• Was initially charged January 16
Staff Report
• Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - An 81-year-old church pastor was arrested and charged for the second time this month after inappropriately touching 15-year-old girls, affidavits detailed ...
• Read the rest of this OA report ...
Thursday, January 31, 2019
Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook
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.
 |
| Photo Courtesy of Carol and Gene Stilz |
Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 31, 2019
INCLUDING THE BLIND IN WORSHIP - I once was lost but now am found, was blind but now I see.
Christians often sing “Amazing Grace” without understanding what it is like to actually be blind — either legally blind with diminished vision or completely blind. More importantly, what is it like for those who are blind when they come into a church? How are they treated? How are they incorporated into the worship service? ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
INCLUDING THE BLIND IN WORSHIP - I once was lost but now am found, was blind but now I see.
Christians often sing “Amazing Grace” without understanding what it is like to actually be blind — either legally blind with diminished vision or completely blind. More importantly, what is it like for those who are blind when they come into a church? How are they treated? How are they incorporated into the worship service? ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
Wednesday, January 30, 2019
In the News ... "Crisis Center sets opening of new shelter "
 |
| OA File Photo |
Staff Report
• Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - Crisis Center of West Texas will have the grand opening of the Louise Wood Angel House, 901 S. Lincoln Ave., from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Feb. 19.
The Louise Wood Angel House is the center’s newest shelter for survivors of domestic and sexual violence ...
• Read the rest of this OA report ...
In the News ... "Rehab effort advances"
 |
| OA Photo by Jacob Ford |
By Bob Campbell, Reporter
• Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - Victory Life Church’s drug and alcohol rehabilitation program made progress in 2018, but its leaders are trying to expand and do more ...
• Read the rest of this OA report ...
Invitation to Prayer from Faces of Children ... TODAY
Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Their mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, they seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).
Invitation to Prayer ... TODAY
Hi Friends,
If you're in Midland this week, we'll be meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 30 - TODAY - for prayer. We meet in the prayer closet at First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Please join us in lifting up the needs of vulnerable children in our community and around the world!
Blessings,
Carrie
Dear Intercessors,
New York passed a new abortion law allowing abortions to take place up until the day of birth. One well-known pastor in New York City, Carl Lentz, of Hillsong said the following about this new law as he shared a picture of his children on Instagram:
"Found this old photo recently, and I remember it taking me years to process that these LITTLE PEOPLE, had come into our world! A miracle, without a doubt. And I'm saddened and angry that we are now a state that has made it legal to have an abortion even into the last day of a pregnancy. I spent hours talking to lawyers and people who hold opposing views on this issue. Although it is layered and there is language in it that some are claiming will protect mothers in peril, the only way I can describe where we are and where this is all headed..is evil, shameful and demonic. I dont use those words lightly, but they are applicable here. Some have said this is strictly a "women's rights issue." i dont disagree. We simply believe that WOMEN IN THE WOMB deserve the right to life, deserve the right to breath. Laws like this say unless you have a voice, if somebody deems you "viable/non viable" you have no protection. Psalm 139, tells us otherwise. I have hope still, that God will help us raise our collective voices, to see this change. This cannot stand. ...I know Hillsong NYC and many many other churches and organizations have been working hard for years to create options and help for those dealing with a pregnancy that is overwhelming for many reasons. And we will continue to do so. I'm also aware that often "pro-life politics"(while also supporting the death penalty, of course) have been quick to condemn abortion and the people that have them and then be invisible and hypocritical when it comes to helping women in need, in poverty, those who cannot gain access to proper medical care and creating policies that can help those that dont choose abortion. Those are facts. But this law, isn't about politics. This is about generations of babies that have no defense. Despite this dark day, our future is STILL bright because we know where our help comes from."
I recognize abortion is a highly politicized issue in our culture today, and generally I try to steer our prayers away either side of the political ditches we can so easily become snared in. I think Carl Lentz does a good job highlighting several perspectives on this issue that highlight its complexity and can lead us in our prayers:
1: Please pray for children who are in the cross-hairs of a law that says "unless you have a voice, if somebody deems you "viable/non viable" you have no protection."
2: Please pray for women who are faced with the circumstances where they feel like abortion is their only option. Pray for doctors who can council them with wisdom and compassion and empathy and help meet their deepest needs.
3: Please pray for the church. As Carl says, the pro-life community often "have been quick to condemn abortion and the people that have them and then be invisible and hypocritical when it comes to helping women in need, in poverty, those who cannot gain access to proper medical care and creating policies that can help those that don't choose abortion." The pro-life community must recognize how it's hands aren't clean in this either and repent.
