Fair Haven Methodist

Principle # 1 Radical Hospitality

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 21:00:00 GMT

As I was preparing for this time together I spent a few moments remembering some of the basics of hospitality which I learned from classes on the era in which Jesus lived. I recall for example the pictures in the books of how the homes in the towns of Judea and Galilee were so very close together and how their homes were generally and literally open during the day. I recall how the homes had some form of drape or shutter that would be put down at night in order to insure at least a little bit of privacy. When the drape was down it was assumed that those inside didn’t wish to be disturbed. When the drape was up, which meant most of the waking day, it meant that the home was fair game, that people would choose to travel the most direct route to their destination, and if it meant right through somebody’s living room, then so be it. I also recall how homes back in those days were equipped to welcome strangers who were traveling about. Because there were so few inns or what we...

12-Apr-08 4:00 PM

"What's In Your Pile of Rocks?" Principle # 2 Passionate Worship

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 21:00:00 GMT

I remember almost exactly the year of an occurrence which at first caused in me a great sense of wonder and amazement. We had just recently moved to Lake Jackson, on the beautiful Texas Gulf Coast. I recall the time in specific units because I was making a visit with a couple who served as Middle School youth volunteers in the church UMYF program. They had four children, a fact what wasn’t lost on me and they lived in a nice two story house which backed up to Oyster Creek, I recall the contrast because Susan and I were living in a small apartment which backed up to the smellier side of the Dow Chemical Plant, which kept the town going financially. As we moved in around the first of June and moved into a home we purchased around September first, the even in question, the formative one that placed a great sense of amazement and wonder before me happened between July and September of 1979. As I was getting to a moment ago, I happened to be at the home of this really fine...

12-Apr-08 4:00 PM

Principle # 1 Radical Hospitality

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 21:00:00 GMT

"On Full Toyota"

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 16 Feb 2008 21:00:00 GMT

It all started back prior to 1981. I remember it being prior to 1981 because 1981 was the year we moved into the child era with the birth of daughter Stephanie on July 16th. One might refer to the times previous as our B.C., or before children era. At the time we were living in Lake Jackson in the first home we actually owned, well us and the mortgage company. Lake Jackson is a nice Gulf Coast town just a bit above hFreeport. I vividly recall the occasion of the brief story I’m using here at the beginning of these remarks today. Because Lake Jackson was so close to the coast and so low to sea level those who live down there are generally attentive to tropical activity such as hurricanes, tropical storms and the like. I do not remember the exact motivation for our exodus, however I do recall it had something to do either with a hurricane or one of the before mentioned tropical storms. Whatever it was must have been heading in our directions because there were others who...

16-Feb-08 3:00 PM

Great Worship Opportunities for Lent and Easter at Fair Haven

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Wednesday, February 6th – Ash Wednesday. A special presentation on that evening – the Supper Quilt will be with us. This quilt of some 55,000 pieces depicts the traditional Last Supper. The quilt’s creator, a retired dentist out of Waxahachie, Texas, will be here to talk about the quilt. There will be a dinner at 6:00in the Fellowship Hall sponsored by our Fair Haven worship ministry. Following at 7:30, in the church sanctuary, will be a great service of worship for Ash Wednesday. The quilt will be the backdrop for the services of Ashes. Sunday, February 10th – Reflective worship service featuring song and scripture. In the church sanctuary at 5:00 p.m. Location will be church sanctuary. Sunday, February 17th – Jazz Worship Service at 5:30 in the church sanctuary followed by all church catered dinner in the church Fellowship Hall. (Demaris BBQ). The theme of the dinner will be Why we Love Fair Haven. Dinner begins at 7:00 and will take place in the Fellowship Hall. Special...

1-Feb-08 11:00 PM

"Mountain Top Experience of the Big Three"

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Over the last eight years that I have had the privilege to work as a volunteer coordinator with Texas Conference missions, I have had the occasion to see areas of the world I wouldn’t have been able to see otherwise. I was privileged to meet a great variety of fine people, even though no greater a variety than a trip east on Long Point would offer. As of Annual Conference this year, in late May, I’ll cycle off of the committee and give someone else the joy of service. I’ll be perfectly happy with the memories. Speaking of memories, as I was working on the Mountain Top experience theme of Peter, James and John in the part of the scripture called the Transformation of Jesus, I recalled one of my own mission experiences which gave me a most memorable mountain top moment, albeit a literal one. It all started when my friend Diane Wimberley was sent to Bolivia as a United Methodist missionary. A couple of us, representing the Texas Conference, tagged along with Diane in order to...

