August 22, 2019

Boundaries

As many of you are aware, I love to play golf. Remember, loving to play golf doesn’t always translate to playing golf well. Such was the case for me last Friday. Admittedly, I did have some good holes and hit some good shots. However, there were certainly some shots for which I would have loved a do-over. On one such occasion, I hit a shot just a bit offline and, sure enough, it crossed the out-of-bounds marker at the cost of a couple of strokes. Golf, meant to be enjoyed, can be so frustrating.

Such is the case in life. All too often we fail to set boundaries in our lives and consequently find ourselves frazzled, tired, and perhaps even bitter. However, life in relationship is intended to be abundant. Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).

How are you at keeping boundaries? Personally, I struggle with boundaries. Typically, saying “Yes” is easy for me, but I often struggle with saying “No.” Quite frankly, this has been true for most of my life. I have an abundance of energy, and I genuinely enjoy caring for others. However, in recent years I have learned the importance of also taking care of myself.

Three things to consider when it comes to boundaries:
1. Gain clarity regarding your responsibility.
2. Recognize that the lack of boundaries may lead to bitterness.
3. Make better choices.

First, clarity of responsibilities frees us to say “No” without guilt. Undoubtedly, I am guilty of “over-functioning,” that's doing things for others what they can and should do for themselves. Doing everything does not define us; being made in the image of God does.

Second, bitterness will fester without boundaries. When we say “Yes” to everything, we risk resenting the people who we have actually said we love to serve. It is not their fault that they are better than we are at setting boundaries.

Finally, making better choices can be incredibly freeing. Take time to prayerfully consider your “Yes” and “No” options. Choose to be with people and love people not because it is what you SHOULD do, but because it is what you WANT to do. Remember that boundaries can actually help you have more -- more of you left over to love and to be meaningfully close to the Lord and others.

As Max Lucado notes, “When you do the most what you do the best, you put a smile on God’s face.”

I look forward to seeing you Sunday.

Peace,

Trey


Ready Update!

We are so grateful for your continued patience and understanding as our Grace campus is being READIED to be a welcoming place, a relevant space, and to extend Grace! We hope you share our excitement and anticipation as we see the various construction projects in progress! The latest tranformations include:

Serve on the Ready Construction Hospitality Team

We have a wonderful opportunity for you to serve the Grace family and our guests on Sunday! The good news is that it is a brief time commitment, a limited duration, requires very little training, and is a way to contribute to making your Grace a welcoming place. It's an easy – and especially important – way to invest in the life and ministry of Grace.

You are invited to help smooth the worshippers’ path on Sunday morning by volunteering for the READY Construction Hospitality team. We need 8 volunteers for each of the Sunday morning worship hours, beginning August 11 through December 8. Find more information by clicking HERE.
gather
Gather


Now You Can Give
On the Go!

In less time than it takes to write a check, you can now make contributions using your smartphone at church or anytime. Mobile giving is a quick, easy, and convenient way to support the ministries and missions of Grace.

Online giving is easy to set up, and you can make a one-time gift or automatic recurring contributions with your designated bank account or credit card. You are also able to view your complete giving history.

Using your smartphone’s camera or code reader app, you can scan this QR code to go straight to the secure Grace online giving webpage. Follow the prompts to create or login to your giving profile, and in just a few clicks, your contribution is made.


Save the Date! Grace at 50

Sunday, December 8

Mark your calendars! Join us as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of this amazing Grace campus and God’s impact through Grace on the west side of Houston… from Downtown to the Beltway and Beyond. You’ll want to be here for this one-service Sunday and lunch!


Out Of Town This Sunday? Watch Us On Facebook Live Each Week!

We love gathering together each Sunday as a Grace family! But, if you are unable to join us for worship, there are two ways to join us online: on our homepage  or live on our Facebook page.

Save These Dates!

ONE Worship Service Sundays

  • September 1
  • October 6, World Communion Sunday
  • December 8, Grace at 50!
  • December 15, GKM and Grace for the City Habitat Build
  • December 29

Grace Worship Night: An Evening in the Pslams

Sunday, September 15, 5:30 p.m., The Founders’ Chapel

Please join us for our first Worship Night as we explore the Psalms through reading, prayer, song, and meditation. Childcare is available; please email dkay@gpch.org by Sept. 9 with your child's name and age to reserve a place.
Connect
Connect

Understand, Discover
& Use Your Spiritual Gifts

Sunday mornings, through Sept. 22
10:15-11:10 a.m.
Massey-Tucker Hall, Room 102

We are thrilled that Grace elder, Deb Castillo is leading a class to help us discover our spiritual gifts and our unique strengths. We will explore how combining our gifts and our strengths will help us maximize our Kingdom impact. To reserve your spot in this class, please email Denise Phelps.

