2016 q3sept newsletteronline

Shepherd’s Watch The

September 2016

Growing Together in relationship & faith Growing in Generosity What it means to give of yourself...and what could actually be in it for you

Growing in Knowledge Fall ministries have so much to offer; there’s no way for you NOT to grow!

Quarterly Newsletter of Shepherd of the Hills Presbyterian Church in Austin, Texas

Inside

On the cover...

Life In The Flock.....................................................................................1 Mission.....................................................................................................4 Children’s Ministry..................................................................................6

SHPC Preschool students at play. On page 9, you’ll see some of the many students whose first school experience was at SHPC Preschool.

True Student Ministry...........................................................................10 Adult Ministry.......................................................................................16 Prime Time............................................................................................17 Subscribe to this newsletter online at tinyurl.com/shpc-nl

Fall is here....fall classes are here...fall events and activities are here. We’re growing together as a community of faith this fall! page 13

STAFF GUIDE

Associate Pastor | Rev. Britta Dukes

Associate Pastor | Rev. Mike Killeen

Dir. of Children’s Ministries | Chris Gordon

Dir. of Adult Ministries | Sherry Smith

Worship Arts Dir. | Beth Mueller

Choir Director | Boyoung Kang

Worship Tech Dir. | Michael Glass

Preschool Dir. | Pattie Lawrence

Office Administrator | Cathy Williams

Accountant | Holly Spink

Business & Communications Dir. | Mary Aversa

From the Editor GET READY TO GROW

by Mary Aversa

I

love fall. Having grown up in Colorado, I can’t wait for temperatures to drop after a long Texas summer that’s overstayed its welcome by September and October. It’s that breath of fresh, cool air that’s just like spring...with less pollen. It’s when I finally feel like I can step out of my hot-weather hibernation and grow.

True this year. They’re seniors now, and they are quite a group of ponderers themselves. Maybe I’ll even peruse the Adult Ministry Schedule for a new study that piques my interest. One thing is for sure, as long as I allow myself to, I will grow at Shepherd of the Hills this fall.

At Shepherd of the Hills, we are going to do some growing this fall. We have a full schedule of studies and groups that we want you to browse and pray about. There is truly something for everyone at Shepherd of the Hills, and we want to see everyone choose a way to connect and grow—two of the things we know as the marks of a disciple.

We’re about to grow physically too this fall. Toward the end of September and into October, we’ll have construction starting in our portables. Our much-loved student lounge will leave our campus for a new life with another ministry in another place, and our larger Brodie building will sit in its place. The new building will be an adjustment for our students, but it will allow our ministries plenty of room to grow both right now and long into the future.

I’m reminded of Rev. Cynthia Rigby’s sermon as a guest preacher at SHPC this summer, when she talked about Mary. After receiving the news that she, a single woman and a virgin, was going to give birth to the savior of her people, she did not respond in fear, she sprang into action, becoming a person who rejoiced, celebrated, and pondered. I don’t know that I’ve ever been jazzed about pondering before, but that sermon inspired me to ponder.

Maybe I’ll be a deeper thinker in my Life Group. Or maybe I’ll be more inspired than ever by the students in my small group at

So what will you do to grow with us this fall? The options are endless. Just read on and find a place to jump right in.

Mary Aversa SHPC Business Manager & Communications Director

Life In The Flock

Growing Toward Generosity

by Rev. Mike Killeen

In a “me me me” world, it is difficult to think about becoming

a generous person when it feels as if everybody else has more of everything than you do. It sometimes feels as if there is a scarcity of the things we need instead of the abundance God promises. I think maybe the most stark scarcity, however, is not in money or tangible things, it’s generosity.

We need to be a people who are constantly growing toward generosity.

Why? There are some serious benefits to becoming more generous.

Generous people report being happier, healthier and more satisfied with their lives than those who do not give of themselves.

When you exhibit a life of generosity, you confirm in yourself that it is possible to be a giver and still be amazingly happy—even though you might be living with less. That lifestyle of giving is like ripples in pond. The more generous you are, the more others around you are encouraged to be generous themselves.

The same can be said for your heart. As you become more generous with your time, your talents and treasures, your heart begins to tug at you to increase your generosity. When you make yourself available and become invested outside of yourself, your heart’s desire to see those areas of your investment succeed grows even more.

As you grow, please remember that generosity is a heart more than a wallet issue, so think beyond dollars. Try this. Consider the stuff that currently occupies space in your home and garage. What are you holding on to or storing that you might be able to give away? Who could you give it to if you were to let go? Once you have that list made, start giving. You can start big or small, but be intentional in giving stuff away.

Do not forget your time on that list. Do you have any time that you can generously give to project at a nearby school, retirement community or even the church? Do you have a talent or skill that

could benefit one of those organizations?

I understand that when it comes to discussing generosity with money, most people tense up a bit. It can be difficult to be a generous financial giver! It’s not impossible though. People give money all the time to many different things. The activity that has grown my heart toward generosity the most is in the last 20 years has been “giving first,” meaning once I determine how generous I can be with the money that God has given me, I give that amount first before all other obligations. If I put giving as the last thing in my budget, it would often be left out altogether because I, just like you, know how to spend money quickly. I choose to give first as a discipline that continues to grow my heart toward generosity.

It’s amazing, though, that when I give first, the rest of my budget somehow seems to work out.

Consider diverting one specific expense for a month to specific cause, and see what happens. Save a few dollars here and there, and you’ll be surprised at what you have to give away. One student I know collected her change for year and was able to give over $300 to give to World Vision’s famine relief. It all adds up to growing toward generosity. It has to be both intentional (what you want) and directional (what you do).

The last thing I want to challenge you to do as you grow toward generosity is ask yourself who you might know whom you consider to be generous person. Ask them a few questions. “Have you always been generous?” “When did you become so generous? What advice would you give someone who wants to get started?” I did this once, and it was life-changing. And the other guy paid for the meal. Go figure.

Lets start being generous together.

September 2016 | The Shepherd’s Watch

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Life In The Flock

MarriedPeople: Building Great Marriages

by Rev. Britta Dukes

W

e are a church that believes in building good marriages. And building good marriages is easier when we have some useful tools to help us out. This is why we implemented the MarriedPeople strategy last year, and after hearing lots of good stuff from couples who took advantage of the various events, date nights and small groups we offered throughout the year, we decided to continue offering more MarriedPeople opportunities this coming year as well! Yay US! To give a bit of background, this strategy introduces couples to what we call the Core 4 Habits of a Great Marriage. One of these four habits is always present in each and every night out, date night card or monthly ezine, whether communicated directly or woven into the content.

