Cornerstone June 2017 by Covenant Presbyterian Church

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: A Community of Learners Pg. 17

June - August | Ordinary Time

Table of

Contents

CONTRIBUTORS SENIOR PASTOR Thomas Daniel CLERK OF SESSION Clark Weatherby

{ FROM THE LEAD }

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR Duane Dube

Pastor's Letter

Session and Financial Update

{ LIFE }

EDITOR Stephanie Schultz DESIGN AND LAYOUT Noel Kalmus CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Noel Kalmus, Charles Meyer, Paul Mowry, Megan Poore, Kathryn Sedberry, Samantha Sipowicz, Jon Wasson

Pentecost/Ordinary Time

Reading Scripture: A Roadmap

Back from Belize

How Safe Are Our Kids?

Retirement Mindset

{ FEATURES }

PHOTOGRAPHY Noel Kalmus, Ray Russell, Stephanie Schultz SPECIAL THANKS TO Paul Mowry, Brian Sparks

Gotta Have Faith

A Community of Learners

{ COMMUNITY } 21

Home for a Week

Austin Presbyterian Pilgrimage #43

Activities Day Coordinator Signs Off

Chillin' at SYM

Hello, New Members!

{ EVENTS } 29 Calendar

pg. 17

pg. 15

pg. 25

{ FROM THE LEAD}

Journey

from Genesis to Revelation With Us

ne of the many things I have come to appreciate about life in Austin is the slower pace of the summer months. It seems to me that this is due to both the sweltering heat and three-month school break. When we lived in Atlanta, the school system was almost year-round and summer vacation lasted only for about a month. It would go by far too quickly! I know my family is excited for summer days that will definitely include fewer alarm clocks, time to go swimming, and opportunities to relax and recharge. Given the realities of summer life in Austin, we have tried to build a summer program that will encourage you to continue to encounter and follow Jesus wherever your summer plans have you living, working and playing. Our sermon series is titled “Stories of God” and will involve two components: 1. Each Sunday we will preach on one of the stories of God. For 12 weeks, we will journey from Genesis to Revelation. Our hope is that this series will not be an avalanche of facts, history and perspectives on God. Rather, we will highlight the constant theme of God’s love and faithfulness to His people. Grace and redemption are the backbone of both the Old and New Testaments and we hope, through this series, you will develop eyes to see and embrace their presence in your life.

2. In the week following the sermon, you will be invited to engage in daily readings. The longer reading will actually enable you to read the entire Bible over the summer. Through the shorter reading (where the sermon texts and daily readings will come from), you will have smaller portions to digest. Our dream is that the daily practice of reading Scripture will allow you to continue to participate in the series whether you are in Austin or out of town.

riends, we read in Acts 2 that the first Christians “devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching.” The content of this teaching is the foundation for the four Gospels. From the first days of Christianity, studying the texts was an essential part of a vibrant faith. Know that we will hold you in prayer as we journey through the days ahead. We hope that summer will be a time for you to grow through this study of Scripture…and that you will be encouraged to follow Jesus wherever you live, work and play. I am grateful to be on this journey with you all!

Joyfully,

Thomas Daniel Senior Pastor

Cornerstone | June - August | Ordinary Time

{ FROM THE LEAD}

s the pace at Covenant slightly slows after the rush of Easter, the Session is noting how much we have to be thankful for! One exciting thing Session gets to do is look to the future of Covenant. With numerous opportunities in the near term, we conducted a SWOT analysis at our February meeting. This list of Covenant’s Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats will guide our discussions and prayers for much of the year. During our March meeting, we focused on creative ways to solve weaknesses identified in our SWOT Analysis – the use of technology in both worship and communication. We discussed multiple ideas and started several conversations that we expect will bear fruit in the near future. In early April, Covenant held its Annual Meeting. COO Duane Dube presented on our 2016 finances, noting the incredible reduction in our debt thanks to the Opening Doors Capital Campaign. We elected at-large members for the 2017-2018 nominating committee: Amy Johnson, Steve Martens, Brandon McBride and Lacy Ruwwe. Jill Williams conducted the memoriam for members who passed in 2016, and Thomas Daniel presented the annual report. Our class of 2020 elders joined us (as guests) for the April meeting. Marilyn Adams, Cherylynn Burris, DeDe Church, Kelley Green and Doug Hartman began serving their three-year terms in May. The Finance Committee invited our auditors to present their results, an “unmodified clean opinion,” which is our goal. We heard an update on the cohort initiative that we began with Fuller Seminary and two other congregations. The experience has been transformative for the six people involved. It will soon expand to include another 18 who will then be the leaders when the process rolls out

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Cornerstone | June - August | Ordinary Time

to members as the first program of the Institute for Missional Formation, which was presented during and is made possible by the Opening Doors capital campaign.

April was also the last meeting for the class of 2017 elders: Joe Denton, Susan Holman, James Marroquin and me, Clark Weatherby. Please thank them for a job well done. This class’s first meeting was also Thomas Daniel’s first at Covenant, and this group was essential in helping him start strong. I am also ending my second term as an elder and as Clerk. Session elected Melanie Williamson as Clerk, and she graciously agreed to serve. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve on Session, and to have worked with so many amazing elders, staff, pastors and laity. Thank you!

By Clark Weatherby Clerk of Session

FINANCIAL UPDATE General Fund (YTD) Offering Receipts: $1,126,542 Budgeted Offering: $1,192,504 Difference: -$65,962 Actual Expenses: $996,485 Budgeted Expenses: $ 1,138,975 Difference: -$142,490

A `

SESSION UPDATE

Building Fund Total Loan Balance: $2,016,134 Principal reduction YTD: $1,049,593

{ LIFE { LIFE GUIDE} GUIDE}

PENTECOST/ ORDINARY TIME

very spring, Christians around the world celebrate Pentecost. At Pentecost, we celebrate the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the first community of Christians. We believe that God continues to pour out His Holy Spirit on us today. This event in our liturgical calendar ends Eastertide, an entire period of time rejoicing over the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and we once again find ourselves wandering into “ordinary time.” A quick refresher on liturgical time: The liturgical calendar hinges on two major seasons – Advent leading to Christmas and Lent leading to Easter. Ordinary Time, the two periods of time between Christmas and Lent and then between Easter and Advent, translates the life of Jesus into the very ordinary and mundane practice of everyday life. Shortly after Pentecost in Acts 2, this is precisely what we find the first community of Christians doing: attempting to translate the extraordinary things they witnessed in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus into their ordinary lives. They met regularly to proclaim the good news of Christ’s resurrection, study the teachings of the apostles, and pray and break bread together. As they lived their lives together in the goodness of God’s grace, we’re told that they shared everything in common, and more and more people joined their burgeoning community.

