Travis Park Church Green Team Celebrates Earth Day

The Travis Park Green Team’s Mission is to find ways that we as a church can reduce our impact on the environment and educate one another, thereby creating a larger impact on our church and the world. In Genesis 2:15, humans were placed in the Garden of Eden and instructed to ‘work it and take care of it’. In other words, God has given us the responsibility to act as stewards of his creation – to care for, manage, oversee, and protect all that God owns.

Earth Day is just one day. On Sunday April 21, 2024 we celebrated the Earth by Plant Sales and Educational information shared with our community. We are called every day to think how the things we do affect our planet and the future for our children. These are a few of the Green Team goals:

1. Recycling: The Green Team has prioritized recycling and have their sights set on a commercial recycling bin. Many members have been taking the recycling home every week, which is unsustainable over the long term. With a church campus of our size, an industrial container with a regular pickup schedule will result in a more efficient and widely used recycling program.

2. LED Lighting: LED bulbs are bright, last longer, and most importantly, they consume less energy!

3. Education: The Green Team is asking the congregation to do some soul-searching and look at how everyone can adopt a “cleaner” way to Rethink, Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Repair. Please read some of the information below.

4. Green Building Materials: With the building repairs and construction on the horizon, the Green Team’s goals are finding ‘green’ building materials from local sources, reducing loads and optimizing systems, and generating on-site renewable energy.

5. Renewable Energy:  Creating energy efficiency within the building is a worthy goal and will help the Travis Park Church continue another 175 years for our children and the future missions of the Church.

Please Feel free to check out the QR code with many informative articles and website that will help us all care for our planet better. 

https://travispark.org/greenteam/

Blessing Donna Clark and the Green Team at Travis Park United Methodist Church.

Bethel UMC Honors 51st Miss Black San Antonio Scholarship Pageant

The Bethel United Methodist Church Congregation was blessed with a very inspirational service for March Women’s History Observation. Glenetta Bierria, our family church member, was honored for her passion and vision in conducting her fifty-first Miss Black San Antonio Scholarship Pageant.

Bierria explained the foundation of the pageantry platform is to strengthen the self-confidence of young African American females and to encourage them to pursue meaningful career goals.

The training steps for participating in the pageant consists of a six-week practicum. It involves Speech, Marketing Skills, Wardrobe, Modeling, Protocol and Talent coaching.

Most importantly, the ambitious young contestants acquire an appreciation for their African American Heritage during the memorable Black History Month.

The pageant theme this year is “Five Diamonds In The Sky”. Namely these local African American Legends are Artemisia Bowden (St. Phillips College), Hattie Elam Briscoe (St. Mary’s University of Law Graduate), Ella Austin (Orphanage Home Provider), Hazel Miller (1st Black Childhood Day Care) and Jessie Mae Hicks (1st Black Vocational Beauty School).

The African American Community Awareness Projects (AACAP) Group express heartfelt appreciation to Bethel United Methodist Church for giving a performance opportunity to Dara Mack, Miss Black San Antonio Goodwill Ambassador and Ma’Aliyah Myers, Miss Eminence.

Let it be known, a job well done made this event a success with the blessings of Rev. Carolyn Pittman and the excellent coordination skills of Michelle Russell-Burke and Lauren Armwood.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

Making New Old Friends at Mid-Winters

I love Puzzles. I am drawn to them because every piece is similar and different at the same time. I must sit and contemplate multiple times with the piece that I am so sure fits in a particular place is the right one. Each piece plays a critical part in the whole picture. 

The Rio Texas Conference hosted three Mid-Winters in the first two months of 2024. The first one was the Capital District on January 12 – 14.  The theme was “God Seeks after your heart and Know your worth.” On February 16 – 18, Las Misiones and Coastal Bend/El Valle hosted their camp. Las Misiones had theirs at Twin Oaks, Buda, TX. Their theme was “Jesuspalooza,” celebrating Jesus and his redemptive love for all of us. He frees us, and now we can help others to be free by sharing Jesus’ love. Coastal Bend/El Valle gathered at Camp Zephyr, Sandia TX. Their theme was “Under Pressure,” with the weight of fulfilling the expectations from family, school, friends, and sports (and our own expectations)—being lifted up by Jesus, who offers his love and his hope to live an abundant life in him. 

I give thanks to God and celebrate the leadership of Rev. Ryan Jensen in Capital District, Isabella Lopez in Las Misiones, and Pastor Philip Higginbotham/ Pastor Todd Johns in Coastal Bend/El Valle District, who gather and coordinate the gifts of many youth pastors and Pastors to have a wonderful camp in their respective Districts. I celebrate that in all three camps, new churches experienced hospitality and love from leaders and students. I was filled with joy when I sat with churches participating for the first time after the pandemic. New churches from our conference reconnected with the district and now are planning to be part of future summer camps. I celebrate the multiple gifts that came to the table when youth from various-sized congregations came to pray, play, and make new friends—as if the puzzle is revealing the work of God in our midst.  

We need all the pieces to admire the beauty we usher when all gather to praise God and offer our gifts. I am filled with joy and expectation to see what else God will reveal in our conference as the Youth connect and learn from one another. For more pictures, you can visit The Rio Texas Conference Facebook to see each camp’s pictures. 

Re-start Church “Experiment” Begins

Rio Texas Conference had 9 churches who had a unique experience in 2023: they entered disaffiliation discernment, voted, more than 50% voted to leave (and most have actually left), but they did not reach the 67% and remained United Methodist (one more church joins this group in 2024).

These 9 churches were invited to join in a Re-start Experiment. They gathered in-person to begin learning about what the experiment offers: learning about neighboring and new church start techniques, outreach, marketing, transforming community network, coaching, etc.