What are the Core 4 Habits?

God’s way for marriage might not be easy to live out, but it is certainly easy to understand.

God gives us only a few verses on how husbands and wives should love each other. We believe God did this on purpose. From the precious few scripture verses on marriage come the Core 4 Habits.

Upcoming All-Church Events & Opportunities

Children’s, and Student Ministry events are listed in their own newsletter sections.

Sept 4 �����������Imperial Cities Trip Begins..............through 9/14

Sherry Smith | sherry@shpc.org Sept 11 �����������CPR Training........................................9:00 a.m.

Pattie Lawrence | pattie@shpc.org Sept 11 �����������Fall Kick-Off..........................................in worship

Most ministries return from summer break!

IHN Guests Arrive..............................through 9/18 Lara Manire | IHN.shpc@yahoo.com

Sept 14 ���������PrimeTime Museum tour................10:15 a.m.

Jeanette Box | dresserbess32@yahoo.com

Sept 15 ����������Pilgrimage ............................................through 9/18 church office | church@shpc.org 1. Have Serious Fun. Having fun as a couple is not optional; it’s essential. We believe the best way to protect your marriage is to enjoy it regularly. (Proverbs 5:18)

2. Respect and Love. Of the few verses God gives to husbands and wives, the directive to respect and love is commanded more than any other. This truth really can set us free when we understand the interplay of respect and love. (Ephesians 5:21-33) 3. Love God First. When Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment, His answer was to love God with all you are and to love others as well as you love yourself. Loving God in your individual life greatly impacts your married life. (Matthew 22:37-40) 4. Practice Your Promise. Our spouses trusted that we would do what we promised when we said, “I do”—to love each other and to stay together no matter what.

Knowing and experiencing a lasting commitment is vital to every marriage. (Proverbs 5:18; Malachi 2:15) SHPC gives married couples practical tools to help practice the MarriedPeople Core 4 Habits in your everyday lives by . . .

•

Inspiring Larger Group Experiences (November 4, January 20 and April 7 in the sanctuary)

•

Empowering Small Groups (5-week study in February/March 2017)

•

Oct 2 �������������ChickenFest

Beth Mueller | beth@shpc.org Oct 3 �������������Ireland Travel Study Meeting.........7:00 p.m.

Sherry Smith | sherry@shpc.org Oct 9 ������������Women’s Gathering...........................2:00 p.m.

Jody Wright | jodywrght@gmail.com Oct 22 �����������Painted Churches Tour.....................8:00 a.m.

Sherry Smith | sherry@shpc.org Oct 30 ��������Newsletter Submission Deadline

Mary Aversa | mary@shpc.org

Equipping Individual Couples ( January 7, February 4, April 1 and May 5, location of your choice… because this is YOUR date night)

Mark your calendars now to join us for any, all or as many as possible of this year’s “BECOME YOUR BEST US” offerings: Time for your US, Believe in your US, Fight for your US and Grow for your US! This is NOT a class, so please note that you don’t have to be able to attend each and every date to participate. Although all of the year’s events will speak to the same theme, they each stand alone in what they teach, so please join us for whichever ones work for you and your calendar! Free childcare is available with reservations BECOME YOUR BEST made in advance. If you are interested in more information, would like to help in the planning process or want to receive the monthly ezine subscription for free, please contact Pastor Britta at britta@shpc.org or (512) 892-3580, ext. 107.

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Sept 17th �����PrimeTime Lunch Bunch................11:00 a.m.

Ron & Annie Ward | rward123@att.net

The Shepherd’s Watch | September 2016

Commitment Sunday.......................in worship Mary Aversa | mary@shpc.org

Nov 4 �����������Married People Event........................7 :00 p.m.

Rev. Britta Dukes | britta@shpc.org Nov 8 ������������Election Day—SHPC Polling Location

church office | church@shpc.org Nov 13 ����������First Christmas Mission: Meals On Wheels Christmas Box collection begins Nov 15 ����������PrimeTime Soup to Nuts.................11:00 a.m.

Sherry Smith | sherry@shpc.org Check www.shpc.org/calendar for a full listing of church events and calendar items!

Life In The Flock

PRESBYTERIAN 101: What Makes Presbyterians...Presbyterian?

E

very now and then, a little history lesson is a good thing. Most of us find our way to a particular church because of its location, reputation or because someone invited us. It’s also good, however, to have a good sense of the background and core beliefs that set one church or one denomination apart from others.

With that in mind, here’s a little Presbyterian 101 for you.

Where it all began...

that covenant with discipline and maintain order in the church according to the Word of God. •

God has given us gifts—personal resources and the resources that surround us—and we must be faithful stewards of those gifts so they glorify God instead of ourselves.

•

Humans have a tendency to worship the wrong things and seek power that does not belong to us. The people of God must work to transform society by seeking justice and living in obedience to the Word of God.

Presbyterian history began in the 16th century and the Protestant Reformation. Our heritage, and much of what we believe, began Church government with the French lawyer John Calvin (1509-1564), whose writings crystallized much of the Reformed thinking that came before him. While Calvin was in exile in Geneva, Switzerland, he developed Calvin converted from Roman Catholicism after training for the the Presbyterian pattern of church government, which gives priesthood and in the law. Calvin did much of his writing and governing authority to elected members known as elders. teaching from Geneva, Switzerland, where John Together with ministers of the Word and Knox studied under him. Knox and others, then Sacrament (“pastors” or “ministers”), elders took Calvin’s teaching to other parts of Europe exercise leadership, government, and discipline and the British Isles. and have responsibilities for the life of their Many of the early Presbyterians in America own church as well as a commitment to other came from England, Scotland and Ireland.

Presbyterian churches and Christian churches The first American Presbytery was organized in general. at Philadelphia in 1706. The first General The body of elders elected to govern a Assembly, in 1789, was convened by the Rev. congregation is called a session. They are elected John Witherspoon, the only minister to sign the by the congregation, and in one sense are Declaration of Independence. representatives of the other members of Presbyterians are distinctive in two major ways. the congregation. On the other hand, their They adhere to a pattern of religious thought primary charge is to seek to discover and known as Reformed theology and a form of represent the will of Christ as they govern. government that stresses the active, representational leadership of Presbyterian elders are both elected and ordained, and in making both ministers and church members. decisions on matters of the church, they have equal responsibility to pastors, who also serve on the session.