As we head into “ordinary time” this summer, we’re inviting you to continue to translate the extraordinary into the ordinary. Like that first community of Christians, one of the ways we do this is through reading Scripture. Our summer preaching series, “Stories of God,” explores God’s faithfulness from Genesis to Revelation and we invite you to read along with us. We’ll provide both a shorter reading and a longer reading for each week, so you’re welcome to go at your own pace. Rowan Williams, the former Archbishop of Canterbury, observes that “The Bible is the territory in which Christians expect to hear God speak.” This summer, we are looking forward to everyone at Covenant joining us as we journey through this territory with hopeful expectation that God will address each one of us. Whether you’ll spend the summer traveling, lounging by the pool or working your day job, we invite you to join us on this amazing journey. Check out covenant.org/stories-of-God for more information and resources.

By Jon Wasson Associate Pastor for Discipleship

Cornerstone | June - August | Ordinary Time

{ LIFE GUIDE}

PRAY

COMMUNING WITH GOD “THE PRAYER OF THE RIGHTEOUS IS POWERFUL AND EFFECTIVE” (JAMES 5:16). Through prayer we open ourselves to God's presence in our lives and make ourselves ready to be led by the Holy Spirit. We invite you to nurture the practice of prayer in your life. COVENANT PRAYS: Submit prayer requests or let us know how Covenant’s prayer warriors can pray for you this summer. Look for the praying hands icon on our homepage. Go to covenant.org/prayer to find out how you can be in prayer for summer mission trips and more. DRIVE-THRU PRAYER: Join us the first week of school, Aug. 21-25, 7 to 9 a.m., to offer a listening ear and pray with morning commuters. Volunteer for any amount of time: hold signs, or listen and pray with people. Contact Joe and Holly Skraba at jsskraba@gmail.com to volunteer. DAILY PRAYER APP: The Presbyterian Church (PC-USA) Daily Prayer App contains simple, rich devotional resources for morning, midday, evening and close of day. Each service includes psalms and readings from the confessions, and can be used by individuals or groups.

Cornerstone | June - August ||Ordinary OrdinaryTime Time

STUDY RENEWING OUR MINDS

“BE TRANSFORMED BY THE RENEWING OF YOUR MINDS, SO THAT YOU MAY DISCERN WHAT IS THE WILL OF GOD” (ROMANS 12:2). The word disciple comes from the Greek word meaning “learner.” We learn in many ways; one of the most important is the regular study of scripture in pursuit of the truth. We invite you to join others on your journey as a disciple. BIBLE-READING JOURNEY: This summer, our preaching series will walk through the entire biblical story and we encourage you to read along. To help you process what you’re reading, we created a podcast. We’ll interview guests who are Bible scholars and can serve as guides on our journey. If you have questions about the Bible you would like to hear discussed on the podcast or addressed in some other way, send an email to storiesofGod@covenant.org. For more information, the podcast and the reading plan, visit covenant.org/stories-of-God. DOWNTOWN MEN’S BIBLE STUDY: This popular men’s Bible study kicks off on Wednesday, Aug. 23, at 11:30 a.m. at Max’s Wine Dive, 207 San Jacinto Blvd., Suite 200. Reservations required. Contact mcrawley@covenant.org. REEL MINISTRY: Join us at Alamo Drafthouse Village on July 12 and 26 at 6 p.m. for an engaging film, discussion and refreshments. Each summer, Reel Ministry presents a series of films on topics such as moral courage, forgiveness, love, faith, grace and redemption. For more information or to RSVP, contact ksedberry@covenant.org. SUNDAY MORNING LEARNING COMMUNITIES: Some adult Sunday classes continue during the summer. Explore what each is studying at covenant.org/ sundaymorning.

{ LIFE GUIDE}

SHARE SHARING IN CHRIST

“FOR WHERE TWO OR THREE GATHER IN MY NAME, THERE AM I WITH THEM” (MATTHEW 18:20). As followers of Christ, we can count on His promise to be present with us when we are gathered together. We invite you to pursue an authentic relationship with God and others in the context of Christian community here at Covenant. CELEBRATION SUNDAY! Join us as we kick off fall programming and celebrate all the great things about Covenant on Sunday, Aug. 20, with breakfast tacos, coffee and fellowship all morning on the patio. COVENANT GROUPS: While some Covenant Groups take a break over the summer, new groups can be formed any time or you may join an existing group. Visit covenant.org/covenantgroups. Resources and support are available. Contact ksedberry@covenant.org. MOMS GROUP: Covenant moms continue to meet during the summer for informative presentations, to share parenting ideas and provide general support for each other. Join us the first and third Mondays of the month in SA 114. Take advantage of our summer air-conditioned playdates in the gym on Wednesdays or Thursdays, starting June 1. For a full list of dates, visit covenant.org/cool-summer-play-dates. Contact Katie McFarlane, kates46@msn.com. ESL SUMMER SACK LUNCH AND CONVERSATIONS: Come visit with our ESL students on Thursdays in the gym (FE 402) beginning in June, from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Help them to increase their language skills and get to know some of our families. This is a great first step in being involved in our refugee ministry. Contact Cheryl Banks at csebesta@ austin.rr.com.

