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A Little Thought
"Resolve"
Well, we are now two weeks into the new year—how are your resolutions going? Some are still on track to fulfill resolutions while others may have already failed to see some of them through. Here is the good news—neither keeping nor failing to keep our resolutions impacts our salvation!
Ephesians 2:8-9 reminds us, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is a gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
All too often we forget the magnitude of God’s grace. We forget its practical application in the realities of the complicated distractions of life. We exhaust ourselves trying to achieve greatness in the world’s eyes and struggle to embrace the truth of how we are seen through Jesus’ eyes. We strive to fly high on our own and neglect to allow our hope in the Lord to renew our strength in order that we might soar on wings like eagles.
I received a letter of encouragement from a friend not too long ago. Included in the letter was this quote, “A bird sitting on a tree is never afraid of the branch breaking because its trust is not in the branch but its own wings.”
As followers of Jesus, we must trust in Him daily. He is the One who makes us soar, and our faith is what takes us to new heights. When we think we cannot possibly give financially, our faith reminds us that He always provides. When the branch on which we are standing seems unstable, our faith sustains us. When our joy is wavering, our faith fills us with hope and great expectation. When we think something is too big for us to accomplish, our faith gives us the courage to believe that He is able to accomplish far more than we can imagine.
Together, may we resolve to claim God’s grace. May we resolve to claim His abundant joy and share it with others. May we resolve to daily be still with Him. May we resolve to trust Him in all situations and circumstances.
I look forward to seeing you this Sunday—I have missed you.
Peace,
Trey
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National ECO Conference: Renovate 2018
Tues-Thurs, January 23-25 at Hilton Americas Hotel
The ECO National Gathering is in Houston this year, so plan to join! Drawing on lessons from Nehemiah, featured speakers include Condoleeza Rice, Kyle Strobel, and Ed Stetzer. There are also opportunities to volunteer, as Grace is partnering with other local churches to support this event. Volunteers will receive a complimentary day pass to the event. To sign up to help, please visit: click here. Should you have questions, you may contact Hardie Morgan at hmorgan@gpch.org or 713-267-5028.
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Church Officer Ordination and Installation
January 14 at 11:15 a.m., Sanctuary
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Starting Point— A New Class
Sunday, January 14, 6-8 pm, Massey-Tucker Hall 103
Want to get connected? Find a CORE Community? Learn about our beliefs and ministry? Join the church family? Where do you begin? At the start.
During the Starting Point class, we’ll enjoy a meal and have great conversation together. You’ll learn more about who we are as a church, how to grow in your faith, and the many life-giving ways you can be a part of our church family, including the opportunity to make this your home church through membership. Join us for a casual dinner and conversation—it’s a great place to start! Child care available dkay@gpch.org. To RSVP or for more information contact Beth Craig bcraig@gpch.org; or 713-267-5012.
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Inspire! Spring Bible Study Registration Now Open
A brand new year is coming and it’s time to get INSPIRED! Registration is open for the new season of women’s Bible studies. Each week, you can spend time in God's Word, share joys and sorrows, and pray with other women of faith. We have groups (day and evening) for women of all ages and stages of life! Groups begin this month! Stop by the table in the Filling Station or visit: gpch.org/inspire.
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Core Communities 2018 Registration Now Open
CORE Communities are the primary way we CONNECT with OTHERS in authentic gospel-centered community. These RELATIONAL ENVIRONMENTS are vital to living a life that makes Jesus visible daily. These small gathering of people cultivate a relationship with Christ and others. Please visit gpch.org/cc to learn more and to register. For more information contact Becca Lehde blehde@gpch.org or 713-267-5013.
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Middle School Lock-In
February 16-17, 10:30 p.m.-7 a.m., Meet in Massey-Tucker Hall 207
Join us for the annual lock-in at Main Event in Sugar Land. The cost is $75, which includes access to the entire facility, unlimited bowling, laser tag, gravity ropes, arcade games, late-night pizza snack, and donuts and juice for breakfast. The theme for this year is “camouflage.” Invite your friends and get all your camo gear ready! Register: gpch.org/mslockin. For more information contact Lindsey McDonald, lmcdonald@gpch.org or 713-267-5067.
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Save The Date! Vacation Bible School '18
June 11-14, 2018
Livin’ Loud Lab…
Where God’s Love
Ignites a Chain Reaction
that Changes the World!
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Parents' Night Out
Saturday, February 10, 5-9 p.m., $10 per child
PNO provides a safe, fun, Christian environment for children while parents enjoy some much-needed time together. We’ll eat pizza, make crafts, play games, and watch the movie “Trolls.” Ages are three months to 5th grade. Space is limited to registrants only. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept walk-in registrants. For more information visit: gpch.org/childrenspecial-events
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Here's What We're Learning In The Treehouse
January 14
Basic Truth: Jesus wants to be my friend forever.
Key Question: Who can do anything?
Bottom Line: Jesus can do anything!
Memory Verse: “With God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26)
Bible Story Focus: Jesus can do what is impossible. Walking on Water • Matthew 14:22-33
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Encore Day Trip
February 7
We’ll be traveling to the Funeral Museum and enjoying lunch at Potatoe Patch. The cost is $10 for tour, lunch is on your own. Space is limited. Payment is due by Sunday, January 21. For more information and to sign up, contact Becky Morris bmorris@gpch.org or 713-267-5091.
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High School Spring Break Trip
March 10-17, 2018
High School Ministries is taking a Spring Break road trip to Yosemite National Park in California! On the way, we'll stop off and see the Grand Canyon. There are only 19 student spots available, so register today. Register: gpch.org/hsspringbreaktrip2018. For more information, contact Angie Williamsonawilliamson@gpch.org or 713-267-5083.