Reformed theology

The other governing bodies are presbyteries, which are composed John Calvin’s principles, called Calvinism or Reformed Theology, of several churches; synods, which are composed of several still represent the core of Presbyterian beliefs. presbyteries; and the General Assembly, which represents the entire In its confessions, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) celebrates denomination. Elders and ministers who serve on these governing the majesty, holiness and providence of God who creates, sustains, bodies are also called presbyters (the presbyter of Mission Presbytery, rules and redeems the world. We recognize that God is sovereign, Rev. Sallie Watson, preached for us in August!) righteous and loving.

Presbyterians like to say that we are “reformed, and always reforming!”

This is indicative of our belief that God is not finished In addition to the most central concept of God’s sovereignty are with humanity yet and continues to reveal His kingdom and to other great themes of the Reformed tradition: invite us into His kingdom’s work in the world. After all, we do • God chooses His people for service and salvation. worship the LIVING God! • God has established a covenant with us. We must live into Information from the PC(USA) website pcusa.org

September 2016 | The Shepherd’s Watch

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MISSION GUATEMALA 2016: Growing in Relationship

by Cathy Beard

Dios le bendiga.” God bless you.

“

4

We heard this many times during the week long Guatemala mission trip SHPC members participated in last month. By more than doubling the number of participants this year, we were able to reach out to five different locations, contributing various services, donations, and support for our brothers and sisters in this beautiful country.

Many memorable moments transpired as we were reminded of the love of Christ and how we are humbled and honored to once again be his hands and feet in his world. By continuing current partnerships and even developing new ones we were able to reach out to God’s kingdom in ways that not only served those we were there to minister to, but blessed us in ways we will never forget. Remaining still for two hours while holding a little sleeping

girl, listening to midwives talk in their native language, and watching students sit down in their brand new computer lab for the first time are just some of the memories that will forever be a part of us. We thank the SHPC congregation for supporting these efforts and we invite all to consider attending a trip in the future. There are many different areas to serve in on the mission trip and your own special talents and gifts will be a blessing.

The Living Waters East team leads a clean-water education follow-up at the Medical Clinic in Cortijo where we installed a clean-water system in 2015.

The new system at Nueva Concepcion, decorated for the dedication ceremony. May our new partners use and share this precious gift of clean water with those in need!

The teacher at San Bartolome getting ready for her class to come in to the brand new computer lab. Thank you, SHPC, for your contributions to make this a reality!

At the Hogar Miguel Magone where 22 SHPC members provided a much needed week of respite care for the staff who rarely has a day off.

The day the "red bus", arrived at San Bartolome Escuela to provide transportation for special needs students...and the whole school. Our relationship continues to grow and develop with San Bartolome!

Midwives learn resuscitative techniques from the SHPC medical team.

The Shepherd’s Watch | September 2016

Mission

Refugee Update

by Rhonda Cabello

On July 19, 2016 the Al Aqeeli family arrived in Austin from Iraq. They are the latest family we are sponsoring through Refugee

Services of Texas. This sponsorship includes donations of furniture and other household goods to set up their apartment, the first meal upon arrival, and transportation to all of the many appointments they have in the first few months. They attended the 11 o'clock church service on July 31st because they wanted to say Thank You! Nabeel served our country by working with the US Special Forces as an interpreter. They are a very friendly family that would like to get out and experience Austin! If you have time to take them to Zilker park, the Bob Bullock, the Thinkery, or anywhere else Austin-y and kid friendly please contact Cathy Beard (beardfamily@austin.rr.com) or Rhonda Cabello (rcabello9@hotmail.com) and we can help arrange an outing!

Other immediate needs are a job for Nabeel, who is college educated and speaks English fluently. Another concern is transportation, since many jobs are not on a bus route. If you happen to have a vehicle you are thinking of selling or trading and might consider donating instead, please contact the church office or mission committee.

Nabeel(father) Hadeel(mother) Hussein(10) Sarah(8) and Saja(7)

SHPC Hosts Malawi Visitor

by LaDair Wright

LaDair and Jody Wright wish to express how blessed they were

to host Reverend Douglas Chipofya of Mzuzu, Malawi the weekend of July 4th. We were so pleased to have him use our home as his base of operations during his “whirlwind” visit. This was Reverend Chipofya’s first visit to America, and his primary purpose for coming to the U.S.A. was to attend the Presbyterian General Assembly in Portland, Oregon. He also visited various other Presbyterian entities throughout the country which had invited him.

Throughout the weekend, he had meals with church members, watched a soccer match, toured the Texas State Capitol and underground offices, and watched the Buda fireworks. Rev. Chipofya asked if our soldiers would be coming to shoot off the fireworks!

Hosting someone from one of our mission-partner countries is a great experience, one from which both host and visitor learn so much. We highly recommend this experience to any church member who wants to understand a bit more about our Christian brothers and sisters around the world.

Special thanks go out to Ben Boehman, the McLatcher family and Tom & Mo O’Meara, who provided transportation, meals and entertainment during Reverend Chipofya’s visit!

The Reverend spoke at Shepherd of the Hills, traveled to San Antonio’s Northwood Presbyterian Church, and visited the Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary with where he met with Reverend Al Krummenacher, Seminary Development Officer and Moderator of Mission and Presbytery and Reverend Lemuel Garcia-Arroya, Director of Church Relations.

Reverend Chipofya was extremely personable and we enjoyed his visit immensely. He expressed his gratitude to all who showed him abundant hospitality and indicated that Austin was one of his favorite stops on his tour around the country. Reverend Chipofya traversed the entire country from the east coast to the west coast and back, so Jody presented him with a U.S. map highlighting his many stops, each journey from city to city marked with a different highlighter color. She also made him a small scrapbook with photos of him with the various people who had spent time with him during his Austin visit. He was very touched by both of these gifts.

September 2016 | The Shepherd’s Watch

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Children & Families Leading SMALL, Thinking BIG

A new school year is upon us. I don’t

know about you, but I LOVE the smell of new crayons…it is a scent memory that transports me back to the days of new shoes, Trapper Keepers, Lisa Frank notebooks, and a daily choice between chocolate and white milk. Can we all agree that the Trapper Keeper was the best invention of the 80’s?

