The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 30, 2012
MINUTE FOR MISSION: AUSTIN PRESBYTERIAN THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY - Samuel was ministering before the Lord, a boy wearing a linen ephod. Each year his mother made him a little robe and took it to him when she went up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice (1 Sam. 2:18-20). Like Hannah, who prayed for Samuel's life and provided for his service, many people participate in the preparation of ministers for the church. It is often through these faithful men and women that God's call is heard and because of them that potential servant-leaders can respond.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 29, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF SAN GABRIEL, CALIFORNIA - With demographics in Southern California transforming the landscape of the church, new opportunities arise for bearing fruit and growth in the knowledge of God. The story of two congregations in San Gabriel exemplifies a people responding to such an opportunity.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 28, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF SAN FERNANDO, CALIFORNIA - "Every Church a Mission Center" is the Presbytery of San Fernando's vision, and members see it bearing fruit as more people are growing in the knowledge of God.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 27, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA - The people of Iglesia Immanuel of San Diego are discovering how the Holy Spirit is calling them to participate in word and deed in the mission of God, carried out by Jesus Christ. They are responding to a personal call and a community call to become more active in the larger body of Christ.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 26, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF RIVERSIDE, CALIFORNIA - During this economic downturn, Riverside's congregations are reaching their neighbors in need.
Calvary in Riverside has served a hot meal one night each week since 1985. Church volunteers personally serve 120-200 guests. The meal opens with a welcome and a prayer, and a church member plays the piano during the meal. A spirit of holiness fills the room amid the homeless and near-homeless as they break bread together. Some guests have transitioned into helpers in this ministry.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 25, 2012
NATIVITY OF JESUS CHRIST/CHRISTMAS DAY - Despite the challenges in uncertain times, Christians around the world know that there is hope in the Lord Jesus Christ. The end of Advent and the celebration of Christmas are occasions on which people from all across the globe turn their attention away from pressing problems and toward caring for their families, helping those around them who may be in need, worshiping God, and celebrating the birth of Jesus.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
Hearing from our friends at Mission Crossroads ... "This holiday season, you may run into a young adult home from college who is about to graduate and is looking for the next step in his or her life. Be sure to tell them about the Young Adult Volunteer Program of the Presbyterian Church U.S.A."
"The Young Adult Volunteer Program offers opportunities for mission service and learning for people age 19 to 30. YAVs are challenged to put faith into action and to explore God’s call in their lives. There are 15 different places to serve for a year nationally or internationally in a variety of fields."
"Go to www.pcusa.org/yav for more information or call Richard Williams at (888) 728-7228 x5539."
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 24, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF THE PACIFIC, CALIFORNIA, HAWAII - Inspired by the Colossians text and the 2012 Mission Yearbook theme, the Presbytery of the Pacific decided to feature a rapidly growing movement in Southern California: fruit gleaning.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 8, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF NEW HARMONY, SOUTH CAROLINA - In her silver lame sneakers, Mother Lillie B. Nelson, nearly 103, does the ``electric slide'' and praises God with the same enthusiasm and joy. Deacon Nelson is a vibrant example of the enthusiasm, joy, and faithfulness that are pervasive at Goodwill Presbyterian Church in the rural community of Mayesville, South Carolina. Those qualities began to take root two years after the ratification of the 13th amendment in 1867, when 100 black members of Salem Black River Presbyterian Church requested permission to leave that congregation and begin their own community of faith.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary
Advent Devotional for Saturday, December 8
Luke 9:1-6
In our Advent text today, Jesus sends out the disciples to go and do miraculous things. The twelve are sent out fully humbled, as Jesus has instructed them to take no possessions with them; he has stripped them of all security. They have no staff for walking or protecting themselves from wild animals, no travel bag with changes of clothes, no bread to eat, and no money to spend. They are without any basic needs, instead they are given the ability to do miraculous things and “proclaim the kingdom of God.”
In our churches and in our own lives, we sometimes get stuck because we don’t think we have what we need to do God’s work in the world. We are constrained by budgets and lack of resources to do this miraculous work of Jesus Christ.
This Advent season, let us ponder what is hindering or blocking us from “proclaiming the kingdom.” We all have human boundaries that protect us from doing crazy things like leaving all necessities of food, shelter, and safety behind. However, in the gift of this miraculous birth of God as a human, we are no longer constrained to earthly means. God has given all of us gifts to do miraculous things in the world.
What is your gift and how is it manifested in miraculous ways? How do you proclaim the kingdom and honor the infant babe, who changed the world forever?
