information about this trip or Casas Por Christo, please contact Rev. Allen Lutes.

Children's Choir: Megan Seeds

Hello church family, my name is Megan Seeds.  I wanted to let you know about a fabulous part of the church that I was a part of from preschool through 6^th grade.  Children’s/Junior choir at AHUMC is more than just a choir that sings.  This choir teaches the stories of Jesus!  The stories that the Children’s choir have taught include; Zacchaeus, the story of Esther, the parables that Jesus taught, the Christmas story, the adventures of Moses and so much more.  These songs/musicals are something that people of all ages will never forget!

This ministry means the world to me!  I have made so many friends, learned so many songs, and created so many bonds with the adults that taught me so much about singing and leadership inside of our church. Looking back at my experience with choir, I realize that my confidence level has grown from participating in this ministry at AHUMC.

The difference children’s choir made in my life was huge, it helped me develop a relationship with Christ.  This ministry has touched the hearts of many people, which always made me even more excited about participating in choir!

Disciple Bible Study: Tommy Elliott

AHUMC provides many different ministry opportunities.  These opportunities include: serving in the church, serving in the community, serving many, serving a few. Although, these ministries have various shapes, sizes and goals in mind, the one thread that ties them all together is Kingdom building through serving God.

A ministry I have been blessed to be a part of for the past 4 years is Disciple Bible Study. 

What does Disciple Bible Study look like?  It is a curriculum written by the United Methodist Church that consists of five, nine month sessions. Meeting once a week for 2 hours, Disciple includes the viewing of a video lesson, reflection of notes from our workbook, a review and discussion of the assigned daily Scripture readings and prayer time. Not every ministry provided by AHUMC is for everyone.  I certainly know that I have no business getting involved with anything that requires singing in the Choir or playing a musical instrument!

 Because Disciple Bible Study is a nine month commitment, it doesn’t work with everyone's schedules.  However, for those who have participated, for one year or for multiple years, I am sure they would say that they have gained new friendships, heard different perspectives and interpretation of Scripture, felt prayers answered and, most importantly, drawn closer to God. I know I have!

OUR church has many programs that allow you to get involved. Please prayerfully consider the many ways that you can become a part of AHUMC’S vibrant ministry. Who knows? Maybe we will see each other in Disciple Bible Study. I hope so![   

Stephen Ministry: Jane Melms

About 35 years ago, a small group of pastors were gathered for morning coffee.  Their conversation turned to a frequent topic: lamenting the challenge of providing pastoral care like they wanted to.  Out of this discussion, a lay ministry designed to extend pastoral care was born. At AHUMC, more than a dozen people have received the requisite 50 hours of training provided to those who have heard the call to be Stephen Ministers.  They then provide the listening ear and caring heart some people need during stressful times in their lives. We have provided Christ-centered support to members of our congregation as well as our community, and in doing so extend the reach of pastoral care by approximately 1500 hours a year.  

While this is important information, those of us involved in this ministry would say the one:one relationships and the relationships we have built with each other are the greatest blessings.  Confidentiality, listening, and trust are cornerstones of Stephen Ministry. As we practice these covenant skills, we help our care receivers feel the love of Christ while they heal in their own time and way. We are not professional and we don’t fix anything - God cures while we are caring for His people. We stand ready to support those who need us and find ourselves using the skills we have learned in all of our encounters with people, be it our care receivers, our families, each other, or random strangers.  We all believe we are better people, better friends, and better Christians because of being Stephen Ministers. We are grateful that our congregation has allowed us to become the tiny pebble that helps create the ripples of Christ’s love for our neighbors.

Kairos Prison Ministry: Paul Cox

Kairos Prison Ministry has truly been the most meaningful experience in my walk with Christ because of the opportunity to meet, be around, and learn to love an element of society that many of us walking in the faith never venture into for mainly fear of the unknown.

I dodged the opportunity for probably two years before I attended a Sunday afternoon two hour closing ceremony at the prison in Venus, Texas on a hot summer day in an un-air-conditioned gymnasium. A closing ceremony follows a Thursday afternoon through Sunday noon Christian education workshop, so to speak, where many of the participants speak of their experience during the workshop.  No, we don't stay at the prison over-night, but we do have three ten hour days there. What I have witnessed each time over the past seven years is men who have been broken by their bad decisions, the pain they've caused to those who at one time may have loved them or by not knowing how to love others of different color or religions or no religion. 