While I know there are other matters in our community and around the world that could draw our prayers, I think sometimes it is helpful to focus on one thing. This isn't just about abortion laws in New York. It's about women facing unplanned pregnancies in our community and not knowing where to turn. It's Families learning the babies they are expecting are "incompatible with life" and not knowing how to process.
Blessings,
Carrie
Carrie J. McKean
Faces of Children Director
First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas
(432) 684-7821 x153
Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook
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.
 |
| Photo by Douglas Dicks |
Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 30, 2019
A SPIRITUAL PILGRIMAGE - Christians worldwide, a trip to the Holy Land has often been regarded as “the trip of a lifetime”— and it usually is. All too often, however, visitors and pilgrims end up running in the land where Jesus walked! ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
A SPIRITUAL PILGRIMAGE - Christians worldwide, a trip to the Holy Land has often been regarded as “the trip of a lifetime”— and it usually is. All too often, however, visitors and pilgrims end up running in the land where Jesus walked! ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
Tuesday, January 29, 2019
In the News ... “Actress continues to find new meaning in Ain’t I a Woman"
 |
| Courtesy Photo |
By Rich Lopez, Reporter
• Midland Reporter-Telegram
MIDLAND, TEXAS - With both Black History Month and Women’s History Month on the horizon -- February and March, respectively -- Midland College tackles both this week. Mixing chamber music with theater, the Midland College Foundation and the Division of Fine Arts and Communications presents “Ain’t I a Woman.” The event, planned for Thursda, celebrates four African-American women performed by one actor. Shinnerrie Jackson will breathe life into Sojourner Truth, Zora Neale Hurston, Clementine Hunter and Fannie Lou Hamer. Through her years of performing the show, Jackson said she has learned something new each time ...
• Read the rest of this MRT report ...
Ain’t I a Woman with Shinnerrie Jackson
7:30 p.m. Thursday
Midland College, 3600 Garfield Street
Free Admission
Invitation to Prayer from Faces of Children ... Tomorrow
Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Their mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, they seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).
Invitation to Prayer ... Tomorrow
Hi Friends,
If you're in Midland this week, we'll be meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 30, for prayer. We meet in the prayer closet at First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Please join us in lifting up the needs of vulnerable children in our community and around the world!
Blessings,
Carrie
Dear Intercessors,
New York passed a new abortion law allowing abortions to take place up until the day of birth. One well-known pastor in New York City, Carl Lentz, of Hillsong said the following about this new law as he shared a picture of his children on Instagram:
"Found this old photo recently, and I remember it taking me years to process that these LITTLE PEOPLE, had come into our world! A miracle, without a doubt. And I'm saddened and angry that we are now a state that has made it legal to have an abortion even into the last day of a pregnancy. I spent hours talking to lawyers and people who hold opposing views on this issue. Although it is layered and there is language in it that some are claiming will protect mothers in peril, the only way I can describe where we are and where this is all headed..is evil, shameful and demonic. I dont use those words lightly, but they are applicable here. Some have said this is strictly a "women's rights issue." i dont disagree. We simply believe that WOMEN IN THE WOMB deserve the right to life, deserve the right to breath. Laws like this say unless you have a voice, if somebody deems you "viable/non viable" you have no protection. Psalm 139, tells us otherwise. I have hope still, that God will help us raise our collective voices, to see this change. This cannot stand. ...I know Hillsong NYC and many many other churches and organizations have been working hard for years to create options and help for those dealing with a pregnancy that is overwhelming for many reasons. And we will continue to do so. I'm also aware that often "pro-life politics"(while also supporting the death penalty, of course) have been quick to condemn abortion and the people that have them and then be invisible and hypocritical when it comes to helping women in need, in poverty, those who cannot gain access to proper medical care and creating policies that can help those that dont choose abortion. Those are facts. But this law, isn't about politics. This is about generations of babies that have no defense. Despite this dark day, our future is STILL bright because we know where our help comes from."
I recognize abortion is a highly politicized issue in our culture today, and generally I try to steer our prayers away either side of the political ditches we can so easily become snared in. I think Carl Lentz does a good job highlighting several perspectives on this issue that highlight its complexity and can lead us in our prayers:
1: Please pray for children who are in the cross-hairs of a law that says "unless you have a voice, if somebody deems you "viable/non viable" you have no protection."
2: Please pray for women who are faced with the circumstances where they feel like abortion is their only option. Pray for doctors who can council them with wisdom and compassion and empathy and help meet their deepest needs.
3: Please pray for the church. As Carl says, the pro-life community often "have been quick to condemn abortion and the people that have them and then be invisible and hypocritical when it comes to helping women in need, in poverty, those who cannot gain access to proper medical care and creating policies that can help those that don't choose abortion." The pro-life community must recognize how it's hands aren't clean in this either and repent.