Great Light of the world,
We thank you for your gift of the infant Jesus, the gift that is beyond exceptional.
Grant us the courage, Great God, to proclaim the kingdom, to do good works in your world in faith and not fear.
Thank you for this time of Advent to reflect on the many gifts you have given us and to remember our role in your mission to the world. Allow us to be a part of that mission in bold ways.
We pray this in the name of your son, Emmanuel, God with us. For we know that you are with us through the Holy Spirit and the person of Jesus Christ.
Amen.
Kimberly Rogers
Senior MDiv student from Pipe Creek, Texas
For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.
"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary
Advent Devotional for Friday, December 7
Philippians 1:18b-26
Leading into today’s passage, Paul speaks from prison to the early church with words that sound all too modern: “Some, to be sure, are preaching Christ even from envy and strife, but some also from good will; the latter do it out of love ... the former proclaim Christ out of selfish ambition rather than from pure motives” Paul then says an amazing thing: “whether in pretense or in truth, Christ is proclaimed; and in this I rejoice. Yes, and I will rejoice.” He even says it twice in case the readers/hearers can’t believe their ears. Yes, Paul rejoices even when Christ is proclaimed for the wrong reasons!
Can we, should we, rejoice when someone is using Christ and his birthday to market goods? Can we, should we, rejoice when someone we politically disagree with is touting Christ to support their agenda? Can Paul possibly mean such a thing? What better time than Advent to think about the use or misuse of the gospel message?
Paul has learned that God uses circumstances that seem like defeat to achieve greater success than we finite humans can understand. Paul’s point is central to the Christmas story. A baby born in poverty changes the world. A homeless man preaches a message that changes millions of lives. A man who experiences capital punishment is the savior of the world. No matter how “counterintuitive” the message, it is in God’s hands. In this season, we can proclaim, no matter how bad things look, that God has come among us in the person of Jesus Christ, to be present with us and to work God’s purpose out. These are tidings of great joy!
Oh God, who has expressed your great love for us by coming among us, grant us the firm and certain knowledge of your love for us in Christ, that we might know in our minds and in our hearts that we are yours, and all will be well. For it is in the name of Emanuel, God with us, we pray, Amen.
Gordon Blackman, Jr.
Middler MDiv student from Shreveport, Louisiana
For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.
By Katiera Winfrey, Reporter
KMID-TV
MIDLAND, TEXAS - It was red carpet night at the Midland Center for the second "Woman on the Rise Banquet."
The event is held bi-annually by the women ministries at Faith Temple Church of God in Christ. Big 2 News Horace Brown was the emcee at the event.
The banquet was a fund raiser to help women all throughout the Permian Basin reach their full potential and rise above their circumstances.
• read/watch the rest of this story
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 7, 2012
PRESVYTERY OF GREATER ATLANTA, GEORGIA - Youth from the Presbytery of Greater Atlanta and Cherokee Presbytery connected with youth from the Synod of Puerto Rico for a joint mission partnership project in June 2010. The site was El Guacio, the synod-wide campground near San Sebastian. There were eight nationalities and four languages among the 30 youth from the College Park, Columbia, Druid Hills, God's Will Love, Shallowford, New Life, Northwest, and Oakhurst churches.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
By Lyxan Toledanes, Reporter
Odessa American
MIDLAND, TEXAS - Within the Holy Family Chapel at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Midland, the blank crème walls provide serenity and calm from the busy street outside.
But, stay in the chapel long enough, and the walls become a canvas for the rich hues of reds, blues, purples and greens emanating from the stained glass windows created by Fort Davis-based artist Jeff Smith.
The altar window, entitled “Let There be Light,” is a 16-panel window filled with abstract “strokes” of colors and a balance of bright and dark stained glass.
• read the rest of this story
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 6, 2012
FOOTHILLS PRESBYTERY, SOUTH CAROLINA - At the February 2010 presbytery meeting, Foothills Presbytery entered into a partnership with Presbyterian Environmental Ministries to participate in the Stewardship of Creation Enabler Program.
Through this partnership, and with the responsibility for their camp and conference ministry at Buc Outdoor Center, presbytery members became stewards of the headwaters of a number of South Carolina's most important river systems and watersheds that extend to the Atlantic coast.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary
Advent Devotional for Thursday, December 6
Malachi 3:5-12
Today, December 6th, is the day we remember a great saint of the church. Many know this saint by his shorthand name, Santa Claus. But the name Santa Claus is related to an older name, St. Nicholas. And even though, at the mention of this name, our thoughts probably turn to images of reindeer and chimneys and a sack of gifts, there are other things to know about St. Nicholas.