While many of these churches need immediate needs, this will be a three-year experiment with benchmarks that need to be met. We started our time on Saturday, January 13 and January 20 recognizing that God is doing a new thing, and we need eyes to see and the courage to join God’s work.

Rev. Kendall Waller, Rev. Ray Altman, Abel Vega, and Rev. Bob Clark joined me, Karen Horan, to pray and teach and offer coaching as we kicked off this experiment. Join in praying for this experiment and these churches in this unique situation: FUMC Elgin, Bee Creek UMC, La Trinidad Laredo, FUMC Mason, FUMC Hilda, Island in the Son, FUMC Devine, Bethany Austin, St. Luke San Angelo, and in 2024 La Vernia UMC.

Small Step Toward Racial Justice

What does it mean to work toward racial justice? We can all acknowledge the evils of racism and the impact it has had and continues to have on our country. It is another thing to take a careful look at our own lives and see the places where injustice has occurred and do something to change that. 

The Laurel Heights UMC Chancel Choir recently did just that. They examined their practices using works from the African American sacred music tradition, which has richly blessed us. They decided that each time we use music from this tradition in worship, a donation will be made to a scholarship fund at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in acknowledgment of the ways that the original creators of African American sacred music have been denied credit and compensation for these works. (You can read their full statement Music with a Mission below.)  

First UMC in Austin plans to adopt this initiative. Pastor Lisa Straus is working to bring this effort to the attention of others within our district and conference as well. Others can take part by making a designated gift online or through the offering plate. Thank you to the choir for leading us! 

Music with a Mission 

Music from the Black Church, which includes gospel and spiritual songs and hymns, is found in the United Methodist and other Christian hymnals. These traditional works are sung universally across Christian churches and have been mainstreamed for decades. Singing these pieces has multiple effects: maintaining appreciation for the genre; celebrating the many unknown Black composers and musicians who created the songs, (many dating back to the slave era); and preserving African American music in connection with other movements in global music. 

Music of African descent provides the building block of all American music. When a choir or instrumental ensemble presents gospel or spiritual works, they must honor the style and context of the period from which the work originated and present the piece in the most authentic way possible, while respecting its origins and background story. The Laurel Heights U.M.C. Chancel Choir strives to prepare authentic renditions, with the assistance of legitimate choral arrangers, to enhance the Christian experience via a Global Music Ministry perspective. 

Unlike other hymns and worship music, songs from the Black Church were not published until after the names of their creators were long forgotten if they were ever even known. 

In recognition of this reality, whenever we sing gospel and spiritual songs and hymns at LHUMC, we will begin the practice of contributing ‘royalties’ in an offering that will support the development of young Black musicians. 

For this season, these royalties will support the Dr. Gloria Quinlan Endowed Scholarship fund at Huston-Tillotson University, an H.B.C.U. in Austin, Texas that is affiliated with both the United Methodist and the United Church of Christ. Dr. Quinlan grew up in Houston and began sharing her musical gifts with churches there throughout her youth. She earned degrees from Texas Southern University (B.A.), Colorado State (M.Mus.), and the University of Texas at Austin (D.M.A.) While teaching at Huston-Tillotson, Dr. Quinlan remained committed to the Black Church and worked as the Minister of Music at Ebenezer Baptist. 

If you wish to join LHUMC in contributing royalties, please use the envelopes in the pews and mark your donation as a contribution to the Dr. Quinlan Scholarship Fund. You may also contribute through the LHUMC website donation page 

https://www.laurelheights.org/give/. 

Written by Katie Myers

Facing the Future

The holiday season is here: Thanksgiving, Advent, and Christmas. Many people are traveling from one corner of the country to another. Many times, this creates stress and anxiety. People get so worried preparing for the holidays. Instead of a time to be and connect with one another, Christmastime becomes a busy time.

The General Council Of Religion and Race (GCORR) perceives we are living in a similar situation across our denomination, and I see this too. This is because multiple conferences are in the process of disaffiliation. Others are trying to forecast what will happen at General Conference, Jurisdictional Conference, and Annual Conference. Many local churches are figuring out the new normal. We are letting ourselves be consumed by speculations and uncertainty. This is multiplying among pastors or congregations with cross-cultural appointments. I am glad GCORR put Facing the Future 2023 together. I enjoyed this meeting as it offered multiple opportunities to Being, Belonging and Becoming. 

I arrived early in the morning on November 14 to Atlanta International Airport. I connected with diverse pastors from other conferences. The GCORR did not offer transportation, but a few pastors created a chat to connect with others before the event. We carpooled and shared some lunch together to get to know one another. We shared bread and personal stories. I learned that one pastor from Haiti was creating an inner-city hub for a gentrified neighborhood. They are hosting multiple services for poor and affluent people to connect and belong. Another pastor from Korea was serving a two-point charge appointment—one church is an African American and Latino church, the second is an Anglo/predominantly white church. She shared her experience growing up in Los Angeles during the Rodney King riots. Her family had a business that was destroyed by an angry mob. They lost everything, but through a long process of healing she is now serving a community who loves her and supports her ministry. It was not easy, but she continues making time to listen and learn.  