Many times during our time there, the volunteer laymen and lay clergy talk on various topics and tears begin to flow for the first time in a long time for some of them as they learn to trust others in an un-trusting place where weakness maybe exploited. Only forty-two men get to participate in one of the twice a year workshops out of more than 140 who apply. Over an endless supply of homemade cookies, they learn to let their guard down and open up about their lives and the emptiness they experienced until they see the unconditional love of the more than thirty volunteers guys have for them. 

I often wonder how some of these guys landed in prison because many are very fine men who made bad decisions and are paying a debt to society because of it. As volunteers, we experience a joy as we see life changing commitments in this short period of time by many of the participants some who choose to study and themselves become servants of Christ as ministers themselves. When these men receive letters, posters, place mats and home-cooked style meals they become so grateful and appreciative that people out there in the free world would do those things for them. The support of this ministry by AHUMC is truly changing lives in Christ. 

Hospital Visitation Ministry: Darrel Carver

AHUMC’s hospital visitation ministry is one of several highly valued Congregational Care initiatives dedicated to serving suffering persons of our church family with prayerful, personal presence. Our Senior Pastor, Dr. Mary Spradlin initiated the formation of this joint lay-clergy ministry under the guidance of our then Associate Minister, Grant Palma, in 2013. Today, the Hospital Visitation Ministry continues under the careful liaison and direction of Rev. Allen Lutes and Rev. Dr. Jim Pledger.

This ministry’s great value and comfort was first driven home to me in 2001 when my father, Royce Carver, repeatedly spent time in Fort Worth hospitals with congestive heart failure episodes. At that time, Lee and I lived in the Brazilian Amazon Basin as missionaries and returned whenever we felt the urgent need to tend to my parents’ needs. Of course our prayers rose constantly for the Lord to cover and comfort Dad and Mom in his times of need. From those experiences, we drew great consolation from answers to those prayers in hearing of regular visits by members of the AHUMC clergy and the Co-Workers Sunday School Class. Their presence of kinship lovingly lifted and sustained my parents’ spirits through those tense moments, often for days and weeks on end.

We certainly know how important hospital visits can be in expressing our church’s genuine caring concern for the one suffering and their family members. In this context, Lee and I have felt a natural calling to serve as representative visitors on behalf of the AHUMC congregation. When we visit together, Lee frequently also represents the AHUMC Prayer Shawl Ministry. As she tenderly drapes a prayer shawl or lap robe over the one we are visiting, we see the wave of physical and spiritual warmth from loving, caring prayers from members of their own church spreading over their face and within him or her.

This is an area of service for you to consider. Prayerfully take stock of your gifts of presence, calm and attentiveness that you could offer to comfort and pray with a brother of sister in Christ at a time of uncertainty and distress in an unsettled period of their lives.

Presbyterian Night Shelter: Ann-Marie Hemminger

The second Monday of each month I, along with others get to go to the Presbyterian Night Shelter for women and children.  Alan Lutes prepares delicious, nutritious food and brings it in the Five and Two truck.  

Some serve the food, while others the drinks, while I mostly help moms with little children bring food to the table.  This is an easy task, and my part is particularly rewarding.  They are so happy and eager to eat.  Never have I heard even a little child say “eeew” or “yuck”. They are sweet and grateful. Although I would still do this if they were less than gracious.  

I can’t think of a better way to show the love of God to others than to help give what most of us take for granted.

Bookcases: Donnie Ward

The first time I was asked to help with this project I knew very little about why or for whom these were being built but when friends and fellow church members ask for help I try to find a way to assist. And building things, especially out of wood, is one thing I enjoy doing and have some level of skill to perform. So when Kevin Allen asked if I could help him build 35 bookcases on a Saturday I said sure! 

I don’t think either of us had a good idea of how long this would take and fairly soon we realized the two of us would not be able to finish this task in the amount of time we had to ensure they were ready for delivery. That’s when Linda started making phone calls to see who could come lend a hand with sanding, assembly and the final step of staining. The response was overwhelming. A steady stream of people started showing up, grabbing sanders and sandpaper, assembly was complete and everyone took a few home to stain and dry and brought them all back the next weekend for Linda to deliver to the school. During all this I learned these were to be given to the North Hi-Mount 5^th grade graduates along with a supply of books that they could call their very own, all to encourage them to continue reading after they left North Hi-Mount. What a Great Idea!

That was 5 years ago and I have been involved with this event ever since and plan to continue as long as possible. The number of bookcases we make has increased over the years to the point where we are building over 60 each year now, which is a daunting task but also a testament to the success of this program. Over the years we have used various places to build the bookcases and I have been blessed to have built a shop at my home that serves well for this project.  For the past few years we have enlisted many from the church to come out and help cut, sand, assemble and stain and the response is always outstanding and a great way to meet and learn about different members of the church.