1-Feb-08 10:00 PM

Challenged to Purpose

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 12 Jan 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Over the years I have loaned, misplaced, or simply left packed my copy of Paul Harvey’s book The Rest of the Story. The book is a verbatim recollection of some of Paul Harvey’s earliest Rest of the Story radio broadcasts. Each story, generally offered one a day, presented some interesting historic fact, event, philosophy, biography, etc. There was always some sort of a kicker involved, some little tidbit of information which would cause the hearer to go a-ha!! at the end. A bit of revelation which comes because of an unexpected revelation or conclusion was generally the case. One of my favorite Rest of the Story episodes, and remember I’m doing this virtually from memory, dealt with a man who had just come to the realization that he was a failure. The story is one which I’m sure is not so unfamiliar. The character of the show the day in question had been through lots of trouble. There was a time, for example, when his wife left, taking their young daughter away. As a result...

11-Jan-08 10:00 PM

"Joseph, Too"

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 18:00:00 GMT

Over these last couple of weeks I’ve been particularly drawn to one of the heroes and main characters of the Christmas drama. He is one who has a major part in the birth story of Jesus, even though he doesn’t have what we would call a speaking part. When we look over the other key roles we can acknowledge the great and important part that Mary played. We can read the triumphant expression of her acceptance of Jesus as a son in Luke when she declares: My soul magnifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my savior, for he who is mighty has gone great things and holy is his name. Even the lesser characters have a few significant words to deliver at the most appropriate times. The shepherds declare that it is time to go and see that which the Lord has made known to them. And the wise men had several key lines. They debated what the star meant and where they should go. And when they got to Herod their discussion didn’t move so far until one of them promised, to the best of his...

22-Dec-07 12:00 PM

Some honest thinking and a few confessions

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 17:00:00 GMT

I’ve never been much of what we would call an environmentalist. I cannot particularly warm up to the thought of global warming, at least not 100% yet, even though I’m more convinced of the possibility than I was just a few months ago. But there are examples I have seen for myself which demonstrate how a lack of harmony within creation can cause a dangerous situation for the created. In Haiti, for example, there are conditions of nature which are difficult. In these places water is generally limited and the earth therefore produces very little crop. I’ve seen this for myself. The problem in Haiti comes from the fact that there are no trees. Financial and personal necessity has caused most every tree in a formerly green island nation to be rooted up and/or cut down. The fact that there are no trees breaks the cycle of nature which causes rain to form. No rain, no crops. No crops, problems come with health and hunger needs. It is all ecologically related. Then there is...

13-Dec-07 11:00 AM

"Their Get Up and go Got up and Went"

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 24 Nov 2007 20:00:00 GMT

Back in the early 1990’s when Russia was opening up once again for Christian revival and mission there were hundreds of different religious groups, sects, and organizations that were anxious to come in. I’d say the vast majority of these, including a number of faith traditions and traditional Christian denominations, came for the correct reasons, including a great desire to help Russians become better Russians. There were some groups however which were more in it for themselves. I heard on several occasions about some save ‘em quick groups who got many locals emotionally high, got a yes I believe in Jesus’ out of them and then counted numbers and moved on to do the same in other communities. Now I’m not saying that confessions of faith and salvation experience are an issue, nor are they a problem, quite the opposite is true. The issue and the problem in the above cases came from the lack of follow – up. The new believers were left without spiritual direction. And the even bigger...

24-Nov-07 2:00 PM

"Remember to Build . . . In Building Remember"

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 21:30:00 GMT

As you know during the middle Eighteenth Century a couple of positive significant changes were gradually impacting the American Colonies. Throughout the various colonies folks were at that time experiencing what we now call the Great Awakening. This era produced a new excitement for Christian religious experience and for passionate preaching. The result was a vast time of Christian revival which focused not so much upon church doctrine but on personal experience, which is incidentally, one of our United Methodist themes. One of the great leaders of the Great Awakening was a Methodist pastor named George Whitefield. It is interesting to note as a sideline that one of the great gifts which the Methodist gave to America and back home in England was an emphasis on the individual and education. John Wesley and the early Methodists were the ones who began religious societies, in which people came together as often as possible for study of the Holy Scripture, prayer, and...

10-Nov-07 3:30 PM

Little Guy . . . Big Tree. . . The Story of Zacchaeus

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 21:00:00 GMT

One of the obviously truthful insights of science is the proven fact that on average the people of a given generation are taller than those in the generations past. All one has to do to see this is to look at the past to see proof. One of the places where I’ve seen this affirmed is at Ann Hathaway’s Cottage in England. The doors inside the house are remarkably short, even a modern person of a moderate height would have to stoop to enter. According to those in the know the inhabitants of centuries back, ones such as Anne Hathaway and William Shakespeare, fit vertically through the doors of the house with room to spare. Not so to most people of the twenty – first century. As another example we read out of Texas history of Sam Houston who is said to have been six foot six, but in reality Houston was probably more like six foot four. Either way he was noticeably above the crowd in Washington D.C. during his time as our United States Senator. Today even at a glance in the...

