May 2011 - The Shepherd's Watch - newsletter

Published by Shepherd of the Hills Presbyterian Church

May 2011

Issue 5

The Search for Wisdom "Start with GOD-the first step in learning is bowing down to GOD." Psalm 1:7 The Message

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he equation of awe and respect for God with the beginning of wisdom is a theological claim. It implies that without proper piety, wisdom is impossible, as well as that proper piety is itself an element of wisdom. It immediately ties wisdom to both our character and our actions.

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths."

Psalm 3:5-6 NIV

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iblical wisdom is far more than intellectual knowledge. It must be based on and come from God reverence for God, respect for God's teaching, desire to imitate the character traits of God as demonstrated to us through Jesus. It also involves being able to accept instruction and even discipline.

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t's more than just intelligence, book learning, or memorization.

It's more even than experience, though a wise person will learn from his or her experiences. One also needs to listen to others with experience and learn from them. In community our pursuit of wisdom gains checks and balances.

Wisdom is seeing the big picture, often doing things that seem counterintuitive, making sacrifices now for greater rewards later. It is doing

what you know is right even when no one is looking.

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n a story told in 1 Kings 3:5-14, God told King Solomon to ask for whatever he wanted and Solomon asked for wisdom. Because God was so pleased that Solomon asked for wisdom instead of wealth or power or any other thing, God gave him wisdom and added everything else on top of it as well.

"God gave Solomon wisdom-the deepest of understanding and the largest of hearts."

1 Kings 4:29 The Message

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isdom is not just something we possess but how we live. Wisdom that is not put into practice has no value at all. Wisdom should lead to a fruitful life of good works based on living out our calling in the world. And those who live a life of this kind of wisdom will be greatly blessed.

"Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold.

She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her."

Psalm 3:13-15 NIV

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isdom comes from God and is lived out in community. So here at SHPC we try to offer many classes and experiences where, as a community of believers, we can seek God's wisdom together and support each other along the way. continued, next page

Grow: Adult Grow: Student Grow: Children Serve: Mission Serve: Endowment Connect & Calendar

1-7 8-9 10-11 13, 15 14 7, 12-15

SHPC Staff Guide Larry Coulter Senior Pastor Mike Killeen Associate Pastor Britta Dukes Associate Pastor Sherry Smith Adult Ministry Kim Arthur Early Childhood Ministry Chris Gordon Elementary Ministry Zack Uzzle Music Ministry Beth Watson Music Ministry Pattie Lawrence Director of Preschool Belva Koerth Office Manager Greg Merrell Business Manager Kimbol Soques Communications

Sermons for May Living in a Broken World May 1 Peace that Passes Understanding May 8 Living a Good Life in a Broken World May 15 Living a Life of Integrity in a Broken World May 21 Easter People May 29 Living a Life of Power in a Broken World

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any programs will soon be taking a summer break but now is the time to start planning what classes you might want to participate in when fall arrives. Now is when we plan and schedule classes for fall and train leaders. So, please contact me with questions, comments, and ideas. Come and search for wisdom with us!

ne of the big experiences that occurs about every two years is our travel study program.

A group has just returned from Israel where they have just had an experience that will forever change the way they read and interpret scripture. Read about that experience on page 3.

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his year's Disciple Bible Study classes are coming to a close. These long term Bible studies have always focused on transformation rather than just information. The aim is to give participants a chance to come together in community to search for the wisdom that leads to good discipleship.

Three things you should know about Adult Ministry classes & events:

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ur Journey Groups are a short and sweet way to dip your toe into the waters of Bible study and a great way to enter fellowship with people you might not otherwise run into. They form about three times a year and last for about 7 weeks.

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here are many other classes and events, including retreats and guest speakers. Look for more information at shpc.org and in the weekly worship bulletins.

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You don't have to be a church member to come. Visitors are welcome. Friends are welcome.

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Scholarships are almost always available so don't let the cost of materials keep you away.

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You don't have to be a "Bible scholar" to participate. We all learn from each other and often it is the "newbies" that ask the questions that lead to the best discussions.

summer worship series at shepherd of the hills... june 5th thru august 21st

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of Caiaphas’ palace and where Peter denied Christ 3 times, we stood in the pit where Jesus was detained overnight and listened as Larry read from Psalm 88.

Voyage Into Israel What is planted in summer, germinates throughout the fall, sprouts in mid- February, bursts into full-bloom for one week in March, and continues to grow and flourish for years to come?

The answer is—the relationships among the group from SHPC who traveled to Israel during Spring Break. Joyce Stewart and Larry Coulter picked the plot of land in which to grow this plant by planning the trip itinerary. The soil was tilled by the people who have previously traveled with Larry—as they shared their experiences, they recruited travelers for this trip.