Here's What We're
Learning In The TreeHouse

August 25

Basic Truth: God made me. God loves me. Jesus wants to be my friend forever.
Key Question: What is better than gold?
Bottom Line:  The Bible is better than gold! 
Memory Verse: “Your teachings are more important to me than thousands of pieces of gold and silver.” • Psalm 119:72
Bible Story Focus: The Bible teaches me I can share my stuff. (Bigger Barns) • Acts 2:45; Luke 12:16-21

Here's What We're
Learning In The Backyard

August 25

Bible Story: Live to Tell (Abraham to Isaac) • Genesis 12-21
Bottom Line: Trust and obey even if you don't know how it will work out.
Key Question: What do you think your leaders know that you don't?
Memory Verse: The way we show our love is to obey God’s commands. He commands you to lead a life of love. That’s what you have heard from the beginning. • 2 John 6, NIrV
Life App: Obedience —Trusting who is in charge by doing what you’re asked to do
Basic Truth: I can trust God no matter what.

Do you have the "Faith Factor"? Children’s Ministries Needs Small Group Leaders

Thank you to the moms who have volunteered and completed our Kindergarten-1st Grade Small Group team. We still need one or two more friendly faces for our Second-Third grade group as well as a few people willing to substitute once a month when leaders are out of town. Children’s Ministries provides the curriculum and all supplies — you supply the Faith Factor! Please consider being a part of our kids’ lives as we meet in The Backyard and small groups each week. For more information, contact Lisa Ann Henkel (lhenkel@gpch.org; 713-267-5015).

Scavenger Hunt Mania! In Student Ministries

Sunday, August 25, 10:15 - 11 a.m. 

High school and middle school students will be separated and placed on teams. They will then go on a hunt around the church campus looking for a specific list of things to find or activities to complete.  The first team to complete the list and get back without too much running, screaming or hollering, will win a special prize.

Parent Education Event
with Dr. Steven Argue

Sunday, August 25, 2-4 p.m.

Join us to hear Dr. Steven Argue, Associate Professor of Youth, Family and Culture Fuller at Theological Seminary discuss how he, along with co-author Kara Powell, built on 10,000 hours of research and more than 1,300 interviews and focus groups to tackle the ever-evolving challenges and the unique opportunities parents of 13-to 29-year olds face.

Cub Scouts Pack 1040 Information Meeting

Sunday, September 8, 3:30 p.m.
Massey-Tucker Fellowship Hall

Join us for our first meeting of the year for Cub Scouts Pack 1040. We welcome boys and girls from Kindergarten to fourth grade. Come learn about what Family Scouting has to offer. For more information, please contact Dath Collins (dath00@yahoo.com; 832-771-2364).

Thursday Morning
Bible Study

Beginning, September 12, 9:30 a.m.
McKechnie Dining Room

Join us this fall for our study of Clash of Kingdoms. Ray Vander Laan, a professor of religion, a teacher and historian, takes us by video on location to where Paul walked and taught, and reveals the culture in which Paul worked, making his message more understandable and applicable to our daily lives. For information, please contact Pat Irwin (713-461-2757) or Gina Enriquez (genriquez@gpch.org; 713-267-5046).

September Encore Trip:
Holocaust Museum

September 29, 1:30-6 p.m.

Join us for a self-guided tour of the the nation's fourth largest Holocaust museum, right here in Houston. The museum recently re-opened in June with a powerful message of “darkness to light.” The museum is dedicated to educating people about the Holocaust, remembering the six million Jews and millions of other innocent victims and honoring the survivors' legacy. The cost for this trip is $12, and payment is due by September 15. Dinner will be on your own at the Cleburne Cafeteria. To register, contact Becky Morris (bmorris@gpch.org; 713-267-5091), or you can sign up on the Encore book at the receptionist desk on every Sunday.

Inspire! Fall Bible Studies -
Registration is Now Open!

Sign up and register now for the Fall Bible Studies with Inspire! Women’s Ministry. Take advantage of these great opportunities to grow deeper in your relationship with God and with others. To register and to find more information regarding days, times, and studies, visit the website and click on the Learn More button.