While I know there are other matters in our community and around the world that could draw our prayers, I think sometimes it is helpful to focus on one thing. This isn't just about abortion laws in New York. It's about women facing unplanned pregnancies in our community and not knowing where to turn. It's Families learning the babies they are expecting are "incompatible with life" and not knowing how to process.
Blessings,
Carrie
Carrie J. McKean
Faces of Children Director
First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas
(432) 684-7821 x153
In the News ... "Helping Hands Initiative: Big Brothers/Big Sisters"
 |
| KOSA Photo |
By Shelby Landgraf, Reporter
• KOSA-TV
MIDLAND/ODESSA, TEXAS - Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Permian Basin helps children learn and grow through one-on-one mentorships.
“We match them with a caring adult, a role model that way they know they have a friend, cheerleader and a confidant,” explained Molly Murphy, the Resource Development Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Permian Basin ...
• Read/watch the rest of this KOSA report
Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook
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.
 |
| Courtesy Photo |
Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 29, 2019
JUST WORSHIP CONFERENCE - Before Seyeom Kim went to the recent Just Worship conference at Columbia Theological Seminary, he had been feeling very much alone — unsure of where he belonged ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
JUST WORSHIP CONFERENCE - Before Seyeom Kim went to the recent Just Worship conference at Columbia Theological Seminary, he had been feeling very much alone — unsure of where he belonged ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
Monday, January 28, 2019
From @chinaaid : " Opinion: Are products from Chinese camps being sold abroad?"
The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.Opinion: Are products from Chinese camps being sold abroad?
Distributed by ChinaAid, December, 2018 ...
URUMQI. XINJIANG – “Made in China”; it’s a label we all have on our clothes and the products we buy, but could they be coming from inside Xinjiang’s notorious “re-education camps,” where minority inmates are wrongfully imprisoned and abused?
Last week, the Associated Press (AP) published a report that disclosed the routine shipment of sportswear from one such camp to a company in North Carolina. Once notified, the organization, which was not previously aware that its products were being made in the camp, decided to source its work elsewhere and investigate the situation.
However ...
• More on this story from China Aid ...
In the News ... Missionary Graham Staines' story told in one-night-only film event"
 |
| AP Photo |
Staff Report
• Midland Reporter-Telegram
MIDLAND/ODESSA, TEXAS - The story of Australian missionary Graham Staines, who served the leper population in India, comes to life in the new film “The Least of These,” which screens Thursday through Fathom Events. The film stars Stephen Baldwin, Shari Rigby and Sharman Joshi and is the debut film of Dallas-based Skypass Entertainment. The release also coincides with the 20th anniversary of Staines death ...
... “The Least of These: The Story of Graham Staines” screens at 7 p.m. Thursday at Regal Tall City Stadium 14, 4915 SW Loop 250 N, and at Odessa 12, 4221 Preston Smith Road. Tickets are $10.47 adults, $7.98 seniors and $7.55 children at fathomevents.com ...
• Read the rest of this MRT report ...
Invitation to Prayer from Faces of Children ... Wednesday
Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Their mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, they seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).
Invitation to Prayer ... Wednesday
Hi Friends,
If you're in Midland this week, we'll be meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 30, for prayer. We meet in the prayer closet at First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Please join us in lifting up the needs of vulnerable children in our community and around the world!
Blessings,
Carrie
Dear Intercessors,
New York passed a new abortion law allowing abortions to take place up until the day of birth. One well-known pastor in New York City, Carl Lentz, of Hillsong said the following about this new law as he shared a picture of his children on Instagram:
"Found this old photo recently, and I remember it taking me years to process that these LITTLE PEOPLE, had come into our world! A miracle, without a doubt. And I'm saddened and angry that we are now a state that has made it legal to have an abortion even into the last day of a pregnancy. I spent hours talking to lawyers and people who hold opposing views on this issue. Although it is layered and there is language in it that some are claiming will protect mothers in peril, the only way I can describe where we are and where this is all headed..is evil, shameful and demonic. I dont use those words lightly, but they are applicable here. Some have said this is strictly a "women's rights issue." i dont disagree. We simply believe that WOMEN IN THE WOMB deserve the right to life, deserve the right to breath. Laws like this say unless you have a voice, if somebody deems you "viable/non viable" you have no protection. Psalm 139, tells us otherwise. I have hope still, that God will help us raise our collective voices, to see this change. This cannot stand. ...I know Hillsong NYC and many many other churches and organizations have been working hard for years to create options and help for those dealing with a pregnancy that is overwhelming for many reasons. And we will continue to do so. I'm also aware that often "pro-life politics"(while also supporting the death penalty, of course) have been quick to condemn abortion and the people that have them and then be invisible and hypocritical when it comes to helping women in need, in poverty, those who cannot gain access to proper medical care and creating policies that can help those that dont choose abortion. Those are facts. But this law, isn't about politics. This is about generations of babies that have no defense. Despite this dark day, our future is STILL bright because we know where our help comes from."
