Update for September 5, 2010

This Sunday is BIG BRUNCH SUNDAY! Come hungry!


Announcements

Join us for a cookout and the Rice-Baylor game on Saturday, September 25! The cookout is at David and Charis Smith's house. We'll walk to the game at Rice Stadium from there. Dinner is at 5, and the game is at 7. Wear your Innerloopchurch shirt, if you have one; Rice is hosting Baptist churches in the area, and we're even going to get our name on the scoreboard, so represent! RSVP here.

Join us for a Potluck Lunch and State of the Church Address on October 3 after the 11:00 service.


Prayer Requests and Praises

Steve Wells is back from China safe and sound

Rachel Rentz's boyfriend's friend as he travels back to his army base in Georgia

Update for August 22, 2010

College students (particularly freshmen), read this! It's an excellent blog entry written by Joey Brinkley, a former College Community intern. It gives AWESOME advice that you don't want to miss!

You have likely heard some excitement around the church about Sole Chain and breaking Guinness world records? Well, folks, we did it! We collected over 10,000 pairs of brand new shoes to donate to orphans around the world. This was the 10th year of Shoes for Orphan Soles, and South Main is currently the world record holder for longest chain of shoes (the exact number is 20,110 shoes in the chain). Check out this aerial shot of the completed product, which 150 South Mainers and visitors helped assemble on Saturday, August 21st!
2wcl07s.jpg

Announcements

Sanctuary Choir has kicked off for the school year. If you'd like to join us, we meet every Wednesday from 7:30-9:00. Right now, we're meeting in the sanctuary, but once construction is completed behind the sanctuary we'll be in the choir suite (if you're in the sanctuary and go out the piano side door, just keep going straight until you find a set of stairs going up; that's where the choir suite is located). No singing experience necessary!

Praying together is important. In addition to praying individually, praying together as a church family can be a powerful experience. To help us experience and remember this, the SMBC Discipleship Committee has put together a Monthly Prayer Calendar, which you can find here: http://www.smbc.org/smbcprayers.

There will be a South Main Garden interest meeting on September 2 from 6:00-7:30. To join, contact Erin Conaway at econaway@smbc.org.

There will only be an 11:00 worship service on September 5th.

Save the date: the next Discovery Weekend is November 19-20. What makes you uniquely you? How can you use your gifts, talents, and personality to serve the God who created you in love? Think you already know? What you learn this weekend may surprise you! Consider learning more about your spiritual gifts and how you can use them to further God's kingdom by attending Discovery Weekend. The session on the 19th will be from 6:30pm-9:30pm, and the session on the 20th will be from 8:45am-3:00pm. There is no cost for materials, Friday dinner, or Saturday lunch.


Praises and Prayer Requests

Safe travel and wonderful start of school year

Jennifer's sister, Lee, has had her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS) confirmed. Pray for the management of her symptoms as she begins her second year at the University of North Texas.

Update for August 8, 2010

If you are available tomorrow between 9am and 12pm, please come to the Welcome Center and pack shoes for Shoes for Orphan Souls.

We still need donations to reach our goal of 10,000 pairs, so please bring a pair of new shoes or write a check with "Shoes for Orphan Souls" on the memo line if you are able.


Announcements

South Main's 2010 Bach to Broadway cast (including many of your fellow college students!) presents South Pacific THIS WEEK! Show dates are August 12-14 at 7:30pm and August 15 at 2:00pm. Tickets are available at the door.

Ever wanted to be a part of the Guinness Book of World Records? Your chance is coming on Saturday, August 21 from 9:00am to 2:00pm (plus free dumplings for lunch!). Volunteer to come to the church to create the world's longest chain of shoes, all of which will be donated to orphaned and at-risk children through the Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls program by signing up here. We also need donations of shoes or money to make sure we actually have enough shoes to break the record, so please give if you are able. South Main is currently celebrating it's 10th year of participating in this wonderful project, which has provided over 1.8 million shoes for orphans as far away as Guatemala, Kenya, and Peru. Follow this exciting event on Facebook and Twitter.

There will be no supper or Bible study in the Fellowship Hall until August 25.


Prayer Requests and Praises

Praise: Robyn's father has been released from the hospital after being diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis

Please continue to pray for Sarrean's mother, who is searching for a job.