Throughout the fall and early winter, Joyce and Larry nurtured the seeds with books to read and movies to watch, as well as teaching us about the biblical and cultural backgrounds of the sites we would visit. They tended the sprouting plant in February with a preparatory fellowship meal. And the plant began to blossom on Day 1—when we all met at the Houston airport to begin our long flight to Israel. Highlights of our 8 days in Israel follow.

DAY 5: Wednesday we visited the Garden of Gethsemane, where we saw ancient olive trees and reflected on Jesus’ emotions as he prayed so fervently that his sweat was like great drops of blood. Leaving the garden, we saw trees with long thorns and wondered if it was from the branches of a tree like this that the Roman soldiers fashioned the crown of thorns placed on Jesus’ head.

DAY 1: Arriving on the Sabbath, we had to wait until sundown before the Orthodox Jews could do the work—packing their clothes, carrying their bags, etc—in order to check out of their rooms. While waiting, we shared our first meal together in Israel. Sleep came easily this first night.

DAY 2: Sunday morning, we awoke to the sound of wind and waves from the Mediterranean Sea—just outside our balconies. W e traveled to Mt. Carmel, where the prophet Elijah challenged the 450 priests of Baal to see whose god would respond to the sacrifice.

DAY 3: Monday morning we worshiped in a boat on the Sea of Galilee, visited the site where Jesus preached the Sermon on the Mount, and participated in a Reaffirmation of our Baptismal vows in the Jordan River.

DAY 6: On Thursday, we traveled the Via Dolorosa—the way of sorrow—Jesus’ path to the cross. We ended the day at the Garden Tomb.

DAY 4: At our final stop on Tuesday, in the church of St. Peter Gallicantu—built on the site

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Tell me about Foundations!

Angela Peterson writes: ‘I started attending Foundations in the Spring of 2010 not knowing what to expect. I had heard good things like "friendly group, fun and entertaining" but I still wasn't 100% sure I wanted to join. Why? It seems like a silly question now but at the time I was concerned that everyone in the Foundations class would be further along in their Christian journey than me. Now, being born and raised Presbyterian, I know the church well. However, I knew Bible study was an aspect of my faith that I wanted to strengthen. I was thrilled when I joined the group as they welcomed me and my family with open arms. The Foundations group almost instantly relieved my anxieties and I felt very comfortable speaking about my faith and asking a LOT of questions. Shortly after joining we attended the Foundations retreat, which solidified my positive thoughts about this group.

We are all on this journey together so we might as well have some fun, break some bread, and share some laughs while on it!

In Christ, Angela.’

On April 2nd a lucky Silent Auction bidder got to cash in on a day's worth of yardwork provided by the folks of Foundations. Foundations’ donation raised $300 to benefit our Mexico & Guatemala missions! Thanks, y’all!

Please consider joining our Foundations family. We meet most Wednesday nights (we do not have class on KidStuf nights) from 6:30 - 7:30 pm in Room 7. Childcare (small fee applies), KidJaM or youth group is available for children through elementary age with advance registration appreciated. Dinner is served many weeks from 5:30 – 6:15 p.m. in the narthex for $5 per adult and $3 per child. The last 2 weeks of class this spring (May 4 and 18) we will be taking, scoring and discussing a spiritual gifts assessment.

Foundations will then be on summer break. Stay tuned for information on our Fall 2011 weekly study as well as our family retreat – to be held at Crier Creek mid-September. For more information, please call Tammy Boehman 512-695-6644.

King James and His Version of the Bible

society. The book includes:

This year marks the 400th anniversary of the (1) a helpful guide, with King James Version of the Bible. Why is it still glossary, to understanding the obscure aspects of the KJV the most-read book of all time in the Western language; (2) a short World? Take advantage of the opportunities anthology of interesting and this month to "rediscover" the world's bestinfluential quotes from the known translation and hear the often untold KJV; and, (3) the history of the English Bible stories behind its production. Sherry Smith translation and the factors that led to the KJV. will present "Who Wrote the King James Bi941.06 TEE Majestie: the King Behind the King James ble?" on May 17, at 11:00 in the FMC. SuppleBible - David Teems writes a "shared biography", telling about the first Stuart King of England (James ment your understanding with these titles: I) and the Bible that goes by his name. Viewing himself as the "new Solomon" over the newly united Great Britain, James sought to immortalize himself and his kingdom - his majesty - through the creation of "his" holy Bible. Teem reveals a rather "human" king and the unusual evolution of the Bible through this novel-like history book.

220.5 SWE Verily, Verily: The KJV - 400 Years of Influence and Beauty - Jon Sweeney offers an informative and inspirational, yet light-hearted and humorous, perspective on the King James Version of the Bible. He focuses on how it was created and why it is worth reading even in today's "modern" 4

Senior Moments

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HE SENIOR ADULT MINISTRY (SAM) sponsored two special events in April.

N APRIL 12TH, 40 members of SHPC and friends traveled to Schulenburg to view the historic painted churches. Boarding a bus at 8 a.m., the group toured two churches in the morning, broke for lunch at noon, and visited two more churches in the afternoon. The bus returned to SHPC at 5 p.m. The group enjoyed wonderful weather, an exceptional lunch, beautifully decorated churches, and marvelous fellowship.