Another opportunity the participants of the event had was to have Rev. Dr. Kendrick Weaver lead us in a scripture exegesis and a creative devotional to add to our toolbox. He shared with us the meaning of the Hebrew word “Hinneni,” which means “Here I am,” or “I am,” an acknowledgment that you are somebody worthy and someone important is calling your attention. We explored the difference between “Hinne,” “Hinneni,” and “Hinnenu.” He used multiple biblical passages as an example. The passage we studied thoroughly was 1 Samuel 3:2-9, focusing on verse 9. He explained that Samuel’s “hinneni” is in verse 9 only and it is not passive; it is an active verb. He used a practical illustration to ensure we understood this better. He said, “we cannot answer a phone call unless we pick up the phone, press talk, and engage in the conversation.” According to Dr. Weaver, the story of Samuel in a way represents our call. God never stops calling us because we are worthy to Him, but we sometimes misplace our listening. Rather than making space to listen to God’s voice, we misplace our Hinneni in other people, in what we do, or in validation that we seek from others in ministry. Dr. Weaver drilled the importance of placing our “Hinneni” into God and God alone: He loves us because “We are,” and we don’t have to do anything else. We do not have to perform or produce anything to be called and loved by God. Then, Dr. Weaver led us on a creative way to use what we have learned as a spiritual practice. First, he taught us how to handwrite the word, in Hebrew, and while we wrote, we repeated the word, focusing on the word more than just the calligraphy. Dr. Weaver asked us to draw the image that came to our minds. The second practice was meditation, using it as a mantra or chanting the word. It was a meaningful time because all participants experienced the importance of being present—a critical part of being and listening for God and one another—according to Dr. Weaver.

During the three days we had time to play network Bingo, share conversations during meals, participate in different workshops, and worship together in various languages and musical styles. It was a gathering to celebrate diversity, uplift the gifts of everyone and gave us a glimpse of what it could be when everyone does Belong and Become. A small group of pastors and lay people from Rio Texas had the opportunity to connect with pastors from all over the country. I give thanks to God for the opportunity to attend the event. I give a high-five to the team who prayerfully put the event together, and I celebrate every person I met during this time. It has been a reminder of the importance of being, listening, and being present to be faithful to God’s call that has been placed in my life and to celebrate the call of every person I encounter.

A Time of Prophetic Leadership at Shalom Summit 2023

Members of the faithful gathered at Travis Park Church in downtown San Antonio for the 2nd Annual Shalom Summit on October 20-21. Rev. Bob Clark of the Transforming Communities Network facilitated the two-day conference with breakout sessions and plenaries on peacemaking and anti-violence.  

Austin St. Mark UMC Head Pastor Ashley Cuellar Valenzuela started with opening worship to set the tone. She described her experiences trying to head start homeless or migration ministries despite some resistance.  

“I’ve seen God do the work of Shalom that is mind-blowing,” said Valenzuela. “I think the spirit is doing really awesome work. We get the opportunity to look outside and see what spirit is doing and join that spirit.”  

The first and second plenaries were spearheaded by Rev. Dr. Fred Smith where he emphasized that we live in times of prophetic leadership.  

“Jesus said to read the signs of the times, and that requires imagination,” said Smith. “What does Shalom mean? It means how God intended the world to be whole. Shalom is taking God’s fire and—boom—sticking it to the ground and creating life and wholeness.”  

Shane Claiborne, founder of The Simple Way of Philadelphia and author of Beating Guns, spoke at the final two plenaries. He started his activism after witnessing someone die on the footsteps of his home from a gunshot wound. He pointed out that, after consoling the victim’s mother, God knows what grief feels like because He lost His son Jesus to violence.  

“God felt the absence of God,” said Claiborne. “We can imagine as people of faith things can be different. It doesn’t have to be this way.”  

Claiborne uses the power of transformation by turning donated guns into metal art and crafts. He even wears a cross made from a gun barrel. Other crafted items include a shovel and a hand trowel.  

“I tell my evangelical friends ‘This is what a gun looks like when it gets born again!’ One of the promises of scripture is that all things can be made new. Metal that has been crafted to kill can be reimagined. Hearts that have created harm are more than the worst thing that they’ve ever done.”

Travis Park Church is one of several host sites for “Vidas Robadas” Gun Violence Awareness Installation, open to the public from 11 am-1 pm on Wednesdays through November 15th. Travis Park Church is serving as one of many host sites for Vidas Robadas (Taken Lives), an installation of t-shirts that honors lives stolen by gun violence.

This installation is in partnership with local groups such as COPS Metro, and Austin-based interfaith advocacy group Texas Impact. 

Over 2,700 Bexar County residents have died from gun violence related incidents since 2018, and 250 of those lives are represented at Travis Park Church through t-shirts.

Kingdom Kamp Reunion 2023 Video

United Methodist & Women's Suffrage Activist Jovita Idar Minted on U.S. Quarter→

Read UMNS article

Members of the San Antonio community gathered at the UTSA Downtown Campus located on the city’s historic westside to celebrate the minting of Jovita Idar on a U.S. quarter on Thursday, September 14. Members of the U.S. mint contributed to a roundtable hosted by UTSA and members of Jovita’s family, as well as Retired Bishop Joel Martínez. 

Jovita Idar was a civil rights advocate, journalist, and a political activist that focused on empowering Mexican-American women to engage in politics during the Mexican Revolution. She brought awareness to women’s suffrage in the dawn of the 20th century. She included her family in much of her political activism.  

Rev. Dr. Elizabeth A. Lopez and Martha L. Aki were great nieces of Jovita and recounted memories of their mother’s discussions with Jovita.  

“I think we found that strength in the stories that my cousins and I heard from our mothers. Her commitment to The United Methodist Church’s values of personal and social holiness prepared a way for me to confront the patriarchal constraints and racism that exists within the UMC,” said Dr. Lopez. “Her inherit strengths to keep me going when I wanted to quit gave me and other Hispanic women the experience of ministry in cross-racial appointments. The commitment of her faith was an undercurrent for everything she did: not only with her family but also with La Trinidad UMC. 141 years later, the first woman was appointed to La Trinidad UMC – Raquel Feagins. My Tía Jovita would be excited and applaud.”  

Aki recalled that even though they were not born during Jovita’s life, their mother would sneak-in and listen to Jovita’s political discussions with her family.  

“We were able to hear those stories because my mom and Aunt Evangelin got behind chairs and sofas and listen to the stories. We got those stories firsthand from our mom – a strong, passionate, and determined family.”  

Jovita’s activism was supported by her numerous brothers.  