GIVE

RESPONDING TO GOD "EVERY MAN SHALL GIVE AS HE IS ABLE, ACCORDING TO THE BLESSING OF THE LORD YOUR GOD WHICH HE HAS GIVEN YOU” (DEUTERONOMY 16:17). As a response to God's grace and extravagant blessings, we can use our gifts and talents in many ways to serve God, each other and the community we live in. Volunteer to serve as a family or as a small group. Find a complete list of mission partners at covenant.org/volunteer. AUSTIN VOICES FOR EDUCATION AND YOUTH: Help serve clients through the Webb Family Resource Center Food Pantry on Wednesdays, June 13 and 27, Aug. 16 and 30 at 10 a.m. Find more ways to get involved in the St. John Neighborhood. Contact Julie Weeks at jweeks@austinvoices.org. MANOS DE CRISTO: Donate your gently used summer clothes in all sizes for our neighbors in need. Or donate food: brown rice, dried beans and canned foods. Bring to Manos Closet, Eaton Hall. Contact Cheryl Banks, cherylbanks5@gmail.com. REFUGEE MINISTRY: Several families have babies arriving this summer. Please donate gift cards to Target, Walmart and HEB or make monetary donations to Covenant with “Covenant Refugee Welcome” in your check's memo line. loridonley@live.com. SERVE AUSTIN WITH PW: Saturday, July 22, from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Meet at the Central Texas Food Bank to inspect, clean and sort food items. This is an ideal family or small group activity. Contact Diane West at jdwdoc@gmail.com or (512) 534-0110 to sign up. STREET YOUTH MINISTRY: Adult shorts, canned food, bug spray and flip flops are needed. Check out all summer needs at streetyouthministry.org/volunteer. Sign up on our calendar. Contact Terry Cole at terry.cole@gmail.com.

Cornerstone | June - August | Ordinary Time

{ LIFE GUIDE}

Reading Scripture A Roadmap Many different authors and editors wrote the Bible over a long period of time. Christians confess that the Bible is inspired by God. That is, the Bible is the territory where we expect to hear God speaking to us. To navigate this territory well, we need a map. As you journey through Scripture this summer, we encourage you to remember these five guidelines.

1. Scripture tells the story of God’s action of creating, judging and reconciling the world. The Bible is about the triune God who called all things into existence, rescued Israel from Egypt and raised Jesus from the dead. This same God is still at work in the world today.

4. Texts of Scripture rarely mean one thing limited to the intent of the original author. Just as God has spoken His word in diverse cultural situations, we are confident that He will continue to speak through the Scriptures in a changing world.

2. Scripture is where we expect to hear God's word to us. God has something to say to us in each of our particular lives.

5. Scripture calls the Church to ongoing discernment. Because we live in the tension between the “already” and the “not yet” of the Kingdom of God, we are called to constantly reinterpret the text in light of the Holy Spirit’s ongoing work in the world.

3. Scripture is not merely informative but performative. Faithful interpretation of Scripture invites and even assumes participation in the Church and should be guided by the rules of faith and love.

To hear more about this roadmap for the Bible and learn from biblical scholars and pastors, listen to our new podcast, Begin Where You Are, focused on discipleship at Covenant. Additional resources are also available online. Find all of this at covenant.org/stories-of-god

Cornerstone | June - August | Ordinary Time

Stories of God: Scripture Reading Schedule May 28 – June 3

June 25 – July 1

July 23 – July 29

Shorter Reading:

Longer Reading:

June 4 – June 10

July 2 – July 8

July 30 – August 5

Shorter Reading:

Longer Reading:

June 1 1 – 17

July 9 – July 15

August 6 – August 12

Shorter Reading:

Longer Reading:

June 18 – June 24

July 16 – July 22

August 13 – August 19

Shorter Reading:

Longer Reading:

Genesis 1-2, 12-15, Exodus 1-20

Ezra and Nehemiah

Genesis 1.1 – Exodus 40.38

I Chronicles 1.1 – Esther 10.3

Numbers 14, Deuteronomy 1-6

Job

Leviticus 1.1 – Deuteronomy 23.11

Job 1 – Psalms 89.13

Judges

Psalm 90 - Psalm 150

Deuteronomy 23.12 – I Samuel 28.19

Psalms 89.14 – Isaiah 13.22

II Samuel 7-12, I Kings 11

Jeremiah

I Samuel 28.20 – II Kings 25.30

Isaiah 14.1 – Jeremiah 52.34

Amos

Lamentations 1.1 – Malachi 4.6

John

Matthew 1.1 – John 21.25

Galatians

Acts 1.1 – Galatians 6.18

Hebrews

Ephesians 1.1 – Revelation 22.21

Cornerstone | June - August | Ordinary Time

{ LIFE}

Back from BELIZ E

wenty-nine Covenant members–students, parents and leaders–ventured to Belize in March. The group helped construct a church, fed the hungry, went door-to-door evangelizing with local church members, tutored children and helped with a hospice ministry. The experiences transformed many on the trip who came back with a deeper faith. Director of High School Ministry Billy Streu loves seeing the students discover what they are capable of. “There’s always something that happens when they are out of their safety zones–geographic distance, socio-economic and cultural. They are stretched to discover things in themselves they didn’t know were there before. The experience draws them closer to God. Their faith grows; they find a deeper trust in God.”

Cornerstone | June - August | Ordinary Time

The parents get to see their children transform. “It’s beautiful for the parents to see their children serve and to experience those situations and find boldness," Billy said. "I see them stepping back and watching those discoveries.” Billy, who’d been at Covenant for only six months at the time of the trip, most appreciated “fast-forwarding” relationships with students and parents. “Being a new employee, I was very thankful for the chance to strengthen relationships. I felt like I’d known them all for a couple years after the trip.” Planning for the Family Mission Trip to Belize starts in the fall. Be on the look-out for information about the March 2018 trip.

{ LIFE}

HOW SAFE ARE

OUR KIDS? S

py on your children and their internet habits!

That was the advice of Tara Garvey from the Center for Child Protection (CCP). She presented “Internet Safety for Kids” at Covenant in April. She reinforced her statement by warning parents that internet habits have lasting effects: “Anything online is public and permanent." Garvey asked the audience where and how their kids access the internet. The answer: Just about everywhere! Kids use their phones, computers, gaming devices, Kindles, iPads, televisions, which are all internet ready. “Be aware of how kids are getting on the internet and what they are looking at,” Tara said. “It’s up to you to teach kids internet rules so they use it responsibly.” She suggested implementing a few standard rules:

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Keep the computer in a high-traffic area.

