Christ the King Lutheran Church 1

T H E K I N G ’ S BA N N E RVolume 70, Number 2,

February, 20152353 Rice Blvd, Houston TX 77005

713-523-2864 ctkelc.orgChrist the King Lutheran Church, Houston, Texas

Capital Campaign February 8 - March 29“Build Us Up, Send Us Forth”

Christ the King Lutheran Church will begin the “Build Us Up, Send Us Forth” capital campaign with member-to-member visits on Feb. 15. The $3 million appeal, which was approved by the congregation at the Part 1 annual meeting, has three principal elements:

• We a re re n e w i n g o u r worship space to match our commitment to discipleship.

• We are building a garden fo r re m e m b ra n c e a n d meditation to embrace the whole cycle of life.

• We are reducing our debt and strengthening our financial foundation so that we may be sent forth in service.

The nave and sacristy improvements will bring the entire Christ the King facility to the state of excellence of the Educa-tion and Ministry Building, which was built in 2000 with the gifts of an earlier appeal.

The central element of the campaign includes long-needed repairs to the nave, addressing both structural and cosmetic concerns and replacing the 35-year-old heating and air con-ditioning system. New structural arches, columns, and beams will fix the structural problems and will be constructed in a style that is faithful to the original design and character of the nave.

The planned sacristy enhancements will create a space wor-thy of our liturgical tradition to accommodate all worship resources.

Worship is the center of our life as a Lutheran Christian com-munity, and the centrality of this experience is expressed in the distinctive design of our nave, with the altar at the very center of the assembly.

During our congregation’s long-term planning process, many of our members urged the church’s leadership to consider building a space that would combine a peaceful place for prayer and meditation with a resting place for their and their families’ remains. Building the Paradise Garden and Colum-barium on the axis with the table and baptismal font in the

nave reflects the reality that death is part of our Christian experience.

The Congregation Council, in consultation with the Steward-ship Commission, also determined that the time was right

to significantly reduce our long-term debt in order to unlock the potential of our congregation for mission to our community and the world.

The congregation’s current long-term debt is approximately $1.75 million. A principal pay-ment at the conclusion of the Appeal when combined with our regular payments over the course of this campaign will re-duce long-term debt to approxi-

mately $900,000. Following this debt payment, the church’s annual debt service will be reduced by $120,000—funds that can be invested each year in ministry work within the congregation, in the community and globally.

The Appeal will also provide funds for a new parking lot on the south side of the church property, repairs to the bell tower and the west parking lot and creation of a new maintenance fund that will be set aside to address critical physical plant issues as they arise.

As in earlier campaigns, the congregation will share the proceeds of this campaign with the broader Church. In this Appeal, the congregation will support “Always Being Made New: The Campaign for the ELCA,” which is seeking to raise nearly $200 million to support companion churches around the world, world hunger, youth ministry, congregational re-newal and planting new churches, and more.

The campaign steering committee has been meeting and recruiting members of the congregation to share information and help inspire our community to provide the gifts that will enable us to achieve our goals and bind us together in faith. We ask all members to be prepared to accept the invitation to assist the campaign with their time and their prayerful commitments.

The Appeal will conclude on Palm Sunday, March 29.

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Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper February 17The annual Pancake Supper will be February 17 in the parish hall. Come and eat all the pancakes and sausage you can and enjoy music and pancake races. Traditionally, this is the day people eat up all the foods they can't have during Lent - butter, meat, eggs, and wine - and have the last big party until Easter. There will be projects for the kids and dancing for everyone, and we'll sing our last "Alleluia." Supper will be served from 5:30 until 6:30 p.m. If you can help shop, cook or clean up at the supper, please contact Marie Monroe at marie4118@gmail.com or 832-488-7696. Come and have the most fun you'll have until Easter.

Lenten Wednesdays The congregation is invited to embark on a communal Lenten journey on Wednesday nights during Lent.

Our traditional soup suppers will be served 5:30 - 6:45 p.m. in the parish hall. At 6:15 p.m. adult classes will be offered, followed by Vespers (Evening Prayer) at 7:00 p.m. at which the various study groups meet to close the evening in prayer. The simple format of Vespers includes a chanted service of light, a psalm and hymn, a bible reading, and prayers. We conclude by 7:20 p.m. to allow families with young children to return home before too late and singers to go to choir and chorus practice.

4:00 – 5:45 p.m. Life Stories Workshop, council room5:30 – 6:45 p.m. Soup supper 5:45 – 6:55 p.m. Children’s music classes6:00 – 6:55 p.m. Confirmation class, classroom 2046:15 – 6:55 p.m. Adult study groups and Lectio Divina 7:00 p.m. Vespers, nave

The children’s music classes continue with their regular sched-ule on the Wednesdays of Lent, except on March 18 when children’s programming is suspended for Spring Break.

Annual Meeting Part IIPart II of the annual congregational meeting will be held on February 8, at 12:30 p.m. in the parish hall. On the agenda are the 2014 annual reports, update on the Capital Campaign, the adoption of the 2015 budget and the 2015 Missional Emphases and other regular items.

A catered lunch will be provided prior to the meeting. Everyone is strongly encouraged to attend.

Imposition of Ashes7:10 a.m. 12:15 p.m. 7:30 p.m.Sandwiches will be served after the 12:15 p.m. service.

Ash Wednesday February 18

PICK and SAVE one of these dates

for a Capital Campaign

Special Event• Friday, March 6 at noon for Lunch• Saturday, March 7 at 7:00 p.m. for Dinner with a children's movie and pizza party• Sunday, March 8 at 12:15 p.m. for Lunch

Watch for invitations and information in the near future, and then

RSVP for the event of your choice.

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Souper Bowl of Caring February 125 YEARS AGO, the Souper Bowl of Caring be-gan with a simple prayer from a single youth group: “O Lord, as we enjoy the Super Bowl football game, help us to be mindful of those without even a bowl of soup to eat."

Since that day, millions of dollars have been raised for local charities across the country through Souper Bowl of Caring. Please give generously on Super Bowl Sunday. Every dollar donated goes to the Christian Community Service Center (CCSC) Emergency Services.

February 1

The mission offering is collected at the church doors at the end of worship.

