FALL & WINTER I SEPTEMBER 2020 I wmutx.org
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” MATTHEW 28:18-20 (NIV)
YOU Can Make a Difference by Giving ●
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Arena/Outreach Events help new cowboy church starts and smaller cowboy churches reach people for Christ a build a presence in their community. South Texas Women’s Build is a partnership between WMU of Texas and Buckner International in which women construct a new home for a family in the El Polvorin Colonia in Peñitas, Texas. Border Crisis Ministry attends to the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of refugees at the McAllen Respite Center and deportees at the Nuevo Laredo Migrant Center. RECHARGE provides encouragement, training, and resources for African American churches as they seek to revitalize their churches and reach their communities for Christ. Christian Women’s Job Corps® and Christian Men’s Job Corps® sites are provided consultation, resources, and training. You may designate gifts to the Mary Hill Davis Offering for Texas Missions throughout the year through your church, directly to WMU of Texas, or online at iamtexasmissions.org.
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MESSAGE
FROM TAMIKO I believe we can all agree that Covid-19 has caused many of us to adjust our daily lives to new community rules and social norms. If we have done nothing else since March of this year, we have had to adjust. We have adjusted to keeping our physical distance from each other, to attending church services online, to different working conditions, to various methods of homeschooling, to different ways of grocery shopping, and to accepted ways of serving our communities. Yes, God has allowed us to continue serving our communities through this pandemic. You gathered cotton material and elastic and sewed masks for essential workers, created drive-through food pantries to ensure students and unemployed families were fed, adjusted your mission trip travel plans to accommodate service in your local communities, and you have financially supported and discovered ways to assist smaller churches as they wade through the murky waters of this pandemic. You have trusted God to meet your needs as you have sought to meet the needs of others. Have you noticed yourself doing things you thought you would never do? Have you learned to use a new tool such as Zoom or Google Hangouts? Are the Facebook Live church services more appealing now that you are comfortable with social media? I certainly look forward to the day when we can all return to the church building to fellowship in person with other believers; however, I do not mind adjusting to an online platform to ensure we remain safe and that we continue to share Christ with others. As WMU of Texas continues to adjust, we will offer more online training options and remain flexible in the methods we use to communicate and share with you. When we began 2020, we did not know what was ahead of us on the journey, but God knew. He has been in control and will remain in control. Remember from the familiar passage, Proverbs 3:5-6, that we are to “trust in the Lord with all [our] heart and lean not on [our] own understanding; in all [our] ways submit to him, and he will make [our] paths straight.� If you are like me, you do not mind adjusting because you trust the One who is in control. WMU of Texas appreciates your flexibility and willingness to continue serving through this Covid-19 pandemic. Ministry continues in new and exciting ways.
Thank you for joining us on this journey! In His Name,
Tamiko C. Jones Executive Director-Treasurer WMU of Texas
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CONTENTS
Message from Tamiko........................................... 4
Saturday, October 3, 2020 10 am - 3 pm (CDT)
The Woman’s Missionary Union of Texas Regional Training is designed to encourage, equip, and train missions group leaders and volunteers at Texas Baptists churches.
Regional Training................................................. 5 A Word from the President................................... 6 Resources............................................................. 7 Staying Connected Through Facebook..............8-9 Mary’s House........................................................ 9 Reaching Beyond the Walls................................10 CWJC Intern, Kaylee Henderson........................11 In Memoriam................................................12-13 Becky Ellison, Paula Jeser SWC, CWJC Endowment Honorarium CWJC/CMJC Endowment and CWJC Ministries Becky Ellison Alumni Award............................14 Women’s Build...................................................15 WMU Staff Updates............................................16 Sisters Who Care 2021 Event.............................17 Go Now Missions, Karla, DBU Student...............18 Language Curriculum, Hongkak Koo.................19 River Ministry Update ........................................20 WMU of Texas Officers........................................21 WMU of Texas Executive Board......................21-22 WMU of Texas Staff.............................................22 2020 Calendar....................................................23
New: Digital Training for Missions Group Leaders This year’s Regional Training will be offered online in partnership with Texas Baptists E-Training. Attendees will join WMU of Texas leaders for two exciting general sessions and receive access to a library of virtual training workshops for missions groups leaders. General sessions and training workshops will be made available on October 3. THE BRIDGE
Save the Date April 2021 PURSUE Event............24
THE BRIDGE Published bi-annually by WMU of Texas Tamiko Jones Executive Director-Treasurer 10325 Brockwood Road Dallas, TX 75238 214.828.5150 wmutx.org
X facebook.com/wmuoftexas ^ instagram.com/wmuoftexas \ pinterest.com/wmutx 5
A WORD
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Along the Journey, Together The past few months have been different than any other in our lifetime! Last fall, as most of us were making our annual plans for the year, we could not have known what really would be ahead for us. Plans for our age-level mission groups, Spring Break mission trips, summer camps, summer mission trips, mission projects in our communities, special missionary speakers…all of that came to an unplanned screeching halt last February. We were not even allowed to visit our families, the sick or go to school, work or church!! Schools began teaching classes online, parents became teachers at home (while many worked from home as well), graduations were cancelled, surgeries and doctor appointments were cancelled, weddings had to be postponed, funerals were not allowed, and graveside services were limited to ten or less…and no hugging. No one could find toilet paper, paper towels, disinfecting wipes or hand sanitizer in the stores for months! No eating out. Stores were closed. No hair and nail salons were open…for about three months!