3-Nov-07 3:00 PM

Laity Sunday Coming October 14th

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 19:00:00 GMT

Laity Sunday Speaker Dr. Bob Houston On Sunday, October 14, Fair Haven welcomes to the pulpit one of our own faithful church members. Dr. W. Robert Houston shares words of faith and inspiration from his own personal experience. On this Sunday, as on every Sunday during the month of October, we worship in one combined worship service at 10:45 in the church sanctuary. Dr. Bob Houston is on the faculty of the University of Houston. He serves as Executive Director of the Texas Center for University Partnerships and of the Institute for Urban Education. Bob is honored to be the University of Houston’s John and Rebecca Moores Professor of Education. He is a well-published author, as well as a lecturer, consultant, and advisor. From 2000 to 2006, he was the director of a $3.9 million Partnership for Quality Education from the U. S. Department of Education, Title II. The purpose of this grant was to develop more effective teacher education programs. Four universities, six school...

8-Oct-07 2:00 PM

Paul's Recollection on Communion; a Gift for His Times and for Our Times

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 06 Oct 2007 17:00:00 GMT

I am a little concerned here in our sort of new world that we citizens have lost something quite important. Consider how far we’ve come in just the last few decades. Here are a few simple immediate examples related to how fast out world is moving on. I am thinking here in the specific area of data, ideas, pictures, images, even written words and how incredibly fast these move in our times. As I had the privilege of transporting the Ivorian ambassador to the United States through beautiful East Texas a few weeks back he was having a lengthy conversation on his cell phone. We were in areas around Palestine where, not so long ago, not even a local signal could be found. But now it is different. Ambassador Dubate had perfect reception on his cell phone as he spoke with his charge-de-affairs back home in Africa will passing through rural Anderson County, Texas. A few short years ago I was in Russia with a mission exploration team. Tomsk, the city we were visiting, is...

6-Oct-07 12:00 PM

What Your Life Can Truly Be

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 05:00:00 GMT

1 Timothy 6:6-19 RSV There is great gain in godliness with contentment; for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world; but if we have food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and hurtful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all evils; it is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced their hearts with many pangs. But as for you, man of God, shun all this; aim at righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. In the presence of God who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus who in his testimony before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you to keep the commandment...

1-Oct-07 0:00 AM

BSA Troop 631 Calendar – 2007

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 21:00:00 GMT

BSA Troop 631 Calendar – 2007 October 2007 1 – Troop meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Scout Hut 8 – Troop meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Scout Hut 15 – Troop meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Scout Hut 19-21 – Campout at Pecan Park Retreat near San Marcos. The emphasis of this campout will be cooking. 22 – Troop meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Scout Hut – Committee meeting, 7:00 p.m. in the classroom off the gym 29 – Troop meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Scout Hut November 2007 5 – Troop meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Scout Hut 12 – Troop meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Scout Hut 15-17 – Campout with Webelos at Brazos Bend State Park. The emphasis of this campout will be space exploration. 19 – Troop meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Scout Hut 26 – Troop meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Scout Hut December 2007 3 – Troop meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Scout Hut 10 – Troop meeting, 7:00 p.m. at the Scout Hut 17 – Court of Honor and troop Christmas party, 7:00 p.m. in the gym 24 – No...

25-Sep-07 4:00 PM

"The Lost and Found Department"

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 17 Sep 2007 13:00:00 GMT

Lectionary Passages for September 16, 2007 Jeremiah 4:11-12, 22-28, Psalm 14 (UMH 746), 1 Timothy 1:12-17, Luke 15:1-10 Additional Passage Dramatized: Isaiah 6:1-12 (For the 8:30 and 11:05 a.m. services) Luke 15:1-10 15:1 Now all the tax collectors and sinners were coming near to listen to him. 15:2 And the Pharisees and the scribes were grumbling and saying, This fellow welcomes sinners and eats with them. 15:3 So he told them this parable: 15:4 Which one of you, having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go after the one that is lost until he finds it? 15:5 When he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices. 15:6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost. 15:7 Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no...

17-Sep-07 8:00 AM

"Faint Signs of What Has Been"

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 20:00:00 GMT

We all know from our various history backgrounds that at various times in years past, and on occasion today, a nation or two in Europe or somewhere else may find a point of frustration and even great dislike of another or other nations in Europe or somewhere else. Such struggling has been going on for years even, on occasion escalating to a point where the desire might be to wipe the presence of each other off the face of the globe. One of the great rivalries of centuries past is that of Great Britain and Spain. Their conflicts came over a variety of issues notably water and land. Both the English and the Spanish claimed to rule the seas and both were in conflict with the other because each saw itself as a great colonial power. Often times the Spaniards and the British would find themselves at odds over a common piece of turf. How great it would be to remove the image of the enemy from the world, might have been one of the talking points. I don’t know if this was...

13-Sep-07 3:00 PM

Come To Our Fall Bible Studies!

