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First Things First
Just in case you didn’t know — Monday night was the NCAA National Championship football game. It was billed to be a mighty battle between top-ranked Alabama and Number 2 Clemson. This was not their first meeting, but it may have been the most lopsided. By now you have heard that Clemson dominated the game leading to a 44-16 victory.
I was simply a sports enthusiast watching a “big game” on Monday night. I didn’t have a dog in the fight, so to speak, but I was pulling for Clemson. But, as is often the case, it was the “great play” that continued after the game that really captivated my attention.
Trevor Lawrence, the 19-year-old phenom quarterback for Clemson was named the Most Valuable Player of the game. On such a big stage at such a young age, one would think he would use the opportunity to talk about himself. However, he instead consistently turned the attention to his teammates and coaches. It was not especially surprising given that earlier in the year he responded to reporters’ questions about how he stayed so calm during games by saying, “Football’s important to me, but it’s not my life. It’s not the biggest thing in my life. I would say my faith is.” He went on to say, “I put my identity in what Christ says, who He thinks I am and who I know that He says I am.” Trevor appears to know how to put first things first.
In his post-game interview, Clemson head coach, Dabo Swinney, spoke of “focusing on Jesus other than myself.” He went on to say, “All glory goes to the Good Lord first and then to the group of those young people,” referring to his players. Dabo appears to know how to put first things first.
I am not suggesting that Trevor or Dabo have never boasted or talked trash. Nor am I suggesting that they are perfect or have never made mistakes. I am simply suggesting that they chose to use the platform they had been given to give the glory where the glory was due.
Acts 1:8 says, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
I will never play in a National Championship Football game nor will I ever be a head football coach. But every day I am given another day to be alive on this earth, I have a platform from which to speak — with my words and my life. My hope and prayer are that I will remember how to put first things first.
What about you?
Perhaps in 2019 you will be more than a “Jesus enthusiast” just watching a “big game” but instead you will play your heart out for His glory.
It’s a privilege to be on The Team with you.
Peace, Trey |
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Starting Point Class
January 27, 6 p.m.,
Massey-Tucker Hall, Room 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 starting point.
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 is available (dkay@gpch.org). To RSVP or for more information, contact Beth Craig (bcraig@gpch.org; 713-267-5012). |
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.
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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. |
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Preschool Family Experience: The Market
Friday, January 11, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Children’s Ministries invites all preschoolers and their families to "The Market” on Friday, January 11, 2019. Come to this special night from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in Massey-Tucker Hall and The TreeHouse to hear a great story, participate in fun, hands-on activities, shop with “Ollie Dollars” and MORE all while learning about how everyone needs Jesus. Register HERE. |
High School Gals Breakfast
January 21, 9:30 a.m.,
Leibman's (10100 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77043)
All High School girls and their friends are invited to enjoy a delicious breakfast at Leibman’s. We’ll meet there at 9:30 a.m. Bring a friend and money for breakfast! Register HERE! For more information, contact Angie Williamson (awilliamson@gpch.org; 713-267-5083). |
Middle School Girls to Glazed Over
Monday, January 21, 12 p.m.,
Glazed Over (14627 Memorial Dr #B, Houston, TX 77079)
All Middle School girls and their friends are invited to Glazed Over Ceramics. Studio time and lunch costs will be covered. Just bring money for your pottery! Only 30 spots available! Register HERE! For more information, contact Angie Williamson (awilliamson@gpch.org; 713-267-5083). |
Inspire! Spring Bible Study
Registration Open Now
Join us this Spring as we connect with one another in authentic community. Our goal is not just fellowship but to equip ourselves for living to make Jesus visible! We have three study opportunities for women of all ages and stages of life beginning the third week of January.
Women gather weekly to engage in in-depth Bible studies. Each week includes a large group experience of worship and lecture followed by community building in small groups that foster lasting bonds built on studying God’s Word, candid discussion, and prayer support. For more information about any of the following studies, please contact Gina Axtell (gaxtell@gpch.org; 713-267-5046).
Inspire! Women
This Spring we will have two studies. Our first weekly study will be Battle Plan for Prayer by Stephen Alex Kendrick. Through this study you will be guided scripturally through the fundamentals of how effective prayer works, inspired towards a closer, more intimate relationship with God, and shown how to develop specific prayer strategies for each area of life. Our second study, during Lent, will be Path to the Cross by Ray Vander Laan.
The day group meets Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. in the Church Library. The evening group meets Tuesdays at 6:45 p.m. in MTH 201. Register HERE.