Instead, we were sheltering in place, practicing social distancing, washing our hands to the bones, wearing masks whenever we dared to venture out of our homes, watching church online, etc. We just had to stay put! Our emotions were like a roller coaster. Life as we knew it changed and we will continue to discover how much it really did change. We were all trying to figure out what to do and how to do it. Our hearts were crushed as loved ones and friends got sick and died. Our doctors, nurses and first responders were pushed to the limits of their abilities all around the world. I kept thinking about Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the plans I have for you”, declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” And Proverbs 3:5, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” These and other verses gave me an inner peace to deal with what was going on. The Coronavirus took over our world. It affected people in many different ways, both good and bad. My prayer is that we have
all gleaned new insights about living life and trusting God more. What have you learned during these last few months about yourself, your relationships with your family, your relationships with friends, the importance of the church? Hopefully, we can all look at life a little differently… to focus on what really is important. to prioritize our lives to be more focused on Christ. to be aware of the excellent resources of WMU to help in these troubled times. to be a better example in our daily lives as we reflect Christ in all we say and do. to take more initiative to share Christ and meet the needs of people we meet along this journey we are on, together!
Earl Ann Bumpus President, WMU of Texas 6
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Missions Mosaic
Be inspired by true stories of people who are transforming their communities for Christ. Each issue of Missions Mosaic equips you with a Bible study, prayer starter, ministry ideas and evangelism tools. For your children, you’ll find family missions tips to involve them in ministry. Every issue includes Prayer Patterns — daily devotions followed by a listing of missionaries each month.
Missions Leader
This easy-to-use, 96-page guide will introduce you to the year’s overarching themes and special projects and give insight into all things WMU for 2020-21.
The World Around Us
Women on Mission Leader
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Learn about 12 different people groups living among you and how you can build relationships that can lead to sharing Christ. DIGITAL DOWNLOAD ONLY.
Encourage women in your church to dig deeper into missions together as you pray, learn and go. With these quarterly group-gathering plans, you’ll find fresh ideas to spruce up your time together and creative ways to impact your community for Christ! Download for easily accessible plans you can take as you go.
Missions Plan Book
Comprehensive resource for growing missions involvement in your language church, small church, or Adults on Mission group! Each of Missions Plan Book’s 12 monthly units includes a Bible study, mission study, prayer page, and meeting plan. Quarterly articles offer ideas for mission action, leaders, Families on Mission, and Project HELP. In Basic English for new English readers.
Misiones para todos
¡NUEVO! Recurso bilingüe y descargable para líderes misioneras hispanas. Disponible trimestralmente o como una suscripción de un año. Escrito principalmente por líderes hispanos, ofrece muchas ayudas para nuevas líderes y para líderes cuya iglesia apenas empieza la WMU (UFM). Se incluyen estudios bíblicos y estudios misioneros mensuales. 7
STAYING CONNECTED THROUGH FACEBOOK GROUPS By Brandi Jones, WMU of Texas Marketing Specialist
In 2020, people around the world have experienced an unprecedented time of separation. This time apart has not only reminded us of what’s most important, but also forced us to rely on a variety of tools to stay connected with our friends and loved ones. One of those tools has been Facebook Groups. At the start of the pandemic, Nona Jones, head of global faithbased partnerships at Facebook said, “Your Facebook page is your front porch. Facebook Live is you opening the front door and Facebook Groups is you inviting people into your living room for a conversation.” Wise words! During this season, let us invite our missions group members into our living room for a conversation.