“It was just Jovita and the boys—all her brothers. She was an advocate for women’s rights because she was supported by her brothers to be that woman,” said Aki. “She was encouraged to study, get out there and write articles for La Crónica. For the dads out there: What you tell your little girl is extremely important. Not just the women, but the men were supportive of women’s rights.” 

Bishop Joel Martínez reminded the spectators in the crowded lecture hall to be like Jovita: do not limit yourself to what others expect of you.  

“We have a tendency to confine and assign roles,” said Martínez. “Don’t be defined by those who want to limit you, be defined by the Creator who gave you all the gifts that you have and sense and explore them. That will take you to places where you don’t want to go sometimes, even when your family is aghast about you. In 1956 women were authorized to preach in UMC, and some of their families were aghast! But they wanted to go into preaching. I would raise that up for us to ponder: do not limit your children—boys or girls—to what you think is their probable potential path to the future. Pray them into a freedom that might take them all the way to a place where you don’t want to see them go, but that God will be with them there.” 

Associate Professor of UTSA Dr. Gabriela Gonzalez is working on a second book about the life of Jovita Idar.  

“Jovita would teach through example. The way she dressed and talked, handled herself in public. She talked with gravitas. She was a mentor, teacher, and friend. She was nurturing but also firm and could call you out. People admired all her gifts and talents with humility. The human dignity was oozing out of her.”  

Rev. Miguel Padilla was part of the Rio Texas Conference delegation that was in attendance.  

“I was happy to hear the U.S. Mint’s efforts to be more inclusive. It is affirming how important it is to bring stories of women who look like my sisters and mother. Jovita’s story led me to see that we need everyone’s ideas and voices to create a community where everyone is welcome. It also breaks the stereotype of the silent woman. We need the female perspective and leadership to create new models, systems, and way to do things.” 

More information can be found at jovitaidar.utsa.edu 

Summer to Remember

Leer en Español

I know the title of this article sounds like a movie flick or a new series on one of the popular streaming platforms. It is how I describe the Summer of 2023 because of the multiple celebrations we had in the Rio Texas Conference. The title is not because of the scorching temperatures we endured across Texas (even though we broke the record of most consecutive days with triple digit temperatures). I want to focus on the celebrations from this summer.

We welcomed the season with the Rio Texas Annual Conference. Many people were happy to be back at Corpus Christi after four years. I was excited because, thanks to the leadership of Rev. Nohemi Ramirez’s sponsorship and collaboration from multiple pastors, a resolution acknowledging the 150th anniversary of Mexican and Mexican American Methodism was composed and presented. The resolution was read during the plenary session and received by all delegates with a joyous and celebratory tone. Later the same day, Kelsey Memorial UMC in Corpus Christi hosted a dinner. Not only was the dinner important because of the presence of Bishop Robert Schnase and Retired Bishop Joel Martinez, but Kelsey was the first Hispano-Latino church in the Corpus Christi-area.  

The event was possible because of the initiative, collaboration, and support from La Trinidad UMC San Antonio and Kelsey Memorial UMC. Thank you, pastors, leaders and everyone involved in all details. Bishop Martinez read to us about some important events and figures who set milestones of the Mexican and Mexican American methodism history. Bishop Martinez reminded us of the valuable contribution of Mexican and Mexican American lay and clergy leaders to the faith community of the Mexico-Texas area and to the general church.  

We sang the Metodista Anthem. Mariachis delighted all participants with traditional songs and many other popular coritos or worship songs. Everyone sang, tasted delicious food, and enjoyed fellowship with diverse peoples. For me, this was a great time to hear of our story and the contribution of many saints to renew our strength and continue our journey. These events reminded me that I am part of the great cloud of witnesses, celebrating our diversity.

Unfortunately, a few weeks after the celebration at Kelsey, we witnessed another type of celebration. We celebrated the transition of Rev. Edgar Avitia into the triumphant church. He was a key participant in the celebration at Kelsey a few weeks before his passing. He contributed and wrote a portion of what Bishop Martinez read at Kelsey. On July 2, family and friends gave thanks for the life of Rev. Avitia. He gave witness to The United Methodist Church and to many Wesleyan churches in Latin America. His passion to share stories and build bridges with many Iglesias Metodistas across America led him to create many friendships everywhere he went. He served well in his ministry and promoted a love for hearing our true story. Rest in the presence of our Mighty God, brother Edgar Avitia.

We closed the summer with a massive gathering at La Trinidad UMC San Antonio. Rev. Raquel and John Feagins extended an invitation to the Hispanic caucus in the Methodist church, Mestodistas Asociados por la Causa Hispano-Latina en América (MARCHA). The MARCHA executive committee gathered about 200 Pastors and lay leaders from across the U.S. and Puerto Rico gathered for their Annual Assembly, celebrating its 51th anniversary and continuing the celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the establishment of Methodism in Mexico for Mexican Americans.  

Prior to the event, multiple pastors and lay members from San Antonio, San Marcos, Seguin, and Floresville worked together to make this event possible; some were part of worship while others welcomed and lead people throughout the event. A few others helped as translators and others invited people to volunteer to decorate and serve. It was a true collaboration to represent the Rio Texas Conference and the South-Central Jurisdiction with honor and smile to all visitors.  

The Main theme of the gathering this year was “Somos Metodistas, Somos MARCHA, Somos” (We are Methodist, we are MARCHA, We are). The time together was meaningful. First and foremost, it was the first time coming back together after 3 years of online events and workshops. La Trinidad’s Gym was like a popular market filled with sounds, colors, laughs and fiesta from beginning to end. The president of MARCHA lifted up in prayer those who are struggling, like our migrant communities at the border seeking asylum, and those in our country who are mistreated or in the shadows: victims of gun violence and families who mourn their loved ones; and the silencing of Bishop Minerva Carcaño. We mourn the loss of Rev. Edgar and his legacy in MARCHA, Latin America, and his ministry. There is no easy way to face difficult times, but they are less painful when we know God is with us and we have hermanas y hermanos supporting us in prayers and in our community.