Inspire! School Moms
Typical meetings include a video session followed by group discussion. This spring, our study will be Gideon by Priscilla Shirer. This study will encourage you to recognize your weakness as the key that the Lord gives you to unlock the full experience of His strength in your life. Instead of ignoring, neglecting, or trying to escape your weaknesses, learn to see them as the gifts given specifically and strategically by God. If you've ever felt insufficient, ill-equipped, incompetent, or outnumbered, this study is for you.
This group meets Wednesdays from 12:30-2:30 p.m. in Massey-Tucker Fellowship Hall, Room 208, beginning Jan. 16. Register HERE.
Note: Child care is not provided for this group.
Inspire! Moms
Typical meetings include a video session followed by group discussion. This spring, we will study Entrusted: A Study of 2 Timothy by Beth Moore. In this study, Beth will encourage you to guard what God has entrusted to you, further His kingdom by sharing Christ with others, and pour into future generations just as Paul once mentored Timothy. Because in this journey of joy and hardship, we need each other to stay the course and live a life of faithfulness.
This group offers three meeting options:
- Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. beginning Jan. 15
- Tuesday evenings meeting bi-weekly. For more information, contact Abby Meade (abby.c.meade@gmail.com; 512-750-9170).
- Wednesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. beginning Jan. 16
Note: There are TWO separate registration forms, one for the bible study and one for childcare:
- Bible Study Registration: HERE, and
- Childcare Registration (only complete if you need care for your kiddos): HERE.
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Save the Date! VBS 2019
June 10-13, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
This year our theme is LEVEL UP!... How are YOU gonna play the game? Mark your calendars now for the best week of the summer! |
Project Home: Living Water International &
The Houston Marathon
Sunday, January 20, 7 a.m.-noon
For the second year in a row, Grace’s Student Ministries will partner with Living Water International for a special Project Home at the Houston Chevron Marathon! We will host a Cheering and Hoopla Station to cheer on the estimated 27,000 runners and walkers in this year's event. Specifically, we will be cheering on Team Living Water, runners who have committed to raise funds to dig water wells in regions of the world that lack access to clean water. This is an opportunity to support them, and the entire city of Houston as it puts on one of its marquee events. This is one of the most fun and loud events we put on all year. You do not want your student to miss out. Register HERE.
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Confirmation 2019
Sundays through May 12,
10:15-11:30 a.m.
Learning Center, Room 206
It’s not too late to sign up! We will utilize Scripture and the Church Creeds to guide students through the story of God and what it means to be a disciple of Jesus and a member of His church. Each student will come to understand the scope of the narrative of Scripture, write a personal Story of Faith, and answer the 40 Questions of Faith from their Catechism journal. The class will be led by The Rev. Chad Erb and the Student Ministries staff: Lindsey McDonald, Reed Brentlinger, Angie Williamson, and Matt Davis. Upon successful completion of the class, your student will become a full member of Grace Presbyterian Church. For more information and registration, please click HERE. |
College Ministry
The Bridges Sunday School class is now coordinating our college ministry events throughout the year. If you have college-aged children, please contact Carey Dow (careydow@me.com; 713-822-3981) to make sure that we have their contact information so that we can let them know when events are planned. |
High School
Spring Break Ski Trip
March 9-15
Grab your mittens and beanie, dust off your snow boots, and wash your long-johns because we are going skiing! We are excited to announce that Grace’s High School Ministry is headed to Monarch Mountain in beautiful Colorado for Spring Break. For more detailed information, please click HERE. A $200 non-refundable deposit is due upon registration. Registration closes January 15. For more information, please contact Matt Davis (mdavis@gpch.org; 713-267-8704). |
Student Ministries
Summer Mission Trip
Parent Information Meeting
Sunday, January 13, 12:15-1 p.m.,
Massey-Tucker Rm. 207
All middle school and high school parents are invited to hear about this year's Student Ministries mission trip. We will announce the location, as well as discuss accommodations, type of work and activities, cost and funding, and other important information. Whether you are certain your student will attend the mission trip or not, you do not want to miss this important meeting! |
Encore Day Trip: Rediscover Texas Tour
Wednesday, February 6,
9:15 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
In the warmth and comfort of our county bus, Richard Cook of Texana Tours will be our host to show us the best of both historic and modern Houston. Cost of the tour is $12. Lunch is on your own at St. Arnold’s Beer Garden. Payment and reservations are due by January 27. Please be at the church by 9:15 a.m. for a 9:30 a.m. departure. For more information, contact Becky Morris (bmorris@gpch.org; 713-267-5091). |
Encore Day Trip: 84th Annual River Oaks Garden Club Azalea Trail
Friday, March 1,