I recognize abortion is a highly politicized issue in our culture today, and generally I try to steer our prayers away either side of the political ditches we can so easily become snared in. I think Carl Lentz does a good job highlighting several perspectives on this issue that highlight its complexity and can lead us in our prayers:
1: Please pray for children who are in the cross-hairs of a law that says "unless you have a voice, if somebody deems you "viable/non viable" you have no protection."
2: Please pray for women who are faced with the circumstances where they feel like abortion is their only option. Pray for doctors who can council them with wisdom and compassion and empathy and help meet their deepest needs.
3: Please pray for the church. As Carl says, the pro-life community often "have been quick to condemn abortion and the people that have them and then be invisible and hypocritical when it comes to helping women in need, in poverty, those who cannot gain access to proper medical care and creating policies that can help those that don't choose abortion." The pro-life community must recognize how it's hands aren't clean in this either and repent.
While I know there are other matters in our community and around the world that could draw our prayers, I think sometimes it is helpful to focus on one thing. This isn't just about abortion laws in New York. It's about women facing unplanned pregnancies in our community and not knowing where to turn. It's Families learning the babies they are expecting are "incompatible with life" and not knowing how to process.
Blessings,
Carrie
Carrie J. McKean
Faces of Children Director
First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas
(432) 684-7821 x153
In the News ... "Registration open for annual 'West Texas Hunger Summit'"
 |
| SAST Photo by Michelle Gaitan |
By Michelle Gaitan, Reporter
• San Angelo Standard-Times
SAN ANGELO, TEXAS, TEXAS - The annual Together at the Table: West Texas Hunger Summit is heading back to the Region XV Education Service Center, 612 S Irene St., to discuss poverty and hunger. The daylong summit will be Feb. 28 and focuses on the theme “Journey from Hunger to Hope” ...
• Read the rest of this ARN report ...
Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook
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.
 |
| Photo by Gregg Brekke |
Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 28, 2019
STEWARDSHIP IN RACIAL AND ETHNIC COMMUNITIES - The Rev. Dr. James Reese, now approaching the 70th anniversary of his ordination in the Presbyterian Church, believes learning about stewardship is a cross-cultural exercise. He asserts that approaches to charitable giving, especially in the context of the church, are formed by a community ethos — and he has the data to back it up ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
STEWARDSHIP IN RACIAL AND ETHNIC COMMUNITIES - The Rev. Dr. James Reese, now approaching the 70th anniversary of his ordination in the Presbyterian Church, believes learning about stewardship is a cross-cultural exercise. He asserts that approaches to charitable giving, especially in the context of the church, are formed by a community ethos — and he has the data to back it up ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
Sunday, January 27, 2019
In the News ... “Free concert brings awareness to foster children"
 |
| Courtesy Photo |
Staff Report
• Midland Reporter-Telegram
MIDLAND/ODESSA, TEXAS - The Real Life Real Music Foundation will present a free concert Sunday - TONIGHT - at West Texas Food Bank with country singers Radney Foster and Kyle Hutton headlining. Along with the music, the concert comes with a message. The event is part of the A Place to Stay Tour which highlights the need for safe homes for children in the Permian Basin.
“A Place to Stay is an event designed to educate communities about the opportunity that’s right in front of them to help their children,” Clay Corn, executive director of the Real Life Real Music Foundation, said in a press release ...
• Read the rest of this MRT report ...
Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook
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.
Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 27, 2019
THE SANCTUARY CHURCH, FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - In 2011, the Rev. Dwayne Black was called to The Sanctuary Church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with one mandate: Turn the church around with its aging and dwindling membership on its eight-acre waterfront property or close its doors.
“The church was either going to be the biggest albatross or the biggest blessing,” Black said ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
THE SANCTUARY CHURCH, FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - In 2011, the Rev. Dwayne Black was called to The Sanctuary Church in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, with one mandate: Turn the church around with its aging and dwindling membership on its eight-acre waterfront property or close its doors.
“The church was either going to be the biggest albatross or the biggest blessing,” Black said ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
Saturday, January 26, 2019
In the News ... "San Angelo Faith Briefs"
• Here's what's going on at church near you
By Matthew McDaniel, Reporter
• San Angelo Standard Times
SAN ANGELO, TEXAS - From the Standard-Times, news of special events and programs from Concho Valley houses of faith ...