Feed the Homeless“I was hungry and you fed me, thirsty and you gave me a drink… I tell you, whenever you did this for one of the least important of these followers of mine, you did it for me.” Matthew 25:35-40

Food Donations NeededHelp fill the shelves at Emergency Services of the Christian Community Service Center (CCSC). Food donations are needed. Current needs are: peanut butter, tuna fish, meaty soups, canned fruit and vegetables. Please bring your food donations to the drop off box in the narthex. Bring non-perishable food items to celebrate the Souper Bowl of Caring every Sunday!

Cans Opened by Your KindnessAt Christian Community Service Center’s Emergency Services program, they occasionally realize that their clients are missing some household items that most of us take for granted. One of those items is a simple manual can opener! Many of their clients, including families with children, are using knives to open their canned foods, which is both difficult and somewhat dangerous. Can you help us make the lives of families in financial crisis both easier and safer by donating manual can openers? Donations can be dropped off at the food basket in the narthex.

February 8, 15, 22Since April 2004, members of Christ the King Lutheran Church have been gathering on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month for fellow-ship and to volunteer to feed the homeless of downtown Houston. We produce approximately 400 sandwiches and assemble 175-200 lunches and deliver them downtown directly to homeless individuals.

Please consider the importance of this ministry when donating to the Mission Offering and consider joining us on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at 5:45 p.m. in the church kitchen. No experience is necessary and all ages are welcome to participate!

You can also help the Feed the Homeless Ministry by donating

your plastic grocery bags for us to use to distribute the meals in. Just drop the bags off in the church kitchen. Contact Anne Morrow at 281-635-2896 or annemorrow76@gmail.com. Can’t make Mondays but still want to help? Please contact Anne and discuss the other op-portunities available with this group.

Help Fill the Shelves with Food

Christ The King Church Supports Two MissionariesCentral African Republic, Dr. Susan Smith

Mexico, The Rev. David and Alicia Brondos

Proceeds from our Lenten Soup Suppers and donations from the Wednesday Lenten Vespers

will go to support our missionaries.Learn about the important work our missionaries are doing in Central

African Republic and Mexico on page 14.

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Sunday ForumSundays at 9:45 a.m.

in the basement classroomMembers are invited to suggest speakers or topics.

Contact Pr. Karin at karinliebster@ctkelc.org

February 1 and 8: Hans Hillerbrand, A Luther Anniversay – Who Cares? Perspectives from Germany and the ELCA

February 1 at 9:45 a.m. and February 2 at 7:30 p.m. “The State of Christian-ity in the 21st Century: What has the Reformation Wrought?”

February 8 at 9:45 a.m. and February 9 at 7:30 p.m. A Case History: Martin Luther and the Jews

February 15, 22, and March 1: Professor John BolesThree Aspects of Thomas Jefferson, America’s Renaissance Man In this three-part series, Professor John Boles will explore aspects of Thomas Jefferson that have broader implica-tions than might be realized at first. All three have connec-tions to issues of morality, religion, and cultural relativism.

February 15: Thomas Jefferson and the Moral Problem of Slavery

February 22: Thomas Jefferson’s Encounter with France

March 1: Thomas Jefferson’s Fascination with the Ameri-can West.

John Boles is the William P. Hobby Professor of History with special interest in the U.S. South and American Religion.

In 2010 he published Seeing Jefferson Anew In His Time and Ours, co-edited with Randal L. Hall (University of Virginia Press, 2010).

Adult Catechesis March 6-7Adult Catechesis is the church’s way of keeping the faith alive in the ears of the faithful. For that reason everyone is invited to use the class to renew and deepen their under-standing. It is also the regular way to membership in the congregation.

We meet on Friday evening, March 6, from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. at the parsonage at 2342 Rice Boulevard (corner of Green-briar Drive). Parking is available on the Rice Village Animal Hospital lot beginning at 6:30 p.m. Just cross Greenbriar Drive to the parsonage.

On Saturday, March 7, we meet at the church in the 2nd floor council room from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Materials are provided as well as lunch. Parking is available on the Rice University stadium lot, Entrance 13A on Greenbriar.

The Melanchthon Institute presents lectures in anticipation of the 5 0 0 t h A n n i v e rs a r y o f t h e Reformation in the year 2017.

A Luther Anniversary – Who Cares? Perspectives from Germany and the ELCA

Professor Hans Hillerbrand will present two lectures under the title, “A Luther Anniversary – Who Cares? Perspectives from Germany and the ELCA.”

February 1 at 1:00 p.m. “500 Years Martin Luther and the Lutheran Tradition: A Meditation on Celebration and Penance” (sandwiches will be served.)

February 1 at 9:45 a.m. and February 2 at 7:30 p.m. “The State of Christianity in the 21st Century: What has the Reformation Wrought?”February 8 at 9:45 a.m. and February 9 at 7:30 p.m. A Case History: Martin Luther and the JewsSunday Forum meets at 9:45 until 10:45 a.m. in the basement classroom. The Monday evening lectures will be held in the 2nd floor council room.

Dr. Hans Hillerbrand is professor emeritus of Religion at Duke University and a widely published scholar on the history of the 16th Century Reformation.

Re-Imagining the Reformation from the EdgesProfessor John Nunes presents a lecture series on “Re-Imagining the Reformation from the Edges.” The Vatican and the Lutheran World Federation are presently engaged in preparations for a “Common Commemoration of the Reformation in 2017.” This observance will mark the 500th anniversary of the Reformation, a movement that challenged the authority of the church and reframed the priority of the Gospel of grace. Dr. Nunes will examine key theological themes that derive from emerging, global communities, as well as minority North American sources and explore their potential implications for Lutheran and all Christians in the 21st century.

March 5 at 7:30 p.m. “Just Words: Speaking about Being Set Free”March 6 at 7:30 p.m. “Martyria: Witness and Worship in the Power of the Spirit”March 7 at 4:00 p.m. “Diakonia: Serving and Saving Go Together”March 8, Sunday Forum at 9:45 a.m. “Koinonia: Giving and Living in Justice” Prof. John Arthur Nunes holds the Emil and Elfriede Jochum Chair at Valparaiso University supporting the study of Christian values in public and professional life. Prior to this prestigious appointment, Dr. Nunes served as President and CEO of Lutheran World Relief, a $49 million global organization working to end poverty, injustice, and human suffering worldwide.