HOW TO START A FACEBOOK GROUP:
STEP 2: CREATE A CONTENT SCHEDULE Create a content schedule to keep your Group active. Post at least once a day for the first couple of months, and possibly longer depending on the engagement in the Group. If your members take it upon themselves to post consistently, reduce your content schedule to 2-3 times a week. To create a content schedule, you must first determine the type of content you will want to share each day of the week. Once your content type has been determined, write down each day of the month on a sheet of paper, and fill in your content ideas for each day (see example below). To save time, create your posts in advance and schedule them to post at a later time and date. SAMPLE CONTENT SCHEDULE:
STEP 1: CREATE A PRIVATE FACEBOOK GROUP Start here: Visit facebook.com/groups and select the ‘create group’ button in the left sidebar menu. Create a private Facebook Group, invite your missions group members to join, and assign admin rights to your missions group leaders. Your Group’s admins will be responsible for managing the Group and creating content. Once your admins have been assigned, set the posting permissions to allow any group member posting rights. Under post approval, you can check the box requiring admins to approve all posts before they appear in the Group. 8
Focus your content ideas on posts that will inspire conversation and encourage engagement. SUNDAYS: Post the church’s livestream service. MONDAYS: Post a motivational quote or scripture from Sunday’s message. TUESDAYS: Post a missions activity for your members to enjoy at home. WEDNESDAYS: Ask for prayer requests. THURSDAYS: Post about this week’s missions lesson. FRIDAYS: Have a member post a Facebook Live devotional inside the Group page. SATURDAYS: Post a helpful resource, article, tool, etc.
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JOIN WMU OF TEXAS FACEBOOK GROUP
STEP 3: PROMOTE AND GROW YOUR MISSIONS GROUP To make your Facebook Group easier to find, ask your church’s social media manager to link your missions group to the church’s public Facebook page. Once your group has been linked, promote your missions Facebook group in your church’s announcements and newsletters to create interest. In the promotion, explain what your missions group is about and why you started the Facebook group. Don’t forget to include the benefits of joining online and in-person.
Connect with over 320 WMU leaders, members, volunteers, and directors from across the state in our WMU of Texas Facebook group. This group is your safe space to fellowship, ask questions, request prayer, and encourage each other in ministry. Join by visiting https://www.facebook.com/groups/wmuoftexas.
Send our team a link to your Facebook group by email at wmutx@txb.org and we’ll be happy to join you and your members as you grow together. Have questions about Facebook Groups? I’m here to help. Reach out to me by email at brandi. wmutx@txb.org.
We continue to pray and believe God ’s timing is perfect!
MARY’S HOUSE
WMU of Texas, Texas Baptist Men and the World Mission Center at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary are partnering to renovate a duplex on the SWBTS campus. Two lovely homes will be provided for stateside
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missionaries to enjoy as they move to Fort Worth as missionaries in residence. While the work is currently on hold, we continue to pray and believe God’s timing is perfect for the renovation and preparation for the first missionaries to have a home.
DURING THE OCTOBER 2019 BOARD MEETING, our executive board traveled to Fort Worth to prayerwalk the duplex to be renovated for missionaries in residence at SWBTS.
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REACHING BEYOND THE WALLS By: TERI USSERY, Missional Lifestyle Strategist for Preschool, Children, Youth and Young Adults
I remember when all my children were still at home and life got really crazy. Schedules. Games. Activities. Church. We were running all the time. One word that soon became a “bad word” in our house was the “f” word. Slow down. NOT what you’re thinking. My kids got so tired of hearing that we needed to be “flexible,” that they soon just called it the “f” word. I’m beginning to feel the same way about the “c” word. I’m tired of “COVID-19” dictating everything we do and how we are allowed to do it. I’m weary of having a pop-up window on every website I visit giving me that website’s “COVID-19” information. I don’t know if you are having “COVID-19 fatigue” or not, but I know that the last few months have completely changed the way we all do life.
While the “c” word has brought many challenges, it has also opened new doors of opportunity to truly reach beyond the walls of the church as we make disciples who make disciples.
ONLINE ACTEENS. FREEMAN HEIGHTS IN GARLAND moved their Acteens meetings online. A part of their gathering included a virtual prayerwalk using Google Maps. SOCIAL DISTANCING MISSIONS PROJECTS. Retama Park in Kingsville challenged their Acteens to get involved. The Acteens leader dropped off materials on front porches and provided an online video instruction for making masks. They mailed the masks to the national WMU offices, Baptist Friendship House in Louisiana, and a NAMB missionary ministering in Detroit. MISSIONS MONDAY. WMU OF TEXAS provided a weekly opportunity for children across the state to join in and experience missions discipleship online. Stories, activities and prayer for missionaries were hallmarks of the weekly video posted at 10am on Mondays.