No fish were caught, but there are surely some great stories of the "one that got away."

HE SAM COUNCIL WILL meet to plan senior events for the final six months of 2011 in late May. If you have any suggestions, council members would love to hear them. E-mail your suggestions to sam@shpc.org .

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Soup to Nuts Luncheon: Who Wrote the King James Bible?

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surprised to learn that it wasn't King James, perhaps you should come to the May 17th Soup to Nuts Luncheon where Sherry Smith will reveal interesting information about King James and how he got his Bible. For example, how could the son of Catholic, Mary Queen of Scots (an arch-rival both to Protestant Reformer, John Knox, and to Protestant Queen Elizabeth I of England), become the first king to rule over both Scotland and England and the first king to authorize and oversee a particular translation of the Bible into English? These were interesting times and events!

HIS YEAR WE CELEBRATE the 400th anniversary of the publication of the King James AuN APRIL 16TH, SHPC seniors gathered at Diane thorized Version of the Holy Bible. Join us on O'Leary's lake house on Lake Buchanan for a Tuesday, May 17th in the FMC at 11 a.m. to special Golden Years Lunch Bunch. The weather hear about the fascinating times and people that was gorgeous, and the lunch (hamburgers, pota- produced this much-beloved book and then stay to have a delicious lunch featuring a trio of salto salad, cole slaw, and cobbler) was delicious.

In addition to great conversations, some seniors ads (chicken, spinach, and fruit) catered by Our Lady of the Lunch, Beth Watson. For reservamanaged to dip their fishing poles in the lake. tions, contact Annie Ward at 373-8803 or Norma F YOU WOULD BE

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Burchard at 394-0131 by May 14th. The cost of the lunch is $6.50 per person. us for a wonderful lunch and good Christian fellowship.

SAM Groups through May: GROAN-UPS GAME DAY: Tuesday, May 10th at ASSOCIATION OF RETIRED CHRISTIAN MEN: 10 am in Room 7. Join us for an exciting We’ll gather May 12th & 26th at 10 a.m. in game of spinner dominoes or bring a new Portable B. Regardless of your age or status, game for us to learn. You'll enjoy the fellowyou are invited to each and every meeting. ship and friendly competition. For more inQuestions? Contact Ron Miller, 512-892-1862 formation, contact Stefan Haag at 288-3479. or ronald.miller1333@sbcglobal.net.

MARY MARTHA CIRCLE will meet Thursday, May GOLDEN YEARS LUNCH BUNCH: Saturday, May 5th, at 10 a.m. in room 7. The lesson will be 21st at 11:30 a.m., at Red Lobster, 3815 on Timothy, led by Sherry Smith. This is our South Lamar. The hosts will be Jim Black and last meeting until September 1st. We will Ruth Weese. For reservations, contact Jim have a covered dish luncheon following the Black at 892-2982 by Thursday, May 19th. Join meeting. ALL WOMEN are cordially invited to bring a covered dish and join us!

SAM (senior adult ministry) kicked off its busy spring with a retreat March 22nd-24th.

Chatting and rocking on the porch was a favorite way to relax between activities.

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Located in a beautiful garden with multiple semi-private areas for impromptu worship, this site offered the perfect place for us to worship and share communion.

group shopped in the old city, others visited some non-Biblical historical sites, and the rest of us visited the Israel Museum. Saturday night we left Israel and began the trek home.

DAY 7: Friday, we drove to the Qumran caves, where Bedouin sheepherders found Old Testament writings. We call these writings the Dead Sea scrolls. After supper we reflected on the entire trip— each of us naming an experience, a place, a feeling, or a hope repres enting “the most” for us.

And, now—a month after our trip? Our relationships with each other continue to flourish. Our Bible study is richer because of the added dimension of our own physical encounters with the places about which we read. And our faith is deepened as we remember our experiences in the Holy Land.

— Mari Lyn Jones, seminary intern

DAY 8: Saturday morning: free choice time. One group walked along the top of the walls of the old city of Jerusalem, another

COMING MAY 29th: CONCERT ON THE LAND with singer-songwriter WALT WILKINS FREE! STARTS 5:30 p.m. bring your own: picnic, lawn chair, and a dessert to share

SHPC Newsletter — read online!

(Are you a member and haven’t seen our invite in your email? Contact the church office church@shpc.org and let us know where to send the invitation!)

One of the things we have wanted for quite some time is a way for you to read this newsletter online as easily as you read it on paper. Well, we've found our answer—a smooth, easy-to-handle ereader with clickable links that take you straight to the SHPC webpage mentioned! And online subscribers can see the newsletter as it's designed: in full color. It's worth it for the photographs alone. Check your e-mail-box or check it out at members.shpc.org ...and while you’re there, sign up to be notified each month when the new one arrives!