I know we had Oregon Trail and Carmen San Diego, but I really loved that hot air balloon and Velcro closure!

In my adult life, this time of year has meant many different things: preparing my first classroom; getting ready for meet-theteacher events; celebrating with families

at new student orientations. At church, this time of year has me thinking of the ever-popular RALLY DAY! The day all churches send their little ones back to their own Sunday morning programming.

The name has morphed over the years, but the intention is the same…celebrating our families and our kids as we start a new school year together.

than if we work separately.

With that in mind, we deploy a whole team of individuals each school year to work with “a few” kiddos; to get to know parents; to provide experiences that cultivate an authentic faith. We call this, “Leading Small.”

When we lead small we realize that what we do for a few will always have more potential than what we do for many. When we lead small we simply make a choice to invest strategically in the lives of a few over time so we can help them build a faith that will last.

Many of you know that we consider ourselves an “Orange Church.” This means we believe that when the Church (symbolized by the color YELLOW = light of Christ) and the Home (symbolized by the color RED = heart Now that you’re thinking SMALL, we of the home) work together, we are stronger want you to consider a BIG challenge.

THE CHALLENGE: We are looking for a few SMALL-focused, BIG-picture folks to join our Early Childhood and Elementary teams on Sunday mornings this fall.

THE WIN: As a Small Group Leader (SGL), we need you to invest in the lives of a few to encourage authentic faith. You win when kids have meaningful interactions, both inside and outside of small group, that influence their faith in Jesus and deepen their relationships with others.

THE JOB DESCRIPTION: What exactly IS a SGL? A friend? Parent? Coach? Teacher?

Here’s what we define as a Small Group Leader: A Small Group Leader is anyone who chooses to invest in the lives of a few to encourage authentic faith.

Every SGL should do 5 things: •

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Be Present: Connect their faith to a community by showing up predictably, mentally, and randomly.

•

Create a Safe Place: Clarify their faith as they grow by leading the group, respecting the process, and guarding the heart.

•

Partner with Parents: Nurture an everyday faith by cueing the parent, honoring the parent, and reinforcing the

The Shepherd’s Watch | September 2016

family.

•

Make It Personal: Inspire their faith by your example by living in community, setting priorities, and being real.

•

Move Them Out: Engage their faith in a bigger story by moving them to someone else, moving them to be the church, and moving them to what’s next.

Children & Families QUALIFICATIONS: To be a SGL, you don’t have to be a Bible scholar, pass a theological aptitude test, or display a particular set of special spiritual gifts. You don’t even need to be that cool (but we know you are!). Here’s all you need to do: •

LOVE GOD.

•

CARE ABOUT KIDS.

•

Be committed to investing in your few over a period of time.

•

Complete an application/background check/coffee meeting with Chris.

EXPECTATIONS: •

Serve weekly.

•

Show up on time.

•

Read your lesson plan before Sunday.

•

Come prepared.

Would you love to spend your Sunday mornings with some of our littlest angels in WONDERjunction? How about welcoming a new Kindergarten class to UpStreet? Feeling the need to explore some “what if ” questions? We’ve got the 5th grade class for you! Contact Chris Gordon (chris@shpc.org) for more information on joining this dynamic team.

Upcoming Children’s Ministries Events Sept 4 �����������Blessing of Backpacks.....................................................in Worship

Chris Gordon | chris@shpc.org Sept ���������������SHPC Preschool Begins

Pattie Lawrence | pattie@shpc.org Sept 11 �����������All Children’s Programming Returns for Fall!

Chris Gordon | chris@shpc.org Sept 28 ���������Bible Navigators Class Begins......................................through 10/26

Chris Gordon | chris@shpc.org

Oct 1 ��������������Children at the Lord’s Table Workshop....................9:30 a.m.

Rev. Britta Dukes | britta@shpc.org

Children recognized in worship on October 2nd Oct 30 ����������Trunk or Treat Community Event.............................4:00 p.m.

Rev. Britta Dukes | britta@shpc.org Nov 2 ������������Christmas Pageant Rehearsals Begin.......................5:00 p.m.

Rev. Britta Dukes | britta@shpc.org

September 2016 | The Shepherd’s Watch

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Children & Families

SHPC Kids: Fall Promotions!

A

t Shepherd of the Hills, we spend summer planning and waiting for your kids to return for Sunday morning programing, so fall is an exciting time for us as we come alongside your kids as they grow into their new grade, and in some cases, new school! For kids, however, this time of settling into a new environment—on Sundays and at school—can be... well...unsettling. Don’t worry kids and parents; we’ve got you covered!

A Great Fall Begins With A Blessing Sunday, September 4th , 9:30 service

Every year, we look forward recognizing all of our 3rd

•

Nursery & Toddler Space – infants and toddlers through 23 mos

•

2s & 3s Class – children who are 2 – 3 years before September 1st

•

4s & 5s Class – children who are 4 – 5 years before September 1st

graders with a Bible of their very own! This is a special gift from the congregation to each 3rd grade student. We present third grade Bibles as early in the fall as possible so our 3rd graders have an opportunity to learn to use their Bibles and bring them to UpStreet every Sunday morning.

For our Elementary-aged friends, we have UpStreet for Kinder through 5th grade. Any new 6th graders will attend TrueFaith on every Sunday but the 1st Sunday of the month through the school year.

September 4th will be a special Sunday, where we present 3rd grade Bibles, celebrate all of our children, youth, teachers, school staff and Sunday morning leaders as they return to a new school year. We’ll also do our first Blessing of the Backpacks! We are asking everyone to bring whatever backpack you use for school or work to worship with you on Sunday, September 4th, and we will pray a special blessing over them during the 9:30 service.

We will host registration for all children on Sunday, August 28th and Sunday, September 4th. If you miss those Sundays or are new to SHPC after September 4th, not to worry! Nothing makes us happier than adding friends along the way.

Follow SHPC Kids Online!!

@shpckids 8

Our classes for this year will be:

@shpckids

The Shepherd’s Watch | September 2016

As we move through the school year, we will adjust our classes to accommodate birthdays and group sizes as needed.

Children & Families

Happy fall, y’all! By the time you read this, our school

PRESCHOOL

SHPC

year should be underway for the preschool at SHPC. The preschool family includes 17 staff members including 5 new teachers, 1 new office manager, 18 new preschool families, and 67 students ages 3 months-5 years. We are looking forward to a great year full of playing, learning and growing. Our teachers will be helping the students learn important life lessons throughout their time with us, and we look forward to sharing God’s love with them on a daily basis!