AS PRESCHOOL, CHILDREN AND STUDENT MISSIONS LEADERS, I can only imagine how you have been stretched to be ultra-creative in how to provide missions discipleship via distance learning. So many of the groups across our state have really stepped up to the plate to provide experiences and learning activities so far outside of the box, that we can’t even find the box. Here are just a few ideas I’ve seen happening around the state. VIRTUAL MISSION FRIENDS. First Baptist, Grand Prairie created “drive-by” experiences to stay connected with their preschoolers. Teachers filled goodie bags with activities, snacks and even treats for parents to help continue to provide missions discipleship. They had a Zoom meeting where they enjoyed stories and online connection as a group. They even did a Mission Friends song tag! 10
We know that there is a power within each girl to change the world. You can allow this power to work through you to change your life, your community, and your world for Jesus Christ. THE BRIDGE
CWJC INTERN
Kaylee Henderson Gratitude Statements from the WMU of Texas staff:
We are grateful for Kaylee’s... ... sweet smile. ... obedience to God’s call on her life. ... exuberance and friendliness. ... leadership and heart for missions. ... passion to share Christ with others. ... heart for CWJC/CMJC. ... willingness to step in and help Becky Ellison every step of the way. THE BRIDGE
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Becky Ellison OCTOBER 28, 1961 – MAY 16, 2020
Christian Women’s Job Corps®/Christian Men’s Job Co Consultant for Woman’s Missionary Union of Texa
Becky began working with CWJC, a job-training and life-skills minist 2004. In 2014, four years after she was diagnosed with a rare form o approved treatment, she became a full-time strategist and consultan CMJC with WMU of Texas. In that role, she worked with more than 50 around the state.
Tamiko Jones, Executive Director-Treasurer, shared sentiments from a Becky – “We give God all praise and glory for allowing us to serve alon and for the honor of knowing her. We will definitely miss her and we do not grieve as those who have no hope (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). W Becky is no longer in pain and was received by our Heavenly Father w
Becky is survived by her husband of 36 years, Michael; daughter Che her husband Robert; grandson Robert Massey III; and sister Karen G
To continue to honor the leg CWJC/CMJC Endow
TEXAS CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S/MEN’S JOB CORPS E Funds support various aspects of this ministry in wh
Christian Women’s Job Corps and Christian Men’s Job faithfully supported the ongoing ministry of CWJC/CMJC sites th and had a profound impact across the nation even touching interna Jesus Christ. National WMU is honored to dedicate the 2020 edition in memory of Paula. Their
Texas Christian Women’s / Men’s Job Corps Endowment was begu ministry in which women and
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In memory of WMU of Texas ❚ 10325 Brockwood THE BRIDGE
Paula Jeser
SEPTEMBER 29, 1947 – MAY 19, 2020
orps® as.
try of WMU, in of cancer with no nt for CWJC and 0 ministry sites
all who knew ngside Becky grieve, but we We know that with open arms.”
Paula served two decades as executive director of Christian Women’s Job Corps in El Paso.
In addition to leading CWJC in El Paso, she was a certified instructor for CWJC. She traveled globally and trained women so they could start CWJC programs in their communities.
Tamiko Jones, Executive Director-Treasurer, WMU of Texas expressed, “Paula will be remembered for her faith and passion for the Lord, and we are thankful for her years of service with CWJC and as president of the Woman’s Missionary Union of Texas from 2008 - 2009. May God be praised for her impact across our great state.” Paula is survived by her husband of 44 years, Thomas Jeser, daughter Cecily JeserCannavale, daughter Jacklyn Richards and five grandchildren.
elsie Massey and Gonzalez.
gacy of Becky Ellison and Paula Jeser, please consider giving to the wment: https://texasbaptists.givingfuel.com/support-wmu
ENDOWMENT was begun in 2002 by site coordinators in celebration of CWJC’s fifth anniversary. hich women and men in need are equipped for life and employment in a Christian environment.