• Read the rest of this SAST report
In the News ... "Odessa Church News"
• Today and in the days ahead, in Odessa-area houses of worship
Staff Report
• Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - Coming events include worship services, classes, Bible studies, community outreach, fundraisers, mission opportunities and more ...
• Read the rest of this OA report ...
In the News ... "Lubbock Faith Briefs"
 |
| Courtesy Photo |
By Erica Pauda, Reporter
• Lubbock Avalanche-Journal
LUBBOCK, TEXAS - From the Avalanche-Journal, news of regular services, and special events and programs at houses of faith in Lubbock and across the South Plains ...
• Read the rest of this LAJ report ...
• More from the LAJ's "South Plains Faith Calendar" ...
In the News ... "New nonprofit to host community event"
 |
| OA Photo by Jacob Ford |
By Royal McGregor, Reporter
• Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - Nearly 20 years ago, Roy Perkins exited the life as an Odessa gang member after he survived a drive-by shooting.
The 38-year-old had a bullet enter his thigh and ricocheted five times through his body.
Perkins’ mission is to assist people in similar situations and he has partnered with the Salvation Army to amplify that message across Odessa for the new nonprofit organization God’s Way ...
• Read the rest of this OA report ...
Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook
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.
Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 26, 2019
GIVING TUESDAY - At 7:30 a.m. on Nov. 29, the phones at First United Presbyterian Church in Tarentum, Pennsylvania, were ringing. Callers wanted to know if the church had met the match for Giving Tuesday — and indeed, they had, and then some, said the Rev. Philip Beck, pastor of First United ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
GIVING TUESDAY - At 7:30 a.m. on Nov. 29, the phones at First United Presbyterian Church in Tarentum, Pennsylvania, were ringing. Callers wanted to know if the church had met the match for Giving Tuesday — and indeed, they had, and then some, said the Rev. Philip Beck, pastor of First United ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
Friday, January 25, 2019
In the News ... "Houses of Faith: St. Paul Presbyterian's congregational journey began at Ben Ficklin"
Editor's Note: The Standard-Times will spotlight a different San Angelo house of faith each week during 2019.
• Contemporary design of current church home turned heads when in 1967
By Matthew McDaniel, Reporter
• San Angelo Standard Times
SAN ANGELO, TEXAS - While the congregation of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, 11 N. Park St., can say definitively it was established during an organizational meeting held on Jan. 19, 1896, the group actually traces its “pre-history” roots back to a meeting in the home of Mr. R.B. Sanderson of Ben Ficklin in 1881 ...
• Read the rest of this SAST report
 |
| SAST Photo by Arthur Spragg |
By Matthew McDaniel, Reporter
• San Angelo Standard Times
SAN ANGELO, TEXAS - While the congregation of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church, 11 N. Park St., can say definitively it was established during an organizational meeting held on Jan. 19, 1896, the group actually traces its “pre-history” roots back to a meeting in the home of Mr. R.B. Sanderson of Ben Ficklin in 1881 ...
• Read the rest of this SAST report
From @FWMission ...Friday Story: “Monthly Recap — December 2018”
Friday Story: “Monthly Recap — December 2018”
Welcome to the Board; Hello, New York City; Instagram Pic of the Month; Houston Holiday Breakfast; Interview with Convene; more ...
• Read the rest of this story ...
In the News ... "Helping Hands Initiative: Red Cross"
 |
| KOSA Photo |
By Samantha Medney, Reporter
• KOSA-TV
MIDLAND/ODESSA, TEXAS - Stacy Pickett is one of three employees with the American Red Cross serving the Permian Basin. She says they have to cover 23 counties with only 30 volunteers.
"We really need volunteers to help carry out the mission, especially in outlying counties where if something should happen, it's going to take 2, 3, maybe 4 hours for us here to get to you, so the more people we have volunteering throughout the Permian Basin, the better equip the community is to respond to a disaster," said Pickett...
• Read/watch the rest of this KOSA report
Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook
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.
 |
| Photo by Jennifer Zamarelli |
Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 25, 2019
GUATEMALAN NEIGHBORS - Why would families leave Guatemala to work in a meat-packing plant in Ohio?
Members of First Presbyterian Church in Salem, Ohio, began asking that question as they met Guatemalan neighbors participating in games and other activities that the church sponsored on Wednesday evenings. The Rev. Meta Cramer was pleased that Guatemalan families, who make up about 8 percent of Salem’s population of 12,000, were attending FPC-Salem’s “Denise’s Big Backyard” summer program. The program is named for Denise Herron Weingart, a church elder who helped organize the event, which includes meals and Christian education ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
GUATEMALAN NEIGHBORS - Why would families leave Guatemala to work in a meat-packing plant in Ohio?