I have never actually attended one of the graduation events but the stories I hear from Linda about the excitement these 5^th graders have when they get to pick up their very own bookcase lets me know that is truly a successful and positive activity, and one that I am very proud to be a part of. I did deliver the bookcases to the school one year early the morning of graduation as all of the students were arriving and I was asked several times by a very excited young person as I was unloading them if they would get a bookcase next year. This was a 4^th grader who was already looking forward to the time when they would get their bookcase.

I think it’s safe to say this project is having a very positive impact on the lives of those we touch with this gift – the students, families, teachers and those that provide their time and resources to make this happen every year.

Hospitality: Betty Nethery

The idea to host a simple reception following funerals originated with Reverend Mary after a particularly sad and challenging funeral service for all attending and participating.  She recognized the need to provide a venue for people to come together and comfort one another after the memorial service.  Linda Nevitt and I, to some extent, morphed into being the “Cookies and Punch Ladies” and had the daunting task of following Cherry Richardson in this leadership role.  

I am writing this blog on the day following the service for our beloved Frank Burkett.  During the “Cookies and Punch” time a church member hugged me and thanked me for helping with this Hospitality event and we both agreed, “There’s a lot of love in this place today.”  That statement is precisely and unequivocally the strongest and most compelling description of the purpose of the Hospitality Receptions.

The Hospitality Receptions have quickly expanded to other occasions such as the three Christmas Concerts and the Service of Healing and Hope.  Being a part of these events in times of great joy during Advent and of great sadness during grief is simultaneously humbling and inspiring.

From the minute the first request for cookies goes out, until the volunteers come to greet, serve and clean up and the AHUMC members participate in the event, sharing the Love with one another and others is what we do best as a congregation.  It is a simple  process by which we embody the Love of Christ and share it both among ourselves and to the visitors who attend these events.  It is so much more than “punch and cookies.”  It is knowing and experiencing “There’s a lot of love in this place today.”

Ringing Joyfully at Jo Kelly School: Kakkie Cunningham

Psalm 150: 1-6 (excerpted)

Praise God! Praise him with trumpet sound: praise him with lute and harp! Praise him with tambourine and dance: praise him with strings and pipe! Praise him with sounding cymbals: praise him with loud clashing symbols!

The tradition of the Handbell ministry presenting Christmas music at this special school began many years ago under the leadership of Alice Walker. I remember Alice sweetly telling us about the invitation and explaining how difficult this opportunity might be. A few of us already knew that Jo Kelly School only serves clients from infants to young adults that suffer from multiple and severe handicaps.  But after very little discussion we agreed that we should do this. We could give the gift of music to any soul that might be able to receive it. Thus began the tradition of the handbells ringing joyfully at the school.

Bringing the students into the gym for any program was disruptive to their carefully customized school day. Most did not communicate in any form, but objections to any change could vary from making unpleasant noises or disruptive physical actions, both of which could be very disturbing.  But once the bells began to ring, all were mesmerized and for the most part were quiet until the piece ended, and again they would continue to voice their objections.

One of the older male students who was always particularly alert , would wave his arms while we played. When we stopped, he would show his displeasure by making his own kind of noise… that is until we started the next piece when his attention was once again focused on the music.

After several years, one girl in particular wanted to participate in her own way. Although she was very young when we started this tradition, she was now older and much more cognizant of things around her. One of the aides gave her a jingle bell bracelet and she took great delight in ringing her bells when we rang ours! She continued to add to our tradition for many years.

Blessings are always given and received during this event. Bell participants give willingly of their time to share the gift of music. Those who are able receive the blessing.  Music can truly touch souls.

Oklahoma!: Jeri Chipman

They say, in theater, that when the lights go down and the curtain goes up "magic" happens. I can tell you it's true, and it certainly was the case in our church's summer production of Oklahoma! but the truly magical thing about our production wasn't just what happened during performance. 

All summer long, friends new and old came together for hundreds of hours of rehearsal and created a piece of art of which we were very proud. We were a microcosm of what the church should be - a multi-generational, diverse group committed to and joined by a common purpose. Each role was different and every person was vital. I hope our performance served as a gift to our church family and our community. Those of us who participated received and even greater gift - a manifestation of God's love in community and fellowship. 

Thank you to everyone who supported our musical (and all the arts programs in our church) by attending, offering financial support and lifting us in prayer. You help create the "magic" here at AHUMC all year long.