Corps seeks to equip men and women for life and employment. For nearly 25 years, WMU of Texas has hroughout Texas and beyond. In 2020, we grieve the loss of two women from Texas who were national trainers ational sites. Through the faithful service of Becky Ellison and Paula Jeser, many men and women found hope in n of the Level 1 CWJC/CMJC training manual in memory of Becky and the Level 2 CWJC/CMJC training manual r legacy of faithful service will impact countless lives for years to come. Sandy Wisdom-Martin Executive Director, WMU, SBC
un in 2002 by site coordinators in celebration of CWJC’s fifth anniversary. Funds support various aspects of this men in need are equipped for life and employment in a Christian context.
f Becky Ellison and Paula Jeser, send contributions to: d ❚ Dallas, TX 75238 ❚ Or give online at www.wmutx.org/give/endowments THE BRIDGE
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TEXAS CHRISTIAN WOMEN’S / MEN’S JOB CORPS ENDOWMENT Begun in 2002 by site coordinators in celebration of CWJC’s fifth anniversary. Funds support various aspects of this ministry in which women and men in need are equipped for life and employment in a Christian context.
In memory of BECKY ELLISON and PAULA JESER SEND CONTRIBUTIONS TO:
WMU of Texas 10325 Brockwood Dallas, TX 75238
O R G I V E O N L I N E AT
www.wmutx.org/give/endowments
Honoring Becky Ellison CWJC/CMJC Endowment and CWJC Ministries IN MEMORIAM
ELAINE LARY FITCH Waco, TX DIANE CROSBY Cleburne, TX JOY FENNER Dallas, TX NELWYN REGAN Waco, TX
THE BECKY ELLISON ALUMNI AWARD
added this year by the Ellis Christian Women’s Job Corps (Ellis CWJC). This award was named for Becky Ellison, as she played a very important role in the leadership development direction of Ellis CWJC as well as 57 other sites in Texas.
Tracie Stewart a 2018 graduate of Ellis CWJC, was awarded the first honor.
TRACIE STEWART & LAURIE HENDERSON WMU of Texas along with the Board of Directors, honored Becky Ellison with a BRICK placed in the Walk of Faith, to honor her love for missions and CWJC/CMJC. Her brick will be laid at the national WMU building in Birmingham, Alabama. 14
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WALK OF THEFAITH, BRIDGE visit wmufoundation.com/walkoffaith.
PEÑITAS, TEXAS
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WMU OF TEXAS WOMEN’S BUILD
TEAM ONE OCTOBER 18-23 WMU OF TEXAS WOMEN’S BUILD
TEAM TWO OCTOBER 22-27
COST is $300 per week (scholarships available).
D TO 2 E 0 N 2 O P
For more information or an application, check the website or call 214.828.5150. Please arrive by 4 PM for check-in on arrival date.
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WOW! In October 2020, we will celebrate the 10TH HOUSE BUILD IN SOUTH TEXAS!
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We look forward to a time of reunion with the families served over the years and a time to share hope with the community. Each year, we assemble two teams to build a home for a special family. In partnership with Buckner International, a family is selected as the annual recipient of the home. These families serve alongside the WMU of Texas teams to build their home.
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All skill levels are needed to successfully complete the home. Women serve by building, cleaning and preparing meals.
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Your gifts to the MARY HILL DAVIS OFFERING FOR TEXAS MISSIONS® support the Women’s Build.
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CONSIDER JOINING US ON THE BUILD THIS YEAR!
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10th Anniversary
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W MU S T A F F U PD A T E S
LOOIE BIFFAR graphic designer retired on April 15, 2020
Looie joined WMU of Texas in September 2015, after her retirement from the Baptist General Convention of Texas, as senior graphic designer (1970-2015). Looie loves her kitty cats, family, and neighbors. Her favorite phrase is, “God is awesome!” Thank you Looie, for the beautiful graphics and designs you have created for WMU of Texas. We wish you God’s blessings as you enjoy retirement. DECEASED
BECKY ELLISON CWJC/CMJC Consultant May 16, 2020
(see page 12 for Becky’s In Memoriam)
PAM POOLE
Special Projects Coordinator Pam joined WMU of Texas in 2014 and began using her gifts working with WorldCrafts and special projects, such as the Women’s Build in South Texas, and many other ministries related to WMU.
BRANDI JONES
joined WMU of Texas, March 9, 2020, as Marketing Specialist.
When Brandi thinks about her favorite passage, John 15:1-17, she is reminded of God’s love. Every morning, she reads the passage before she begins her day where she helps WMU of Texas leaders share their mission-focused stories around the world. #wmutxteam
SARAH VIANA
joined WMU of Texas as the administrative assistant and office manager on January 30, 2020.