Robyn's back treatment is relieving her chronic back pain.

Update for August 1, 2010

Do you want to be on TV? Well look no further! We need 15 to 25 people to support Sole Chain: Shoes for Orphan Soles, which will be featured on KHOU's Great Day Houston's Plug Program! The live taping will take place at the KHOU studio on Monday, August 9 from 8-10am. Sign up ASAP at solechain@smbc.org or contact Jennifer Gribble at jgribble@smbc.org. Only four people have signed up so far, so we really need your help! If you have one, wear your Inner Loop Church shirt to the plug.


Announcements

South Main's 2010 Bach to Broadway cast (including many of your fellow college students!) presents South Pacific on August 12-14 at 7:30pm and August 15 at 2:00pm. Tickets are available at smbc.org. Get yours now -- they're going to be going quick!

Ever wanted to be a part of the Guinness Book of World Records? Your chance is coming on Saturday, August 21 from 9:00am to 2:00pm (plus free dumplings for lunch!). Volunteer to come to the church to create the world's longest chain of shoes, all of which will be donated to orphaned and at-risk children through the Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls program by signing up here. We also need donations of shoes or money to make sure we actually have enough shoes to break the record, so please give if you are able. South Main is currently celebrating it's 10th year of participating in this wonderful project, which has provided over 1.8 million shoes for orphans as far away as Guatemala, Kenya, and Peru. Follow this exciting event on Facebook and Twitter.

There will be no supper or Bible study in the Fellowship Hall until August 25.


Prayer Requests and Praises

Praise: Charles Williams was baptized on Sunday!

Please continue to pray for Sarrean's mother, who is searching for a job.

Update for July 25, 2010

I have two homework assignments for you! That's right: homework in July!

1. Our one-time intern, Joey Brinkley, taught a fantastic lesson one year ago that gives wonderful advice to college students--particularly freshmen. Read it here. Seriously. It's funny, and you'll get a lot out of it. Besides, there might even be a quiz on Sunday. ;-)

2. Follow the SMBC College Community on Facebook, Twitter, and our blog. You can keep up with prayer requests, events, and photos -- but, more importantly, we can keep up with you! We love you and want to know what's going on in your lives, so please connect with us so that we can stay connected with you, too.


Announcements

South Main's 2010 Bach to Broadway cast presents South Pacific on August 12-14 at 7:30pm and August 15 at 2:00pm. Tickets are available at smbc.org.

Ever wanted to be a part of the Guinness Book of World Records? Your chance is coming on Saturday, August 21 from 9:00am to 2:00pm (plus free dumplings for lunch!). Volunteer to come to the church to create the world's longest chain of shoes, all of which will be donated to orphaned and at-risk children through the Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls program by signing up here. South Main is currently celebrating it's 10th year of participating in this wonderful project, which has provided over 1.8 million shoes for orphans as far away as Guatemala, Kenya, and Peru. Also, if you have any ideas of what we should spell out with the shoe chain in the parking lot, send it to solechain@smbc.org by TOMORROW July 29. Follow this exciting event on Facebook and Twitter.

If you're looking for another opportunity to participate in a thought-provoking Bible study, head to the Fellowship Hall every Wednesday at 6:30 to hear Steve give a great lesson. Dinner is served between 5:00 and 6:00pm.


Prayer Requests and Praises

This past Sunday was the last in Houston for both Virginia and Adeola. Good luck at Vanderbilt and in Mississippi, ladies! Know that we love you, are praying for you, and hope to see you again! Please keep in touch!

Pray for Rachel's friend Andy; he is going through a difficult time and is under much stress.

Robyn's father has a clot in his left thigh and is in the hospital for treatment. Pray for a good outcome.

Update for July 18, 2010

Thanks to everyone who came to the college class party last Thursday! Everyone had a great time, and the food was amazing!


Announcements

Donate blood during the Blood Drive in the mobile unit in the Colquitt St parking lot this Sunday, June 25, from 8am-1pm.

Plan to attend the Church Business Meeting in the Fellowship Hall following the 11:00 service this week. Lunch will be served for $7.

South Main's 2010 Bach to Broadway cast presents South Pacific on August 12-14 at 7:30pm and August 15 at 2:00pm. Tickets are available at smbc.org.