We had the presence of six United Methodist Bishops, and Bishop Lizette Gabriel Montano, the first female Bishop in Puerto Rico. MARCHA hosted a banquet where Rep. Delia Ramirez was the speaker of the night. She shared her testimony of being a daughter of an immigrant mother from Guatemala. She encourages us to walk with courage knowing that God’s grace is with us. She never thought she would be running for congress in Illinois, let alone win an election. She recalled that many times people at her job reminded her that she does not belong in Congress, but her faith and love for her people or “mi gente” as she said, gave her strength to walk with her chin up, because God and her people would be walking with her into those places designed to keep her out. She was an inspiration for all participants. Her local United Methodist Church instilled in her the passion to show her faith through actions, helped her to find her voice to speak for those without voice, and to seek human rights for all of God’s children.  

We had the opportunity to hear, debate, amend, and create proposals for the General Conference. In this exercise, I was reminded that we are in different places, theologically and culturally. We did debate for some time and came to an agreement in a respectful way knowing that all of us are valuable and sought to honor each other’s position. It was a wonderful time to have an open conversation about issues that we did not always agree upon. But if we listen and have empathy for one another, we can hear each other’s heart. Bishop Joel Martinez was not able to be physically present but he shared in a video message the significant events in the 150 years of Mexican and Mexican-American Methodism that inspired many to continue the journey.  

These are a few of the reasons that lead me to say this was a summer to remember. It made me think of Isaiah 52:7-8. It is good to hear good news, shouts of joy from those who bring good tides. We are living difficult and transitional times and I need Good News to keep me grounded and keep me from becoming cynical. These events refresh my faith and confidence that God continues calling us to bring life to places that sometimes show nothing but death. Thank you to all lay leaders and fellow pastors who seek to build God’s kingdom wherever you set foot.

Meeting New People in New Places: VBS in the Park

Young children and their families doing the boat race at the Recreation Station.

Children making a Love Your Neighbor snack mix at the Snack Station.

A view of some of the stations under the pavilion.

Children making a tie dye cross reveal craft at the Craft Station.

Trying new things can be scary. Trying new things outdoors in the middle of Texas summer is even scarier. But we knew we had to do something different after a traditional Vacation Bible School last year with low attendance. Kyle United Methodist Church is a small church in a rapidly growing area with lots of children and families.

In 2022, we were just coming off the pandemic, but our VBS attendance was drastically lower than in years past. We looked at factors that might have contributed to the low attendance and realized that we needed to meet people where they are instead of asking new people to come to our location—a location they were not familiar with.

Vacation Bible School in the Park was born! We decided to do a rotation style vacation bible school at a local park. We rented the pavilion across from the pool and next to the playground (hooray, shade!) for three Sunday evenings.

Families traveled from station-to-station together listening to bible stories, making crafts, doing science experiments, recreational activities, mission projects, and more! We were able to meet so many people (not just kids, but their guardians too!) from our community in a safe and familiar environment for the families. We were very pleased with our turnout, almost quadrupling the attendance from last year!

We continued relationships during the week through an email newsletter that included a devotional and invitation to next week’s VBS. Each week was a different scripture, story, and activity; all under the theme of Peace, Love and Jesus (which related to our crazy tie dye shirts that we became known for in Kyle). At the end of VBS, we invited the families back to the church for a Sunday evening closing celebration–indoors! We even fit a giant bounce house in the Family Life Center. We received great feedback from our closing celebration. New families started attending worship in the weeks following VBS.

Coming up with new ideas is easy, but getting support for your ideas is another story. I was so grateful for my pastor, Rev. Kallie Green, for her enthusiasm and encouragement for my crazy idea. To our surprise, our church was right behind us, helping us the whole way, even in over 100-degree weather!

We are thankful to the New People, New Places grant for providing us the funds to really “go big” for our first Vacation Bible School in the Park and make a lasting impression in our community. We plan to continue our community outreach events and look forward to planning next year’s Vacation Bible School in the Park.

If you’re interested in applying for the New People, New Places grant, there is one final grant cycle for 2023 with an October 26 deadline.

Written by Alissa Villarreal, Children’s and Youth Ministry Director, Kyle United Methodist Church

350 Middle and High School Students Volunteer through UM Army

UM ARMY (United in Mission, Action Reach-out Ministry by Youth) is an organization which provides Christ-centered missions that serve people in need. The organization promotes spiritual growth and leadership in youth and young adults. Each summer, students from across Texas and other regions of the U.S. gather at churches to serve the community through volunteer work by repairing homes, building wheelchair ramps, and serving nonprofit organizations.  

UM ARMY Rio Texas has made it a priority to offer at least one camp in the Rio Grande Valley each year. This summer, FUMC Weslaco hosted 30 participants from Gruene UMC and Medina Valley UMC for a week of hard work, meaningful worship, and lots of fun.

The campers were divided into three work teams and were able to repair and replace a fence, paint, insulate, and drywall a house, build two ramps, and help with other projects at the host church. Near the end of the week, most of the homeowners attended the community celebration, joining the campers for an evening of dinner and worship. It was a powerful experience of shared connection and gratitude across cultures and generations. Additionally, the campers were able to complete their projects early on the last workday, allowing for an afternoon of beach fun on South Padre Island.

Along with the Weslaco camp, UM ARMY Rio Texas hosted a young adult camp in Corpus Christi as well as middle and high school camps in San Marcos, Fredericksburg, and San Antonio. Approximately 350 students from across the Rio Texas Conference and surrounding areas participated in these awesome service weeks.