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 22:00:00 GMT

TWO BIBLE STUDIES ANNOUNCED THIS FALL! Tuesday Night Bible Study The New Short Term Disciple Bible Study on Romans - Alternate Tuesday Evenings at 7pm - Beginning with Orientation Sept. 11 and first lesson Sept 25 in Trinity Center Led by Fair Haven member Arnold Thigpen, this 8-session, in-depth, New Testament Bible study is modeled after the landmark Disciple Bible Study which has enriched more than a million lives. A two-part video segment will guide the session with interpretive presentations from biblical scholars, contextual presentations, and roundtable discussions. Arnold’s exhaustive preparation and passion for teaching has attracted a loyal following over many years. This is a great time to get on board! Cost will be $12.00 due at the beginning of the course. E-mail Bob Luton at: bluton@fairhavenumc.org to register: Please use DISCIPLE REGISTRATION as the subject at the top of the e-mail. The Two Became One! The Brown Bag and Relational Bible Studies Are...

12-Sep-07 5:00 PM

The Labor God Desires

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sun, 02 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMT

Friday I enjoyed one of my favorite opportunities, actually several of my favorite opportunities put together. The last event of the night was a Continental Airlines flight back from New York City. Flying is one of my all time favorite things to do. Earlier in the day it was my privilege to see something I’d never seen before, another favorite thing to do. This favorite was a historical site, yet a third favorite thing to do, and a Methodist historical site at that. I was in the area because of Global Ministries meeting in Uptown Manhattan. We ended a little early and so I had some time to poke around town prior to the time of my departure. Where I went was to John St. United Methodist Church in New York’s Financial District. The church is the longest continuous worshiping congregation in American Methodism. In the year 1766, two hundred and forty one years ago, Philip Embry an immigrant from the British Isles and a follower of John Wesley gathered a small group of friends...

1-Sep-07 7:00 PM

Worship is as Worship Does

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 21:00:00 GMT

Because of the rules then in place in the United Methodist Discipline, back in the days of my student pastorate up in beautiful Central Texas I wasn’t able to serve communion even in the small church to which I was appointed. The practice of the day stated that a pastor wasn’t really and fully a pastor until some form of ordination had happened. For two years between the time of John Clifford, and ordained Elder, and Leroy Reeves, an ordained Elder, the church was served by a student pastor, namely me. So for that period of two years in order for the church to receive communion I had to invite in an ordained retired pastor or would depend upon a visit from the District Superintendent. Generally this meant about two or three times a year and not during the high moments such as Maundy Thursday and Christmas Eve. Having communion on such an occasional basis meant that the event took on far more of a significant nature than at other times in the life of the church. At...

24-Aug-07 4:00 PM

In Search of the "Older" Generation

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 18 Aug 2007 03:00:00 GMT

Just a few years back we had our family reunion in Biloxi, Mississippi. We all gathered at a United Methodist retreat center which faced the Gulf of Mexico just across from the Casino which resembled the big pirate ship. Unfortunately Hurricane Katrina laid waste to all but the memories when it blew through just about two years ago. At the reunion I recall my dad looking at the crowd and being somewhat perplexed. I didn’t give it much thought until I heard dad make a brief comment to his brother, obviously my uncle. Both of them had been watching for representatives from the older generation. It dawned on them, in a reasonable time, that unfortunately since the last time we’d been together they had become the older generation. This fact was only challenged briefly when one of my grandmother’s cousins, dad’s first cousin once removed upwards, if there is such a thing, came to visit from Pascagoula, Mississippi. Even though she was legally of the older generation she was just...

17-Aug-07 10:00 PM

"Let Us Pray" - Sermon based on Luke 11: 1 - 13

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 28 Jul 2007 03:00:00 GMT

I have in my mind a strange thought which passes through from time to time. It actually goes way back into the days when I was a student in seminary and a student pastor in a small church in Central Texas at the same time. During that same period of history I had a running buddy, who was also in the drive to Dallas carpool and was a fellow student pastor in a town not far away. Anyway, on occasion when our respective spouses were working and there was a day off of school, Don would give me a call and would say, “you wanna’ go to Waco?” More times than not I would say, “yes,” and off we would go. Every now and then even now when things get rough or I need a break I’ll think to myself, “you wanna’ go to Waco?” Unfortunately the answer is different. More times than not I say to myself today, when such a thought passes through my mind, “no,” can’t go to Waco today just a little far. I cannot tell you...

27-Jul-07 10:00 PM

it is no secret - we are a global community - what a great time therefore to be part of a global church, The United Methodist Church

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 02:00:00 GMT

RICHARDS COLUMN It is no secret that we are living in a time when we are no longer on our own. The phrases so many kick around affirm that we are “a global community,” or “an international economy,” and so we are. For example, I’ll admit that I still cannot come to terms with the thought that the information person I am talking with may be sitting half way around the world. There is one story I haven’t told you which affirms such a thought. It was back a couple of years ago when I had the privilege of visiting in Bolivia . The group I was with was being taken to see a very rural United Methodist Church way out in country. Actually, it sat at relatively high altitude in an area surrounded completely by llamas, which is another story for another time. As we make the trek, we came across a rural Bolivian “toll plaza.” This was basically a heavy chain, which was stretched across the road, what we were on I wouldn’t even call a...