If you aren’t already a Walt Wilkins fan, Walt has churned multi-miles beneath his wheels and gathered up the ragged thoughts and discarded pearls that help him to render the distinctive images and characters that follow. His songwriting is southern roots and road-worn gospel and the deep creases and genuine smile help to authenticate the honesty of his witnessing.

Whether performing solo, as a duo with his wife, Tina, or amped up with his brethren, the Mystiqueros, Walt entertains and helps us lay our burdens down. So come out to hear a good friend enjoy himself and please us with his vivid fictions and post card realities.

Sample some of Walt’s work at www.waltwilkins.com 7

SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS STUDENT MINISTRY

true What does it mean to be true?

If you ask 10 people, you are likely to get 10 different answers. Why? Because each of us has had an individual journey that develops our understanding of this word, as well as its impact on our lives.

SHPC true Student Ministries is a program dedicated to helping youth and young adults find their answer to this question.

At true, we focus on relationships — with other students, with a spiritual mentor, and most importantly, with our Lord and Savior.

There is no question to deep and no topic too serious. It is a chance to engage in a fun, safe and honest environment with other youth and young adults Similarly, each of us has asked seeking the same answers. At true, each person has a chance the question “Who is Christ, to ask the questions, get anand what is He to me?” We have each had our own journey, swers and learn their own path as they grow in their walk with our own experiences, and will Christ. have many more to come – all of which will help us shape our When you come to true, expect own individual relationship with to be greeted. Expect to have Christ. fun. Expect to have people fighting over you to be in their

MAY 2011 small group. Expect to be around people who want to have a real relationship with you. Expect an opportunity to ask the questions that you have always wanted. Expect to learn more about our Savior, and God’s plan for you in this amazing adventure we call life. true tween (5th-6th) meet Wednesdays from 6:00-730 PM in Portable B true mid-high (7th-8th) meet Wednesdays from 6:00-730 PM in the Awesome Student Activity Center true high school (9th-12th) meet Sundays from 6:00-730 PM in the Awesome Student Activity Center & Portable B true deeper (9th-12th) meet Sundays from 7:45-8:30 PM in the Awesome Student Activity Center & Portable B

A breath of cool as we head into hot hot summer...

Back over spring break, our high schoolers took a ski break. Looks like they had a lot of fun, even while stylin’ in their ski gear!

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SHEPHERD OF THE HILLS STUDENT MINISTRY I BELIEVE! If you had to create your own personal faith statement about what you believe about God what would you say? Well, our confirmation students over these past 10 weeks have been hard at work drafting their own statements. They have taken the time to ask themselves “What is it that I believe about God right now?” We asked them to be honest and clear. Here are some excerpts of what they said. You all should be proud because they truly have a developing and deep faith.

MAY 2011

them with His love, He put all of my sins on His shoulders.

Jesus offers me living water, salvation and eternal life. I believe in The Holy Trinity. He is three in one; The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. I believe that, although He may not answer our prayers as I want, God listens to my prayers. I believe that God sent Jesus to save me from my sins and die for me on the cross. He was born with Mary as his mother. I believe in the trinity; that God is three in one and one in three. The Bible was not physically written by God, but was inspired by Him. I know that I don’t deserve it, but God gives me unending, unconditional, and unmatched love through His son Jesus Christ. I will never completely understand the magnitude of what He has done for me but, I am truly excited to continue to live my life engulfed in the love of Jesus Christ.

I believe that God is the Father Almighty and he is the maker of all things living and non-living. I believe that Jesus Christ is his only son who suffered and died for our sins. I believe that because Jesus is the Son of God he is the epitome of righteousness and unconditional love. I believe that the Bible was written by humans, but inspired

by God. I believe that we need to believe and follow Jesus. I believe that Jesus is our savior. I believe that a church is not a building but a group of two or more people that share the same beliefs and come together to worship God. I believe that God will be there for you no matter what and He will always be loyal and truthful; He is the ultimate best friend.

I believe that if you want to be more involved with God than you have to take that extra step to get to know Him, not to sit around and wait for Him to come to you. I believe that Jesus died to save us all from our sins. I believe our LORD is an amazing GOD and has a plan for each and every one of us. an amazing plan for our lives, that we can choose to make happen, to follow what GOD wants, and to live our lives for him. I believe that the Bible is not a history book. Some of the stories in it are true, others are just that: stories to teach us how to live more like Jesus wants us too. I believe that God’s love is unconditional. I believe that anyone can go to heaven. Jesus’ sacrifice was for all of humanity. Because sins are what separates me from God, God sent his one and only son to die for me, so I can live forever with Him. God should come first in my lives, I am second. He has taken away all of the harmful things in my life and replaced

And it goes on! I want to invite you join with the confirmation class of 2011 and dare you to write your own faith statement! Take the time to think and pray about what you really believe and are willing to put to paper!