We will continue to grow our Playground Repair & Replacement Fund over this school year, and we will invite the congregation to participate in activities in which you can help. We remember fondly our 30th Anniversary Celebration from April 2016, which helped raise over $8500 toward the cause. We again thank our many volunteers who helped out on that fun Saturday!

NEWS

Some current and past SHPC Preschool students and parents at the 30th anniversary carnival celebration. Those teenagers you see in this photo filled our classrooms as toddlers and preschoolers too!

SCOUTS FALL SCHEDULE Group

Time

Location

Leader/Contact Info

Start Date

Various Girl Scout troops meet on our campus. The church office has contact information for leaders who use our rooms, and their meeting times and days are on our church calendar. (www.calendar.shpc.org) MONDAY Boy Scout Troop #395

7 p.m.

Sanctuary www.troop395austin.org/contact Visit www.troop395austin.org for more information and to be involved in Scouting through Troop #395!

Ongoing

September 2016 | The Shepherd’s Watch

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True Student Ministries Camps Bring Big Growth

Things just seem to grow bigger at camp, don’t they? The trees

seem a little taller, the lake a little deeper, the mosquitoes a little more like dragonflies and the dragonflies more like tiny aircraft.

At True Student Ministries, we see that faith is one of those things that just grows bigger at camp.

As summer got underway, many of our students served at the first camp of the summer—Vacation Bible School. Middle and high school students were small group leaders, storytellers, game leaders and large-group energizers for SHPC’s pre-K through 3rd graders, sharing their faith and giving generously of their time to SHPC Kids.

The very next week, 12 middle school students, two high school

leaders and 2 adult leaders joined Pastor Mike for The Great Escape of the Rockies in Gunnison, Colorado. You’ll read stories from two of those students below.

In July, several of our middle and high school students served nonprofits around the city of Austin by day then participated in camp activities and dynamic worship at night with youth from all over Central Texas at SWITCH camp. SWITCH changes the notion of a life of faith from something you have to something you do.

True partipcates in many camps and other multi-day immersive experiences throughout the year, from Pine Cove weekend camps to the annual ski trip to focused study-play-worship weekends.

Information on upcoming events can be found at www.iamtrue.org.

My Great Escape 2016 trip was To Cry: shed tears, especially as an

amazing and inspiring.

We drove across three states in two days and stayed at a Youth house next to a church. During the camp we stayed at Western State University in Gunnison, Colorado. While I was there I got to White Water Rafting down the mighty Taylor river, shopping for souvenirs Crested Butte, and I also got to play in Americas smallest Walmart! Some of our group almost got kicked out for hiding in suitcases!

Each morning and evening our group attended Big Worship were we sang songs, watched professional chalk art guy Ben Glen work his chalk magic live, prayed, and listen to speakers talk about the word of God. Most years on the final day there's a shaving cream war, but sadly, I wasn't able to participate in it.

Overall, I’ve loved going back this camp every year. I learned a lot about God and how he is always with me and even when I’m frightened, God will always help me get up again. I even learned a lot about my own self this week and how to cope with things in my life.

I want to think the church for taking me and so many of our True students to the 2016 Great Escape.

—Lillian Lee 10

expression of distress or pain

At The Great Escape, one of the nights is what the students call The Cry Night.

Everyone breaks down into tears, no one really knows why, but something changes in the atmosphere, causing us to hear God in a new way and get close enough to hear and experience our own brokenness.

This was my first year at True, and I had never been to The Great Escape before so when people started crying around me I found myself extremely confused. I thought I had missed something really important.

When it was Family Time, Pastor Mike asked all of those who were crying to share what emotions were going through their minds and hearts. Some people shared openly, others didn't share at all. At this point I didn't understand the weight of the evening until I started to cry too. I couldn't figure out why I was crying, maybe it had to do with the heightened emotions or my friends crying around me. Regardless, it took me a minute or two to figure it out.

While Pastor Mike was talking to us and drawing us out, I was delving deep into my mind to figure out the reason behind my tears. When I did, I just blurted it out.

Now I'm a timid person, I think before I act, but this time someone spoke for me,

The Shepherd’s Watch | September 2016

they took ahold of my vocal cords and spoke through me. There was no hesitation, just my voice. I cried, "I didn't hear anything.

Everyone heard something.... But I heard nothing. I'm so scared that I'm not good enough for Him. That he doesn't want me.

I heard nothing. Only silence."

Pastor Mike listened to me that night, but it wasn't until later in the week, when we were driving home, that he really talked with me about what had happened. He said he thought the reason for my tears was completely different from everyone else's reason. Some kids cry because of their problems back home, some cry because of problems inside, some cry because they are experiencing God’s presence for the first time. He said he thought I was crying because God was right beside me and I had not yet realized it. My tears were different but still meaningful. Cry Night was a turning point in my faith, it helped me to understand that sometimes when you can't hear Him, it's okay, because he's walking right beside you the entire time, waiting and watching over you so he can pick you up if and when you fall.

Thank you Shepherd of The Hills for helping me to figure out my faith at The Great Escape. The memories I've made there will be cherished ones.

—McKa’an Zimmerman.

True Student Ministries

True Student Ministries: What We’re All About

by Rev. Mike Killeen

W

hether Shepherd of the Hills is the church you’re growing up in or you’re here for the first time, we hope that you know how welcome you are at True Student Ministries.

At True we build into students a faith designed to last beyond Sunday morning, beyond camp, and long after you graduate from high school and spread your own wings.

True is run by an amazing team of adult and student volunteers with the always-silly Pastor Mike at the helm. Any student who shows up to a True event or weekly service can expect to have a great time, to hear scripture presented in fresh, new and relevant ways, and to make a friend or two every time they come. They can expect to see faces they know from school, and they can expect students to be real and share deeply about the good and the bad things happening in their world.

At True we believe that all are welcomed to the life-affirming, faith-forming love of Jesus. We have a built a place where we can all grow and learn with each other and from each other. Please know that you will be accepted and celebrated for the unique person you are as we all work together to grow our individual faith and deepen our trust in God’s Word and promise. We hope to meet each person wherever they are in their personal journey.

Purpose

True offers fun and meaningful programming for students in 5th through 12th grades. We want to be positive examples of what it means to enter into a relationship with God and to be on an authentic faith journey as part of an age-specific cluster of students.