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The Women in Jesus' Family Tree: Bible Study on the Old TestamentBiblical genealogies do not usually include women ances-tors. However the gospel of Matthew starts out with a genealogy of Jesus including four women in addition to Mary: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth and Bath-sheba. We will ask about the significance of their mention and study the sto-ries of these four women and their relation to Israel and the story of salvation. Pastor Liebster will lead the class February 4 and 11, 6:15-6:55 p.m. in the council room.

Church History Class Resumes February 25Kristine Wallace's Church History course will resume after Ash Wednesday, on Wednesday, February 25, 6:15 - 6:55 p.m. in the council room.

Soup Makers and Servers NeededWe look forward to our annual Lenten soup suppers which are sponsored by the following min-istry areas each Wednesday eve-ning during Lent. All

members and friends are invited to come and sample a delicious variety of soups each Wednesday evening, 5:30-6:45 p.m. And of course, additional soup makers and servers are most welcome. Proceeds from our soup suppers benefit our missionaries in Mexico and the Central African Republic.February 25 Worship Commission and Altar GuildMarch 4 Music EnsemblesMarch 11 Service & Care CommissionMarch 18 Witness & Assimilation and Stewardship CommissionsMarch 25 Education Commission

If you would like to help with one of our Wednesday Lenten soup suppers, please contact Beverly Davis at beverlydavis@ctkelc.org or 713-400-0517.

Life Stories Workshop ResumesThe Life Stories Workshop resumes Wednesday, Febru-ary 4, from 4:00 to 5:45 p.m. in the council room. This is the continuation of the 10-week Guided Autobiography program and the sessions are limited to those who began the program last fall. The guided autobiography program is a semistructured process for life review that incorporates individual and group experiences with autobiographical writing. These programs were developed by psychologist James Birren after 25 years of conducting autobiographical groups. The next full 10-week program will begin in the fall. There are no fees for the workshop, but it is necessary to contact the facilitator, Anna Fay Williams, texaslion11@yahoo.com, 713-621-2868. The fall sessions will be limited to 12 persons so there is sufficient time for sharing and discussion.

Mid-Week Refresh & RejuvenateJoin our lectio divina group on Wednesday evenings in Lent 6:15-6:55 p.m. in the basement youth room for some quiet and peace through Bible reading and contemplation.

Wednesdays in Lent4:00 – 5:45 p.m. Life Stories Workshop 5:30 – 6:45 p.m. Soup supper 5:45 – 6:55 p.m. Children’s music classes6:00 – 6:55 p.m. Confirmation class6:15 – 6:55 p.m. Adult study and Lectio Divina 7:00 p.m. Vespers W

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Ash Wednesday, February 187:10 a.m. Imposition of Ashes12:15 p.m. Imposition of Ashes Sandwiches served after the service.7:30 p.m. Imposition of Ashes

Food and Faith: Justice, Joy, and Daily Bread A Lenten study that examines food choices through the lens of faith. Wednesdays in Lent 6:15 - 6:55 p.m. in the third floor conference room. See page 13

with the Congregational Nurse Linda Schoene

Dinner Dialogue with the Congregational NurseMeets the first Wednesday of the month in the parish hall from 5:45 to 6:45 p.m.

February 4: “The Conversation Project” What is your end of life plan? Do your loved ones know?March 4: Mental Health First Aid – Many of us know what to do when someone needs CPR, is having a stroke or has a broken leg. But do we know how to recognize and assist someone in emotional crisis?April 15: Hurricane Prep – Are You a 72 hour Lutheran? (note special date to not conflict with Holy Week)

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For information, contact Ben Remmert, AiM Director of Youth and Family Ministry, benremmert@ctkelc.org or 281-468-4686.

Human Dignity Retreat for Junior High Youth: February 6-7 All youth 6th – 8th grade are invited to attend the Human Dignity Retreat conducted by the Youth Directors of the Texas Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod and hosted at Zion Lutheran Church in Houston, Friday, February 6 and Satur-day, February 7. This very worthwhile retreat is designed to help pre-teen/ early teen youth learn about building and navigating healthy relationships. Parents are welcome to be part of the retreat. The cost is $20 per youth, and adults are free. Registration deadline is February 1.

February Dates: 1 Souper Bowl Volunteering6-7 Jr. High Human Dignity Retreat7 Valentine Dinner, 6 p.m.8 Luther League Meeting- 6 p.m.15 Luther League Meeting- 6 p.m.18 Ash Wednesday20-22 Sr. High Retreat at Lutherhill22 Luther League Meeting- 6 p.m.28 Zoroastrian Center Tour, 5 p.m.

Sr. High Retreat at Lutherhill: February 20-22Students in 9-12th grade are invited to grow in their faith during an awesome, fun-filled weekend of inspiring worships, small group discussions, and fellow-ship. This is a weekend you don’t want to miss as all our high school students from around the synod are invited to attend. Cost is $130 which covers food, transportation, housing, and activities. Spots are limited so RSVP to Ben Rem-mert asap.

Spring Break Camping Trip: March 19-21Spring retreat for the youth will be at McKinney State Park in Austin on Wednes-day March 18 until Saturday March 21. There our youth will enjoy hiking, picnicking, fishing, swimming, and the wildlife of the hill country. The cost of the trip will be $85 which will cover transportation, food, supplies, and activi-ties. Deadline to sign up will be on March 8. Don’t miss out on this great trip.

Luther League Meetings: Sundays at 6 p.m.The Luther League is the name of the youth group at Christ the King Lutheran and is open to all youth in 6th - 12th grade. Meetings include fellowship, games, food, time to relax, Bible study discussions. We also need help providing meals for our Luther League meetings in February, if interested in helping please contact Ben Remmert.

Let’s Get AcquaintedWhether you are new to the church in general or this church, we invite you to join us for lunch on February 15 at 12:15 p.m. in the parish hall. Get a plate at the serving window on the first floor in the ministry build-ing and join pastors and other leaders for conversation. We would like to get to know you and are interested in the questions you might be exploring, like “What do I seek” or “How can I relate my journey of faith to this congregation?” All interested are guests of the congregation.