23-Jul-07 9:00 PM

A Tale of Two Sisters, Martha and Mary

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 21 Jul 2007 19:00:00 GMT

It will be quite difficult for me this coming week. In a few days, Wednesday to be exact, the first anniversary of my mother’s final hospitalization will occur. It was on that day that she entered M.D. Anderson for the last time. As you know she died on August 2nd of last year. I am once again amazed at how fast time has passed. Much is still unsettled. Dad is basically doing o.k. My brother’s situation still requires some patience and is a work in progress. The optimum plan is to get him into his own home. We’ve bid on one and are seeking a mortgage company. Even though the realtor calls the house a “manufactured home” the city records show it as a “mobile home.” Therefore the current company will not issue a loan. The difference is that a mobile home has had a license plate issued whereas a “manufactured” or “prefabricated” home is brought in and set in place, not driven in. The house in question has no wheels,...

21-Jul-07 2:00 PM

"Whatever It Takes"

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 23 Jun 2007 01:00:00 GMT

Over these last few weeks we have been experiencing some noticeable electrical storms here in Houston. Usually they come at night which makes for good sleeping weather. Unfortunately several have hit during the day making for really challenging driving around town. One in particular I enjoyed from the parking lot of a local grocery store. The intersection became so quickly flooded I couldn’t get anywhere, so decided just to sit it out, and so I did until about 1:00 in the morning. It was just me and about seventy five of my new closest friends. In the midst of the storm which passed through the other day I was remembering my grandparent’s electrical storm visitor. It all started on a day some years before I was born and continued into my young memory. As my grandmother told the story; it was a rainy, lightening and thunder filled the day in Houston. As coincidence would have it just about the moment the first clap of thunder, a particularly loud one, came my...

22-Jun-07 8:00 PM

"Whatever It Takes"

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 23 Jun 2007 01:00:00 GMT

Father's Day Remembrance based on Luke 15: 11 - 32

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 23:00:00 GMT

I’ve heard it said by more experienced people than me that the older one becomes the more like oneself one becomes. This means that if a person is a grumpy younger person that person will be a much grumpier older person. This point I heard reiterated in another way by a guy I knew who served as the managing director of a large local United Methodist based retirement community. He said that the first thing he learned in the business was the fact that all little old ladies aren’t sweet. I could certainly attest to that with my grandmother. The older she lived the more ornery she became. But she had a good reason; she lived with my grandfather for over seventy years. If, on the other hand, people do become more like themselves as they age, my father may well be working on sainthood. For example, I only remember one time in my entire life that my dad was truly angry with me. I also remember precisely the event which triggered his anger and the fact that I deserved...

16-Jun-07 6:00 PM

Father's Day Remembrance based on Luke 15: 11 - 32

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 16 Jun 2007 23:00:00 GMT

"It Ain't Braggin' If It's True"

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 23:00:00 GMT

I recall a few churches back taking the youth group down to Austin to an Amy Grant concert at the University of Texas’ “Super Drum.” This was in the days when Grant was still doing a solid dose of Christian music before she “crossed over,” whatever that means. From where we all lived at the time Austin was a relatively simple trip for one of a Texas distance mentality. If memory serves correctly driving time was no more than two hours. We left home early enough not only to attend the concert but also built in time for dinner and a tour of the Texas state capital building. During the drive between dinner and the Super Drum I listened to a couple of conversations. It was interesting to note that several of the youth had never been that far from home before. One declared that this was the first time he had left the county. I cannot say if that was true, but in his mind the distances he was use to traveling were no further than what was regular in...

8-Jun-07 6:00 PM

Vacation Bible School is Almost Here!

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 22:00:00 GMT

Vacation Bible School “Takes the Plunge!” Registration Forms Available Now (Please Click Children In Menu At Upper Left, Then VBS Registration) VBS Schedule Fair Haven’s Vacation Bible School this summer is the week of June 18th, on Monday through Thursday evenings from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Each night, an optional snack supper will be served from 5:00 to 5:45 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Arriving for snack supper by 5:45 p.m. will allow time to be ready for an exciting evening. Worship Celebration and Waterslide Features A concluding celebration will be held during 11:05 a.m. worship the Sunday after VBS, June 24th, with lots of VBS music provided by the kids during the service. Following worship, there will be dessert and drinks provided for the vbs graduates, friends, and families, with 2 age appropriate waterslide features, games, and activities to enjoy on the playground. Why not bring a picnic lunch or bring back something to eat from an area...

4-Jun-07 5:00 PM

"More to Come"

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Thu, 17 May 2007 18:00:00 GMT

Between the years our three children were born, the expectations of the father, and others who were present in the delivery room at the appropriate time certainly changed. I remember the July day back in 1981 when Stephanie was finally on the way. The attire for fathers was a full set of those sorts of paper scrubs, a mask, shoe covers, a head cover and gloves. My place was duly defined way off out of the way and I was instructed neither to talk to the delivery staff nor to ask any questions until after birth. As Susan had decided for the natural method I was there by her head giving moral support and instructions in the proper breathing patterns at the proper time. I’d call the occasion sterile and controlled. The days after birth only the immediate family could come in to hold the baby and they were also well covered by hospital type attire. A little less than three years later, in May of 1984, Ryan made his appearance. Unfortunately we didn’t have the calm...