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Children’s Ministry News Coming this Fall to SHPC — Mothers Of PreSchoolers (MOPS)!

What is MOPS? A MOPS group is a dynamic, inviting environment where a mom can come— just as she is—to build friendships, be encouraged and gain practical parenting strategies... all while her children are lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program.

Join us for our summer worship series!

MOPS embraces the model of lifestyle evangelism — that through meeting the needs of moms, we demonstrate the love of Jesus for them in the following ways:

When school closes for the summer, we like to shake things up around SHPC. Each summer we “do church” a little differently as we bring the whole family in to worship together.

Coming up this year:

Ÿ Teaching and encouraging women about issues that are relevant to their stages of life

Acting as the Church To Serve the world

Ÿ Sharing our faith through actions and the way we live Ÿ Taking the opportunity at least twice a year to present the gospel

How will I see MOPS directly impact my church?

An ACTion packed summer of family worship beginning June 5th with our Pentecost Picnic!

Activities and lessons for the kids, vibrant worship for the whole family all summer long!

Moms who might not normally go to church will often join a MOPS group. In this season of early mothering, the need for practical help and spiritual hope provides the church with an opportunity to meet the long-term needs of the mom and her family. Through practical experience and training, MOPS gives women opportunities to develop their leadership skills to go on to serve in leadership positions in their churches, communities and places of work.

MOPS at SHPC will begin this fall (September through May) on the 2nd and 4th Thursday mornings in the FMC.

members.shpc.org/children/events/clubh2o.php

If you would like to join us, have interest in helping with this program or just want more information please contact Kim Schafer (512) 3011788 kts@austin.rr.com or Suzie Bridges (512) 299-1858 suziebrdgs@gmail.com

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more Children’s Ministry News Last one for this school year! Don’t miss it!

MAY 11 6:30-7:15 p.m. (what is kidstuf? it’s a fast, noisy, zany, multimedia, kid-focused, parent-centered, virtue-driven 45-minute extravaganza! ask your elementary-aged kid to bring you along!)

Wonderful Spring! submitted by Jenny McLatcher

The preschool families and children have been look of wonder and surprise on their faces as very busy this spring with fun educational ac- they take in the amazing world around them. tivities with in the school and service projects Our families have also been hard at work this in the community. spring with service projects. In March several Our children participated in a Cowboy and Ro- of our families helped to make the playground deo day that had everyone roping cows to a safe place for the children by spreading toasting marshmallows over an open fake fire. gravel donated by the Hendrix family. Thanks!

This event helped to wrap up a month-long unit on Texas, farm animals and cowboys. The children always love this wonderful event.

The latest adventure at the preschool was the Rainforest Walk. The kids and teachers spent time talking about the rainforest and its inhabitants and then walked through a room full of trees and bushes trying to spot and identify stuffed parrots, snakes, monkeys and other wild creatures. It is a real gift to watch the

We also donated two carloads of supplies to the Town Lake animal shelter for our Spring Mission Project to help all God’s creatures.

Our preschool is a wonderful and loving place that brings such joy to so many. I am so glad that God has blessed our teachers and staff to be such a blessing to our children and from that our children and families are such a blessing to others.

FORGIVENESS deciding that someone who has wronged you doesn’t have to pay 11

Please pray for members of the Armed Forces, loved ones, and all world leaders involved in war zone crises including: Robert Beardslee, grandson of Bob & Carolyn Beardslee and husband of Jenna... Pattie Lawrence's cousin, Mark Hollahan… Jason Mills, son-inlaw of Junie Ledbetter & Gaston Broyles... Tyler Moser, son of a friend of Dee & Greg Merrell... Mathew Dalton, nephew of Mark & Tracy Lord... Temple & Janet Ingram’s daughter Kate Ingram... James Crowder, friend of Tom & Mike McNelley... Eric Wesley, Jack & Carol Gilchrist’s friend... Christopher Lehmann, son of Mark Lehmann...

Larry Roberman, brother of Lori Whitmire... Eric Huerta, nephew of Michael McNelley’s co-workers...

Derek & Kristi Fisher's nephew, John Fisher...

Joys –

Sophie Helen Pilatin, niece of Scott & Debra Windham, born April 17th— Sally Schilstra's uncle James Howell's biopsy for skin cancer came back negative—Mo O’Meara’s twin sister Virginia is recovering quickly from hip replacement surgery—Lauren May, daughter of Nona May & alumna of SHPC’s student ministry, was accepted into the Harvard Divinity School for next fall—Georgia Crawley’s sister-inlaw’s nephew, Kevin Knutson, released from the hospital—Derek King Addison, son of Emily & Jason Addison, was born March 14th; grandparents are Al & Jai Leigh Addison and Sue Lagerquist & Derek Green

Sorrows –

Pat Haag's mother, Martha Rowland, died April 6th—Bethany Gonzales' father, and Brooks & Kendall’s grand-father, Ross Chiles, died on March 26th