Different stories about this saint tell us that indeed he was always a gift-giver. These accounts tell us that as early as the fourth century, this Bishop of Myra (southern Asia Minor) had the reputation of compassion for all the people within his jurisdiction of the church, especially for the needy. Old prayers of the church tell us that St. Nicholas was considered an exemplar of the faith because he provided care for orphans and widows, he fed the hungry and the poor, and he freed captives.
On this mid-week day in Advent we read the strong words of the prophet Malachi. The prophet pronounces God’s judgment against any who do not pay right wages to workers, who oppress the widow and orphan, or who cast aside the alien (v. 5).
Strong words indeed. We do well, in this time of preparing for the arrival of God on earth, to reflect on the fact that not only in modern times do we care for issues of justice and the well-being of all people, especially those on the edges of economy, security, and societal norms. Malachi, a prophet of God, said life in God looks like this. St. Nicholas, old saint of the church, lived exemplified such a life in God. Those witnesses stand before us today.
In your mercy, Holy God, make us your land of delight through our actions on behalf of all the needy ones, that we may serve you all the days of our lives. In the name of the One whose arrival we await. Amen.
Jennifer L. Lord
The Dorothy B. Vickery Associate Professor of Homiletics and Liturgical Studies
For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.
By Audrie Palmer, Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram
MIDLAND, TEXAS - It's their gift to the community. As the Christmas season kicks off, churches around the Tall City will host Christmas concerts throughout the month of December as a way to give back to West Texans and ring in the holidays with song.
First United Methodist Church of Midland will host a free Christmas concert December 9, with multi-Grammy award winner Sandi Patty and 2012 Gospel Music Association's artist of the year Jason Crabb.
• read the rest of this story
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 5, 2012
PRESBYTERY OF FLORIDA - Members of several Florida churches are taking part in a mission effort in Costa Rica with In the Carpenter's Footsteps, Inc. The interdenominational Christian service organization returned to Costa Rica to begin construction on a church in San Isadro, said In the Carpenter's Footsteps Vice President Patty Searcy, a member of Christ Presbyterian Church of Tallahassee, which supports the group.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary
Advent Devotional for Wednesday, December 5
Isaiah 1:24-31
Recently I was staring at a picture of my children. There they were, three faces staring back at me, frozen in time. I began to wonder how and when they got to be so big and so independent. As I continued to stare at the picture I began to reflect back on our lives together and over our incredible journey we have shared thus far. As we prepare for the coming of the precious Christ child, Isaiah calls all of God’s people to likewise take a picture of their faith. We are called to stare at a picture of who we have become, and where we are now, as children of God.
We are also called to be reminded of who it is that created us and sent us on our way. It is in these moments, as we stare at ourselves, that we can identify how we have stayed the course, or where we find ourselves veering far off in one direction or the other. It is only in these sometimes difficult moments of reflection when we can truly ask God to purge our lives of the meaningless pursuits that become all-consuming.
Here in these snapshot moments we can once again ask of the Almighty, the One who is bigger than all of the faults and foolishness we see in ourselves, to purify us and again call us back to our created selves. We are reminded that Christ is coming, and with him comes the promise that no matter how far we wander, or where we find ourselves at that particular moment, God will scour and redirect us. Only then are we set free to continue our journey once again being called children of God.
Holy One, we come to you now where we are in our lives; broken, lost, misguided. We come to you now where we are in our lives; full of love, faithfulness, and joy. We ask that you separate us from all that would lead us astray and purify us so that we may indeed be called your children. Amen.
Lisa Rush
Senior MDiv student from San Antonio, Texas
For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.
By Lyxan Toledanes, Reporter
Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - When everyone prayed for rain, Edna Ontiveros prayed that it wouldn’t. Every rainstorm for the 83-year-old widow meant a night without sleep, changing pails of collected water that would fall through the hole in her deteriorated roof that was just above her bed.
Because she is on Social Security, Ontiveros’ fixed income did not allow for the extra cost for home repairs.
“When it rained, I used to have to stay up. By the time I emptied one pail of water, the other was full,” Ontiveros said.
With the help of Christmas in Action volunteers, Ontiveros’ roof — once made of gravel, tar and felt — has been patched up and replaced with shingles.