17-May-07 1:00 PM

"What's In Your Worship Portfolio?"

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 12 May 2007 19:00:00 GMT

There was a local character I knew back in one of the small towns in which I served who was regularly sighted daily at various places around the community and throughout the region. I cannot recall what he had been in that county prior to my coming but in years past he been a high official of some sort. His name doesn’t matter for the story. I bring him up today because of one of the classic expressions he often used. When ever somebody, especially somebody young, would say something like “I didn’t know this or that” about some new insight, he would say, and I quote exactly, “You can take all you don’t know and build a world a billion times as big.” At first I thought him to be just plain rude until I found out he fancied himself somewhat of a philosopher. I didn’t know until then how close being rude and being philosophical were to each other especially when one is the recipient. It wasn’t that he was implying...

12-May-07 2:00 PM

A Revelation Revelation

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 28 Apr 2007 17:00:00 GMT

Back during my very brief student pastorate in Blooming Grove, Navarro County, Texas, I was part of an interesting early morning group. Back then I was still able to fairly well sleep through the night and would arise without much hesitation in order to get going by five in the morning. I don’t remember exactly how the schedule worked back then but I do recall rising at that hour and facing the day shortly thereafter. Weekday mornings I went one of two directions depending on the call of the day. Some days I headed off to Fort Worth for seminary classes at Brite Divinity School, Texas Christian University. The other days during the week I drove a school bus for the Blooming Grove Independent School District. Those days I was at the bus barn by six a.m., ran the entire route, which included a lot of “country” driving, and was back in town by eight in order for the children to start their school day. On the bus driving days I was at the Bradley Funeral Home in...

28-Apr-07 12:00 PM

Fish For Breakfast

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 21 Apr 2007 06:00:00 GMT

This is a very curious passage of scripture, this one from John 21. The scripture actually tells us that this is the third time Jesus came to his disciples after the resurrection. And the disciples seem here once again to be amazed by His appearance. I cannot actually reason this out except perhaps to say that some time had passed between the second and third encounters. Just perhaps these disciples were still expecting Jesus to lead them. Just maybe they were waiting for Jesus to return and when he didn’t come back in a timely fashion, they went back to their old way of doing things. I hope, if this was in fact the case that these fishing disciples returned to their work in order to wait until Jesus gave them the next step and the next opportunity. Whatever the case, when Peter declared to the others that he was “going fishing,” and when his partners tagged along, it was as though they were admitting that the whole Jesus thing was over and it was time to...

21-Apr-07 1:00 AM

Giving Thomas the Benefit of the Doubt

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 14 Apr 2007 19:00:00 GMT

One of the more tragic memories I have of ministry really isn’t from my own experience but from one I did see up close and personal. It was during one of my early appointments, when I served both as an associate pastor as well as a youth director. Like so many other churches, not just United Methodist Churches but all churches, the number of folks on the roll far exceeded those for which we could account. As you know there are many who are on the roll that for some reason or another choose to be away from the life of the church. Now I’m not talking about those who are physically unable, but those who could be present in the life of the church but have made the choice to stay away. There are definitely many reasons for this; some are good and honest ones and others are not. As the true story goes, Joe, my Senior Minister at the time, received a very late night call from the local Sheriff’s department. They called to recruit him for a very sad duty. There...

14-Apr-07 2:00 PM

COME DANCE WITH ME!

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 16:45:00 GMT

The Agape and Gospel Girls invite you to their May 6, fundraiser show in the Fellowship Hall. These girls want to go to Music Camp and they need your help! So put on your dancing shoes and come and listen to their 30’s 40’s and 50’s musical show Sunday, May 6, 2007 at 4:00pm

26-Mar-07 11:45 AM

Easter Egg Hunt Activities Coming Saturday April 7

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 16:00:00 GMT

When: Saturday, April 7th from 10:00 – Noon. Actual hunting starts at 10:30 a.m. with activities beforehand.

Who: Ages 3yr. through 3rd Grade

Where: Fair Haven Church Grounds

Activities: Egg Hunt followed by Games, Balloons, Face Painting, Arts & Crafts, Cookies, and more.