Sarah’s favorite Bible verse is Lamentations 3:19-26. She recently stated, “I am encouraged by this scripture because it reminds me that the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end and they are new every morning! How wonderful!” Sarah is married to Nicolas Viana.
Pam enjoyed traveling and setting up WorldCrafts markets, sharing about the artisans whose stories and crafts were featured. Retired in 2020, Pam and her husband, Courtney, are enjoying the new home they built in Waxahachie, playing with and nurturing their grandchildren, and keeping their hands open for God’s next assignment.
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2021 SWC CONFERENCE AND MISSION OPPORTUNITY Chattanooga, TN, on March 26-28, 2021
In 2019, Texas WMU Sisters Who Care celebrated and acknowledged 15 years of ministry during our SWC Conference and Day of Service. To continue observing the mission and ministry of SWC, Texas is partnering with other SWC state organizations for the upcoming 2021 SWC CONFERENCE AND MISSION OPPORTUNITY Chattanooga, TN, on March 26-28, 2021 “Rise With 2020 Vision…For Such A Time as This” ESTHER 4:14B. “Who knows, perhaps you have come to your royal position for such a time as this”. (CSB). As Sisters Who Care, we can rise to this occasion and minister by sharing the gospel message of Jesus Christ and being the hands and feet of Jesus in the surrounding community. Who knows? Relief and deliverance for the area may come through our obedience. REGISTRATION is free and will open early-fall. Details, including items to donate, will be posted on our Texas SWC Facebook page and WMU of TX Community page when available. LODGING is reserved at Embassy Suites by Hilton, Chattanooga Hamilton Place. To reserve your room, call central reservations at 1-800-362-2779 and mention the group name “SWC Conference’.
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FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, you may contact the Chattanooga SWC Ministry leader, Cynthia Brown at swc55037@gmail.com. \THE CHATTANOOGA EXPERIENCE WILL FEATURE •
The founder of SWC, National Baptists Publishing Board, and New Hope Publishing Author, DEBRA BERRY, along with storyteller, historical interpreter and award-winning actress, MORGAN MCCOY.
• The weekend will kick off with PRAYER WALKING and MISSIONS OPPORTUNITIES on Friday. • BREAKOUTS AND GENERAL SESSIONS on Saturday will include a teen session and will cover topics such as. Spiritual Gifts & Purpose and Emotional & Mental Well Being. • The event will conclude with a WORSHIP EXPERIENCE ON SUNDAY.
I look forward to seeing you in Chattanooga “for such a time as this!” SUZETTE MITCHELL, WMU of Texas SWC Consultant
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Mary Hill Davis Offering for Texas Missions®
www.gonowmissions.com Your gifts to the Mary Hill Davis Offering® provide students serving through Baptist Student Ministries, opportunities to share the gospel with others not only in Texas, but around the world. God calls every single one of us to believe in Him and share the act of love He did through Jesus Christ our Savior.
As a Go Now Missionary serving with the homeless in Colombia, I was touched by the fact that God is still at work even during some of the lowest moments in life. This experience helped reconfirm to me that Jesus is the only Savior and the only one who can satisfy the needs of this world. In the shelter, we received different groups of people almost every day. We provided clothes and a small breakfast. One day a man came to me and told me that we didn’t understand the situation he was going through. What we gave him was not enough because a piece of bread and hot chocolate was the only thing he ate every day. At that moment, I was shocked. I started crying because of the way he said it. He spoke with so much anger and bitterness and made me feel that I was not 18
doing enough at that moment, but also at that moment, the man took a deep breath and told me he was just frustrated because of his current circumstance. Previously, this man had a profession and a good life, but because of the recent crisis in Venezuela, he needed to leave his beloved country and find a better life. A few days later, he was able to find a small car to carry water to sell to be able to have some money. The first day of work he was very happy and realized that because God helped him find that job, He would help him sell the water as well. God is working in the life of Venezuelans. God’s power is manifesting to change hearts, from Venezuela to Colombia. He is helping them realize the only thing they need is God and the salvation He gives us through Jesus Christ. Jesus is providing food and jobs for those in need. My experience this summer has given me a deeper love for people who are difficult and grown my heart for those who do not know Jesus. Many people are searching for hope and purpose in life. I know that God calls every single one of us to believe in Him and share the love of Jesus Christ our Savior.
