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The Cold Front
If you were in Houston last week, then you experienced the “cold front” that blew into town on Wednesday. YES, it’s true, a “cold front” in July! There was no need to bust out the winter jackets, nor was it necessary to turn on the heaters — the high temperature for the day was still close to 90 degrees. However, with the humidity at 50 percent and the wind blowing out of the north, it felt amazing. It was a welcomed gift to say the least.
I am not a meteorologist; I am a pastor. However, last week I observed how a cold front can positively impact attitudes. I saw people smiling more last week. People were mingling outside and moving meetings from their offices to the Grace Tables in our courtyard. Groups of people I observed at lunch seemed more jovial. I saw people singing in their cars with their sunroofs open. All, seemingly, tied to a “cold front” — people were set free to be joyful.
I remind you of Jesus’ words in Matthew 11:28-30: “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me — watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly” (Eugene Peterson, The Message).
It may be a while before the next “cold front” blows through Houston. But you don’t have to wait to live “freely and lightly.” When we are tied to Jesus, it positively impacts our attitudes, regardless of the temperature, humidity, or barometric pressure. He is ready to blow into every moment of your life.
Therefore, I encourage you to consider today with Whom you are keeping company.
I look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
Peace, Trey
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Save These Dates!
ONE Worship Service Sundays
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September 1
- October 6, World Communion Sunday
- December 8, Grace at 50!
- December 15, GKM and Grace for the City Habitat Build
- December 30
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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:
- Massey-Tucker Fellowship Hall: Flooring is being installed in the Massey-Tucker Lobby, first floor hallway, and the McKechnie Room.
- Massey-Tucker Fellowship Hall Room C: A new wall is being built between Massey-Tucker Room C and the Church Kitchen. This will enable Massey-Tucker C to be used more effectively as a meeting space and classroom.
- Roofing: All roofing is complete on the pitched roofs, and the flat roof replacements are next.
- Music Suite: Lots of construction and renovation is happening here! If you are looking for Andi, Stephanie, Mi Ou, Heather, or the choir… you’ll find them temporarily in the Church Library.
- Restrooms: Renovations will continue until approximately mid-August. Look for signs to direct you to the available restrooms.
- Parking Lot Light Poles: We have brand new light poles installed in our South Parking Lot and Blacktop Lot adjacent to the athletic fields.
- Interior Lighting: We have brand new LED lighting installed on the third floor of Massey-Tucker Hall.
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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. |
Lemonade on the Lawn
Sunday, August 11, 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m
Grace Courtyard
As summer is winding down, a brand new school year and all the fall activities are about to be in full swing! So, join us as we “squeeze” a little bit more out of the summer with Lemonade on the Lawn on Sunday morning, August 11. In addition to some yummy treats, we’ll have lots of lemonade (made by friends at Boys and Girls Country, Cottage #4) to share! |
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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 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! |
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Two Opportunities
to Ponder
with Michelle Travis
PONDER is a verb that means to revolve in one's mind, to weigh, to consider, to discuss, to converse. Michelle Travis, founder and executive director of Pondering Ministries, will be encouraging and equipping us to consider scripture in a new, old-fashioned way: through discussion, the use of Bible study tools, and prayer. This simple, yet rich way of studying the word of God is meant to spark an ongoing conversation between you, God, and others for the purpose of abiding in and staying connected to Jesus. For more information, contact Chris French (cfrench@gpch.org; 713-267-5039).
- All-Adult Sunday School
with Michelle Travis
August 4, 10:15 a.m.
Massey-Tucker Fellowship Hall
- Ponder Evening Gathering:
Digging Deeper
August 4, 5-7:30 p.m.
Massey-Tucker Fellowship Hall
2nd Floor
Ponder creates spaces and resources for people to encounter the word of God first hand. You are invited to experience Ponder first-hand as we dive deeper into Genesis 1:1-4 with Michelle Travis! We will share a community-style dinner, hear more about Ponder (what it is and how it began), and be part of the conversation as we dig into the Word of God. Please RSVP by Monday, July 29 to Gina Enriquez at genriquez@gpch.org. Due to space restrictions, registration will be limited to 50 people. The cost is $10 for the meal and materials.