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Establish limits for which sites children may visit and for how long. “Ask your kids the same questions about their internet interactions that you’d ask if they were going to a friend’s house,” Tara said.

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Understand how social media works. Find out which apps and sites your children use.

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Surf the internet with your kids and let them show you what they like to do online.

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Know who is connecting with your children online and set rules for social networking. “Explain to kids that if they don’t know the person in real life, they shouldn’t chat with them online.”

Cornerstone | June - August | Ordinary Time

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Tara said it’s important to let your kids know why you set the rules, and to have conversations about the internet, starting when they are young. As they get older, you can change some of the terminology. For instance, you might talk about “netiquette” to younger kids and “cyber bullying” to tweens and teens. “Inappropriate content” for the little ones morphs into “sexting” for tweens and teens. Also, she said to warn kids about pop-ups, exclaiming, “You just won $100!” They are there to convince kids to give away personal information. “Tell kids the truth about predators,” Tara said. “Let children know they are out there.” She explained that “grooming” is a way that a predator gets access to a child. “They plant little seeds that can ultimately lead to an event. They know a lot about the child by using the information on the child’s profile to get to him or her. The predator finds common ground and might pose as someone else—a teacher, another young child. But sometimes, a predator will simply say, ‘I’m a 30-year-old man, do you still wanna talk?’ Often kids will.” 11

Cornerstone | June - August | Ordinary Time

Tara suggested some conversation starters to get kids to discuss what they are doing online. Simply asking them what their favorite things to do online is a good first question. Other more probing and educational questions are:

• What is personal information? Why should you keep it private? • What could you do to be safer online? • What would you do if anyone online asked to meet you face-to-face? • Besides me, who do you feel you can talk to if you are in a scary or uncomfortable situation?

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“Everyone knows the Facebook friend who shares too much information,” Tara said, and many in the audience chuckled. “Kids are trying to figure out who they are; they are constructing their identities and are going through a rapid process of self-discovery. Oversharing happens.” Often that oversharing happens very publicly on the social networks where people connect online to share lives. Some of the ways kids connect are through Snapchat, Twitter, Instagram, PS4, Google+, Facebook, Pinterest, Skype, Kik, YouTube—and the list goes on. Middle school director Whitney Bell told parents, “Get on the apps your kids are on. Follow your kids’ Instagram and Finstagram (fake Instagram) accounts, get on their Twitter. Be nosy; be present. When a new app comes up, get on it,” Whitney said. “That empowers you. You’re not afraid of what they’re doing, you are right there with them.”

Billy Streu, high school director, said, “The truth of the matter is our social media ceiling is our children’s floor. We’re just slower when it comes to discovering these apps, and seeing how quickly these connections happen. We need to raise our ceiling and meet our kids to discover why these things are important to them.” “The great news is that we are not alone in this journey,” Whitney said. “We have this great community. Who are the people in your kids’ lives who they can go to? It’s really beautiful that we get the chance to do this all together.”

By Stephanie Schultz Director of Communications

Covenant staff members Billy Streu, Christy Milam, Ashley Ellison and Whitney Bell smile with MollyAnne Vasquez and Tara Garvey from the Center for Child Protection.

Cornerstone | June - August | Ordinary Time

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Retirement Mindset

In its ongoing commitment to educating Covenant members and friends about saving, the Covenant Presbyterian Foundation (CPF) offers many excellent strategies and tips. In the following article, CPF Chair Megan Poore, a financial advisor at Lucien, Stirling and Gray Advisory Group, writes about an unexpected aspect of retirement.

ou have put pen to paper, you have spent years saving, you have a plan (and a plan B and even a plan C), and you have your date picked and circled on your calendar – RETIREMENT DAY. Even after all this hard work, there’s still one aspect of retirement you should prepare for: the emotional component. Here are a few tips for ensuring that you don’t spend your first week of retirement bored and wondering “what’s next?!” Have an exit strategy: Many people say it was harder for them to walk away from their jobs than they expected it to be. Your colleagues have become your friends, and what you do in your career has become a key identifier for who you are and how you describe yourself. Gradually scaling back your hours, for example, switching to parttime from full-time, may give you the opportunity to preview what leisure time in retirement will feel like. After years of receiving a paycheck, you may find that suddenly not receiving one leads to anxiety even if you know you’ve done your financial planning. While working part-time, you’ll also still earn money, which may alleviate some of that anxiety.

Cornerstone | March - June | Lent/Eastertide

Think about what you want to retire to: While much of your identity and time may currently be wrapped up in your career, you will be well-served to have a few things lined up to look forward to once you’re retired. Your casual hobby may become a more full-time endeavor. Your schedule is suddenly free for volunteering and attending events for your grandkids, nieces and nephews. Travel is an important retirement goal for many people – and it is certainly something to look forward to! It’s helpful to think about retirement this way: “I retired from ______ and retired to ______.” Now, instead of just introducing yourself as a retired teacher, you can say “I retired from teaching, and retired to being a full-time tutor.” Review your spending: To answer the question, “How much money do I need for retirement?" you must know how much you spend. How much you

{ LIFE}

REALLY spend. Not the number you think you are pretty sure you probably spend. This will inform both how much money you should set aside in cash (in my practice, we recommend two to three years’ worth of living expenses) and will better position you or your advisor to figure out whether or not you can continue to live at your current level. After you track your spending, you can factor in travel costs or the vacation home you’ve had your eye on, etc. You may discover that you have more financial freedom in retirement than you expected. Build some structure into your day: Having a plan for how you’ll spend your days gets you out of the house. Without one, you could end up spending all day staring at the TV. Meeting new people and finding new opportunities is much easier when you’re spending some of your newfound free time away from home. Within your community, there are probably many daytime activities that you have previously passed up on because they didn’t fit your work schedule. Here at Covenant, there are numerous wonderful ways to spend a morning or afternoon. Explore your options and be proactive in your activity scheduling so you can look forward to your new version of normal. Preparing yourself mentally and emotionally for retirement is nearly as big a task as preparing yourself financially for retirement, and it is certainly as important. Put in the effort now to benefit from a more seamless retirement transition.