How can your church or WMU be engaged in this ministry? PRAY. SEND care packages. GIVING provides weekly passes on public transportation, opportunities to share the Gospel with new friends over coffee, and can provide housing for student missionaries. For more information about Go Now Missionaries: www.gonowmissions.com
Karla, DBU student, served in Colombia THE BRIDGE
Mary Hill Davis Offering for Texas Missions®
Language Curriculum – BaptistWayPress Your gifts to the Mary Hill Davis Offering® provide translators for Bible studies so language groups will have the studies in their heart language.
“I am convinced that the translated materials will help many Korean pastors.”
My name is Hongnak Koo, the pastor of Midland Korean Baptist Church in Midland, Texas. I translated parts of some Bible study materials on Joshua, Psalms, and Revelation from English to Korean. Translating these materials has been a real blessing to me. It has enlarged my understanding of each book of the Bible with much valuable insight and has better equipped me as a pastor and teacher. While translating Joshua and Revelation, I preached them as a series of sermons for the Sunday services at my church. I am convinced that the translated materials will help many Korean pastors prepare their sermons and teachings that will benefit many Korean congregations. HONGNAK KOO Midland, Texas
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How can your church or WMU group be engaged in this ministry?
Pray for the translators as they are writing Bible studies in the various languages.
Pray for the individuals hearing God’s Word for the first time as Bible studies are taught.
For more information about BaptistWay Press:
baptistwaypress.org/language-studies 19
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In the midst of this pandemic we continue to learn to depend in Him. “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” ISAIAH 41:10 (NIV)
MY NAME IS VANESSA LERMA, I’m a River Ministry Missionary in the Rio Grande Valley. Our mission is to Share His love. Since pandemic started ministry work has changed for us. We continue to share His love, as state, national and international instructions change. One of the hardest things was to stay still especially at first as we didn’t know what to expect. Number of positive cases keeps increasing exponentially, families are struggling financially because of lack of work, kids are at home, border crossing regulations changing, and immigrant family’s court dates keep getting pushed back. Families are scared and restless. Isaiah 41:10 reminds me that He is with us, He is our God, He will strengthen us, help us, and we are in His hand. They need to hear the good news, they need Him, they need His love and the hope and peace that only He can give us.
WAYS FOR YOU TO PARTNER WITH US.
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PRAY. Join me every Monday at 10 am/10 pm in prayer. Pray that in the midst of this we can share God’s hope and love. Pray for the body of Christ so we can boldly and efficiently share the Hope of Christ. That we may minister and build relationships with the families. Pray for the families so their needs may be met. Many are unemployed, barely getting back to work but continue to struggle financially. Pray for children’s safety at home. Pray for the immigrant families waiting on their court dates and that their needs be met.
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Pray for the government officials and frontlines for strength and wisdom.
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Pray for the sick. Pray for my family as we continue to minister to others.
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We need your continuous prayers to stay in contact with us. If you decide to pray with us 20
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Mondays at 10 am/10 pm please send me an e-mail to rgv.riverministry@gmail.com. We would love to know and keep you posted.
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We are gearing for homeschooling/back to school and our goal is to give 1,000 backpacks with school supplies.
OTHER WAYS YOU MAY PARTNER WITH US. Financial assistance for pastoral families. Some of our pastors are only receiving a fraction of their salary or nothing at this time. Helping vulnerable families and single moms that are having a difficult time paying for essential things. A gift card or love offering can go a long way.
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We want to continue giving care packages per family which include family devotionals, Kids Bible stories, New Testaments.
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Several Pastors are struggling with their internet transmission because of lack of adequate equipment (a list may be provided) to be able to share the gospel.
Donations for immigrant families to meet their immediate needs.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR PRAYERS.