Ever wanted to be a part of the Guinness Book of World Records? Your chance is coming on Saturday, August 21 from 9:00am to 2:00pm (plus free dumplings for lunch!). Volunteer to come to the church to create the world's longest chain of shoes, all of which will be donated to orphaned and at-risk children through the Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls program by signing up here. South Main is currently celebrating it's 10th year of participating in this wonderful project, which has provided over 1.8 million shoes for orphans as far away as Guatemala, Kenya, and Peru. Also, if you have any ideas of what we should spell out with the shoe chain in the parking lot, send it to solechain@smbc.org by July 29. Follow this exciting event on Facebook and Twitter.

If you're looking for another opportunity to participate in a thought-provoking Bible study, head to the Fellowship Hall every Wednesday at 6:30 to hear Steve give a great lesson. Dinner is served as early as 5:00pm.


Prayer Requests and Praises

Jim was diagnosed last week with shingles in his throat. Please keep him in your prayers.

Pray for safe travels for those traveling performing mission work in Peru, including many of our freshmen.

Update for July 11, 2010

Tomorrow's college class party at the Barkley house is going to be SO AWESOME! Please come at 7pm -- bring a bathing suit if you want to hop in the pool, but bringing your appetite is mandatory! :-)


Announcements

In celebration of the season and, even more excitingly, of the new freshmen in our midst, we're having a COLLEGE CLASS PARTY at the Barkley house tomorrow at 7:00pm! Woo! We'll feed you, but please RSVP (by responding to this email or contacting a member of the College Class leadership) so we know how much to serve. Also, bring your bathing suit and towel if you feel like hopping in the pool! The Barkleys live at 5602 Wigton, Houston 770096, and their number is (713) 728-2768.

The South Main Garden, located between the Westmoreland Chapel and the Chafin Building, is in need of some trimming, so if you would like to take home some fresh herbs or veggies, please feel free.

South Main's 2010 Bach to Broadway cast presents South Pacific on August 12-14 at 7:30pm and August 15 at 2:00pm. Tickets are available at smbc.org.

Ever wanted to be a part of the Guinness Book of World Records? Your chance is coming on Saturday, August 21 from 9:00am to 2:00pm (plus free dumplings for lunch!). Come to the church to create the world's longest chain of shoes, all of which will be donated to orphaned and at-risk children through the Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls program. South Main is currently celebrating it's 10th year of participating in this wonderful project.

If you're looking for another opportunity to participate in a thought-provoking Bible study, head to the Fellowship Hall every Wednesday at 6:30 to hear Steve give a great lesson. Dinner is served as early as 5:00pm. I've often heard, "Steve gives fantastic sermons, but he is astoundingly good at leading Bible study." I hope you'll join us!


Prayer Requests and Praises

Sarrean's cousin's son is recovering from a dog attack.

Duffy's sister is in Kenya on a mission trip.

Christopher has esophagus cancer.

Safe travels for those traveling to Peru

Rachel's family is traveling.

Update for July 4, 2010

Hey guys and gals! Just in case the heat and tropical storminess didn't tip you off, it's summer! Hope you're all having a wonderful time!


Announcements

In celebration of the season and, even more excitingly, of the new freshmen in our midst (yes, former high school seniors, it's that time! Congrats on your accomplishments and welcome to the College Class!), we're going to have a COLLEGE CLASS PARTY at the Barkley house on Thursday, July 15th at 7:00pm! Woo! We'll feed you, but please RSVP (by responding to this email, contacting a member of the College Class leadership, or talking to us in Sunday School) by July 12th so we know how much to serve.

The South Main Garden, located between the Westmoreland Chapel and the Chafin Building, is in need of some trimming, so if you would like to take home some fresh herbs or beans, please feel free.

South Main's 2010 Bach to Broadway cast presents South Pacific on August 12-14 at 7:30pm and August 15 at 2:00pm. Tickets are available at smbc.org.

Ever wanted to be a part of the Guinness Book of World Records? Your chance is coming on Saturday, August 21 from 9:00am to 2:00pm. Come to the church to create the world's longest chain of shoes, all of which will be donated to orphaned and at-risk children through the Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls program. South Main is currently celebrating it's 10th year of participating in this wonderful project.