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Here's What We're
Learning In The TreeHouse
August 4
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 God loves me all the time.
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Here's What We're
Learning In The Backyard
August 4
Bible Story: I’ll Remember (What Is the Bible) • Psalm 119:105
Key Question: Why is the Bible important?
Bottom Line: When you learn about God, it’s easier to follow Him.
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.
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Summer Lovin'
Mission Opportunities
with Student Ministries
10:15-11 a.m., Massey-Tucker Rm 207
Calling ALL middle and high schoolers! You and your friends are invited to a brand-new Sunday morning experience! Summer Lovin’ is a chance to be on mission and in community, loving God through loving others during the Sunday school hour at Grace! Come for great music, food and mission, and if you need them, service hours for your school! |
Support Summer Lovin'
By Helping Feed
Our Students
We are so excited about our new Sunday morning experience for middle and high school students! We invite the Grace family to help support this new summer mission opportunity. Everyone knows that students love to eat, so can you help feed them to make the time they are working extra sweet? Please click on this Sign Up Genius to contribute. Thank you in advance for your help and for your support in making this an awesome summer for our students, and for those whom they are loving through their service! |
Understand, Discover
& Use Your Spiritual Gifts
Sunday mornings, starting August 11
10:15-11:10 a.m.
Massey-Tucker Hall, Room 102
We are thrilled that Grace elder, Deb Castillo will be leading a six-week 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 contact Denise Phelps (dphelps@gpch.org; 713-267-5063).
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Summer College-Age Sunday School
Sundays, 10:15 a.m. in LC 209
All college students home for the summer are welcome to visit a new college-age Sunday school class. Weekly Sunday classes continue through the summer. Newly graduated high school seniors are encouraged to join as well! For more information, contact Carey Dow (careydow@me.com; 713-822-3981). |
Student Ministries Town Hall Parent Meeting
Sunday, August 11, 5 p.m., Massey-Tucker Fellowship Hall
We invite parents of rising 6th-12th graders to a Town Hall meeting during which we will share updates regarding our Student Ministries staff and programs. |
Inspire! Fall Bible Studies -
Registration 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. |
Rec Sports Soccer Registration Opens Today
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. Scroll down for more information on the parent volunteer positions and code of ethics. 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.
- 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, batting helmet w/chin strap, bat, glove |
Student Ministries Dig
into Summer Bible Studies
with Disciples in Growth
We have Bible study opportunities for middle and high school students this summer. This is a great opportunity for students to dig into scripture, deepen friendships, and learn to stay rooted in their faith. For more information, please email Lindsey McDonald (lmcdonald@gpch.org).
- Freshman Girls
Tuesday, August 6; 6-8 p.m.
La Madeleine in Town & Country
- High School Guys
Tuesday, August 6; 6-8 p.m.
The Henkel’s, 13722 Queensbury Ln
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Do You Have the "Faith Factor"? Children's Ministries Needs Small Group Leaders
The new Sunday School year is just a month away, and our children need YOU. We have amazing teams in place but need a few more friendly faces for our Kindergarten-First grade group. 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). |
Celebrate Preschool Promotion & Kindergarten Kick-Off
August 11, 10:10-11 a.m.
Learning Center
Join us for a sweet time as we celebrate our Preschool Promotion and Kindergarten Kick-Off on August 11. Children’s Ministries will move the rising preschoolers and kindergarteners into their new small groups during Sunday School on that day. (The older elementary students moved up to their new grades after VBS.) For more information about preschool programming, contact Gianna Tiedemann (gtiedemann@gpch.org; 713-267-5096). For more information about elementary programming, including kindergarten, contact Lisa Ann Henkel (lhenkel@gpch.org; 713-267-5015). |
Student Ministries
End-of-Summer
Pool Party
Saturday, August 10, 3-5 p.m.
Wilchester Pool (880 Yorkchester)
All middle school and high school students and their friends are invited to an “End-of-Summer Pool Party!” It has been such an incredible summer filled with mission opportunities, ice cream, bible studies, laughter and friends. As summer comes to a close, we want to celebrate where we’ve been and where we are going for the upcoming school year. Join us for an afternoon of food, fun and swimming with some amazing people! Girls, wear your one-piece swimsuits. Boys, wear your short-styled suits, not Speedos. Register HERE to help us provide enough food. A Grace Waiver 2019-2020 form is needed on file. For more information, please contact Lindsey McDonald (lmcdonald@gpch.org; 713- 267-5067). |
August Encore Trip:
Alley Theatre
August 11, 1:30-5 p.m.