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The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 4, 2012
FLINT RIVER PRESBYTERY, GEORGIA - Presbyterian Church of Warner Robins, Georgia, took a leap of faith, and asked the presbytery to join its efforts to launch a new mission in Middle Georgia. Their aim was to create a third space in the area where individuals of all ages could gather for coffee, conversation, and community. This congregation's efforts were joined by the presbytery's New Church Development Committee, the Synod of the South Atlantic, the General Assembly Mission Council of the PC(USA), and neighboring congregations to open a coffeehouse to use as the gathering place for a new community of disciples and a launching pad for mission to the Warner Robins area and the world.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary
Advent Devotional for Tuesday, December 4
II Samel 7:18-29
King David and God are in a really good place. God has just blessed David with victory over the Philistines. David has joined the people in expressing gratitude and joy, “dancing before the Lord with all his might.” Settling back in at home after the festivities, his continued exuberance spills over and into a desire to do something more to honor God. David decides he will build God a house—after all, he reasons, God has been living in an ark, while David has been living in a home made of cedar. Nathan assures David this is an idea God will support.
But God rejects David’s idea. When has God ever needed a house? Instead of David building a house for God, God will build a house for David: a house that will endure not only for a lifetime, not only for generations, but forever and ever.
How can it be that the God who does so much for us has promised even more? With David we are humbled; with David we are hopeful. We know we are unworthy, that this is pure grace. We ask for what has already been promised, exercising our invited audacity.
The One who promises to come is the Promised One who has no home. No room in the inn. No tomb but a stranger’s. No place to lay his head. He moves from womb to manger, from table to cross, from garden to lakeshore. He has no home but makes a home for us. He knows our need for space and care, and so prepares a place—a mansion. Many mansions. And he will come, and take us to himself. And we will be home — with him - forever.
Bounteous God,
Fill us, on this day, with the joy that comes when we recognize your blessings. Lead us to dance, and praise, and make excessive offerings even as you offer excessive gifts. Remind us that our home is in you even as we await your coming. Keep your promises, and give us the courage to claim them. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Cindy Rigby
The W. C. Brown Professor of Theology
For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.
By Audrie Palmer, Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram
MIDLAND, TEXAS - With a changing population and giving habits in a world where paper currency is seldom required, many churches and congregations are utilizing new technologies to make collection of offerings more simple.
It's a concept that's only recently been taking off in churches -- online giving. While many pay their bills online and through direct deposits or withdrawals, some have found it also more convenient to make donations online to their house of worship.
St. Stephen's Catholic Church recently launched its online giving program where church members can make a donation with a credit or debit card through the church's website. Using the WeShare program, parishioners can also register for church events and activities and contribute a donation, seven days a week, even when they are sick or out of town.
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The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 3, 2012
CHEROKEE PRESBYTERY, GEORGIA - Cherokee Presbytery understands itself to be one church that is located in many places throughout northwestern Georgia, following Christ together with confidence, joy, and hope. This particular church consists of 42 chartered congregations (ranging from the newly chartered to some over 175 years in age), two campus ministries, a retreat center, and more than 9,800 members (lay and clergy) faithfully bearing fruit in the kingdom and growing in the knowledge of God.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotionals.
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary
Advent Devotional for Monday, December 3
Psalm 90
As I read this psalm out loud, I imagine Mary sitting across the room, listening. She twists and turns. She can’t seem to get comfortable. The baby is lying on her sciatic nerve and pain is shooting down her left leg. She tries to get him to move by turning on her side and pushing on the little body. Please make this pain go away, she pleads. Please get this over with, she begs. But her mother has told her: All in good time. God’s time. You can’t make it happen. You wait and pray for some relief.
Psalm 90 puts words to this human experience of time. Like Mary, waiting for something to change her condition, we are bound to life measured day by day by relentless day of toil and trouble. For God, on the other hand, a thousand years go by as if they were a dream in a single night. In our life span, we hardly have a chance to make an impression on God. In fact, Moses suspects, what impression we do make is by our sins, sins that evoke the wrath of God.
Unlike most psalms of lament, which this one surely is, Moses’ poem does not make a final turn to thanking God for saving us. No. Moses leaves us waiting and praying for relief. He ends with a plea: Please make our work prosper! Please make our lives count for something!
Like Mary, sometimes we just sit and wait. But we know what Moses did not, that Mary’s baby—when he comes and when he comes again—will change our plight. God will see us differently through the glory of Jesus Christ
Everlasting God,
This day we wait. It may be a day full of toil and trouble. It may be a day we prosper. I ask that your presence within me, whatever this day brings, remind me of the hope of Jesus Christ for me and also for all the people with whom I share this day. May I see them reflecting glory. Amen.