We do this by:

•

learning about the life of Jesus

•

reaching out to serve those around us

• •

Here’s what’s important in every interaction with our students: SAFETY…Provide complete physical, emotional and spiritual safety for every person that walks through our doors. We must maintain an environment where people feel safe, accepted and comfortable enough to share their most intimate feelings and know that they are loved and supported.

FUN…Create an engaging environment through activities and discussions which capture the attention and maintain the interest of high school youth. Having fun helps us build trust and show we care.

MESSAGE…Through words and actions, communicate a clear image of our loving God as revealed through Jesus Christ. We must commit to our primary purpose: encouraging students in their relationship with Jesus Christ. We do this helping them learn more about Jesus, the scriptures and His church and by demonstrating positive examples of what it means to be a Christian.

AFFIRMATION…Help each person realize that they are loved, accepted and valued, just as they are. God loves each of us, and we haven’t even earned that love! It’s called grace. In the same way, our love for each student and volunteer must be endless and unconditional, celebrating and valuing each person...just as they are.

COMMUNITY… We want to help each True student feel connected to Christ through the church. Our commitment to our students extends as they move through each grade, beyond high school, encompassing the entire church and extending into the community and the wider world. Our community is open to everyone and values each relationship equally.

Students, you are invited to experience for yourselves that...

sharing our thoughts and questions with each other

God’s love is always

TRUE!

living out what it means to be an active participant in a community of faith

True Student Ministries Schedule Unless otherwise specified, True meets in the student lounge.

Group Time Grades SUNDAY

More info...

True Faith M.S.

9:30 - 10:30 a.m.

6th - 8th Sunday morning bible study for those not attending 9:30 worship Does not meet on communion Sundays (usually 1st of the month).

True High School

6 - 7:45 p.m.

9th - 12th

True Deep H.S.

Games, fun & study of The Word for every High School Student

8 - 8:45 p.m.

9th - 12th High school students often go out to eat after True Deep!

WEDNESDAY True Tween

6 - 7:45 p.m.

5th and 6th

True Middle

6 - 7:45 p.m.

7th and 8th

True Deep M.S.

8 - 8:45 p.m.

6th - 8th

Our no-frills deep high school Bible study

Our no-frills, deep Bible study for middle school guys & girls September 2016 | The Shepherd’s Watch

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True Student Ministries

@trueshpc

For up-to-theminute info, follow us on Instagram!

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The Shepherd’s Watch | September 2016

Adult Ministry Growing in Faith, Body † Soul

by Jessica Goulding

O

ur body is our soul's temple of worship. Yoga helps connect your mind and body together to engage with your spirit in a worshipful way. Biblical songs, parables, and images inspire this Body † Soul Yoga Series. Bring these beautiful words of worship into your breath and body so each moment is full of deep connection to God and the presence of the Holy Spirit.

MOPS: Starry-Eyed

O

ur MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) group is kicking off another exciting year as we explore what it means to become our best starry-eyed selves! Our Thursday morning gatherings are an opportunity to get together with other moms who have children in the newborn-to-kindergarten age range and share life together. This includes good food, great discussions, engaging speakers, getting crafty and lots of laughter. We meet at the church on 2nd and 4th Thursdays (September-May), but we also meet off campus for playdates, book club, social outings and service projects. If you’d like to join us for the upcoming year, please contact Debbie Ficzeri at dkficzeri@gmail.com for more information.

This Body † Soul Yoga class is designed with everyone in mind for stress reduction, heart health, mind/body/spirit connection, and relaxation. We will set our intentions with Scripture and gently move our bodies into poses that create ease, body and soul.

All levels welcome. Chair yoga modifications available.

• Sundays, 6:15-7:30 in the Sanctuary, beginning Sept. 25th • 8 sessions, Cost: $40 • Contact Jessica Goulding at jessgoulding@gmail.com

When, Where and How much?

Fall semester meets 2nd & 4th Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.: September 8 & 22; October 13 & 27; November 10 and December 8.

Participation in a MOPS group requires a $24.95 membership to MOPS International (includes a welcome kit, annual subscription to Hello, Dearest magazine, and exclusive discount offers).

The SHPC MOPS fees are $50 a semester and include crafts, activities, guest speakers & incredible childcare in our MOPPETS program.

Scholarships are available based on need. Please do not let cost influence your decision to attend MOPS!

Working Moms, Let’s Build Some MOMMUNITY!

I

f you’d like to meet monthly with other moms for a tasty meal (cooked by someone else), table talk and time to build new friendships, please contact Pastor Britta at britta@shpc.org.

Childcare will be available if needed.

Mary-Martha Circle Studies 1 Peter this Fall

W

ith the end of summer comes the beginning of a new year of the Mary-Martha Circle. We invite ALL women to attend.

We meet the first Thursday of every month at 10:00 in portable B. This year we will be studying First and Second Peter. We are usually finished by 11:30 and then a few of us go to lunch together. Lunch is a great way to get to know other women in the church.

Our first lesson is Sept 1, 2016 – Intro & 1 Peter chapter 1; “Christ Our Hope & Christ Our Sacrifice”. This lesson will be delivered by Sherry Smith; the rest of the lessons during the year will be delivered by Jody Wright. The complete lesson plan will be handed out at the first meeting. There are no books to buy.

Just read and think about 1 Peter, chapter 1 and bring your Bible with you.

We hope to see you on September 1st at 10:00. If you have any questions, please call Carol Mize (our new Moderator) at 512-892-1371 or email Carol at schoolca@yahoo.com.

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Adult Ministry

Adult Ministries Fall Schedule

Some room placements or times may vary on occasion due to other special activities. Please contact the named leaders to sign up and for more information on correct start dates for fall and how to obtain class materials.

Group Time Location Leader/Contact Info SUNDAY Adult Bible Study

9:30 a.m. Library Jody & LaDair Wright: jodywrght@gmail.com Watch announcements for start date and curriculum

Men’s Bible Study

11a.m.

Library Glenn Dukes: glenn@dukesfamily.com Starting fall study with Excellence: Run with the Horses by Eugene H. Peterson

Start Date

Body & Soul Yoga

TBD Sep 11

6:15 p.m. Sanctuary Jessica Goulding: jessgoulding@gmail.com Runs through Nov 13, Cost: $40 MONDAY

Sep 25

Disciple Genesis

Aug 29

10 a.m. Port B Rev. Britta Dukes: britta@shpc.org Invitation to Genesis runs through Dec 12

Women’s Study

7 p.m.