Dignity and Freeze-Dried Apples - Conference Cabinets Tour El Calvario

New Mexico Conference and Rio Texas Conference cabinets experienced and learned about the migrant shelter and ministry at El Calvario in Las Cruces. Both cabinets were incredibly grateful for the efforts and impact of this ministry.

While touring the small facilities, a bus arrived to drop off about 50 people – mostly single mothers and their children. They came from Venezuela, Nicaragua, Brazil, and Bolivia. Not surprisingly, they looked exhausted and frightened. El Calvario Facility Director Suzie Torres welcomed the migrants and made sure they knew where they were. She and the staff assured them of shelter, a meal, and a shower. Suzie provided a short orientation in Spanish to let them know how the shelter works and what would happen next. They made it clear that arriving at the shelter does not automatically grant the migrants asylum. A long legal process will follow. El Calvario provides as much information and reassurance as they can.

As soon as they can, they feed the families a hot meal. To date, they have offered over 10,000 meals. They can shower and change into new clothes—if they want them. Families also receive hygiene supplies, medical care, and anything else they might need during their short stay. This is all offered with a sense of care and dignity.

Dignity means every person matters. Dignity means each person is a child of God. Dignity means we must offer real, authentic care because each person is valuable and precious in God’s eyes. We saw dignity offered at El Calvario that day. 

Suzie also mentioned that one of the items they really need are shoes of all sizes. At the border, they take most of the immigrants’ shoes (or shoe laces) and leave them with Crocs that are way too big. The shelter is always looking for donations of new clothes, underwear, and socks.

El Calvario has outgrown its current facilities. Rev. George Miller explained that over the last three years, they have been planning for growth. El Calvario resides in an historic area of Las Cruces. Every building plan needs to be approved and supported by the city. This bureaucratic process slows planning.   

The shelter received a grant from the New Mexico Annual Conference to add a shower and an industrial level kitchen. However, they need more restrooms and showers to serve the community more fully. They also need extra lodging to more comfortably process and house people overnight. El Calvario receives grants and support from The United Methodist Church, Texas Methodist Foundation, New Mexico Conference, and federal grants. 

We were given freeze-dried apples during our visit which are prepared in the facility. Freeze drying helps in preserving and shipping food more efficiently. They were delicious. At El Calvario, you can get a very tasty snack of apples and a generous portion of dignity!  

The visit left us wanting to do more. If you’re interested in finding out about El Calvario UMC Shelter and offering support, the website is: resiliencylc.org

Written by Rev. Dr. Robert Lopez & Alli Newsom

Communion on the Beach at Youth 2023

Attendees from Cedar Park, Kyle, and San Marcos at Youth 2023

Miguel Padilla and members of La Trinidad Seguin at Youth 2023

Meeting Rend Collective at Youth 2023

Bonnie Bevers, Harper Claes, and Madi Ramirez at Youth 2023

Bonnie Bevers and Madi Ramirez helping pack food with Rise Against Hunger at Youth 2023 service project

Beach Communion with the Rio Texas Conference group

Youth Choir at Youth 2023 (Madi Ramirez from San Marcos sang with this group)

Students from San Marcos, Kyle, and Cedar Park at Youth 2023

Madi, Harper, Jozi, M, and Micah at opening worship of Youth 2023

Every four years, youth from throughout The United Methodist Church gather for four days of discipleship, fun, and fellowship. Youth 2023 was filled with interactive learning, worship, Bible study, and service projects. It is a place where you can find inspiration, support, and opportunities to authentically experience what it means to be part of the Methodist and Wesleyan family.

This year’s event was held in Daytona Beach, Florida. Around 3,000 UMC students and adults descended upon the Ocean Center. There was communion on the beach each morning, powerful worship services, as well as evening service projects. The days were filled with workshops ranging from praying in color and art, to learning about the Wesley brothers and their stories. 

The Rio Texas Conference chartered a bus to provide transportation to those from our conference wishing to attend. Groups from San Marcos, Cedar Park, Kyle, and La Trinidad Seguin rode the bus. They met with other youth and leaders from the South Central Jurisdiction, and learned about upcoming opportunities to participate in both Jurisdictional and General Conference.

God truly rocked Daytona Beach.

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About Youth Ministry Council

The Rio Texas Conference Youth Ministry Council equips and supports young leaders so they can become leaders of the Annual Conference. This young council works as Christ’s disciples for the transformation of the world. This diverse group of 7th-12th graders exhibit gifts for leadership. They strive to live into Christ’s great commandment, loving God and neighbor in all they do. 

Youth Ministry Council consists of youth and adults from across the Rio Texas Annual  Conference. These youth are leaders who want to make a difference in The United Methodist Church. Youth are confirmed members in their local church and serve in their local churches, their district, the conference, and beyond. The council consists of youth from each of the seven Rio Texas Conference districts and reflects the diversity of our conference. Members of this council serve as delegates to the Annual Conference. They also have opportunities to attend jurisdictional and global events.

The YMC meets monthly via Zoom to discuss topics important to themselves and the youth of our conference. They also meet quarterly in person for service projects, fellowship, and fun.  

This is a fun way to get involved in The United Methodist Church, have a voice in the things happening in our conference, and learn about all that it means to be United Methodist and a part of the Wesleyan tradition.

Applications for membership in the Youth Ministry Council will open on Thursday, August 17th and remain open until August 31st. Visit www.riotexas.org/ymc to find further information and to apply to join us!

2023 Youth Summer Camps Recap

The Bible offers plenty of incredible visions given to different people across history. One of those is the one described by Prophet Ezequiel, in his book, in chapter 37:1-14. In my opinion, it is a dramatic scene that goes beyond any movie in theaters. For those who don’t know the passage, The Prophet describes himself in a valley full of dry bones and is asked by God a controversial question - Do you think these dry bones have life? The prophet gives a wise response: Instead of affirming or denying, he placed the question back to God - “you know better than I do.” Then God guided The Prophet step-by-step.