Melissa Wiginton
Vice President for Education Beyond the Walls at Austin Seminary
For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
Today in the Mission Yearbook: December 2, 2012
MINUTE FOR MISSION: ADVENT - The anticipation was wonderful! Sis was coming to town! We, my brother and three cousins, knew that there would be gifts for each of us. Sis, the second oldest of my mother's sisters, came to visit at least three times a year. We knew she was coming when we saw her turn the corner after walking a half mile from the bus station. She rode the bus from her home in Lexington to our home in Harrodsburg, Kentucky. Her visit prior to the beginning of school year brought us new clothes for school; her visit before Easter brought new coats, pants, and dresses for spring and summer. Her pre-Christmas visit delayed the anticipation until the wrapped gifts could be opened.
CLICK HERE to read more.
SPECIAL END-OF-YEAR NOTE: "Change the world without leaving home" ... Order the 2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook! Every day of the year, the Mission Yearbook lifts up the inspiring work being done in the Lord’s name through our churches and
presbyteries at home and around the world. Join them ... become a partner in what God is doing around the world ... order your copy today!
Just 16.95! Order as a group and save ... 10 –23 copies, $15.50; 24 –249 copies, $14.50; 250 or more copies, $12.95 ... How many loaves have you?
2013 Presbyterian Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study
"HOW MANY LOAVES HAVE YOU?"
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
www.presbyterianmission.org
Order ISBN 978-0-98589-640-9 • Call (800) 524-2612 or visit www.pcusa.org/missionyearbook
"This Advent Season, start — or end — your day with these meditations provided by faculty, students, and alumni/ae of the Austin Seminary community."
CLICK HERE for a complete schedule of this season's devotional
CLICK HERE to learn how you can support the mission of Austin Seminary
Advent Devotional for Sunday, December 2
Jeremiah 33:14-16
Under royal surveillance, the imprisoned prophet Jeremiah lies in wait for a word of hope. The word from the Lord that Jeremiah receives moves him to see a world beyond the walls of his prison to one filled with the divine promise of a Redeemer. Indeed, in our observance of Advent, the spiritual practice of waiting is a significant part of our relationship with God. Like Jeremiah, we are waiting expectantly for the promised Redeemer.
For many of us, the place wherein we practice our Advent waiting may not be prison walls and the sounds of despair outside them. The warmth of family and friends that accompanies our Advent waiting should, therefore, move us to a second important spiritual Advent practice of thanksgiving. We are thankful that God has planted in the ground of tomorrow the seed of a Davidic promise that is, indeed, soon to sprout amid this busy season. The fruits of this sprouting “righteous Branch” include executed “justice and righteousness.”
Although we may be stretched in many different ways during Christmas, the prophet’s words invite us to be mentally and spiritually present in the precious moments we have with family and friends. In this hope of the Messiah, we also believe that imprisonments will be transformed into places of safety, peace, and liberation.
As we celebrate Advent, may these prophetic words not only transport us to a future promise but also ground us in a message of hope and thanksgiving. As Jesus proclaimed to his disciples, “I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).
Blessed are You, Lord our God, who gives us breath.
We gather today to offer you songs of praise and thanksgiving. For you have comforted us with the falling rain and have shown us compassion in our suffering.
May we feel from this momentary encounter the warmth ofyour eternal grace.
May the joy of our salvation move us closer to your love. Heal our troubled hearts with your healing touch
Allow your Holy Spirit to render our egos powerless.
We pray this in Christ’s name, Amen.
Gregory Lee Cuéllar, PhD
Assistant Professor of Old Testament
For the glory of God and to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary is a seminary in the Presbyterian-Reformed tradition whose mission is to educate and equip individuals for the ordained Christian ministry and other forms of Christian service and leadership; to employ its resources in the service of the church; to promote and engage in critical theological thought and research; and to be a winsome and exemplary community of God's people.
By Audrie Palmer, Reporter
Midland Reporter-Telegram
MIDLAND, TEXAS - While the Christmas season is a wonderful time of year, it also can be a time of stress. By taking time to eliminate that stress, we can relax, help others to relax and enjoy the holiday.
"The whole point is to see what stresses you and avoid it. We can be loving and relaxed because this is the most special time of the year," said Buddhist nun Kelsang Chondzin.
Chondzin will speak at a free public talk from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Midland.
• read the rest of this story
The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2012 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the prayer of Paul for the Colossians, that these faithful brothers and sisters would bear fruit and grow in the knowledge of God (1:10).