Port B Sara Jensen/Terry Mills: scj6013@gmail.com or terrymills@earthlink.com Daring Greatly with Scripture by Brene Brown, runs through Nov 7 TUESDAY

Oct 3

Women’s Bible Study

10 a.m. Port B Nancy Herlin: nlherlin1@gmail.com 23 week study of the Gospel of John

Oct 4

Icing on the Cake

10 a.m. Rm 9 Nancy Lowe: nolowe@att.net or 512-327-5600 Retired Women’s Bible Study

Sep 8

Soup to Nuts Speaker Luncheons

11 a.m. FMC primetime@shpc.org 3rd Tues. of Feb, May, Aug and Nov

PrimeTime Ministry Council

1 p.m.

Rm 9 Mary Helen McAllister: primetime@shpc.org Meetings are 2nd Tuesday of each month. PrimeTime Council provides activities, classes, and retreats throughout the year for those over 50.

Women’s Book Group

1:30 Rm 9 Thelma Morris: gramorr@aol.com & Annie Ward: ron-annie@att.net Takes place on the 3rd Tuesday of every month

P.M. Prayer Shawl Ministry

7 p.m.

Port A 3rd Tues. of each month

Deb Ballew:ballewd@airproducts.com

THURSDAY MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)

10 a.m. FMC Rev. Britta Dukes: britta@shpc.org 2nd & 4th Thursdays. Speakers, activities and fellowship with childcare

Prayer Shawl Ministry

10 a.m.

Offsite Usually meets at Panera

Karen Greathouse: dkkm@austin.rr.com

ARCM (Association of Retired Christian Men) 10 a.m. Library Ron Miller: ronald.miller1333@sbcglobal.net Fellowship, cookies, coffee and study together

Sep 10 Ongoing Ongoing

Mary-Martha Circle

10 a.m. Port B Sherry Smith: sherry@shpc.org 1st Thursday of every month: cookies, coffee fellowship and study led by pastors and staff. Studying “The J Letters,” John, Jude and James

Sep 3

Men’s Book Group

7 p.m.

Rm 9 Stefan Haag: shaag@austin.rr.com 1st Thursday of each month

Sep 3

Freeway Series

TBD Offsite Rev. Mike Killeen: mike@shpc.org Study & discussion for college-age and up. Watch for more info in weekly announcements!

TBD

SATURDAY Piece on Earth Quilters 10am-3pm Offsite Karen Greathouse: dkkm@austin.rr.com Ongoing 4th Saturday of each month, meeting at Valli and Kim Quilt Shop in Dripping Springs.

LifeGroups meet in homes around Austin. More information on groups and meeting times available at shpc.org/small-groups. Contact Dale & Shannon Shumaker for more information. dshumaker@ccc411.com.

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The Shepherd’s Watch | September 2016

Adult Ministry

SHPC Travel Study Program

by Sherry Smith

The year 2017 will mark the 15th year of the Travel Study

program at Shepherd of the Hills. Beginning with a trip to Greece to Walk in the Footsteps of Paul in 2002, we have since learned about early Christianity and the Renaissance in Italy, experienced the development of early Presbyterianism England and Scotland, walked where Jesus walked in the Holy Land, This year’s study went to the “Imperial Cities” of Prague, Vienna, and Budapest to learn about the early reformer, John Huss, who predated Martin Luther by 100 years.

In preparation for each trip, those traveling attend classes and events where we learn about the history of the area and how it relates to our Christian heritage. On the upcoming Ireland trip, June 14-23, 2017, we will be taking a look at our Celtic heritage as well as the modern issues between Catholics and Protestants.

There’s a lot to learn, but even more fun to be had, and I always remind our groups “there is no test.”

Our groups usually include one of our ministers, some first-time travelers, some long-time SHPC members and some friends who are not part of our church.

Whatever your reasons for travel, and whoever you’d like to bring along, we hope that one day you may get to join us on one of our adventures. Meanwhile, please be in prayer for our current travelers (Sept 4-14, in Prague, Vienna & Budapest) that they may have a safe journey.

Shades of Ireland: SHPC Travel Study Tour 2017

Put on your green and join the next SHPC travel study experience planned for June 14-23, 2017! Registration is now open for our “Shades of Ireland” tour. We will visit Dublin, Waterford, the Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, the Ring of Kerry, Limerick, and more. We will end our adventures with an overnight stay at Cabra Castle in Kingscourt. This 10 day tour includes other treats and sights as well. Prior to the trip, there will be various free classes and activities so the group can get Attend the Oct 3rd and learn about to know each other presentation and the church history involved with the receive $50 off ! places we will see.

Tuesday Women’s Bible Study Begins September 20Th

I

s God calling you into a deeper relationship with him?

Nothing affects your spiritual health and growth more than ongoing Bible study. Join us beginning Tuesday September 20th from 10-11:30 for 11 weeks as we study the Book of John - "the beloved" disciple's account of the life of Christ.

John's unique Gospel combines the miracles and teachings of Jesus in such a way that draws the reader into a deep and personally fulfilling relationship with Him. This study will help you understand the scripture and allow you to reflect personally on what it means to you. Childcare will be provided. For more information or to sign-up contact Nancy Herlin at nlherlin1@ gmail.com or call 512-784-2627.

Men’s Jeremiah Study

by Glenn Dukes

T

he Men’s Sunday morning has been discussing what it means to “make the most of my life” and will continue meeting this fall with a new 6 week fall study on Jeremiah, beginning September 11th. We will use the book Excellence: Run with the Horses by Eugene Peterson.

Men are welcomed to join the group at any time. The next study will be chosen as the group completes the current study. Contact Glenn Dukes for more info. glenn@dukesfamily.com Please join us in the library Sunday mornings at 11!

Mark your calendars for October 3, 7:00 for a special slide presentation in room 8. If you turn in your registration before or on that night after the presentation, you will receive $50 off the trip cost.

Invite a friend! You do not have to be an SHPC member to take advantage of this fun adventure. Pick up a brochure from the narthex wall rack to share with friends, neighbors, and relatives or contact Sherry Smith at sherry@shpc.org to be put on the “interested” list for info and updates. We would love to have you join us!

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Adult Ministry

In The Beginning...