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Student Mission Trip Information Meeting
January 28, Massey-Tucker Hall 207
5:30-6 p.m. Middle School Trip (current 6th and 7th grade students)
6:15-6:45 p.m. High School Trip (current 8th-12th grade students)
7 -7:30 p.m. Senior Trip (current 12th grade students)
All students and parents are invited to the informational meeting when we’ll discuss transportation, housing, work projects, cost, registration, and much more.
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Join The Strugglers Wednesday Bible Study
Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 a.m., McKechnie Dining Room
Start the new year out with a blessing and visit the Strugglers Bible Study on Wednesday mornings! This Bible study group, under the leadership of Jerry Hanlon, recently started a study of Acts. Join us in 2018 for spiritual growth, fellowship, love and laughter! Questions? Call Judy Dewey, 713-502-1945.
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Phases: Conversations For Parents
January 21
Family Ministries is excited to announce the arrival of “Phases: Parent Conversations" in 2018. Once per quarter, the Family Ministries team will host parents of children and students during the Sunday school hour for a topical, research-based presentation (given in one of five simultaneous, age/stage-based sessions) followed by an open discussion.
The first conversation will be held on January 21. The topic for this initial meeting will be "INFLUENCE: Who and what makes up my child’s community of influence?” Mark your calendars for other 2018 dates: April 8, September 23, December 2.
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Middle School Jumpstreet Indoor Trampoline Park
January 12, 8-10 p.m.
Meet at Jumpstreet, 5000 Katy Mills Cir Ste 743, Katy, TX 77494.
We are heading to Jumpstreet for 2 hours of unlimited access to trampoline courts, dodgeball courts, and more. The cost is $10. Only 30 spots available. Register here. For more information, contact Lindsey McDonald lmcdonald@gpch.org or 713-267-5067.
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Confirmation 2018
Sundays, January 7-May 6, 5-6:30 p.m., Massey-Tucker Hall 207
Meet at: Jumpstreet, 5000 Katy Mills Cir Ste 743, Katy, TX 77494.
If your student would still like to participate in this class, please contact Monica Cvejanovich mcvejanovich@gpch.org or 713-267-5011.
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Here's What We're Learning In The Backyard
January 14
Bible Story: Living on a Prayer (Model prayer) Luke 11: 1-4
Bottom Line: Practice praying to God.
Memory Verse: “Training the body has some value. But being godly has value in every way. It promises help for the life you are now living and the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8, NIrV
Life App: Commitment — making a plan and putting it into practice.
Basic Truth: I can trust God no matter what.
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Save The Date! Annual Student Missions Clay Shoot
Sunday, February 25th.
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Post-Disaster Support Groups
As post-Harvey rebuilding continues, we recognize the effects of Harvey are not only on our physical belongings, but Harvey also impacted us psychologically and spiritually. In response, we are offering free post-disaster support groups led by gifted counselors for adults and children. For more information, please contact Becky Morris at bmorris@gpch.org or (713) 267-5091 or visit: gpch.org/postdisastersupportgroups.
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Students Need You!
With the approaching spring semester, there are still middle school students who need mentors. Sixth, seventh, and eighth graders request a mentor from the social worker at Paul Revere Middle School every week. Will you please give an hour of your time each Friday morning to meet with a student who needs your influence? Play games; encourage the student; listen to them. The time is up before you know it, and you will be looking forward to seeing the student again the following week! Contact Becca Lehde at blehde@gpch.org or 713-267-5013. |
Share The Real Living Water in Guatemala
April 7-14, 2018
Join us in bringing Guatemala the gift of safe water and the grace of the Living Water that is Jesus! There are a few spots left on the team that will depart on April 7. Team members will utilize a drill rig under the direction of in-country drillers and will work alongside the health and hygiene team to teach proper sanitation techniques and share Bible stories. During the trip, you will make meaningful relationships, experience a slower pace of life, witness the faithfulness of God, and return home transformed. Contact Becca Lehde at blehde@gpch.org or 713-267-5013.
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Cole Knight Scholarship
The Cole Knight Missions Scholarship Fund was created as a tangible way to carry on Cole’s mission - to help pave the way for individuals who display that same servant heart and passion for serving God through serving others. Each year the scholarship fund helps recipients cover the cost of their participation in Grace Student Ministries mission trips.
If you would like to nominate a student for this scholarship, please complete the FORM and return it to Monica Cvejanovich in the Family Ministries department by January 15.
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Grace Day At The Houston Food Bank
January 27, 8 a.m-12 p.m.
Bless our neighbors across Houston while in fellowship with Grace at the Houston Food Bank. For more information and to register, please contact Paul Mancillas at pmancillas@sbcglobal.net or 832-260-8329.
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Paul Revere Event
Tuesday, January 30, 6 p.m., Massey-Tucker Fellowship Hall
Be blessed by the students of Paul Revere Middle School! They will dance, sing, act, and play instruments for us in a beautiful performance. They have learned quite a lot in a short time since Hurricane Harvey temporarily closed their school this fall.
Be a blessing by cheering on these students as many will not have any family in the audience due to evening work shifts and other conflicts. These talented kids perform their best, and these teachers draw out their creativity -- all without the financial or moral support of a Parent-Teacher Organization. We have a remarkable relationship with Paul Revere Middle School because of your generous gifts of time and treasures. Celebrate their performing arts and receive their expression of gratitude for all Grace Presbyterian Church means to them!
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