Sunday Café February 15Chef Nathan Winston will prepare deli-cious Sunday Café meals after the 10:50 a.m. worship service on February 15, March 1 and 15. College and medical students eat free as our guests, the cost for all others is $10. Come join us for a wonderful meal and great fellowship.

February 7, 7:00 p.m.

Friends and members of Christ the King Church are invited to a fabulous evening of music, fun, and a four course meal inspired by our own chef Nathan Win-ston on February 7! The parish hall will be transformed into an elegant atmosphere where you will meet famous movie starts (dressed up by our own youth). Seating is available for individu-als, pairs, and small and large groups. Tickets are $40 or $70 for two. Free childcare is avail-able. Email Ben Remmert at benremmert@ctkelc.org to RSVP. Proceeds will benefit the youth group at Christ the King Church. Hurry space is limited!

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submitted by Linda Schoene, Congregational Nurse

What Will Happen When We Die: Do our loved ones know the answers?Free Workshop:Saturday, February 21, 2:00-4:00 p.m. in the parish hall

Welcome 2015, a new year and traditionally the time for making new resolutions. One resolution to consider is the importance of addressing the frequently neglected aspects of end-of-life planning. Conveying plans, thoughts and feel-ings related to end-of-life issues to family and friends will assist loved ones in making difficult decisions.

The people of LaCrosse, WI, have set the bar high when it comes to end of life planning. Latest statistics indicate that 96% of the persons who die in LaCrosse have pro-vided clear, written instructions for their families. This is over three times the national average of 30%. I chal-lenge the members of CTK to rise above the national average as well. Whether you are 30 or 80 take time to make sure your desires are known to your loved ones and are in writing.

CTK is partnering with the Texas Health Institute to of-fer On the Road: Advanced Planning, a workshop that provides training on advanced planning, record keep-ing and organization. Conducted by Amy Praskac, this important session will teach attendees how to create a roadmap for their families. Participants will learn what critical documents to gather, how to address frequently neglected aspects of end-of-life planning, and receive tips on how to fill gaps in their record keeping.

Participants will receive and work through The Critical Information Workbook. Upon completion of the work-book, families and individuals will have the peace of mind that their affairs are in order and wishes are known in the event of an accident or untimely or natural passing.

Thanks to a grant received by the Texas Health Institute the workshop is free, but registration is required as there is room for 40 attendees. Register by emailing lindaschoene@ctkelc.org.

Fighting Germs without AntibioticsPrior to the de-velopment and use of antibiotics in the 1940’s, many people died trying to fight off infection. Today, however, wide use and abuse of antibiot-ics has contributed to the creation of many serious antibiotic resistant bacteria. In fact, according to the CDC antibiotic re-sistance has become one of the world’s most pressing public health issues. Each year in the United States, at least 2 million people become infected with bacteria resistant to antibiotics and at least 23,000 people die each year as a direct result of these infections. When antibiotics fail to work, people experi-ence longer-lasting illnesses, more doctor visits or extended hospital stays, and the need for more expensive medications.

Every time a person takes antibiotics sensitive bacteria are killed, but resistant bacteria multiply. Therefore it is important that antibiotics be used appropriately. Antibiotics cure bacterial infections, not viral infections such as colds, flu, most coughs and bronchitis, sore throats not caused by strep and runny noses. Antibiotics are not appropriate for some ear infections. Only a health care provider can decide whether or not antibiot-ics are appropriate. Most viral infections are self-limiting and should be treated with adequate rest, oral fluids and medica-tions that provide relief of symptoms, such as cough, nasal congestion or fever.

The CDC’s Get Smart campaign offers education aimed at de-creasing inappropriate use of antibiotics as a way of controlling antibiotic resistance. Of particular concern is the high antibiotic use in children.

The CDC suggests:1. Ask your or your child’s health care provider

if antibiotics are really necessary. 2. Never take antibiotics prescribed for someone else.3. If antibiotics are prescribed be sure to take them as directed.

For more information visit www.cdc.gov/getsmart. Health Ministry Open ForumYou are invited to an open forum about health ministry on Monday, February 23, 6-7:30 p.m. in the second floor council room.

In 2001, Christ the King Church Congregation Council included “Explore the possibilities for Parish Nurse Ministry” as a missional emphasis. In December of the same year I was commissioned as the Congregational Nurse. Since then health ministry has thrived in the context of a caring faith community. Discussion at the open forum will focus on ways to keep this ministry strong and responsive to the needs and gifts of our members and friends.

Elements of the agenda include:1. Review the history of health ministry at Christ the King Church.2. Examine current projects and services provided by the congregational nurse.3. Discuss implementation of “The Conversation Project”, a national initiative focusing on end of life.4. Explore new program ideas for health ministry.

A light supper will be served. Please RSVP to lindaschoene@ctkelc.org by February 20.

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Serve Breakfast at SEARCHChrist the King Church members and friends volunteer on the third Wednesday of each month to serve breakfast and assist with the preparation of the noon meal for clients of SEARCH Homeless Services. Our next outing will be on Wednesday, Febru-ary 18, 7:30 - 11:00 a.m. Contact Beverly Davis at 713-400-0517 or beverlydavis@ctkelc.org.

Montrose Grace PlaceMontrose Grace Place offers vulnerable youth ages 13-21 a hot meal and a safe, welcoming shelter from the street every Thursday evening from 6 to 10 p.m. Of course, we can always use more volunteers to cook, set up, and serve the meals. Volunteers are also welcome to help with our bimonthly meals. Christ the King Church night is the 2nd Thursday of the even months! The next date is Thursday,

February 12, and servers are needed between 5:15 and 7:45 to set the tables, dish up the food, and load the dishwashers. Contact rshields63@gmail.com.

Feed the HomelessJoin us on the 2nd and 4th Monday evenings of each month at Christ the King Church to make sandwiches and prepare meals, and

then deliver them to downtown homeless individuals. Members and friends of all ages are invited to join in this ministry hosted by the young adults of Christ the King Church. Volunteers are welcome to help out with meal preparation, downtown delivery, or both! We will meet on February 9 and 23 at 5:45 p.m. Contact Anne Morrow at 281-635-2896 or annemorrow76@gmail.com.