Please pray for—

Helen Turrentine’s granddaughter’s friend Brandi, single parent with multiple sclerosis now in ICU—Sam Brinks’ friend Christine Bashara, her children, and extended family, on the unexpected death of her husband Tom—Sally Schilstra, staph infection flareup surrounding a prosthetic elbow—families who have lost their homes to grass fires, including families in Oak Hill and Tricia DuBois’ brother in West Texas—the firefighters battling these grass fires—rain—Joy Essary, recovering from pacemaker implantation and further testing— Sarah Kessler, Scott Windham’s cousin, undergoing last round of chemo—Faye Quinn, of Scott Windham’s family, fractured hip— Steve Thompson, hit in the eye by a ricocheting golf ball, recovering from surgery with more to come—Suzanne Martinez, upcoming surgery—Ruben Martinez, recovering from a fall—Judy Schroeder’s mother, Alice Nichols, pneumonia and urinary tract infection—Susan Beckman's aunt, Eleanor Twillman, breast cancer—Adeina Tucker, rehab at West Oaks—Corrine Bowers & family, whose son Hayden recently committed suicide— Krista Kilbane’s friend, Norma Chapa, and her

family, on the accidental death of her 21-yearold son, Ryan Tschatschula—Victor Letbetter, son-in-law of Jim & Martha Meador, recovering from surgery—Bruce & Maryellen Albertson’s friend, Lisa Hudson-Castilleja, recovering from brain surgery, and her husband, Charlie—Bruce & Maryellen Albertson’s friend Don Crawford, undergoing radiation following surgery to remove a malignant tumor on an ear—the family, friends, and classmates of Jesse Hunt, a junior at Dripping Springs High School who died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound April 1st— Sandra Mann, psoriatic arthritis, an extremely painful condition—Anna Littrell and Joy Kouts' sister, Pat Maxwell, terminal cancer—Deanne Pearson’s mother, Catherine Thedford, lung infection—Clift Bowman, recovering from splenectomy to treat low platelets—Angela Peterson's friend’s mom, the Rev. Kathy Treviño, lung surgery results do not look positive—Krista Kilbane, health issues—Sherry

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Rasmus’ mother, Peg Gray, broken bone(s) in her foot—Lisa Crawford’s mother, Eleanor Lipscomb, medical testing—Roz Seiler, recovering from outpatient surgery —Ken Seiler, healing—Ruth Olson, recovering from two simultaneous surgeries—Marjorie Windham, Scott Windham’s grandmother, hospitalized for mini-stroke —Alicia Bollem Harsh, Jonathan & Amy Slaughter’s cousin, recovering from spinal surgery—family & friends of Pastor Jesse Essinger and Angus McPhail at their deaths—Kristi Brasher, friend of Amy Slaughter, premature labor with twins— teachers, librarians, and school administrators in Central Texas, as their districts face budget cuts—Austin, the city where we’re planted—the leadership of SHPC as they discern a path for our future—Pastor Kenneth Muyira & the congregation of Manyamula Presbyterian Church—Pastor Chimwemwe Mhango and his family

Thank you, IHN Volunteers!

Thanks to our volunteers during the week of March 613, 2010! You have followed God's command and shown compassion for our brothers and sisters in their time of crisis.

May God's blessings be returned to you.

Thank you! Volunteers-Suzanne Gross, Lisa and Sam Teeple, Chester Wuest, Margi Lark, Schroeder family, Julie Demaree, Diane O'Leary, Jody Barrett, Dawn and Taylor Houston, Whitten family, Laura Bost, Carl Floto, Roy Goldsmith, Joan Gatwood, Paul Root, Edith Sanchez, Sunday Night Group, Don Greathouse, Harriett, Catherine Hilton :: Donors-Nancy McDonald, Summer Whitten, Lisa Dillard, Phyllis Greene, Kim Schafer, Jamie May,

Leslie Woods, Susan Fields, Jane Hall, Mike Devlin, Pam Gunter, Julie Nachman, Peggy F., Alison Boob, Stephanie Parker, Kathy Segura, Margaret Roberts, Merijane V., Tracy Kuper, Jennifer Franco, Harriett Cavness, Dawn and Taylor Houston, Marin V. :: Coordinators: Lara Manire, Marsha Holt, Stuart McIntire— working with volunteers from our supporting churches Faith Presbyterian, Abiding Love Lutheran, & St. Catherine’s

Garage Sale Success!

With your help, we raised over $3100 for the school house in Africa! It took over 120 hours of work from 36 volunteers, plus the loads and loads of boxes of donations from both church members and the community. Thanks for all your time, talent, items, strong arms, and prayers. A special thanks to the ABS group that made and sold breakfast tacos!

We can’t do it without our GREAT volunteers! If we've missed your name or misspelled it, please let us know and we do apologize. Stuart McIntire stuart78704@yahoo.com / 788-445.