Helpers needed to hide eggs prior to hunt (please arrive at 9am) and to supervise games and activities after the hunt, all materials and instructions supplied. During March Sunday School Packets contain sign up sheets. You may also sign up by contacting Jan Bradley. Please come and help share the story of God’s saving Grace for us through the love, sacrifice and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

26-Mar-07 11:00 AM

MAUNDY THURSDAY TENEBRAE SERVICE

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Maundy Thursday April 5, at 7:00pm

The Adult Choirs present Benjamin Harlan’s Behold the Darkness. The service is a Tenebrae service that dates back to the 4th century. The music combines classic passion texts with new words. Benjamin Harlan’s music is fresh and compelling and in the readings, you hear words from Jesus, Judas, Peter, Pilate and others. Tenebrae is a service of shadows and ends in almost total darkness. The approaching darkness symbolizes the flight of the disciples, Christ’s death, and his burial in the tomb. The relighting of the Christ candle is a sign of hope. The readers represent all of humankind sharing in responsibility for Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross.

26-Mar-07 11:00 AM

LENT / EASTER PROGRAMS PREVIEW

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Easter & Lent Worship Services April 1 Palm Sunday Children’s Choirs Musical Sanctuary 8:30 & 11:05 a.m. April 5 Holy Thursday – Adult Choir Cantata Sanctuary 7:00p.m. April 6 Good Friday Breakfast/Devotional 7:30am Fellowship Hall April 7 Holy Saturday Easter Egg Hunt 10:00am. April 8 Easter Sunday Worship at 8:30am, 9:00am and 11:05am Sunday School at 10:00am In the very near future we shall all gather and sing Christ the Lord Is Risen Today! Of course those who are familiar with things of Christian faith will recognize the fact that the day we celebrate when such a song is sung is Easter Sunday!! Of course we acknowledge the fact that Easter is the day upon which God worked his greatest miracle, the resurrection of Christ. We at Fair Haven have several traditions which help us prepare for and then greet the day of resurrection. The information shared here will be made complete by other articles in this paper. Please be attentive to these Sunday, April 1st...

26-Mar-07 11:00 AM

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL WEEK OF JUNE 18TH 2007

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Fair Haven’s Vacation Bible School this summer is the week of June 18th, on Monday through Thursday evenings. Please mark your calendars and watch for more exciting details.

VBS kids will "Take the Plunge!" and "Make a Splash with Jesus!" as they "Soak up the Son" with music and skits, hear stories about how Jesus used water to teach, and be challenged to participate in some exciting mission projects. As the water adventure continues, the kids are "Park Crews" and led by "Park Guides" as they plunge into many stirring water adventures in the "Take the Plunge" water park. These thrilling water stops include "Bibleland Bay," "Snack Shack", "Raise the Reef Praises," "Oceans of Motion", and "Craft-Away Cove." When they visit "Bibleland Bay," "Park Crews" will experience Bible stories immersed in God’s power and love. They will learn how Jesus used water to change lives: Miraculous Catch of Fish; Jesus and the Woman at the Well; Jesus Calms the Storm; Jesus Walks on Water; Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet.

Please begin now to encourage kids who will be 4 years old by this August through those who will have completed the 5th grade to join us for this exciting adventure, and please put the dates on your calendar to help us as a volunteer.

26-Mar-07 11:00 AM

WHAT IS ANNUAL CONFERENCE?

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 16:00:00 GMT

ANNUAL CONFERENCE

MAY 27 – 31

Back in the earliest times of Methodism in England John Wesley gathered the Methodist "preachers" once a year. These young men would come from their various appointments throughout the British Isles and even a few from the "continent." Wesley’s goal was to "confer" with these pastors concerning the good work of the communities of faith in which they served in the name of Christ and of Methodism. These times of gathering became known as "Annual Conferences."

Through the centuries, the name has become part of our identity. It is still the practice of the Bishop of each geographical area of United Methodism to call an "Annual Conference." The purpose of the conference is to review the year past, to consider business, to look to and plan for the future, to appoint pastor’s to congregations, and to celebrate and worship. This year Annual Conference is at the Woodlands United Methodist Church. Even though we will have specific lay delegates to the Conference all United Methodists are welcome to sit in on a session or come for worship. The dates for Annual Conference are Sunday, May 27th to Thursday, May 31st.

26-Mar-07 11:00 AM

PALM SUNDAY REMEMBERS JERUSALEM ENTRY

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Palm Sunday, April 1 at 8:30 & 11:05 services

The FLAMES, Agape Girls, and Gospel Girls Choir & Dance Teams present The Little Donkey’s Easter Journey. Join the children as they take you to another time and place. The place called Judea, a country by the sea, the time, two thousand years ago. You will witness the Holy Week events in this musical for young voices. The presentation makes the season more understandable and enriching for all.

Come and bring your family and friends.

26-Mar-07 11:00 AM

FAITH WORKS!

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 26 Mar 2007 16:00:00 GMT

The Outreach Commission invites all Fair Haven Members to participate in the fourth annual Faith Works day on Saturday, April 21. Watch the e-mail newsletters for more information about Faith Works and the projects we will do that day.