The

Disciple Bible study series is an in-depth study of scripture that has been foundational to growing disciples at SHPC for over a decade now. Its goal is to be “Transformational, not simply informational,” and from the testimonies of many of our members who have completed all four years and have a better understanding and knowledge of scripture (as well as self and each other) because of these studies, this seems to be the case.

Unfortunately, a 32-week study is not possible for everyone. School, travel and work schedules wreak havoc, sometimes making the commitment a difficult one. To address this, Disciple has introduced a series of short-term Bible studies, and “Invitation to Genesis” is one of these. Pastor Britta will be facilitating this class on Monday mornings from 10am12noon for 10 weeks this fall.

“In the beginning. . .”

These first words in Genesis may be among the most familiar words in all the Bible.

These are the first words in Genesis, and they are perhaps the most easily recognized words in all of the Bible— from the scholar to the general reader, even to those who have never opened a Bible for themselves. And so, many people recognize Genesis as a book that describes the beginning of all things: the

Creation. This is certainly true but only part of the story— the creation of the world takes up only the first two chapters of a fifty chapter book. What is Genesis as a whole about?

What are the other chapters there for?

and his creation, first by starting over with Noah and then by starting over in a very different sort of way with Abraham.

The grand story of the Bible is what God does to make right that which went wrong in the opening chapters of Genesis, what Christian theologians for centuries have called “the Fall.” The first steps God takes are right there in Genesis, what you might call a series of “starting-over” acts, and together, we will read this "book of beginnings" to see what we can learn from each of these.

There are a number of angles we could take to answer these kinds of questions, and all of them would help us see something important about Genesis. The angle we will be taking in this study is one that is not all novel or innovative. Rather, it is one that surfaces from a straightforward—yet patient— reading of Genesis. Genesis as a whole is not just a story of the beginning; it Please contact Pastor Britta with questions or to register. is a book of beginnings.

The most noticeable beginning in Genesis britta@shpc.org 512.892.3580, ext. 107 is, of course, the creation of the world described in chapters 1-2. But there are also a number of other important beginnings in Genesis. The two most prominent are the “new beginning” of the world with Noah and beginning of Israel as a people in the call of Abraham. God’s purpose in Genesis 1-2 is to create a world and fill it with his goodness and glory, and for the crown of that creation to be human beings with whom God will have a loving and faithful relationship. But, as the well-known story goes, a rupture occurs between God and humans. The purpose of the smaller beginnings in Genesis is to reestablish that relationship between God

My Ideal Women’s Ministry

by Jody Wright

H

ave you ever had something bothering you that causes you to feel restless and every time you tried to put your finger on what was troubling you, it eluded you? This is what has been happening to me over the past two years since my husband and I joined SHPC. Shortly after we joined the church, there was an invitation for the women of SHPC to come together to talk about their needs for a women’s ministry, so I decided to attend in an effort to get to know other SHPC women and to explore areas in which I might serve.

However, let me back up a few steps to set the stage for where my story is headed. I had just retired from state government where I had put in over 22 years of service with the majority of it serving as a budget analyst for the Legislative Budget Board. My work was 16

The Shepherd’s Watch | September 2016

very intense, fast paced, requiring long hours and my assignments included oversight of state agencies’ budgets and testifying before the Legislature regarding these budgets. Once retired, I began to take some deep breaths and contemplate where I wanted to put my time and efforts in retirement. So now, I fast forward to the SHPC meeting regarding the women’s ministry.

During the women’s meeting, there were many wonderful SHPC stories about previous bible and book studies and women’s groups offered over the years including many that continue to this day I sat and listened to the many ideas discussed, I still didn’t have a clue what God wanted me to do. So, starting in fall 2015, I began attending bible studies at other churches to see how their

PrimeTime

We’re In The Prime...

by Marilyn Jennings

PrimeTime at SHPC wants you – yes you! We are the “over 50”

group who meet monthly (sometimes more than once a month) for lunch, visits to interesting places, and fellowship. We get together to expand our minds, explore Austin – and places beyond our fair city, enjoy each other’s company and build relationships with great people. We sponsor the annual Meals on Wheels Christmas boxes for shut ins project and are working to improve our outreach to

our congregation’s shut in members. Please check us out! You will find an activities notice board in the narthex of the church. We also advertise our activities in the weekly Yellow Pages that you see on Sunday mornings. Have questions? Contact Sherry Smith (sherry@shpc.org), Jeannette Box, Carolyn and Melvin Deutsch, Sandi Moehlman or Marilyn Jennings for more information! We’d love to welcome you to the fabulous PrimeTime group!

Painted Churches Tour

by Sherry Smith

C

entral Texas’s Painted Churches are a fascinating part of local history and something everyone in the Austin area should experience at least once. See how the congregations of these little churches sought to emulate great cathedrals they had left behind in Europe when they became pioneers here.

Everyone sixteen and over is invited to join

us on Saturday, October 22 for a beautiful experience. SHPC friends and family are also invited to this trip sponsored by our PrimeTime ministry.

We will meet at Shepherd of the Hills at 8:00 a.m., and the bus will leave promptly at 8:30 for the Shulenburg Chamber of Commerce.

There, we will pick up our guide for the day.

women’s ministries are organized. What I learned over the past 18 months is that women who come together to worship God and study scripture are just like me, wanting to hear what God’s personal message is for them. But what I mostly took away from the women during these studies was their love of God and their sincere regard and respect for each other, in other words...

Faithful Community.

I have a burning desire to get to know other SHPC women and come together in community for our God, our church, our families, and our neighborhoods. Over the past several months, many of you have come together in prayer with me for SHPC’s women’s ministry. Out of these prayer meetings, a group of

We will see a couple of the beautiful "Painted Churches" and then have lunch at the wellknown "Frank's" restaurant. After lunch, we will see a couple more churches and return to Shepherd of the Hills around 6:00 p.m.. The cost for the bus and tour will be $45. Lunch is on your own at Frank's. Tips for our expertbut-volunteer guide are appreciated!

women have volunteered to serve one and two year terms on a 7-member SHPC Women’s Ministry Coordinating Team.

Each of us come with an area of interest that we want to share with SHPC women, including but not limited to bible study, Presbyterian women (our roots), community-based activities, creativity among women, the art of neighboring, mentoring and women’s retreats. It is my greatest hope that one of these topics interests you enough to provide feedback and to participate as things unfold. Stay tuned.

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