9:45 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Join us for a beautiful way to celebrate Spring! Following the trail tour, we will enjoy lunch at Black Walnut Cafe. The cost for the tour is $25. Payment and reservations are due by February 17. Please be at the church by 9:45 a.m. for a 10 a.m. departure. For more information, contact Becky Morris (bmorris@gpch.org; 713-267-5091). |
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Paul Revere Middle School Presents Appreciation Performance:
Journey of Light
Wednesday, January 16, 6-7 p.m.,
Massey-Tucker Fellowship Hall
You are invited by Paul Revere Middle School’s Fine Arts Department to their annual appreciation concert. Please join the students, teachers, and administration to celebrate the partnership between Grace and Paul Revere. Performances will by given by students in band, theater, dance, choir and art. For more information, contact Chris French (cfrench@gpch.org; 713-267-5039). |
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Mission Trip Opportunity: Haiti with Living Water International
Grace is excited to send members to Northern Haiti again this year. Each team sent will drill a clean water well, lead hygiene and sanitation classes, and share the gospel with the local community. For more information, answers to commonly asked questions, and to watch a video about the need for clean water in Haiti, please click HERE. |
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Post-Harvey
Home Blessings
As they move back into their restored homes or relocate to different permanent homes, flooded families may request a team of Grace members to offer prayers of blessing. We have created a "walk-through" prayer pamphlet that the blessing team uses from the front door throughout the home to pray a hedge of protection and God's glorification in this journey.
You may request a home blessing by completing this form. Denise Phelps will contact you to schedule a blessing time and put together a team.
If you would like to be a part of a home blessing prayer team, you can volunteer by completing this form. It offers options for the days, times of day, and zip code where you might be a blessing to our flooded families. We will be in touch with you when an opportunity arises that meets with your availability.
We remain committed to walk alongside families still recovering from the aftermath of Harvey. Prayers continue to be lifted for continued healing, restoration, and rebuilding.
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Support Dress for Success Houston
Women of Grace will host representatives from Dress for Success Houston at our February 11 luncheon, and we need your help! Will you begin the new year by cleaning out closets? Consider donating an outfit (or two or more) to Dress for Success, which helps low-income, job-ready women prepare for interviews with coaching and clothing.
Your donations of gently used professional attire (including suits, separates, blouses, shoes, handbags, and jewelry) will make a difference in a woman's life as she takes steps to self-sufficiency. Bring your items to the Filling Station on January 27 or February 3. For more information, contact Denise Phelps (dphelps@gpch.org; 713-267-5063).
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Stephen Ministry:
Get in on the Action
Would you like to be part of a ministry that makes a real difference in others’ lives when they need it most? Consider becoming a Stephen Minister. Stephen Ministers are members of our congregation who provide one-on-one caring ministry to people experiencing grief, divorce, loneliness, job loss, hospitalization and many other life difficulties. Stephen Minister training equips you to do an excellent job as a Stephen Minister as well as to improve the quality of all your own relationships. Once equipped, Stephen Ministers are prayerfully matched with people going through a stressful time or life difficulty. A Stephen Minister meets with this person once a week for about an hour to listen, care, encourage and pray. If you want to learn more about how to become a Stephen Minister, call Susan Jernigan at 713-582-3332 or Denise Phelps (dphelps@gpch.org; 713-267-5063).
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Houston Food Bank
Saturday, January 26, 8 a.m.-noon
Bless our neighbors across Houston while in fellowship with Grace at the Houston Food Bank. For more information, contact Paul Mancillas (paulmancillas@gmail.com; 832-260-8329).
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Manna from Grace
Saturday January 12, 9 a.m.,
home of Kathy Mateer (281-384-6199)
Twice a month folks gather to have fun and fellowship while they prepare food for those in the family of Grace who are going through a time of illness or trial. While some of the meals are delivered, many are put in the church freezer, located right inside the portico door. These are for anyone to take when they know someone who could be blessed by one of these meals. If you would like to know about Manna from Grace – volunteering or receiving meals – please contact Becky Morris (bmorris@gpch.org; 713-267-5091). |
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Looking Ahead in 2019… SAVE the DATE!
January 11, Preschool Family Experience: The Market
January 13, Student Ministries Summer Mission Trip Parent Info Meeting
January 20, Student Ministries Project Home Event
January 26, Grace Day at Houston Food Bank
January 27, Starting Point Class
March 9-15, High School Spring Break Ski Trip
June 10-13, Vacation Bible School
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