Dear Rebecca Shields and Christ the King, We want to take this opportunity to thank both you specifically, and the whole Christ the King Food Team, for all of the steadfast and continual time, effort, and love you have put into the meals that you provide each month for the homeless youth of our community. No other team to date has made a larger impact than yours. Montrose Grace Place can not convey enough the gratitude we feel to have you and your team working side by side with us to make hungry bellies grow satisfied and full and to see the efficiency and vigor with which you run the kitchen on your Thursday nights with us.

The key to our success rests in people like you. We would not be where we are today if not for you and Christ the King.

As the plans for 2015 begin to finalize we wanted to let you know that we are growing! We have additional food teams and volunteers that are gearing up and excited about being a part of our MGP Thursday Youth Nights.

To make room and opportunity for everyone we are switching all the Food Teams to an every-other-month schedule.

For 2015 Christ the King will be scheduled as our Food Team Provider on: 2nd Thursday of the monthFebruary 12, April 9, June 11, August 13, October 8, December 10

Again, words cannot convey our gratitude for your tremendous con-tributions. We look forward to seeing you all in 2015!

Much affection and appreciation,Mrs. Hazard Buck-Jacobs, Program Coordinator, and the Montrose Grace Place Board of Directors

See the following note from one of Grace Lutheran Church’s members about a recent dinner provided by our member Bette Bowers.

Dinner tonght at Grace Place was an awesome and miraculous experi-ence. Bette, your dinner was "devoured at a rate not witnessed before" according to the pastor there, Lura Groen. She said that the macaroni and cheese with ham, broccoli and rolls really allowed the 25 youth there to find what they wanted--both the vegetarians and the others--she loved your macaroni and cheese option and said this was the 'best meal ever!'. And your rolls were inhaled, your broccoli was devoured, and the ham was completely gone. And when we put out the trays with your brownies,the kids chanted: "Your can only take one". These 25 youth talked and ate and ate and talked and we in the kitchen talked and talked! It was an important evening, and Bette I wanted you to know that your food was devoured by everyone with great happiness. Thank you for this miracle. Barbara

Honor and Memorial

GiftsAccessions & MemorialsIn 2014 Christ the King received gifts in honor and in memory of many dear friends and loved ones.

Gifts were received in memory of:Elaine Allen Fran MoncureKenneth Larson Milton Morin

The following remembered Christ the King in their wills:

Karen Getty Joyce Meisner Fran Moncure

We are thankful for the gifts received. We do have a wish list of projects that can be funded through memorial gifts and always appreciate hearing from our members and friends.

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Spirituality of Bach Rev. Sean Duggan, OSB, will present his lecture, “The Spirituality of Bach,” at 7:30 p.m. on February 19 at the University of St Thomas in Cullen Hall, 4001 Mt. Vernon, for the 2015 Archbishop J. Michal Miller Lec-ture Series. The lecture is free and open to the public.

For more information on Duggan’s lecture or to RSVP email: rsvp@stthom.edu.

Spring Egg Decorating ClassThis will be the 10th year of Ukrainian Egg Decorating Classes and Workshops at Christ the King Church. It has been open to all comers, teaching the techniques, his-tory and some of the symbolism behind the Ukrainian style Easter Eggs. Since then, countless eggs have been decorated by those with years of experience as well as those who have just begun. We get many of our patterns from a book which is for kids, so Ukrainian eggs really can be made by anyone. The majority of eggs have been given to family, friends, colleagues and church ministries. A number have also been set aside each year to be given to those the Lay Eucharistic Ministry tend. The next Egg Class/Workshop will begin on Thursday, February 12 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. and continue on Thursdays through the 2015 Lent season. Contact Marie Monroe at marie4118@gmail.com.

Pub(lic) TheologyYoung Adults are invited to the Ginger Man pub located at 5607 Morningside Dr. on Sunday, February 8 at 7:30 p.m. to meet new friends, enjoy beer, and discuss faith, religion, worship, and anything in between concerning how to live out faith. Pr. Fuerst will lead this session of what is a monthly time to hang out. For more informa-tion contact Pr. Brad Fuerst at pastor@lcmhouston.org. Soup's on Saturdays

Rice students, put your money away and let Houston Lutheran Campus Ministry serve you your Saturday din-ner at Christ the King Lutheran Church. “Soup’s On Saturdays” happens every

Saturday at 5:17 p.m. at Christ the King Church. Just follow the soup bowl icon to where we shall serve you a FREE and amazingly tasty bowl of soup. (Seconds and thirds allowed as long as the soup lasts.)

February 1Joachim BeekCoulter GeorgeBetty GosdaEd NikonowiczBob SolbergVirginia SwindellSydney TetzlaffRafael VassarSylvia VassarOscar VassarKarl LothmannHeidi Blankenburg- SalazarBrandon BouldinJohn SommerRuth DittmarMeghan Murphy

February 8Nicholas NashPatricia WieseSterling PaulsenEsther PsomiadisDewey LetnessValerie LloydRosa OeschlinFederico Salas-Isnardi

February 16Heidi TammAngie MatternSara HarlanSebastian ReyesAshley CarrilloAndrea PreisingerBraden Stotmeister

“Remember and rejoice, Renewed by floods of grace. We bear the sign of Jesus Christ, That time cannot erase.” (ELW 454)

February 23Cordelia BryantPeggy SimonConrad TammSabrina TammEric VuongHenry TrahanErin BurtonJudy VinsonTimothy WinstonErin SimpsonBrad Fuerst

Celebrate your

Baptismal Anniversary!

First Saturdays Play Date at ChurchFebruary 7, 4:00-6:00 p.m.Play Date at Church is a time for all families with babies and young children to meet at Christ the King Church to play, visit and chat. Simply come on the first Satur-day of each month to explore the new playground or in bad weather find a sheltering place inside. Friends are welcome. The dates for winter and spring are February 7, March 7, April 11, May 2.

Altar Guild TeaChrist the King members and friends are invited to join the Altar Guild at an afternoon Tea on Sunday, March 1, 3:00-5:00 p.m. at the Parsonage. Please RSVP to Sally Muma at smuma@comcast.net or 832-776-9494. Parking is available across the street at the veterinary clinic or the church parking lot.