Members of First Presbyterian Church in Salem, Ohio, began asking that question as they met Guatemalan neighbors participating in games and other activities that the church sponsored on Wednesday evenings. The Rev. Meta Cramer was pleased that Guatemalan families, who make up about 8 percent of Salem’s population of 12,000, were attending FPC-Salem’s “Denise’s Big Backyard” summer program. The program is named for Denise Herron Weingart, a church elder who helped organize the event, which includes meals and Christian education ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
Thursday, January 24, 2019
In the News ... Sul Ross State University offering dinner to federal government employees
 |
Photo by Paul Slocumb |
Staff Report
• KOSA-TV
ALPINE, TEXAS - Sul Ross State University is looking to help federal government employees who are being affected by the shutdown.
A complimentary dinner will be offered to those employees and their families on Tuesday, January 29 from 5-8 p.m. at the Morgan University Dining Center Hall on the university's main campus ...
• read the rest of this KOSA report
In the News ... "Winter clothes drive for the homeless"
• Tuesday at Jesus House of Odessa
Staff Report
• Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - TNSA Permian Basin Chapter and Jesus House will be collecting winter items for the homeless population from 9:45 a.m. to noon Tuesday at Jesus House of Odessa, 1335 E. Sixth St.
Items in need are toiletries, coats/jackets, thermals, beanies, gloves, socks, shoes, Chapstick, blankets, tissues, and other winter items.
Hot cocoa will be served.
The event is free and open to the public.
Staff Report
• Odessa American
Items in need are toiletries, coats/jackets, thermals, beanies, gloves, socks, shoes, Chapstick, blankets, tissues, and other winter items.
Hot cocoa will be served.
The event is free and open to the public.
In the News ... "Crisis Center of West Texas picks new executive director"
 |
| OA Photo by Mark Rogers |
By Ruth Campbell, Reporter
• Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - Having worked in nonprofits and with people in crisis for much of her career, Crisis Center of West Texas Executive Director Lorie Dunnam feels ready to take on her new position ...
• Read the rest of this OA report ...
In the News ... "Houses of Faith: Hard work part of St. Joesph's parish history"
Editor's Note: The Standard-Times will spotlight a different San Angelo house of faith each week during 2019.
• Parish, dedicated to patron saint of workers, aimed to serve Spanish-speaking “Santa Fe” neighborhood
By Matthew McDaniel, Reporter
• San Angelo Standard Times
SAN ANGELO, TEXAS - Since 1936, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 301 W. 17th St., has been serving the community in North San Angelo.
According to information from the Standard-Times archives, the church was established as St. José, a mission parish of Sacred Heart Cathedral, through initial funding provided chiefly by a Boston philanthropist named Dr. John Joseph Sullivan ...
• Read the rest of this SAST report
 |
| SAST Photo by Arthur Spragg |
By Matthew McDaniel, Reporter
• San Angelo Standard Times
SAN ANGELO, TEXAS - Since 1936, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 301 W. 17th St., has been serving the community in North San Angelo.
According to information from the Standard-Times archives, the church was established as St. José, a mission parish of Sacred Heart Cathedral, through initial funding provided chiefly by a Boston philanthropist named Dr. John Joseph Sullivan ...
• Read the rest of this SAST report
Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook
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.
Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 24, 2019
REGARDING RULING ELDERS: A MONTHLY SERIES - The story of the feeding of the 5,000 in Mark 6 starts with the disciples coming to Jesus and asking him to send the people away to buy food for themselves. Jesus responds to this well-meaning advice by saying, “You give them something to eat” (Mark 6:37). The disciples look at the crowd and then look at what they have to offer, and their response to Jesus is basically, “It’s not enough!”
This same scene also plays itself out in the church repeatedly ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
This same scene also plays itself out in the church repeatedly ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
Wednesday, January 23, 2019
In the News ... "Pull Up Party"
• Collecting winter items for the homeless
Staff Report
• Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - TNSA Permian Basin Chapter, Kingdom Muzic, GODS+Way and Salvation Army have scheduled a Pull Up Party and collection of winter items for the homeless from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday at the Salvation Army, 810 E. 11th St.
Items in need are toiletries, coats/jackets, thermals, beanies, gloves, socks, shoes, Chapstick, blankets, tissues, and other winter items.
Hot cocoa will be served.
The event is free and open to the public.
In the News ... "Sources of hope viewed"
 |
| AP File Photo |
By Bob Campbell, Reporter
• Odessa American
ODESSA, TEXAS - Considered along with love and faith to be one of the essential Christian virtues, hope can be elusive in contemporary society, ministers say.