For more information about Covenant Presbyterian Foundation, visit covenant.org/foundation or contact Duane Dube or any Trustee: Elizabeth Christian, Everard Davenport, Larry Faulkner, Helene Maham, Megan Poore, Scott Ream and Kristin Schell. Covenant Presbyterian Foundation supports Covenant Presbyterian Church by assisting donors to be Faithful to Generations, during and beyond their own lives, by receiving and growing their gifts, and using them to help fulfill the donors’ glorification of God.

“One generation will commend your works to another.” – Psalm 145:4

by Megan Poore Financial Advisor and Covenant member

Cornerstone | March - June | Lent/Eastertide

{ FEATURES}

Gotta Have

Faith

New Confirmation Class Takes Students on a Faith Journey

his January, 24 Covenant students embarked on a journey to be confirmed. The new confirmation class is divided into three segments: the faith, my faith and our faith.

THE FAITH

ccording to High School Director Billy Streu, the students learned about “the faith” during four two-hour sessions. “This was a time to study and dig into the basics of faith. We talked about what we believe, and also the history of faith, how it’s been passed on from the church fathers and our common language since the time of Jesus.” The students also went through the narrative of the Bible. “It was Genesis through Revelation in a nutshell,” Billy said, adding that the kids also talked about theology, mission and worship, and Presbyterianism.

MY FAITH

rom March until August, the students are meeting with mentors. “We think this step is most vital to our students’ faith,” said Billy Streu. “We will invite the students into

Greg Wilson and Will Crosnoe

relationship with exemplary older Christians and together they will demonstrate what it looks like to be Christ’s follower.”

“These meetings are good,” Will said. “I don’t usually talk about Jesus with other people, so it’s interesting to meet with Greg.”

Eighteen Covenant members — elders or deacons — stepped up to mentor our kids and share their faith journeys with the new class of confirmands.

Greg believes his main role as a mentor is encouragement. “I let Will know that just because I am an adult, I don’t have all the answers. This is a chance to warn Will of some of the things that can go wrong when you get out of high school and into college. When I got out of high school, I basically walked away from the church and didn’t come back for 13 years. The Rule of Life is a good way to establish some habits.”

Greg Wilson is a returning mentor. Greg mentored kids when his son, now grown, was going through confirmation classes and thoroughly enjoyed it. He is now mentoring Will Crosnoe, a freshman at Austin High School. On a sunny Sunday afternoon, the two met at a hip central Austin coffee shop. After talking sports — a passion for both of them — the two got down to business. “We are having meetings with students and working to form a 'Rule of Life' with them — the same exercise that we went through with our small groups last year during Lent.” Greg said. “The Rule of Life brings out a lot of discussion and provides good places to jump off into conversation.”

Cornerstone | June - August | Ordinary Time

A neat piece of Greg’s role as mentor is that he was acquainted with Will’s father, Wade, seeing him at Downtown Men’s Bible Study. The two men, now joined by their relationship with Will, decided to have lunch together. “It was fun to meet Wade. It’s nice to put all the pieces together — to meet the family — when you’re working closely with Will and know that encouragement is coming from many directions.”

{ FEATURES} Jennifer and Ryan Palm are both confirmation mentors, despite the fact that they don’t have kids currently in the program. Jennifer explained, “When my oldest daughter was 14 and went through confirmation, she had a great mentor in Sharyn Westmoreland. To this day, they hug each time they see each other on the patio and briefly catch up. Haley is now 28 years old and the relationship remains.” Jennifer is mentoring Emily Jones, and she describes her as a “very determined, talented and smart young lady. She communicates well with adults. She's committed to her church activities and singing.” Early on, the two had spent most of their time together getting to know each other. “She knows I pray for her and that I will make myself available for her if she needs me. We are continuing to cultivate our relationship.” Jennifer said both she and Ryan “are honored to help these young adults navigate their spiritual journey at church, likely for the first time without their parents' direct involvement.

out his parents,” Jennifer said. “Ryan also knows that I feel a bond and loyalty to my mentee that will carry on. My aim is to be as much like Sharyn has been for Haley as possible.” Jennifer is looking forward to the time when to her younger three girls have the opportunity to form a special connection with an adult at Covenant. “My children all benefit from many other Covenant members ‘loving them up’ and this will be another part of that love. We are blessed.”

OUR FAITH

he final step in the confirmation process is a retreat in September, when the group will share their Rules of Life and focus on relationships with one another. “We’ll talk about what it means to be in community with each other, and make sure the students know this bond is available to them. We hope it is a weekend where they really feel loved and supported by each other and the leaders,” Billy said.

“Ryan relates to his mentee through his own experiences at that age when he joined Covenant with-

Destiny Tritle, Lael Weatherby and Emily Jones listen as mentor Kelly Dwyer talks about the Rule of Life

Cornerstone | June - August | Ordinary Time

{ FEATURES}

A Community of

Learners ESL Students and Teachers Unite Over Common Goals

n a recent Tuesday morning on the first floor of Covenantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fellowship and Education Building, a large group of people were singing happy birthday and eating tres leches cake. Hugs and smiles of delight were shared. The occasion was Mariaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday. Maria was one of the 50 students signed up to take an ESL (English as a Second Language) class at Covenant that morning. Each week, 27 Covenant members teach ESL classes to about 64 students from all over the world. The program has grown from five students and two teachers in the fall of 2014. Maria and her friends celebrate

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{ FEATURES} “This is a community for the students,” said ESL teacher Ann Brown. “It’s a safe place for them to gather and make friends. I think our students feel very welcomed and are surprised at how much of a community develops. It’s more than just English, it’s a huge mission in ways that people can’t imagine.”