Help Feed Our Student Ministry on Sundays

Thank you to those of you who provided food for Grace Student Ministries over the summer on Sunday mornings! We are continuing a new Sunday morning experience for middle and high school students throughout the fall semester and we invite the Grace family to help continue to support the student ministry. Everyone knows that students love to eat, so can you help feed them to make the time together on Sunday mornings extra sweet? Please click on this Sign Up Genius to contribute. Thank you in advance for you help and for your support in making Sunday mornings an awesome time for our students!

Student Ministries Dates to Remember

August 25

  • MS/HS Sunday School Leader training: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in MT 201

September 8

  • Small groups begin in homes 6-8 p.m. Watch for more information!

Rec Sports Soccer Registration is Now Open

Rec sports is a ministry of Grace Presbyterian Church and open to all children PreK 4 through 5th grade as part of the West Houston Christian Sports Association. Every year we offer boys and girls soccer, basketball and softball/baseball. Parents are required to volunteer in the capacity of team parent, assistant coach or coach. No late registrations will be accepted. Note: Team Placement will be in order of date of registration. If a second team needs to be formed, registration alone does not guarantee placement. Enough players for a full team will be necessary or a refund will be offered. For more information, contact Grace Recreational Sports Coordinator Wendy Wray (wwray@gpch.org; 713-248-2670).

Soccer Online Registration is open now through August 25. Click HERE to register. Scroll down for more information on the parent volunteer positions and code of ethics.

  • Girls and Boys PreK 4 to 5th (Players MUST be in PreK 4 at the time of registration)
  • Practice is once a week at Grace (after 5 p.m. either Monday, Wednesday, or Friday) beginning September 3.
  • Games on Saturdays (September 21-November 9); Location TBD
  • Team Game Schedule will be available on September 17
  • Fee $125 (includes: Jersey, hat/visor, trophy, individual & team picture)
  • Player is responsible for providing own: cleats, shorts/pants, and (for softball/baseball) batting helmet w/chin strap, bat, glove

Weekday Volunteer Teams Needed for Fun, Friends & Faith

Children's Ministries invites you to participate in our F3 ministry at the Belmont Apartments beginning Sept. 30 and Oct. 1. "Fun, Friends & Faith" will provide an afterschool church camp experience for preK-5th grade students of Walnut Bend Elementary School. Children's Ministries staff members will lead the Monday and Wednesday camps, but we need YOU to show up and show off for God. Volunteer once or twice a month on the day that works best for your schedule. For more information, contact Lisa Ann Henkel (lhenkel@gpch.org; 713-267-5015).

September Parents' Night Out

Saturday, September 14, 5-9 p.m.

Children's Ministries is thrilled to announce that Triumph Sports will return for our Parents' Night Out events this year! The group made their Grace debut with its PNO Sports Tournament in April, provided an awesome camp after VBS, and ran two summer sports camps in July. The kids LOVED the new features!

Triumph accepts kids from Kindergarten through Fifth Grade. The cost is $20 per child and includes pizza and all the sports games.

For our PreK Fours and younger, our Nursery staff will provide safe, fun, Christian childcare. The cost is $10 per child ages 4 and younger. Your child will enjoy pizza, games, and a movie. The deadline for registration is noon on Monday, September 9. Cancellations for a refund are accepted if received by this deadline. To register, please click HERE.

Calling All College Parents!

We look forward to connecting and ministering to our Grace college students throughout the school year. Bridges Sunday School Class sends encouraging notes, birthday cards, and care packages to Grace college students, but we need their updated school addresses. Please text your student’s name, address, email and cell number to Carey Dow at 713-822-3981, and we will add them to our list!!
Bless
Bless

Support Effort for
clean Water

On September 26-29, Grace member, Fernando Mendiola will ride his bike with Team Living Water in the 2nd annual Texas 250 to raise awareness and funds for Living Water International’s mission to provide access to clean water around the world. His goal to surpass $1,250 in donations. Sponsor a mile for just $5! That $5 provides clean water to one person for one year. Fernando says, “I'm just a local fella that loves to pedal. I pedal for exercise, to meditate, and for fun. But what could be better than pedaling for water? This will undoubtedly be my greatest cycling challenge to date. But with your support, together we can bring clean water to the world... one well at a time.” To support Fernando’s effort and help him surpass his goal, please click HERE

Samburu Mission Trip
to North Central Kenya

Saturday, September 28 to Friday, October 11

Learn about the traditions of the Samburu tribe. Experience their daily struggles. Spend four nights in the bush, building a church for the growing evangelical Gates of Zion congregation. Enjoy some Safari R&R in the Samburu National Park. Scholarships are available. The deadline to sign up is September 1. For more information, contact Margaret Ellis, Friends of Samburu, Kenya (silleme@swbell.net; 713-501-5140).