But the Revs. Janie Garms, Gian Carlo Villatoro, Kathryn Almendarez and Darren Willis say it’s attainable even in the worst of times ...
• Read the rest of this OA report ...
Invitation to Prayer from Faces of Children ... TODAY
Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Their mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, they seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).
Invitation to Prayer ... TODAY
Hi Friends,
If you're in Midland this week, we'll be meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 23 - TODAY - for prayer. We meet in the prayer closet at First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Please join us in lifting up the needs of vulnerable children in our community and around the world!
Blessings,
Carrie
Dear Intercessors,
If, like me, your kids are home from school or you don't have work, it's easy to simply think of today as an extra Saturday. A day off. A good day to binge-watch Netflix and perhaps toss up some inspirational MLK quote on social media and go on about the day.
But if you reduce King's writings to simple Instagram-square soundbites, it's easy to internalize them as an encouraging pat on the back. His words become tame and harmless and even a little benign.
And that's not what they were at all.
So for the last few years, I've tried to make a practice of re-reading King's Letter from a Birmingham Jail on his birthday. I first encountered the letter in a college civil rights class, and I can still remember where I was sitting and the way I held my breath as I took it all in. I still remember the feeling of deep conviction settling in my stomach as I considered that when it came to the headlines of my day, in many cases I was closer to being one of the "white moderates" King described than a defender of justice.
 |
| Courtesy Photo |
I particularly value his call to the church, as his letter was directed to clergy. In one section Dr. King says:
"In deep disappointment I have wept over the laxity of the church. But be assured that my tears have been tears of love. There can be no deep disappointment where there is not deep love. Yes, I love the church. How could I do otherwise? I am in the rather unique position of being the son, the grandson and the great grandson of preachers. Yes, I see the church as the body of Christ. But, oh! How we have blemished and scarred that body through social neglect and through fear of being nonconformists.
There was a time when the church was very powerful--in the time when the early Christians rejoiced at being deemed worthy to suffer for what they believed. In those days the church was not merely a thermometer that recorded the ideas and principles of popular opinion; it was a thermostat that transformed the mores of society. Whenever the early Christians entered a town, the people in power became disturbed and immediately sought to convict the Christians for being "disturbers of the peace" and "outside agitators."' But the Christians pressed on, in the conviction that they were "a colony of heaven," called to obey God rather than man. Small in number, they were big in commitment. They were too God-intoxicated to be "astronomically intimidated." By their effort and example they brought an end to such ancient evils as infanticide and gladiatorial contests. Things are different now. So often the contemporary church is a weak, ineffectual voice with an uncertain sound. So often it is an archdefender of the status quo. Far from being disturbed by the presence of the church, the power structure of the average community is consoled by the church's silent--and often even vocal--sanction of things as they are.
But the judgment of God is upon the church as never before. If today's church does not recapture the sacrificial spirit of the early church, it will lose its authenticity, forfeit the loyalty of millions, and be dismissed as an irrelevant social club with no meaning for the twentieth century. Every day I meet young people whose disappointment with the church has turned into outright disgust."
So today, if you admire and respect Dr. King and find his words inspirational, I pray you'll also allow yourself to be challenged by him. And I pray we'll let his words guide us in our prayers for children in our communities and around the world... for as Dr. King says, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly."
Whatever affects one child directly, affects all of us indirectly.
As the church, let us recognize injustice and not turn away. May our prayers be a first step in the fight to help the church reclaim its power and authority in the culture, not as the "archdefender of the status quo," but as a beacon of light and hope for those suffering and denied justice today. And as we pray, may we allow God to work on our hearts and move us to love and to action.
Blessings,
Carrie
Carrie J. McKean
Faces of Children Director
First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas
(432) 684-7821 x153
Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook
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.
Today in the Mission Yearbook: January 23, 2019
PRINCETON SEMINARY - Work on the Princeton Seminary and Slavery report began in the spring of 2016.
The Rev. Dr. M. Craig Barnes was in his third year as president — and wanted to make more progress in seminary conversations on race.
“Some thought race was an optional concern, for people of color,” Barnes said. “Others didn’t want the conversations to be too binary” — expressing concern for Latino and Asian-American students.
With racial tension rising in the country, Barnes felt it was critical for Princeton Seminary, a residential campus where 40 percent of its 450 students are nonwhite, to deal with its story of race ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
PRINCETON SEMINARY - Work on the Princeton Seminary and Slavery report began in the spring of 2016.
The Rev. Dr. M. Craig Barnes was in his third year as president — and wanted to make more progress in seminary conversations on race.