Saying Yes to Relationships: AHUMC Refugee Ministry by Ann Wilson

Two years ago Allen Lutes and I attended a conference on missions where we both chose to attend a breakout session on refugees. We heard testimonials from both refugees and the organizations that supported resettlement.  Their stories were moving and inspiring. Allen and I discussed whether AHUMC was “big enough” for such a large and impactful ministry. This would involve a lot of resources—time, energy, money, and skills.

Time passed, God tugged, then he pushed and I was reminded, it is GOD that is big enough for AHUMC to say yes to this new relationship ministry and I was ready to say yes to this leadership opportunity.  When I said yes, I had no idea exactly how much there would be to do.  Fortunately a team of 12 volunteers, that was passionate about welcoming the family of seven from Afghanistan, also said yes to this ministry.

The AHUMC Welcome Team met with Refugee Services of Texas (RST) to learn why the family was fleeing their home country to go halfway around the world to a country they did not know. We learned what our tasks would be to prepare for the family and important protocols to remember while preparing for their arrival.

During this time of service and preparing I think many of us began to love this family before we ever met them. We found joy in working hours on end to clean the apartment, secure the proper furnishings beyond the minimum required by RST, put together furniture, purchase the correct food for their arrival and many other tasks. When it was more than we could get done other members of our community of faith, AHUMC, pitched in to help. I marveled at the generosity and was inspired by those that would call, email or catch me at church to ask what else was needed. It felt a bit like “loaves and fish” in the last hours.

Alas our job was complete and it was a joyful time to meet the family at the airport and take them to their new home. They had left behind family, friends, possessions, a home, a community and more to arrive late at night to a country where nothing was familiar—language, food, customs, culture, housing, transportation and even bedding was strange.  We left them in the capable hands of RST who would begin getting them settled in school etc.

But this is not the end of my miracle in relationship with this family. Each refugee family is assigned a mentor if one is available and I knew that there were not enough mentors available. It’s a very time consuming job. I did not sign up because I felt I would be too busy for such a large commitment. God had other plans. He would not let me forget about this. In fact, he apparently solicited the services of my husband because weeks later Billy asked about the family. I explained that AHUMC and therefore my commitments were fulfilled. He kept prodding me to use my talents and sign up to mentor the family. I was reluctant but he kept asking.

As God would have it, I could not rest in my decision to not be a mentor. RST was grateful for my offer and I have been their mentor along with Linda Lee for the past five months. I have been rewarded with the joy on their faces when I arrive, many words of thanks for even the smallest things (like teaching them how to say something in English), offerings of the mother’s delicious bread made daily, handshakes and hugs. We acknowledge that we both know Abraham and worship the same God—because there is only ONE true God. We thank God together for all things. Once when I was out of town for two weeks and returned, everyone was happy to see me and gave me hugs—including the father who broke cultural barriers to do so.  

So for me, perhaps the greatest miracle of this relationship has been the expression of love between this family and me.

Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.’
– Hebrews 13:2 (NRSV)

The Miracles We Make: Children’s Ministry Submitted by Laura Paschall Brown

I am passionate about the children’s ministry in our church. I see each child as a miracle made by God and the future of our church.

God has allowed me to be here at this time and given me the ability to teach children about Him. Recently, I volunteered for the writing of the summer curriculum. God chose the subject: Jesus is the Light of the World. With help, a study of New Testament scripture was decided upon with the Gospel of John being the main focus. The dedication of some remarkable women; Gwen Patteson, Ann-Marie Hemminger, Melody Bradley, Jane DeCarlis, Kelly Bevis, and Cindy Fergus, made each Sunday special and memorable. The help of John Fergus and Phillip Brown with his guitar rounded out the contingent of adults. We sand that old standard of ‘This Little Light of Mine’ with the help of bushel baskets and a kerosene lantern. One Sunday, we heard a child singing that song while walking down the hall with his parents.

Our children are intelligent, thoughtful and loving. They want to serve others. For example, we decided to collect money to purchase a bookcase for Kids Hope. A bookcase costs $25.00. With quarters in hand, giving hearts and a competitive spirit, $36.00 was raised and given to Linda Allen. It is amazing what an idea given to creative souls can accomplish.

Teaching third grade Sunday school is rewarding and a blessing to me. I watch our children learn how to use their very own grown-up Bibles and begin to know this library of books will become their new BFF. I encourage them to be ‘Bible Totin’ Methodists’ and read more of the story than what we can cover in 50 minutes.

One of the things we learn is the order of the books of the Bible by memory. Rev. Mary challenged the children to do just during a children’s sermon. Little did she know, Lindsey Bevis and Sarah Hammer would do just that! Rev. Mary listened and the children gave suggestions to her as to what the reward should be. One puppy for the Old and a second puppy for the New were greeted with giggles!