The Rio Texas Conference Summer Youth camps used the verse of Ezequiel 37:4 as the main theme. Like the passage, I was not sure how things would develop, and same as the prophet, I just responded, “You know better than I do.” I just trusted God and leaders who offered themselves. This year we hosted two camps: one from July 2-7 in Palacios, TX; and July 9-14 in Buda, TX.

We counted on the support from district and conference resources to secure a location. Rev. Phillip Higginbotham and Isabella Lopez met several times to brainstorm ideas for camp and make it affordable to all youth and campers. One of the recurring questions along the process was if our churches would come. We wondered if we would have enough campers. We moved ahead in faith. We counted on many leaders who secured music, pastors who offered their leadership skills, and youth coordinators who came together to support.  

The first camp in Palacios, TX was coordinated by Rev. Higginbotham. It was the first time the conference hosted camp at this location. While the proximity to the sea was inviting, it did not take away the summer heat concern. Rev. Marcus Johns from UT-Arlington Campus Ministry was the main speaker. He took the youth from prevenient grace, justifying grace, into sanctifying grace, and he did it in a way that was relatable to campers and easy to grasp. He affirmed the youth that they are loved by God. Rev. Johns highlighted all the gifts and people who supported and guided them throughout their journey—reminding them that they are an important part in their family, church, and community (especially among their peers). Like Ezequiel, they too could prophesize and speak the truth to friends and the people they encounter. He closed by reminding the campers, “this isn’t over;” encouraging them to share what they learned and experienced during camp with their peers and to not be ashamed of being different because they can inspire a new generation of believers. It was an invitation to not wait until next the camp or mission trip. They can share what they lived and experienced to everyone. The youth are the disciples who will proclaim the good news to others and bring life to many people.

A significant moment happened on the last full day at camp. It rained all morning. The adults were concerned because after lunch, the youth planned to have recreation time in the bay. As we got together to come up with solutions, a few students came and mentioned that they could sing and dance together instead of going outside in the rain. This time, the youth not only danced and sang together, but they bonded in a way I could not foresee. It was as if I was witnessing people coming to life—and having fun in a clean and respectful way!

At Buda Camp, the Coordinator was Isabella Lopez and the Main speaker was Rev. Elizabeth “Lizzie” Wright, the CEO of Justice For Our Neighbors-Austin. This camp started with a real challenge that gave an opportunity to see fellowship among pastors and diversity in the youth. Rev. Lizzie was ill for few weeks. Five days before camp started, she was diagnosed with pneumonia and a possible rib fracture. She was looking forward to her time with the youth. Medicine and rest would put her close to recovery, but she was not able to participate the first two days of camp. Rev. Dr. Todd Salmi kicked-off the start of camp, and the next day Rev. Wes Cain blessed the youth on their first day of camp.

Rev. Wright later recovered and arrived. It was such a blessing. When she talked about the breath that God infused in the bones, she explained how youth can connect with God anytime if they paused to breathe and pray a short prayer. She also offered the Lectio Divina exercise to approach scripture in a prayerful way. She shared about a few of the sojourners that her ministry served, learned from, and loved. She reminded us that we show love to God every time we serve the least and the lost.

During the last night at camp, Isabella Lopez shared her testimony of how she received her call to be youth coordinator at a similar camp when she was only 12 years old. Now she was in Buda leading others to Christ. She encouraged youth to listen for God and walk with them:

I was truly blessed with the incredible opportunity to help plan and direct one of the conference summer camps that took place at Buda TX. As camp began, I had little to no expectation, knowing that many of the students we were serving had never attended a church summer camp before. In the days leading up to camp, I devoted myself to daily prayers for each and every registered participant. The most impactful aspect of the camp experience for me was witnessing the remarkable transformation of the students. Initially, these students barely sang along during worship, but by the end, they were joyfully screaming the lyrics, raising their hands, and dancing with abandon. I was humbled as students approached me, sharing their initial fear of singing and expressing how the spirit moved them to pour out their hearts in song. Even the quieter students returned home and couldn't stop talking about their camp experience. The evidence of their transformation was clear in their words and actions. It feels like just yesterday that I was a sixth grader attending a conference camp, being prayed over by the camp director. Now, almost 13 years later, I find myself in the privileged position of praying over students. This illustrates the beauty and power of camp ministry, emphasizing its significance for our students. These young individuals are not just the church in the present; they are our future pastors, youth leaders, children's leaders, lay leaders, and so much more. 

Like Prophet Ezequiel, I was not sure what God could do, but step-by-step I saw His transforming power in leaders, pastors, youth and their communities. I give thanks to the prayers of those who kept and keep praying for the youth leadership. I give thanks to those who invested—financially and spiritually—in our youth disciples.

I hopeful that God will continue giving visions of our church through our youth members.

Written by Rev. Miguel Padilla & Isabella Lopez

Pursuing God’s Dream

During the recent Rio Texas annual conference gathering, guest teacher Blair Thompson-White spoke of the church forgetting over time its “why” in being the church. We were reminded that the “why” or purpose of the church is to simply be about fulfilling God’s dream for humanity, that of health and wellbeing, provision, and peace. God’s shalom comes to mind for me as God’s dream.

I sway between being preoccupied about the troubles and anxieties in the world and seeking to see glimpses of God’s glory and hope through the lives and experiences of people in the church, community, and world. I suppose others may experience the same. Steve Manskar of Discipleship Ministries offers a great expression of God’s shalom as “peace that is born of righteousness and justice that bring reconciliation, healing and wholeness to human bodies, souls, and communities.”

All this to say, I really want to be one who is pursuing God’s dream for the world. As the world has passed through times of pandemic, the context of anxiety and brokenness is apparent, and the world is crying out for shalom. We hear great stories of how these times have shaped and stretched the faith of the church for such a time as this, to be shalom-makers pursuing God’s dream for the world.