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20 May

21 May

Bill & Dorothy Stokes, Tim & Azam Waugh, Darren & Kassandra Stalbaum, Karen & Preston Thompsen Ron & Annie Ward Will & Aimee Petty, Tom Nuckols & Sherine Thomas,Rachel & Jeff Cloyd Kim & Larry Coulter Mal & Blanche Hunter, Bill & Kim Grubb, Sam & Erica Taylor, Mark & Andrea Macera Eric Schultz & Liz Boyce, Clara & Bruce Oliver Chauvie & Suzanne Lunsford, Taylor & Dawn Houston Blair & Anne Streit Ralph & Sarah Peters Karen & Tim Wheeler Marvin & Susan Sprouse Tommie & Daisy Bates, Kelly & Brian Melnyk David & Lisa Laird, Alfred & Rita Teague Bryan & Stephanie Parker, Courtney & Alec Smith, Bryan & Stephanie Parker Rob & Karen Johnson, Greg & Katy Bourgeois, Linda & Glen Vorwerk Laren & Debbie Schiller, Dale & Shannon Shumaker

22 May Allan & Margaret Fetty, Todd & Jeanne Thompson 23 May Lori & Pete Seiferth 24 May Mark & Cecile Hanna, David Palmer & Linda Hargrove 25 May Jim & Karen Ayers, Alan & Jennifer Hanna, David & Becca Thompson, Sarah & Sean Golliher, Bo & Dana Wilkes, Barry & Dayna Wallace 27 May Stan & Susan Fields, Nick & Jessica Goulding

5 May

SILVER ANNIVERSARIES

10 May

18 May

Chris & Cheryl Olson, Tracy & Steve Reeves

2 May

3 May

4 May

7 May

8 May

9 May

11 May

BIRTHDAYS 1 May

6 May

Grace Fowler Bill Ellis, Justin Wallace, Maria Sato, Tison Palrang Karen Harrington, Ken Johnson, Renee Philips, Glenn Dukes, Dayna Wallace, Carol Lee, Boniface Ngalamulume, Harrison King Clift Bowman, Diane Ramirez, Nick Goulding, Andrew Petty, Blake Ayers Mike Forsythe, Sarah Stranahan, Janet Ingram, Karen Ayers, Suzannah Land, Courtney Wilkins, Joey Killeen

13

12 May

13 May 14 May 15 May

16 May

17 May

Hal Elliott, Tim Scott, Sheryl Morgan, Lisa Laird, Chauvie Lunsford, Elizabeth Collins Barbara Ables, Debbie Chase, Mark Smith, Camille Philips Sharon Rothert, Jarrett Petty, Claire Gerlach, Abigail Bourgeois, Rachel Baschnagel Louis Mize, Don Anne Williford, Ray Litteaur, Devin Chalberg, Finley Milam David Howard, Larry Coulter, Maia Batte, Grady Hicks Marilyn Skannal, Sean Ayers, Mary McLatcher Tracy Reeves, James Lee, Leslie Todd, Anna Floyd, Ethan Padovani Corinne Davis, Kathy Kalda, Muffie Peterson, Mike Devlin Rylee Nichols, Will Thomas Steve Donnell, Andrew Bohl Kim Harkness, Kyle Folkers, Zoe Smith, Zack Smith Bobby Nelson, Ruth Weese, Marvin Sprouse, Wes Thomas Tom Nuckols, Summer Whitten, Dorothy Wynne, Anthony Kirsch, Jaxson VandeGarde, Audrey Arthur

18 May 19 May

20 May

21 May

22 May 23 May 24 May 25 May

26 May 27 May

28 May 29 May

30 May

31 May

Helen Turrentine, Ruth Stein, Cathy Busse Linda Vorwerk, Jeff Elliott, Trevor VanOsselaer, Avery Camp Bear Wallace, Will Mattingly, Natalie Thompson, Nathan Thompson, Truman Hill Ruth Olson, Mark Tarrant, Ben Boehman, Zach Reeves, Colson Farwell, Haydn Owensby Becca May, Alana Rooke, Caroline O'Leary Kim Klotz Raynell Barry, Mitchell Forsythe Brian Walsh, Alfred Teague, Jennifer Grance, Claire Moulton, Shawn McCoy Mal Hunter, Barbara Coleman Richard Nakamura, Marjorie Parmer, Chris Olson, Rhonda Biles Carolyn Deutsch, Marc Sonnier Ann Hayes, Lynn Wright, Cody McCrary, Andre Ngalamulume Junie Ledbetter, Matt Arthur, Brittany Baschnagel Amanda Hall Merits, Luis Franco, Louis Owensby, Tory VanOsselaer, Blake Chase

Lee Simmons 4013 Manchaca Rd. #24 Austin TX 78704

Ted & Fran Miller 12900 SW Ninth St #234 Beaverton OR 97005

The Power of God's Love Working Forever... through the Endowment Fund submitted by Deb Erlanson, Endowment Committee

In the past few years, we have celebrated God's love for us and our love of our mothers by contributing a part of the Caring Forever Endowment Fund to someone nominated by our congregation. The nominations have been submitted, and the task force appointed by the Session is carefully reviewing and considering each one. The recipient(s) will be announced on Mother's Day, Sunday, May 8th.