Sign up to Donate the Sunday Altar FlowersM e m b e r s a n d friends of the con-gregation are in-vited to donate the weekend altar flowers in memory or honor of loved ones or specia l occasions. After Sunday services the arrangements are delivered to fami-lies and individuals as signs of celebration or prayerful support.

Flower arrangements for weekend services are $55. Please pay for the flowers when you sign up by either dropping your check in the mail, in the church office or in the collection plate. Checks can be made out to Christ the King Lutheran Church with “Altar Flowers” in the memo line. You may email ctk@ctkelc.org to reserve any of the following dates that are still available: March 1; June 7 or 14; July 19; Aug. 2, 9, 16, 23 or 30; October 4; November 8 or 29; December 13, 20, or 27.

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Commit to End Poverty in Our TimeFifteen years ago, nations, faiths, NGOs, and citizens from around the world came together to pledge to make the world a better place, and to end extreme poverty. In 2000 the Millennium Development Goals were agreed upon, eight long-term goals to make the world a better place. The goals included eradicating extreme poverty and extreme hunger, improving maternal and child health, increasing access to primary school education, and creating new global partnerships, among others.

Set to expire in 2015, these goals were widely embraced by different governments and NGOs, and faith communities joined as well. The Interfaith Coalition on the Millennium Development Goals was made up of Muslims, Hindus, Christians, Jews, Buddhists and others spreading the word about the goals, supporting programs on the ground, and advocating for funding for the goals from the United States and other donor nations.

Now, 15 years later, the goals are coming to an end. We've made amazing progress so far:

•The rate of extreme poverty has been cut in half since 1990

•The number of women dying due to com-plications in pregnancy and childbirth fell by 47% between 1990 and 2010

•Since 2000, more than 3 million deaths from malaria have been averted

•In 2013, for the first time ever, more people began receiving treatment for HIV/AIDS than were infected with the disease--meaning we have reached the beginning of the end of AIDS

We have come so far, but we still have so much to do to truly end extreme poverty

by 2030. And that's why in 2015 we're asking people to recommit to the fight to end poverty. In 2015, the world will be gathering again to decide on Sustainable Development Goals, the goals that will take us through the next 15 years, and we need everyone involved to make them a success. That's why we're asking you to share the world you want to see today, make your pledge, and ask you friends to join us and #DemandBetter from world leaders in the fight to end poverty. Take our pledge today!

Since 1990, the rate of people living in extreme poverty--less than $1.25 a day--has fallen by half. We want to end it by 2030. Take the pledge to end poverty today and join ONE! www.one.org/2015

In 2000, people of faith joined with governments and interntional orga-nizations to achieve the Millennium Development Goals--eradicating extreme poverty and improving people's lives--over the next 15 years. In 2015, it's our chance to recommit. Learn more about 2015, and add your name to the pledge to end poverty, at www.one.org.

Justice Advocacy Opportunity – Displaced Haitian FarmersOn January 12, 2010 a huge earth-quake hit Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, shaking the city to the ground. 316,000 people lost their lives and 1.5 million were left homeless. In the aftermath, $9 billion was pledged by international donors to help Haiti ‘build back better’. A year later, more than 1,000 farmers lost their land and livelihoods when construction of the US-backed Caracol Industrial Park began.

It’s been four years and these farmers have yet to receive adequate com-pensation for their loss. Advocate for just compensation for these displaced Haitian farmers, and for a change in U.S. aid policy that does not force farmers off their land at http://www.landforhaiti.org/.

Documentary Sceening: DisruptionIn response to a request last year from Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) Advocacy, the CTK Creation Care Team invites your attendance at a screening of the documentary film, Disruption, about climate change. The screening will take place in the church parish hall on Sunday, February 22 at 12:45 p.m. and is open to the public, so invite your colleagues, neighbors, and friends to join you. This film investigates the science of climate change, the politics, and the consequences of inaction, and makes a compelling call for bold action on this justice issue. It also takes viewers behind the scenes of the organization of the climate rally last fall. Disruption is 51 minutes long, and a facilitated discussion will be held after the screening. Discussion fa-

cilitator is Professor Dan Cohan of Rice University. Professor Cohan specializes in the development of atmospheric models and their application to air quality management and health studies; the integration of satellite data with atmospheric mod-els; and the impacts of energy use on air quality and climate. A sandwich lunch will be provided for $5.00 at 12:30 p.m. (payable at the door in cash), only for those attendees who pre-register and request a lunch by emailing ctk@ctkelc.org. For more information about this event, contact Lisa Brenskelle at brenskelle@aol.com. If this screening is not convenient for you, you are welcome to download the film and view it yourself. To download the documentary, or for more information about this film, please see watchdisruption.com.

ONE.ORG

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Creation as the Body of GodThe following thought provoking essay is an excerpt from an article by Franciscan Fr. Richard Rohr, OFM, that was first published in Radical Grace, April-May-June, Volume 23, Number 2, 2010.

The Incarnation of God did not happen in Bethlehem 2000 years ago. That is just when we started taking it seriously. The incarnation actually happened 14.5 billion years ago with a moment that we now call “The Big Bang.” That is when God actually decided to materialize and to self expose. Two thousand years ago was the human incarna-tion of God in Jesus, but before that there was the first and original incarnation through light, water, land, sun, moon, stars, plants, trees, fruit, birds, serpents, cattle, fish, and “every kind of wild beast” according to our own creation story (Genesis 1:3-25). This was the “Cosmic Christ” through which God has “let us know the mystery

Lenten Discipline Opportunities Offered by the Creation Care Team Lenten disciplines traditionally comprise repentance, prayer, fasting, and works of love. The Creation Care Team is offering opportunities during Lent to engage in Lenten disciplines with a creation-care focus.

An Invitation to a Lenten FastThe Creation Care Team invites the congregation to join Lutherans Restor-ing Creation in observing a Lenten fast by eating vegetarian one day/week during Lent. The importance of eating less animal products in care of creation has to do with the large environmental impact of raising animals for slaughter, and the often inhumane conditions in which those animals are kept. To assist you in this Lenten discipline, Lutherans Restoring Creation has supplied 6 veg-etarian recipes for you to try at http://www.lutheransrestoringcreation.org/vegetarian-mondays. In addition, the Creation Care Team will also supply a vegetarian recipe each week during Lent on the church’s website.