The Transformational Communities Network invites you to connect to the 2nd Annual SHALOM SUMMIT, October 20 & 21 at Travis Park Church, San Antonio, TX. The event speaker will be Shane Claiborne with special guest Fred Smith. 

Shane Claiborne is a prominent speaker, activist, and best-selling author.  Shane worked with Mother Teresa in Calcutta and founded The Simple Way in Philadelphia.  He heads-up Red-Letter Christians, a movement of folks who are committed to living “as if Jesus meant the things he said.”

Rev. Dr. Fred D. Smith Jr. has over 30 years of training and experience as an educator, strategist, facilitator, and innovator in public theology, especially in the field of faith and health. During last year’s inaugural Shalom Summit, Fred Smith inspired the participant’s to be bearers of shalom in pursuing God’s dream for the world.

To register for the 2nd Annual SHALOM SUMMIT, go to https://bit.ly/44YwrnZ.

Fresh Wisdom During Annual Conference 2023

This year’s Rio Texas Annual Conference 2023 theme was “Never Alone / Nunca Solos” (Matthew 28:20). This is part of the Great Commissioning passage. This Bible Verse is inspiring for me and many faithful servants who feel called to ministry, either ordained or as lay persons, around the world. It was timely for many reasons, but the main reason was disaffiliation. I am still processing the grief of losing partners and friends in ministry and losing local communities of faith. I knew a few of them personally. However, just the thought of losing the wealth of history in each congregation made my heart heavy.

The theme helped me focus while I mourned. I am hopeful because of the call from God to go and make disciples everywhere—it is fresh, it is true, and it is solid. I have work to do, and I do not have to do it by myself. I have God’s love and power; as well as those who walked before, with, and ahead of me. This year I had the blessing to witness firsthand the planning of Annual Conference.

The Cabinet and conference leadership thought it would be a good idea to host a panel conversation. Along with Rev. Karen Horan, I was asked to put together a group of people who would talk about Young Adult Ministry. We came up with the general goal of this panel, how the local congregation can better connect, equip, and empower better young adults in their area. I shared the ideas with Rev. Todd Salmi, Rev. David McMinn, and Rev. Todd Jones. They suggested that instead of having a pastor or Campus Minister craft the questions and lead the panel, we will empower actual students to select the questions and plan the format.

We were blessed to invite Anna Shipley (Perkins Seminarian, Rio Texas UM Army Regional Director, and Contemporary Director of Worship at Covenant UMC Austin), Isabella Lopez (Youth Director at Colonial Hills UMC San Antonio, Las Misiones District Coordinator, and Summer Camp Director), Hanna Hoffman (United Campus Ministry at Texas State University Associate Director for Campus Ministry), Raja Banks (Graduated from Huston-Tillotson University, second-year summer intern at St. John UMC Austin), and Avery Delleney (Student and intern in Pastoral Care at United Campus Ministry at Texas State University).

To prepare, they gathered over Zoom and in-person. We only gave them the time frame and goal for the panel, and they had very deep and meaningful conversations. They shared their common experiences and what they are passionate about. I was there learning and witnessing disciples willing to take a risk for God’s kingdom.

The young adults presented at Annual Conference shared meaningful questions and practical ideas. If you missed it, you can watch the video from Plenary III. They reminded us to ask young adults in your community:
•    What they are passionate about?
•    What brings them joy to their life?
•    How can I pray with you this week?

The young adult panelists remind us that all young adults are different. Young adults can be in different life stages: not everyone is in college. Not every ‘twentysomething’ is comfortable interacting with children or teenagers. Some want to connect with older people, receive advice, or become a mentor. They want to be invited to events you host and be connected to a community who cares about their well-being. Most importantly, they want to be part of a community.

When the panelists answered the question of “How can the church empower you?” there were a couple of answers that left me in awe.

Isabella shared a story of a friend who recently graduated from college and was coming back home. She said her friend wanted to learn how to live out their membership vows, how he can pray, serve, and offer his gifts in a way that makes a difference in their church but also in their daily life. It sounded to me he wanted a church mentor—not to tell him what to do—but to walk alongside other church members and discover how they put their faith in action. He wanted to feel the confidence that someone was there to support him when he made a mistake, celebrate a milestones, and pray with him.

The panelists encouraged churches to invest in all young adults without the fear that they may leave. When we as a church disciple a young adult and she or he leaves—we are investing in another community, we are investing in God’s Kingdom. We are being generous by sharing our wisdom, time, and values to wherever this person goes. They will carry everything they received from the home church, and they will bless the places where they go. Sounds to me like they understand connectionalism better than I do. In other words, we disciple each other not only for our own gain or add to our membership church number—we disciple to fulfill the Great Commission and to expand the kingdom of God everywhere God leads them.
 
I got the opportunity to experience how I am not alone. The panel was the result of cooperation and empowerment of young disciples. It made me remember that all are called and, in these young people, we have a great opportunity to continue to learn and to walk hand-in-hand. Never alone. We have Christ’s power and grace, and each other’s wisdom. I thank the students, the multiple pastors who made this experience rich and possible. My prayer is that we seek the Holy Spirit’s wisdom to empower and walk alongside youth, young adults and people who are normally overlooked. Nunca solos!!

Written by Rev. Miguel Padilla

2023 Grant Funding Cycle for Church and Society

The General Board of Church and Society (GBCS) awards grants to United Methodist congregations and groups related to The United Methodist Church through the Ethnic Local Church, Human Relations Day, and Peace with Justice programs.

To apply for grants, applicants must complete forms on the GBCS online system. Only complete online applications with all required documents submitted by 5:00 p.m. EST, July 24, 2023 will be considered for funding.

Click here for more information on how to apply.