We continue praying for you and your loved ones as well. Be blessed to bless others. By: VANESSA LERMA, River Ministry Missionary THE BRIDGE
WMU OF TEXAS OFFICERS
EARL ANN BUMPUS President (2019) Graham earlann@rocketmail.com
ELI SALAZAR Vice-President (2018) Crystal City mseli2@aol.com
SUSAN MORGAN Secretary (2018) Houston susan.morgan@ sbcglobal.net
TAMIKO JONES Executive Director Treasurer Dallas tamko.wmutx@txb.org
AREA MAP
WMU OF TEXAS BOARD OF DIRECTORS
AREA 1
BRENDA BOURGEOIS Lubbock BrendaBou@aol.com
AREA 2
AMANDA GAY Amarillo ace.gay@sbcglobal.net
AREA 4
RUTH HINER San Antonio chuck1711@att.net THE BRIDGE
AREA 3
MARY MARTINEZ El Paso marymartinez79936@ yahoo.com
KAY KOLB Midland kkolb351@gmail.com
BELVA BOWERS Texas City belva.bowers@ gmail.com
PAM DAVIS-DUCK Houston redonia51@att.net
AREA 5
GEORGIA HOBBINS Boling gghobbins@gmail. com
NORMA POWELL VANESSA QUINTANILLALos Fresnos LERMA norjoepow@gmail.com McAllen rgv.riverministry@gmail.com
AREA 6
DONNA TRUSTY Dublin trustyd13@gmail. com
SHEREE WOLFE Austin swolfeone@twc.com 21
AREA 7
SUSAN GREEN Longview lwstgreen@gmail. com
AREA 8
LYNN MONTGOMERY Tyler professorlynn1@aol. com
CHARLOTTE WRIGHT Cedar Hill neetmel@att.net
AREA 9
MARIA SAAVEDRA FRANKIE HARVEY Dallas Arlington saavedra6@sbcglobal.net frankieharvey@gmail. com
DEBBIE GOULDING Alvarado debbie.goulding@ hotmail.com
MEMBERS AT LARGE
Ma
ry Hi ll
JACKIE FAUGHN McKinney
jfaughn54@gmail.com
MARISOL SANDOVAL MARSHA SAUCIER Garland Round Rock esandoval4710@gmail.com mlsaucier@gmail.com
Da vis
Of fer ing ®
RUTH NGUYEN Plano
ruthnguyen601@gmail.com
WMU OF TEXAS STAFF
TAMIKO JONES
Executive DirectorTreasurer O: 214.828.5150 Tamiko.WMUTX@txb.org
SUZETTE MITCHELL BRANDI JONES
Financial Assistant/SWC Marketing Specialist Consultant O: 214.828.5152 O: 214.828.5154 Brandi.WMUTX@txb.org Suzette.WMUTX@txb.org
FREDDIE MARTINKA BETH CAMPBELL
Ministry Assistant Communications Consultant O: 214.828.5160 O: 214.828.5155 Freddie.WMUTX@txb.org 22 Beth.WMUTX@ txb.org
VACANT
Missional Lifestyle Strategist for Adults & Multicultural Groups
SARAH VIANA
Administrative Assistant & Office Manager O: 214.828.5150 Sarah.WMUTX@txb.org
TERI USSERY
Missional Lifestyle Strategist for Preschool, Children, Youth and Young Adults O:214.828.5374 Teri.WMUTX@txb.org
VACANT
CWJC/CMJC Consultant
THE BRIDGE
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
2020 SEPTEMBER 13-20
Week of Prayer for Texas Missions and the Mary Hill Davis Offering®
OCTOBER 2
WMU of Texas Board of Directors Meeting
https://www.iamtexasmissions.org
https://wmutx.org/about/board-of-directors
OCTOBER 3
Regional Training Meeting - ONLINE
https://wmutx.org/regional-training
NOVEMBER 1
Baptist Women’s Day of Prayer
NOVEMBER 15-17
https://www.bwawd.org/day-of-prayer
Texas Baptists Annual Meeting, Waco, TX https://www.txb.org/annualmeeting
NOVEMBER 29-DECEMBER 6 Lottie Moon Christmas Offering
https://www.imb.org/lottie-moon-christmas-offering/
2021 JANUARY 11
National Human Trafficking Awareness Day
FEBRUARY 13
Children’s Missions Day
FEBRUARY 8-14 MARCH 5-6
WMU of Texas Board of Directors Meeting
MARCH 7-14 MARCH 22
Annie Armstrong Easter Offering
MARCH 26-28 APRIL 16-17 MAY 9
JUNE 13-14 JUNE 20 AUGUST
Focus on WMU
World Water Day
2021 SWC Conference and Mission Opportunity, Chattanooga, TN Pursue: WMU of Texas Annual Meeting & Missions Celebration @ First Baptist Church Richardson in Richardson, TX World Fair Trade Day
WMU Missions Celebration and Annual Meeting in Nashville, TN WORLD REFUGEE DAY Christmas in August
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. HEBREWS 10:24-25
THE BRIDGE
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WOMAN’S MISSIONARY UNION OF TEXAS® 10325 Brockwood Road I Dallas, TX 75238
The Bridge is made possible by your gifts to the Mary Hill Davis Offering for Texas Missions.
wmutx.org I 214.828.5150 10325 BROCKWOOD ROAD DALLAS 75238