MISSION COLLABORATION

nn, a leader in Covenant’s Refugee Ministry, got involved with ESL when she recognized many refugees being helped by Covenant teams needed better access to English classes, a requirement of refugee resettlement. “Some refugee women were taught by AmeriCorps volunteers in their homes, but there are not enough volunteers to accommodate the many refugees who find it difficult to travel downtown by bus, often with multiple kids,” Ann said. “That’s when I started to wonder if we could offer daytime classes at Covenant. I talked to the people at Manos and they said they were looking to add more Level I classes. “Offering the classes at Covenant was a solution,” Ann said. “I knew it could happen if I’d volunteer to teach.” Manos de Cristo (already partnering with Covenant on ESL classes) assessed the prospective new students’ English skills and last summer, Ann began teaching Level I ESL classes on weekday mornings to seven refugee women. “We started with a small number and quickly expanded to include these women’s husbands, who often work nights. Eventually, we had 15 students, which is where we like to cap it,” Ann said. It has been challenging to limit class numbers, though, because the students are eager to include others. “Once they came

and saw that Covenant was such a welcoming and safe place, they kept inviting their friends,” Ann said. “Whenever a new family moves in, they bring them on the bus and say, ‘Come with us to Covenant.’”

“Our goal is to help the students become selfsuf ficient members of society who feel like they are wanted and welcome here.” COVENANT’S ESL HISTORY

rank Sheppard brought ESL to Covenant in 2014 when he and fellow Covenant member Sue Roberts were the first two teachers in the program. Frank was taking a lay leadership course and needed a project. Other class participants were doing projects that met the needs of smaller churches, such as building maintenance or leading small groups. Frank felt called to do something different. That’s when he saw signs about ESL classes at a Plano church, sparking an idea for Covenant to do the same. He thought teaching ESL would be an ideal way to use the Fellowship and Education Building as a bridge to the community. He contacted Manos de Cristo as a first step, aware of the organization’s ESL classes and knowledge of community needs. He learned that they needed more class space.

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“I didn’t want to re-invent the wheel or spend a lot of time developing the curriculum, so I suggested Manos and Covenant jointly sponsor ESL at Covenant,” he said. After working out logistics with Manos and getting Mission Committee and Session approval, Frank recruited Sue to teach. Both Frank and Sue had teaching experience and became the first ESL teachers at Covenant in the fall of 2014. “I discovered that teaching ESL is not difficult; neither is it easy,” Frank said. “Using the Manos-approved curriculum, we had access to excellent teacher guides and were able to get advice when we had any problems.” Frank, still teaching ESL at Covenant, has enjoyed the challenge. “The advent of the refugee program led to a major change in the demographics of the program,” Frank said. “We needed to have a Level I class, which we had shied away from due to not having Spanish bilingual teachers. We have now found that you just jump in and hope that our acting ability will convey the meanings when we can’t find another way to communicate the words.” He said the need for higher level ESL classes has 19

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also contributed to program growth. “From a single ESL class on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, and one citizenship class on Monday and Wednesday evenings, we grew to offer Levels 2, 3 and 4 in the evenings and Levels 1 and 2 on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. We have had students from nearly all the countries of South and Central America, Russia, Myanmar and the Middle East.” One person Frank recruited this past year is Cheryl Banks. “Frank asked me to consider assisting, so I prayed about it last spring and summer,” Cheryl recalled. “I decided to help on Tuesday mornings and soon realized I loved working with Ann and loved working with and getting to know the students.” When Ann went to Cuba this fall, Cheryl and Frank team-taught her class, and Cheryl felt even more invested in the program. “There was so much joy in teaching that it didn’t feel like working!” she said. And Cheryl echoed Ann’s earlier revelation. “A side benefit, but very important, is that we are becoming a small group community for each other. Several of the women teachers were recently invited to one of our student’s baby showers. That was such a won-

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derful time together with many of our Iraqi students out at their apartment complex.” Frank, who had been the Covenant ESL coordinator for three years, asked Cheryl to consider taking over, which she did in January. “One of our goals as teacher and coordinator is to mentor/disciple others to continue the work and bring their own gifts to this table of ministry and fellowship,” Cheryl said. “We have actively done that this year by inviting people to come and visit the classes. Many are asking if they can come back and teach!”

STUDENT REVIEWS

ccording to Cheryl, the students are not only learning English but a lot about our culture here in the U.S. and in Austin. “I learn so much,” said Rosa, a student from Mexico who has been in the U.S. seven years. “I know a little English now. The teachers are good in every class. It’s very multicultural.”

Saphia is from Afghanistan. She takes two buses to get to Covenant, and it can be very hard with her kids, but it’s worth it. “I love Ann,” Safia said. “She is a very good teacher. She helps so much.” Ann, however, said it is often she who is being taught. “I’m constantly learning so much more from the students than they learn from me. I usually have such different expectations from the reality.” Regardless, Ann said the main objective remains the same: “Our goal is to help the students become self-sufficient members of society who feel like they are wanted and welcome here.” “Several of our students this semester have been able to speak enough English and have gotten jobs,” Cheryl added. “It’s wonderful, and a little sad, because we no longer see them. But, that is what we are here to do!”

By Stephanie Schultz Director of Communications

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Home

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for a week

“Give food to the hungry and care for the homeless.” – Isaiah 58:10

very year since 1993, a corps of faithful Covenant volunteers has followed the prophet’s wise counsel, giving food and shelter to families with children cycling through the Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN). For four weeks each year, the families—facing difficulties that have left them temporarily homeless—call Covenant home. Volunteers stay with them, provide dinners and enjoy the fellowship as the families strive to restore stability in their lives. Their days are spent away from campus, working under the guidance of the Foundation for the Homeless (FFH) to seek the training, employment and other resources they need to resume normal lives. The Foundation is the IHN’s parent organization. During the two to three months

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it takes them to get back on their feet, they move from church to church through the 16-member network, staying at a different church each week. Organizing Covenant’s volunteers for the last nine years has been a task performed with great care by three church members – Jon Smith, the primary coordinator; Kay Davenport, the food coordinator; and Geoff Mattie, the volunteer coordinator. The three are stepping down from IHN to pursue other opportunities. The Mission Committee is searching for successors as we prepare for Covenant’s final scheduled weeks in 2017: Sept. 3-9 and Dec. 17-24. The IHN was created in 1986 by a marketing consultant in New Jersey. Eight churches, Covenant among them, started an IHN chapter in Austin in 1993. Leadership of IHN is an ideal opportunity for a Sunday School class, a small group, or any team of three to five members. The

responsibilities can be divided as Jon, Kay and Geoff have done or they can be shared in other ways. IHN Director Andrew Bucknall works closely with the leadership at each church to plan the hosting weeks. The families arrive on Sunday afternoons and are fed and housed in Eaton Hall. They leave each Monday through Friday morning, then return around 5:30 p.m. for dinner and sleep. Covenant volunteers use the website SignUp.com to register for various shifts, which range from a one-hour hosting assignment to overnight duty. Families are free to come and go on Saturdays, returning Saturday night and then leaving for their next church home early Sunday afternoon. “It’s a most worthwhile undertaking,” said Jon, who has been primary coordinator since 2008. “With the right key people in place, the work required of the other individuals actually providing the hosting, meals and overnights is quite easy.