26-Mar-07 11:00 AM

Exploring God's Time

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 10 Feb 2007 21:00:00 GMT

There are people out there in our world who tend to be the non-conformists, those who see life from another view or who in the old language, “march to the beat of a different drummer.” In our associations and families all of us have somebody who is like that, one who chooses to maintain practices, that is, those who are doing things, or believing in unique ways. I can think of dozens of such people whom I have met in the collection of towns in which we have lived through the years. Some folks would call these types of people “odd.” I believe “unique” to be the better definition. In my own family, on my dad’s side, there was one in particular that I met when I was still a child. He lived way out in the country in a most remarkable home build by the hands of his ancestors. The place was lightly but adequately furnished. Windows supplied the coolness. Heat came from a fireplace in each room. The living room fireplace was particularly...

10-Feb-07 3:00 PM

Mardi Gras Celebration Sunday, February 18th 5pm

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 05 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

FAMILY MARDI GRAS CELEBRATION AT FAIR HAVEN! CHRISTIAN LIFE CENTER February 18, 2007 @ 5:00 P.M. Bring A Covered Dish to Share Drinks and Dessert Will Be Provided Live Entertainment with Family Friendly Comedian: John Jaksha Crafts for the Kids - Mask Making - Face Painting And of Course Great New Orleans Music Nursery Provided The entertainment for this special evening is John Jaksha, who has made a name for himself in churches and comedy clubs for his knee-slapping family friendly standup comedy routines. All of that is in addition to his excellent sound production company which supports the work of many radio stations and other media outlets. At Fair Haven, you have heard his voice in our “Jubilee Moment” Video Sountracks and the Sound clips for a Handbells PatrioticConcert Theme: “When Johnny Comes Marching Home.” He has done the sound editing for over 250 Hour of Hope messages aired on KHCB Radio. John Jaksha, and a band of like minded...

4-Feb-07 11:00 PM

Youth Ministry and Mission Garage Sale

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Sat, 03 Feb 2007 05:15:00 GMT

Fair Haven Youth Ministry and Mission Friday and Saturday, Feb. 16-17 9am – 4pm Items may be dropped off at Fellowship Hall... Daytime Sundays Feb. 4 & 11; 10am – 3pm Week of Feb. 5, Mon. – Fri. 9-12, 1-4 Week of Feb. 12, Mon. – Wed. 9-12, 1-4 Evenings Tuesdays Feb. 6 & 13, 7-9pm Thursday Feb. 8, 7-9pm No Large Electrical Items Please Volunteer Help Always Needed to Sort, Price, or Sell Please Call Church Office to Volunteer Or to Request Heavy Pickup 713-468-3276

2-Feb-07 11:15 PM

Update on the passing of Fisher Gay

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Wed, 17 Jan 2007 20:00:00 GMT

I had a call last night from Betty Godsoe of Mission of Yahweh wanting us to know of the death of Sister Gay's husband, Fisher Gay. She said a wake would be held at Wylie Funeral Home at Pinemont and Ella from 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm on Friday, January 19, 2007. Services will be at 12:30 noon on Saturday the 20th at Carverdale Community Church at 10028 Algiers 77041.

Memorial gifts to Yahweh Children's Foundation has been requested instead of flowers.

Please share this with our congregation through the email. Thanks.

Sincerely,

Bernie

17-Jan-07 2:00 PM

New Year Greeting from Pastor Laster

noemail@fairhavenumc.org — Mon, 08 Jan 2007 04:00:00 GMT

It really hasn’t been that long ago since my family would go to visit the relatives in Tennessee and Mississippi. During these times it would fall upon the younger ones, I was one of these at that time, to be outside playing ball or some such, as the older folks, including ones my parent’s age, sat in the screen enclosed porch at a place such as my grandparent’s house visiting and generally catching up. I do recall for sure that the ritual was enhanced by the presence of iced tea and a slightly cool-ish Southern breeze. When dark came along and we were allowed to settle in the house there was generally a wonderful meal followed by more visiting and more specific catching up. The topics of consideration during these times included appropriate memories, that is the memories of people who were not around any more, some humorous stories concerning those and other folks who lived on in memory, and the chance to reflect on what had been, on what was, and on...

7-Jan-07 10:00 PM

Rachel Pendray - In memory of a beautiful life

Wed, 06 Dec 2006 22:00:00 GMT

Rachel Vivian Pendray was born on January 1, 1986, to Mark and Eleanor Pendray. Though her life was unexpectedly ended on Sunday, December 3, 2006, Rachel’s spirit will live on in the hearts of the family and friends who love her. A native Houstonian, Rachel was a natural born athlete. Before the age of 3, she had already developed a love of gymnastics. As Rachel grew, so did her love of sports. Years spent as a member of community swimming and diving teams lead her to become a high school district champ in diving during her freshman year at Spring Woods High School. Her love of athletics also found a natural outlet when she became a cheerleader, serving multiple years as a member and captain of the Spring Woods Varsity cheerleading squad. Upon graduation from Spring Woods in 2004, Rachel enrolled at Sam Houston State University, where she was one of the inaugural members of the newly created All Girl Cheer Squad. During her 2 ½ years at SHSU, Rachel’s drive to excel...

6-Dec-06 4:00 PM