Here's how the Endowment Fund works: Contributions are invested, and the earnings are awarded. So your contributions stay in the Fund forever, generating other dollars that are awarded in later years‌to expand and enrich the mission and ministry of our church. Think of the power of that! A contribution you make today will still be helping others 25, 50, even 100 years or more from now!!

So please continue your support by contributing to Caring Forever 2011. On Mother's Day (May 9th), there will be a special Caring Forever 2011 envelope in the bulletin for any contribution you are able to make. And if you want to make your contribution in honor of your mother, or any other person, just complete the form below.

We have special Mother's Day cards to send to mothers, and special notes for others to let them know of your thoughtfulness and love.

Of course, you don't have to wait until May 8th to contribute. You can put a contribution in the offering any Sunday—just be sure your check includes the note "Endowment Fund." (If you'd like a contribution envelope, there are some in the wall rack in the narthex.)

Have questions? Just ask an Endowment Committee member (Gaston Broyles, Deb Erlanson, Beaman Floyd, Marilyn Wade, or Doug Wilkins).

Caring Forever 2011 Dedication Form (Please Print)

This contribution is in

q honor

q memory of:

Name

(This

Please send an appropriate card to: Name Address

This contribution is being made by: 14

q is

q is not

my mother)

15

Disciple 1, FMC :: MYC Devotional, rm. 7 Worship Choir, sanctuary :: Disciple 4, library

Disciple 3, library Wednesday Night Live! dinnertime true tween & mid-hi, Student Activity Center Handbell Choir, rm. 5 :: Wednesday Evening Bible Study (WEBS), library :: Foundations, rm. 7 Praise & Worship rehearsal, sanctuary

Icing on the Cake, port. B

“Groan”-Ups Game Day, rm. 7 Prayer Shawl Ministry, rm. 7

Family Fun Day

Mary-Martha Circle

Association of Retired Christian Men, port B Book Group, port. B

KidStuf!, FMC :: no Foundations

Mother’s Day

Soup to Nuts, FMC

Prayer Shawl Ministry, port. B Book Group, library

last Foundations class for school year

5:30 p.m.

29 Sunday

9:30 a.m.

10 a.m.

26 Thursday

Concert on the Land

Last MYC for school year; summer info tba Association of Retired Christian Men, port B

MISSION FAIR & HOLY SMOKES BBQ COOKOFF!

22 Sunday

Disciple 1 / Thursdays Retreat 11:30 a.m. Golden Years Lunch Bunch

21 Saturday

JUNE childcare request deadline

20 Friday

10 a.m.

11 a.m.

19 Thursday

6:30 p.m.

18 Wednesday

11 a.m.

17 Tuesday

12:30 p.m. Malawi Mission Network Welcome Team, rm. 7 6 p.m.

Graduation Dinner, FMC JUNE newsletter deadline

15 Sunday

10 a.m.

7 p.m.

12 Thursday

6:15 p.m.

11 Wednesday

10 a.m.

7 p.m.

10 Tuesday

8 Sunday

1 p.m.

7 Saturday

10 a.m.

5 Thursday

Feel free to tear off and save this page to help you keep on top of everything that’s happening at Shepherd of the Hills!

7 p.m.

9:30 a.m.

Thursday

7 p.m.

6:30 p.m.

6 p.m.

9:30 a.m.

5:30 p.m.

Wednesday

Disciple 1, library

The Ark, UpStreet, Faithwalk The Ark, Live B.I.G. true high school, Student Activity Center true deeper, Student Activity Center

No Faithwalk 5:30 p.m. Young Adults, library

During the week of June 5th — 12th, four IHN families will live at our church and will be fed and sheltered by volunteers at our church. Sign up in the narthex for this opportunity or contact Stuart McIntire stuart78704 @ yahoo.com / 788-4455 or Lara Manire 922-3615.

10 a.m.

Tuesday

7 p.m.

Monday

7:15 p.m.

9:30 a.m.

11 a.m.

6 p.m.

Sunday

EVERY WEEK

1 Sunday

Our guests are coming!

Malawi Mission Network is coming to Austin... and SHPC is hosting!

On May 15th, at 12:30 p.m. in Room 7, come hear about the Malawi Mission Network’s August meeting in Austin—and how you can help SHPC show our welcome and hospitality!

Join us in celebrating the work that we do together in Malawi, Africa! As the host congregation for this important event, we expect about 40-45 guests from outside Austin and about 35 local participants.

People will be arriving from all over the U.S. on August 11, with the Malawi Mission Network holding its face-to-face meeting August 11th to 14th at the Wyndham Garden Hotel.