It’s also very rewarding and one of the most tangible ministries I can imagine.” Geoff agrees. “It’s an extremely worthwhile charity,” he said. “It is very rewarding to be able to meet and speak with the families you are helping, and learn not only about their struggles, but the strength they have in keeping themselves - and in most cases their children - positive versus getting mired down by circumstances.” “Working with the IHN program has been a real blessing to me,” said Kay. “IHN is the only Austin program that provides shelter and food to temporarily homeless families. The IHN parents and children have dreams and goals similar to those of Covenant families, but due to circumstances beyond their control they have experienced extraordinary setbacks.” Volunteering and getting to know the families doesn’t always end at Covenant. Jon recalled that his daughter and a child of a client family started kindergarten together at Highland Park Elementary. “That little girl remained at HP all the way through fifth grade,” he said. “Near elementary graduation, her mom approached me and asked if I remembered who she was and I said ‘yes.’ She said that IHN had been very helpful to them, that she still had the same job she got during the program and their family was doing great.”

Though they will no longer be coordinators, Jon, Kay and Geoff will be available to help their successors and fill some volunteer shifts themselves. There are approximately 35 shifts per week. That may sound like a lot, but there is good news on that front: Members of several other churches have offered help. Sharon Lowe, who retired as the Foundation’s executive director in April, has volunteered to work overnight shifts and to provide other overnight helpers from her church, St. Matthew’s Episcopal. She said members from First Presbyterian and Highland Park Baptist also would like to volunteer. And Bucknall said he recently spoke with some members of a church in Manor who want to get involved in IHN. Plenty of training material is available, as well as assistance from those who have filled these roles before. Interested? Three members of the Mission Committee are leading the campaign to keep Covenant participating in IHN. Please contact Deb Rieber (debrieber@gmail.com), Karen Maxwell (missions@covenant.org), Paul Mowry (paulmowry@att.net) or any other mission committee member.

By Paul Mowry Mission Committee Member

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Austin Presbyterian Pilgrimage #43 You're Invited!

Thursday evening, Sept. 14 – Sunday, Sept. 17 Camp Buckner in Marble Falls, Texas $175 per person ($50 deposit prior to the weekend) Partial and full scholarships are available. Contact Ruth Pelphrey at treasurer@austinpresbyterianpilgrimage.org.

uring times when you’re stressed, do you ever feel like a caterpillar with a hundred legs going at once, but hardly moving forward? Finding time to slow the pace, restore and refresh can feel impossible. The upcoming Austin Presbyterian Pilgrimage (APP), Sept. 14-17, at Camp Buckner in Marble Falls can provide this nourishing time and space to unplug, and help you grow in your faith walk alongside others. APP (a non-profit) offers a threeday opportunity to discover a deeper relationship with Christ and merge it back home at your workplace, church, and with family and friends. Led by lay members and clergy of the Presbyterian Church, its purpose is to inspire, challenge and equip people in a thoughtprovoking, relaxing and fun-filled 23

Questions? Contact Jennifer (512) 426-8135, or registrar@austinpresbyterianpilgrimage.org Couples are welcome; register individually. Men and women have separate accommodations. Register online at austinpresbyterianpilgimage.org.

environment. This revitalization weekend, offered twice a year, shepherds participants through short talks, music, fellowship, delicious food and many pleasant surprises. “Pilgrims” enjoy fellowship, grow friendships and leave transformed to face the challenges of the world with a renewed closeness to God. Nearly 100 fellow congregation members at Covenant have attended Pilgrimage! Jesse White, Kyle Danehy and Samantha Sipowicz are Covenant contacts and can provide more details for your consideration. Elaine Peterson describes her Pilgrimage experience: “When I decided to attend a Pilgrimage weekend, I felt as if daily living was draining the life from me. I prayed that the Lord would restore to me the JOY of my salvation. After a weekend of

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fun, fellowship and learning, I returned home ‘joyfully exhausted’ and spiritually refreshed! I was encouraged by the Spirit to daily choose to live with Christ so that I may live for Him as a conduit of God's love and grace.” It’s no wonder the logo for the Pilgrimage program is a butterfly. The transformation of an earth-bound caterpillar emerging as a butterfly happens only after time spent in a life-changing, secure cocoon. Christ is calling you. Pilgrimage offers a peaceful chance to truly listen.

By Samantha Sipowicz APP Coordinator, Covenant Presbyterian Church

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Activities Day Coordinator Signs Off After Eight Years

artha Bombaugh was honored at the May 2 VISIONS Activities Day for her contributions as the chairperson of the committee responsible for the program. Martha retired from that position after holding it since the program began in 2009.

Beth Daniel, parish associate for older adults, presided over the ceremony. Beth recognized Martha’s tenure in the position and noted she

was actively involved in its creation. “Martha, I don’t think there’s a person in this room who has not been touched by your generosity, your hospitality and your love,” she said. Beth also thanked the VISIONS Activities Day committee members. Martha seconded that, enthusiastically thanking the seniors for their participation over the years. “When we built this building, we said we wanted to reach the community,” Martha said. “We wanted to have fun and laugh together. We asked for your suggestions of what you wanted to do at a day like this. And you all responded!” Beth introduced Sue Gunnels, the new chairperson. Sue said she is looking forward to carrying on the traditions of the program while being open to new ideas.

the comfort of Covenant's Fellowship and Education Building. On the first Tuesday of each month, Covenant seniors, their friends and neighbors are invited to gather for games, lunch and a movie. Throughout its eight years of existence, the day has attracted an average of about 50 people per session. Martha encouraged participants to grow the group. “It’s up to you to bring your friends, go into the community and invite everyone who is interested in coming out and having fun!” The next VISIONS Activities Day is June 6 at 10 a.m. in FE 200.