Join us for a trip to the Alley Theatre to see Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express. This plot-twist masterpiece has thrilled mystery lovers from television, radio, and film. Playwright Ken Ludwig (The Three Musketeers) adapts the classic thriller that features renowned detective Hercule Poirot and a cast of characters sure to have everyone in the audience guessing just who did it. Don’t miss your shot at being at the scene of this masterpiece crime. The cost is $25. Please be at the church at 1:30 p.m. for a 1:45 p.m. departure, and we will return by 5 p.m. To register, contact Becky Morris (bmorris@gpch.org; 713-267-5091). |
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WHAM Food Drive
Sunday, August 4
Help collect food and other necessity items for WHAM (West Houston Assistance Ministry). Collection bins will be located inside the Chapel and Sanctuary entrances, and in the Massey-Tucker Hall Lobby. Focus items will be peanut butter and jelly, canned pasta and fruit, soups and crackers.
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Back-to-School
Supply Drive
As the Back-to-School season approaches, we will again partner with Walnut Bend Elementary to help students start the year with the supplies they need. You can be a blessing and help brighten up the school year for kids and families by donating items from the list below or a monetary donation which will be used to purchase supplies. Donations will be collected through Sunday, August 11 in labeled bins outside the Grace library. Monetary donations for the “School Supply Drive” can be made to Grace Presbyterian Church on Sunday morning or dropped off at the reception desk during the week. Our Amazon Wish List can be viewed by clicking HERE. For questions or more information, contact Nancy Bailey (nbailey@gpch.org; 713-267-5035).
School Supply Drive Items Needed
- Construction Paper pack, Assorted Colors, 12x18 inches
- Composition Book Wide Ruled, 100 count
- Pencils
- Pens
- Kleenex Facial Tissues
- Antibacterial Wipes, Pop-up Canister (for use on skin)
- Crayola Crayons, 24 count
- Crayola Washable Markers Conical/Broad Tip, Classic Colors, 8 count
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Volunteers Needed
for Immunization Clinic
August 14, 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Walnut Bend Elementary
We are seeking volunteers to welcome people and help entertain kids while they wait for immunizations. There are two-hour shifts available from 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. What a great way to make Jesus visible to our friends and neighbors! For more information, contact Nancy Bailey (nbailey@gpch.org; 713-267-5035).
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Save the Date!
Women of Grace
Ice Cream Social
August 12, 12-3 p.m.
Massey-Tucker Fellowship Hall
Join us for a "Texas State Fair" benefitting Boys and Girls Country, Cottage #4. We'll have ice cream, corn dogs, popcorn, vendors, games, raffles, and more! Don't miss this amazing afternoon of FUN!
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Support Our Upcoming Kenya Mission Trip
You can support our September mission experience in Kenya by making a donation using one of our Amazon Wish List links! It’s easy, fast, and orders will be shipped directly to the church. Click HERE to see the Wish List for eyeglasses and other trip supplies.
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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).
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Missional Eco-Tour
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. Limited space is available. For more information, contact Margaret Ellis, Friends of Samburu, Kenya (silleme@swbell.net; 713-501-5140.)
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Looking Ahead in 2019… SAVE the DATE!
August 4, WHAM Food Drive
August 4, Ponder with Michelle Williams
August 10, Student Ministries End-of-Summer Pool Party
August 11, Preschool Promotion & Kindergarten Kick-Off
August 11, Student Ministries Town Hall Meeting
August 11, Encore trip to Alley Theatre
August 12, Women of Grace Texas State Fair-themed Ice Cream Social
September 1, ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.
September 14, Children's Ministries: Parents' Night Out
September 18-30, Kenya Mission Trip
September 20, Children's Ministries: Preschool Family Experience
September 22, Phases: Parent Conversations
September 29, Children's Ministries: Sacraments & Sundaes
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, Grace Kids Musical & Christmas for the City Habitat Build -
ONE Worship Service at 10 a.m.
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