If going vegetarian one day/week doesn’t appeal, another excellent Lent-en fast option that cares for creation is a Lenten Carbon Fast. To receive a daily e-mail with a carbon-reducing activity suggestion, sign up for the Ecumenical Carbon Fast at http://www.macucc.org/carbonfast.

An Invitation to Lenten Prayer/RepentanceWednesday in Lent at 6:15 p.m.

Using a devotional aid as a guide for prayer/meditation is suggested when engaging in this Lenten discipline. The Creation Care Team will offer two opportunities to engage in prayer/repentance with a creation-care fo-cus during Lent. In conjunction with our call to a Lenten fast, the Creation Care Team invites the congregation to a Lenten study that examines food choices through the lens of faith: Food and Faith: Justice, Joy, and Daily Bread. The study will take place on Wednesday evenings in Lent at 6:15 p.m. (beginning on February 25). The book, Food and Faith: Justice, Joy, and Daily Bread, may be purchased from Amazon. If the study doesn’t work with your schedule, the Creation Care Team invites you to consider stewardship of water resources using weekly reflec-tions in electronic form provided by the Ecumenical Water Network at http://water.oikoumene.org/en/whatwedo/seven-weeks-for-water/past/2015/seven-weeks-for-water-2015.

An Invitation to a Lenten Work of LoveSunday, March 22, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m.

The Creation Care Team invites all members of Christ the King to a Lenten work of love and care for all creation. Join people of other faiths in hands-on environmental stewardship during the Spring 2015 Interfaith Environmental Stewardship Event. The event will take place at the Willow Waterhole Conser-vation Reserve on Sunday, March 22, from 1:30 – 4:30 p.m., in observance of World Water Day. Details of this Lenten work of love are still being finalized at this time, but activities suitable for all ages are expected. Please email Lisa Brenskelle at brenskelle@aol.com for more information, or if you’d like to participate.

of his purpose, the hidden plan he so kindly made from the beginning in Christ” (Ephesians 1:9).

Christ is not Jesus’ last name, but the title for his life’s purpose. Jesus is the very concrete truth revealing and standing in for the universal truth. As Colossians puts it “he is the image of the invisible God, the first born of all creation” (1:15), he is the one glorious part that names and reveals the even more glorious whole. “The fullness is founded in him . . . everything in heaven and everything on earth” (Colossians 1:19-20). Christ, for John Duns Scotus was the very first idea in the mind of God, and God has never stopped thinking, dreaming, and creating the Christ. “The immense diversity and pluriformity of this creation more perfectly represents God than any one creature alone or by itself,” adds Thomas Aquinas in his Summa Theologica (47:1).

To read the full essay by Fr. Rohr, see http://earthministry.org/earth-ministry-publications/earth-letter/, where it will shortly be posted in the Winter 2014/2015 issue of the Earth Letter.

Vegetarian recipes are accessible on the church’s website to assist with the vegetarian fast. You will find them under Creation Care Opportunities on the left side of the homepage.

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Central African Republic, Dr. Susan SmithMeeting with Village School program leaders, and Sunday School leaders, helping leaders write monthly and financial reports, facilitat-ing meetings, hosting visitors, teaching a trauma healing class, and writing a blog to keep those interested in her work up to date are just a few of the activities of Dr. Susan Smith. She is one of the missionaries Christ

the King supports. Her official role is advisor to the education programs of the Lutheran Church of the Central African Repub-lic (French acronym: EEL-RCA). Based in Garoua-Boulai, Cam-eroon, near the Central African Republic (CAR) border, since having to evacuate from CAR in December 2012, she has been able to continue her work because leaders of the EEL-RCA are often able to travel to Garoua-Boulai to meet with her.

Here is some recent news of the EEL-RCA from Susan’s January 2015 blogs:ELCA Lutheran Disaster Response (LDR) is funding humani-tarian aid projects in CAR developed by the EEL-RCA to help people return to normal life, following the protracted violence of civil war. Bohong, a town north of the church headquarters in Bouar, was hard-hit by the fighting with many homes de-stroyed and the Lutheran Maternity Clinic there greatly dam-aged. This project will fund building 600 mud brick houses, “repair/improve sources of water, re-open two health posts, vaccinate children in villages, and provide seed (to be planted as the rainy season starts in March).” The EEL-RCA has worked in Bohong for many years. One of its ministries there was a school for Muslim girls. Part of the goal of the project is peace and reconciliation, so teams will be set up, when possible including both Muslims and Christians. A numbers of leaders of church programs for health care, food security and envi-ronmental protection, and more are involved. Leaders have been picking up supplies in Cameroon and delivering them to 5 villages between Bouar and Bohong, where teams have begun to fire the bricks needed to rebuild homes.

Another project already under way is computer training. People are eager to learn, but computers and electricity are scarce! In Baboua, a town near the Cameroonian border where many church programs are located, including the Seminary and Bible School, and the PASE water development project, a qualified

Brondos Missionary News November/December 2014This past December 15, we celebrated the graduation of 11 students from diverse programs at the Theological Commu-nity of Mexico and two of the seminaries of which it forms part. Among the students who graduated were Víctor Ochoa, Juliana Alonso and Mario Medina, whose work I mentioned in the two newsletters from this past summer. All three of them have plans to continue their studies in addition to serv-ing in the ministry, since one important aspect of our vision at the Theological Community is to prepare those who excel among our graduates to serve as professors in the future.

One special graduate was Karina Garcia, who graduated from our Lutheran Seminary. Karina (pic-tured with Seminary coordinator Angela Trejo and myself) has been helping out as my assistant with the Seminary’s online course program since 2010. God-willing, she will be ordained in the coming months in the Mexican Lutheran Church, thus becoming the fourth woman graduate of our Seminary to become a pastor. She will continue to work with the Seminary, not only helping with the administration of our online course program but also teaching courses in that program and at the Diploma level at the Theological Community.