Hearts Beading for Kenya

Saturday, September 28 to Friday, October 11

A new charitable fund-raising opportunity is forming at Grace. We will be beading for Kenya, creating unique pieces of jewelry with African trade beads. We will meet weekly for fun and fellowship at the church. No experience necessary. For more information, contact Margaret Ellis, Friends of Samburu, Kenya (silleme@swbell.net; 713-501-5140).

Operation Turkey 2019

We are 98 days away from Thanksgiving Day. Starting to think about your holiday plans? Make sure this year you include Operation Turkey as part of your holiday traditions. Once again this year, Grace will be hosting Operation Turkey. The goal this year is 75,000 meals delivered. At Grace we will prepare around 7,000 of those meals. To learn more and to register, go to www.operationturkey.com

Introducing A New Ministry Relationship: Clothed by Faith

How many people does it take to make a difference? Just One. Be the one to donate gently used clothing utilizing the donation container located at Grace Presbyterian Church in Massey-Tucker Hall. We are excited to introduce our newest ministry relationship with Clothed By Faith. Let’s fill this donation container over and over again to build a strong relationship with CBF, who depends on the help of those in the community to fulfill its mission to demonstrate God’s love through the provision of gently used clothing to those in need. To learn more, go to www.clothedbyfaith.org. If you have questions about donations, please contact Chris French (cfrench@gpch.org; 713-267-5039).

Why Stephen Ministry?

We have many needs for care in our congregation and community: people experiencing divorce, grief, a terminal illness, loss of a job, relocation, an empty nest, retirement, hospitalization, loneliness, and many other stresses or challenges. Often people with needs suffer silently or do not request or receive the level of care they really need. With a limited number of pastors for a congregation the size of Grace Presbyterian, you can quickly see why it would be impossible for our pastors to meet every need of every single person. Stephen Ministry expands the care Grace Presbyterian Church can offer by equipping and organizing members to provide Christian care. This gives us a larger pool of people with the gifts, skills, and calling to bring Christ’s love and care to those who most need it. And this one-on-one care is completely confidential. If you or someone you know is going through a difficult time, contact Denise Phelps (dphelps@gpch.org; 713-267-5063) or Susan Jernigan (susan.jernigan@sbcglobal.net; 713-582-3332).

Looking Ahead in 2019… SAVE the DATE!

August 25, MS/HS Sunday School Leader training
August 25, Parent Education Event with Dr. Steven Argue
September 1, ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.
September 14, Children's Ministries: Parents' Night Out
September 18-30, Kenya Mission Trip
September 15, Worship Night: An Evening in the Psalms
September 20, Children's Ministries: Preschool Family Experience
September 27, Children's Ministries: Kids' Worship Night
September 29, Children's Ministries: Sacraments & Sundaes
September 29, Encore trip to the Holocaust Museum
October 6, World Communion Sunday, ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.
October 18, Children's Ministries: Preteen Event
October 27, Trunk or Treat
November 4, Grace Golf Tournament at Pine Forest Country Club
November 9, Children's Ministries: Parents' Night Out
November 13, Men's Night at Grace with Jonathan Evans
November 27, Operation Turkey Tailgate
November 28, Operation Turkey
December 1, Phases: Parent Conversations
December 7, Children's Ministries: Drop & Shop
December 8, Grace at 50 Anniversary Celebration, ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.
December 8, Christmas in the Courtyard
December 15, Christmas in the Courtyard
December 15, Grace Kids Musical & Christmas for the City Habitat Build -
                       ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.
December 22, Christmas in the Courtyard
December 24, Christmas Eve Services:
  • 3 p.m. Traditional worship with Communion in The Founders’ Chapel
  • 3 p.m. Kids' Christmas Celebration Service in the Sanctuary
  • 5 p.m. Contemporary worship in the Sanctuary
  • 7 p.m. Traditional worship in the Sanctuary
  • 7 p.m. Grace en Español worship in The Founders’ Chapel
December 29, ONE worship service at 10 a.m. in the Sanctuary