I want to thank the congregation for supporting the endeavors I come up with. Through the years, sixteen to be exact, I have asked for some unusual things such as 80-something yard sticks, electric frying pans, a multitude of used milk cartons, jars, old fence pickets, money for class trips to Glen Lake, an outdoor prayer labyrinth and stacks of magazines. All have been abundantly supplied.

Not long ago, maybe a couple of years, I was fortunate enough to spend some time with the Paschall children, Amy and Sam. We were discussing church staff and memorizing scripture in 3^rd grade. As if cued, they recited Deuteronomy 6:4-5, then immediately Psalm 23. They make me proud!

Generosity: Rev. Jim Pledger

In Jo Anne Lyon’s book, Ultimate Blessing, she points to several of Jesus’ illustrations about how the Kingdom of God works. These are agricultural illustrations involving the planting of seeds. Seeds are very small compared to what the seed produces. Also, we sow a lot of seeds because we have learned from another parables that some seeds just don’t come up and produce. We know that seeds take a long time to mature and we can’t see any signs of the seeds success, yet we work to plant knowing all these things because we have a hope that those that do grow will provide an abundant harvest.

Stewardship is like planting a crop of seeds. Some people have an abundance to plant trying to ensure a fruitful crop. Others have fewer seeds but they plant them with love and nurture them. Either way, we have to trust God to provide the seat needed – water and sunshine. All of us have gifts. Some have what society deems valuable gifts like financial resources. When those who have a lot give all they can, it increase the possibility of launching new ministries. But those that have few financial resources can give as they are able and often the results of their gifts do as much or more than the larger donations. For example, the Sunday school teacher who faithfully teaches his or her students. Perhaps the teacher does not have a gift for teaching but has a lot of sincerity and dedication. Some students might become inspired to grow up to do great things for others all because of that teacher.

At the conclusion of every finance drive I have ever done I was faced with the same problem: our needs exceeded our pledge amounts. The problem is always the same. Persons who were unable to make a gift that they felt would be significant would simply not pledge. However, if every person who did not pledge what they can actually did pledge, than the goal would probably be reached. Being generous in our giving whether it is money, time or talent isn’t about the size of the gift but if the gift represents a sacrifice. You and I make a small miracle possible by our gifts. God then takes our small miracle and can make a great one out of it. Give and make a miracle happen.

More Miracles: Rev. Allen Lutes

I say that I have the best job at AHUMC, and I mean it.  To be responsible for the mission and outreach of this congregation is amazing and humbling.  The generosity of this congregation is apparent in the ways that they genuinely care for those we serve.  I have two examples, out of many, that show this willingness to help better the lives of those in our community.

The first involves a young man named Mark.  Mark and his mother lived at the Morris Women and Children’s Unit at the Presbyterian Night Shelter, and everyone who volunteered for the Five and Two Food Truck ministry fell in love with this young man.  He helped out when we came and developed a relationship with many of us.  When he and his mother got housing and were able to move out of the shelter, I continued to take him to an art class that he went to weekly on Lancaster.  One of the first things he asked was when he could come with us on the food truck to volunteer.

Mark called me one day from school saying that someone had slashed the tires of his bicycle and he needed a ride home.  When I arrived to get him, I helped to load his bicycle into the back of my car.  This bicycle was made for an 8 year old child, not the 15 year old young man that was riding it.  It only took one request in worship, and this congregation stepped up to buy Mark a brand new bicycle, helmet and lock.  He was practically in tears as he rode his new bike home from the store. 

The second example also involves a family living at the Presbyterian Night Shelter.  One of the workers at the shelter approached me to tell me of a three little girls who were able to get into a magnet program in FWISD.  The uniforms at this new school were different from the rest of the district and as such, the shelter had none.  I called a member of the New Heights Sunday School Class who volunteered often on the food truck and told her.  It only took one e-mail to this class and we had the money to buy all three girls the uniforms they needed for school. 

When we met the mother and the girls at the uniform store, the mother let me know what a blessing it was that the girls got into this school.  They had been in a magnet program before their circumstances changed, and had spent the last year in a regular public school.  Their grades suffered, as did their self-esteem.  Their faces lit up when they tried on their new uniforms.  They wanted to wear them home that day! 

These two examples show that we can truly be the light of Christ in our community.  Jesus met people where they were, listened to them and found out what they needed.  In these cases, our church did the same.  And in both cases, AHUMC is THEIR church.  They may not be able to attend on Sunday mornings, but every time Mark gets on his bike and the girls put on their uniforms, they are reminded of a God who loves them and a church that supported them.  And that is a true blessing.