“Some thought race was an optional concern, for people of color,” Barnes said. “Others didn’t want the conversations to be too binary” — expressing concern for Latino and Asian-American students.
With racial tension rising in the country, Barnes felt it was critical for Princeton Seminary, a residential campus where 40 percent of its 450 students are nonwhite, to deal with its story of race ...
• CLICK HERE to read more.
Tuesday, January 22, 2019
In the News ... “'Empty Bowls' is this Friday!!"
By Michael Richardson, Instructor of Art
• Midland College
MIDLAND/ODESSA, TEXAS - Empty Bowls is this Friday, January 25, 7-9 p.m. at the West Texas Food Bank in Odessa.
• Midland College
MIDLAND/ODESSA, TEXAS - Empty Bowls is this Friday, January 25, 7-9 p.m. at the West Texas Food Bank in Odessa.
Invitation to Prayer from Faces of Children ... Tomorrow
Faces of Children is an ecumenical prayer ministry under the auspices of First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Their mission is to initiate ministries of prayer for children in churches, communities, and neighborhoods. In doing so, they seek to provide an opportunity for people of God to join together, learn about children and their needs throughout the world, and celebrate Christ's love (especially as it relates to children).
Invitation to Prayer ... Tomorrow
Hi Friends,
If you're in Midland this week, we'll be meeting at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 23 for prayer. We meet in the prayer closet at First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas. Please join us in lifting up the needs of vulnerable children in our community and around the world!
Blessings,
Carrie
Dear Intercessors,
If, like me, your kids are home from school or you don't have work, it's easy to simply think of today as an extra Saturday. A day off. A good day to binge-watch Netflix and perhaps toss up some inspirational MLK quote on social media and go on about the day.
But if you reduce King's writings to simple Instagram-square soundbites, it's easy to internalize them as an encouraging pat on the back. His words become tame and harmless and even a little benign.
And that's not what they were at all.
So for the last few years, I've tried to make a practice of re-reading King's Letter from a Birmingham Jail on his birthday. I first encountered the letter in a college civil rights class, and I can still remember where I was sitting and the way I held my breath as I took it all in. I still remember the feeling of deep conviction settling in my stomach as I considered that when it came to the headlines of my day, in many cases I was closer to being one of the "white moderates" King described than a defender of justice.
|
| Courtesy Photo |
I particularly value his call to the church, as his letter was directed to clergy. In one section Dr. King says:
"In deep disappointment I have wept over the laxity of the church. But be assured that my tears have been tears of love. There can be no deep disappointment where there is not deep love. Yes, I love the church. How could I do otherwise? I am in the rather unique position of being the son, the grandson and the great grandson of preachers. Yes, I see the church as the body of Christ. But, oh! How we have blemished and scarred that body through social neglect and through fear of being nonconformists.
There was a time when the church was very powerful--in the time when the early Christians rejoiced at being deemed worthy to suffer for what they believed. In those days the church was not merely a thermometer that recorded the ideas and principles of popular opinion; it was a thermostat that transformed the mores of society. Whenever the early Christians entered a town, the people in power became disturbed and immediately sought to convict the Christians for being "disturbers of the peace" and "outside agitators."' But the Christians pressed on, in the conviction that they were "a colony of heaven," called to obey God rather than man. Small in number, they were big in commitment. They were too God-intoxicated to be "astronomically intimidated." By their effort and example they brought an end to such ancient evils as infanticide and gladiatorial contests. Things are different now. So often the contemporary church is a weak, ineffectual voice with an uncertain sound. So often it is an archdefender of the status quo. Far from being disturbed by the presence of the church, the power structure of the average community is consoled by the church's silent--and often even vocal--sanction of things as they are.
But the judgment of God is upon the church as never before. If today's church does not recapture the sacrificial spirit of the early church, it will lose its authenticity, forfeit the loyalty of millions, and be dismissed as an irrelevant social club with no meaning for the twentieth century. Every day I meet young people whose disappointment with the church has turned into outright disgust."
So today, if you admire and respect Dr. King and find his words inspirational, I pray you'll also allow yourself to be challenged by him. And I pray we'll let his words guide us in our prayers for children in our communities and around the world... for as Dr. King says, "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly."
Whatever affects one child directly, affects all of us indirectly.
As the church, let us recognize injustice and not turn away. May our prayers be a first step in the fight to help the church reclaim its power and authority in the culture, not as the "archdefender of the status quo," but as a beacon of light and hope for those suffering and denied justice today. And as we pray, may we allow God to work on our hearts and move us to love and to action.
Blessings,
Carrie
Carrie J. McKean
Faces of Children Director
First Presbyterian Church of Midland, Texas
(432) 684-7821 x153
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