By Charles Meyer Covenant Member

VISIONS Activities Day provides seniors with a social opportunity in

Martha Bombaugh and Sue Gunnels

Martha, Marta and Beth work on a puzzle together.

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Chillin' Tuesday Morning at Street Youth Ministry

very Tuesday at 11 a.m., Street Youth Ministry's calendar lists a two-hour time slot labeled "Chillin'." [Editor's note: For summer, Chillin' moves to 2 PM Tuesdays.] This is an informal Bible study where street youth are invited to gather in the ministry's new sun-filled co-op space and discuss the Bible with Terry Cole and SYM volunteers.

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Snacks and coffee are provided. The kids are free to participate in the conversation or quietly absorb the lesson. Some take advantage of the space's cozy couches and choose to snooze. For many of them a quiet, safe place to do so is a rare luxury.

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Following Bible study, lunch is served. Volunteers and SYM clients prepare the food during co-op work hours. Individuals, area restaurants and food banks donate the ingredients. After lunch, co-op team time begins. Everyone takes part in cleaning up and preparing for the influx of street youth visitors who drop in during the afternoon. Co-op visitors also have a chance to "shop" through the shelves of donated clothing and other neccessities. The first four months in the co-op's new spaceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;offically the Street Youth Ministry Dropin Cooperative Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;have been a huge success. Naturally, costs have risen since the co-op opened. SYM is seeking to raise additional funds. To donate and check on their progress, visit streetyouthministry.org.

By Noel Kalmus Photographer and Designer

June - August | Ordinary Time

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Hello, New Members

Clayton and Katherine Klutts

Hunter and Julia Maloy

Alison and Nickolas Means

Kate Murphy

Christina and Thomas Allen

Stephanie Craft and Marco Micheo

Ann Atkinson

June Geppert

Linda Daugherty

Tim and Julie Magee

Karen and Mark Nattinger

Ann and Henry Seals

Jessica and Ryan Stathos

Jess Streu

John, Gracie and Danielle Walker

Austen Zoutewelle

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Alexine and Peter Graves

Askala Harris

Kyle and Caroline Spencer

Carrie Schnoor

Ryan and Sydney Cargill

Andrew and Aga Crump

Kelly Egliht

Sean and Elizabeth Essex

Yvette Niemeyer

Tina and Jeff O'Jibway

Dan and Gail Pucci

Mike Trimborn

Nicole and Keith Wray

Kristen Meyer

Graham and Meredith Robinson

The next new member class will be in the fall. Explore membership will meet for four Sundays, starting Sept. 10 and concluding Oct. 1. Look for more details this summer or contact Amy Skaggs: askaggs@covenant.org.

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{ EVENTS}

JUNE

MAY 28

SUN

High School Leadership Program 12:30 p.m. in FE 400

THU

Men’s Summer Discipleship Series 6:30 a.m. in CO 208

SUN

Summer Worship Series Starts Stories of God

SAT

Graduation Day for all Students

SAT

6th Grade Welcome Party 9:30 a.m. in FE 400

SAT

Children’s Summer Programming Starts 9:30 a.m. in FE 300

MON

Student Ministry – Float the Comal River 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

TUE

VISIONS Activities Day 10 a.m. in FE 200

07, 14, 21, 28

SUN

Manos Back-to-School Collection 9:30 a.m. on the patio

THU

Vacation Bible School Meeting All first-time and youth helpers 6:30 p.m. in FE 200

08 1216 1723 18

MON- Vacation Bible School FRI 9 a.m. to noon, FE 200 SATFRI

Middle School Mission Trip Oklahoma City, OK

SUN

Summer Worship Schedule Starts Three services: 8:15, 9:30 and 11:05 a.m. Contemporary

Puzzle collaborators at VISIONS activity day Congratulations seniors! 29

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{ EVENTS}

JULY 04

TUE

AUGUST

VISIONS Activities Day 10 a.m. in FE 200

1014

Fun in the Son MONHigh School Bible Retreat FRI South Padre Island, Texas

12, 16

WED, Reel Ministry SUN 6 p.m. at Alamo Drafthouse Village

SAT

PW Volunteer Event 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Central Texas Food Bank Contact Diane West at jdwdoc@gmail.com

Triumph Sports Camp 07- MON- 1 to 4 p.m. in FE 400 10 THUR Contact Ashley at aellison@covenant.org 12

SAT

St. John Neighborhood Summer Cookout 5 - 8 PM / Volunteer: Julie at jweeks@austinvoices.org

SUN

Celebration Sunday 9 - 11 a.m. on the patio

SUN

Four Worship Services Resume

2428

Manos de Cristo Back-to-School MONVolunteer at manosdecristo.org/ FRI BTS2017

2125

MON- Drive-Thru Prayer FRI 7 to 9 a.m. in the parking lot

2427

Triumph Sports Camp MON- 1 to 4 p.m. in FE 400 THUR Contact Ashley at aellison@covenant.org

WED

SAT

Preschool Workday

SUN

Journey Rehearsals Start 4:30 p.m.

WED

Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal Starts 7:30 p.m. in FE 100

WED

Wednesday Night Kick-off Event Dinners and All Programming Start 5 PM FE 200

WED

Children’s Choirs Start 4:30 PM

THUR First Day of Preschool

THUR

Downtown Men’s Bible Study 11:30 a.m. at Max’s Wine Dive mcrawley@covenant.org

Women’s Fall Kick-off Brunch 10 a.m. in FE 200

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3003 Northland Drive Austin, TX 78757

Join us for

Celebration Sunday! Join us as we kick off fall programming and celebrate all the great things about Covenant on Sunday, Aug. 20, 9 - 11 AM with breakfast tacos, coffee and fellowship on the patio.