Mexico, The Rev. David and Alicia BrondosDavid serves as professor at the Theo-logical Community of Mexico, an ecu-menical consortium of seminaries in Mexico City which includes Augsburg Lutheran Seminary. His work involves training pastors and leaders for church-es throughout Mexico and also coor-

dinating the Seminary’s online course program that has students from all over Latin America. Alicia teaches English at a primary school in Mexico City.

trainer was found. He is Muslim. As with most of the EEL-RCA’s ministries, the program is not just for church members, but for the community. Part of the goal is to re-establish trust and re-build community. This program is open to anyone with a com-puter—Christian, Muslim, or animist. Due to the excitement of participants, what was originally planned as two-hour class-

es twice a week has turned into two 6 or 7 hour classes per week. You can read more de-tails and find out more about Susan’s work at: h t t p : / / s u s a n - c a r.blogspot.com

Christ The King Church Supports Two MissionariesDonations for Lenten Soup Suppers and from our Wednesday Lenten Vespers support our missionaries.

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2015 Congregation CouncilTop Row: L-R: Lucky Sahualla, Financial Secretary; Meaghan Wheeler, Gaelyn Lesher, Member at Large; Pastor Karin Liebster, Donna Olson-Salas, Secretary; John Labuda, Treasurer.

Bottom Row L-R: Pastor Robert Moore, Meredith Moore, Carolyn Phill ips, President; Gail Schubot, Peter Boecher, and Lee Thweatt, Vice President.

Playground DedicationThe new playground for Christ the King Church was dedicated January 18, 2015. With gratitude we remembered the Dobberpuhl family who donated the former playground which delighted children for many years. The new playground was made possible through the annual Nursery Tag Sales with its dedicated leaders and by gifts from members of the congregation, especially the Sahualla family, Karohl family and Andrews Foundation, the Breitbeil family, and Tom and Julie Morin whose gift in memory of Tom’s father E. Milton Morin, Jr. provided the financial anchor for the project.

February 2015Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

8:30 am Worship9:45 am Sunday Church School9:45 am Sunday Forum10:50 am Worshipé1:00 pm Hans Hillerbrand

Lecture6:00 pm Luther League

Church Office Closed8:15 am Morning Prayer7:30 pm Hans Hillerbrand

Lecture

8:15 am Morning Prayer6:00 pm Executive Committee

8:15 am Morning Prayer4:00 pm Life Stories Workshop5:30 pm Wednesday Night Alive!5:45 pm Classes begin 5:45 pm Dinner Dialog6:00 pm Confirmation class6:15 pm Brass Choir6:15 pm Women in the Bible6:15 pm Lectio Divina7:00 pm Evening Prayer7:30 pm Choir and Chorus

8:15 am Morning Prayer10:00 am Piecemakers

8:15 am Morning Prayer9:00 am Prayer Shawl ministry10:00 am Friday Morning Bible

Study Luther League Human Dignity Retreat

Luther League Human Dignity Retreat1:00 pm Yoga4:00 pm First Saturdays

Play Date at Church5:17 pm Campus Ministry Soup6:00 pm Taizé Worship and

Prayer Around the Cross

7:00 pm Valentine Dinner

8:30 am Worship9:45 am Sunday Church School9:45 am Sunday Forum10:50 am Worship12:30 pm Annual Meeting6:00 pm Luther League6:00 pm Chamber Music7:30 pm Pub(lic) Theology

Church Office Closed8:15 am Morning Prayer5:45 pm Feed the Homeless7:30 pm Hans Hillerbrand

Lecture

8:15 am Morning Prayer7:15 pm Congregation Council

8:15 am Morning Prayer4:00 pm Life Stories Workshop5:30 pm Wednesday Night Alive!5:45 pm Classes begin 6:00 pm Confirmation class6:15 pm Brass Choir6:15 pm Spirituality and Life6:15 pm Women in the Bible6:15 pm Lectio Divina7:00 pm Evening Prayer7:30 pm Choir and Chorus

8:15 am Morning Prayer10:00 am Piecemakers6:00 pm Montrose Grace Place6:00 pm Circle of Care6:00 pm Egg Decorating Class

8:15 am Morning Prayer9:00 am Prayer Shawl ministry10:00 am Friday Morning Bible

Study

1:00 pm Yoga5:17 pm Campus Ministry Soup6:00 pm Taizé Worship and Healing Blessing

8:30 am Worship9:45 am Sunday Church School9:45 am Sunday Forum10:50 am Worship12:00 pm Sunday Café12:15 pm Let’s Get Aquainted Lunch6:00 pm Luther League6:00 pm Abendmusik

Church Office Closed8:15 am Morning Prayer5:45 pm Feed the Homeless

8:15 am Morning Prayer5:30 pm Pancake Supper

7:10 am Imposition of Ashes7:30 am Breakfast at SEARCH12:15pm Imposition of Ashes7:30 pm Imposition of Ashes7:30 pm Choir and Chorus

8:15 am Morning Prayer10:00 am Piecemakers6:00 pm Egg Decorating Class7:00 pm Campus Ministry

8:15 am Morning Prayer9:00 am Prayer Shawl ministry10:00 am Friday Morning Bible

Study Sr. High Retreat

Sr. High Retreat10:00 am Altar Guild1:00 pm Yoga2:00 pm End of Life Planning Workshop5:17 pm Campus Ministry Soup6:00 pm Taizé Worship, nave

Sr. High RetreatBlood Pressure Screenings8:30 am Worship9:45 am Sunday Church School9:45 am Sunday Forum10:50 am Worship 12:45 pm Disruption Screening6:00 pm Luther League

Church Office Closed8:15 am Morning Prayer5:45 pm Feed the Homeless6:00 pm Health Ministry Open Forum

8:15 am Morning Prayer 8:15 am Morning Prayer4:00 pm Life Stories Workshop5:30 pm Lenten Soup Supper5:45 pm Classes begin 6:00 pm Confirmation class6:15 pm Brass Choir6:15 pm Food and Faith class6:15 pm Church History6:15 pm Lectio Divina6:15 pm Food and Faith7:00 pm Lenten Vespers7:30 pm Choir and Chorus

8:15 am Morning Prayer10:00 am Piecemakers6:00 pm Egg Decorating Class

8:15 am Morning Prayer9:00 am Prayer Shawl ministry10:00 am Friday Morning Bible

Study

1:00 pm Yoga5:00 pm Luther League Outing5:17 pm Campus Ministry Soup6:00 pm Taizé Worship

Annual Meeting Part II12:30 p.m.