If you're looking for another opportunity to participate in a thought-provoking Bible study, head to the Fellowship Hall every Wednesday at 6:30 to hear Steve give a great lesson. Dinner is served as early as 5:00pm. I've often heard, "Steve gives fantastic sermons, but he is astoundingly good at leading Bible study." I hope you'll join us!


Prayer Requests and Praises

Jennifer's sister, Lee, has been diagnosed with MS; she went to see a specialist this week.

Sarrean's grandmother is having troubles with her medication, and her mother is looking for a job. Please keep them in your prayers.

Adeola's mom is experiencing severe back pain.

Scott is in the officer corps of the Coast Guard!

Safe travel and vacations during the summer.

Update for May 31, 2010

The good news about the arrival of hurricane season is that summer is here, too! Enjoy some time off from classes, and get lots of rest!

Announcements:

KidQuest is June 14-18, and we need your help to make it succeed! We will be sharing the Gospel with 180 children from diverse backgrounds and homes across Houston. We have iplanned a safe environment to minister to children, youth, and adults as they experience Christ’s love firsthand through the words and actions of our congregation members. We are mindful that in order for KidQuest to successfully meet our ministry goals, we need our entire church family to give of their gifts and resources. To that end, this is the help we need from you:

We need lunch monitors to help kids open juice boxes and take lids off of pudding cups. This short but crucial commitment allows teachers, leaders, and youth who work all day long take a much needed break to eat and fellowship with other adults or teens as they refuel both physically and spiritually over Bible study and lunch. Please show up between 11:45 and 1:20 -- even one day helps! Lunch will take place in the gym on Monday and in the Fellowship Hall from Tuesday through Friday.

We need folks to bring in candy, nuts, and chips to the preschool hall in the Loessner building on Sunday, June 13 to help sustain the adults and youth as they take short breaks to get a bite and catch a minute of quiet or share how they see God throughout the week.

If you want to serve as a crew leader or in any of these other capacities, contact Dolores Rader or Mel Musgrove ASAP.


SMBC choirs will sing the National Anthem at the Astros game on Tuesday, June 22 at 7:05pm. Go to smbc.org to purchase $15 tickets in the big block of South Main seats!

Manna, South Main's mission to the homeless right on our doorstep, takes place at 8:00am every Sunday morning. If you would like to volunteer to set up and/or help lead the Manna worship service, please contact Erin Conaway.

The Discipleship Committee is looking for volunteers to pray for worship services. If you are interested, please contact Ruth Campos or Lu Alcazar.


Prayer Requests and Praises:

Sarah Villasenor has a (or maybe two!) summer job(s)!

Sarrean White's grandmother is having medication issues.

Pray for the success of KidQuest, and that it touches many children's and family's lives.

Update for May 9, 2010

It was great seeing several of you back in Houston this week. We're praying for you as you take your finals and embark on summer jobs and travels!

Announcements:

There will be a blood drive in the Fellowship Hall this Sunday the 16th from 8:00am-1:00pm.

Manna, South Main's mission to the homeless right on our doorstep, takes place at 8:00am every Sunday morning. If you would like to volunteer to set up and/or help lead the Manna worship service, please contact Erin Conaway.

Prayer Requests and Praises:

Please pray for the flood victims in Nashville, TN.

Virginia's father, a landman, was just laid off.

Keep each other in your thoughts and prayers as you wrap up the school year.

Marie's neighbor has been diagnosed with breast cancer.

Joey has found a place to live in Iowa.

Emily and Kyle are both moving within a day or two of each other --pray for their safe move and their family's sanity!

Update for April 25, 2010

Thanks to John Cate for coming out for Missions Day! Together, the College Community, Young Adults, and various other members of the church--as well as some visitors!--created a massive 6'x70' community garden behind the Education Building. Next time you're at Sunday School, check out the garden view from our windows. I will be posting pictures on Facebook this weekend.

Announcements:

The Youth are presenting Beauty and the Beast TODAY, April 30 at 7:30pm and TOMORROW, May 1 at 2:00pm. Student tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door. The show is going to be wonderful, and the youth have worked super hard, so be sure to come out and support them!

This Sunday, May 2, is your chance to audition for Bach to Broadway: South Pacific. Come to the choir suite after church on Sunday to sign up for an audition time (slots are from 12:15 to 5:00pm). NO PRIOR ACTING OR SINGING SKILL REQUIRED! I would recommend YouTubing some of the songs, though, if you're not familiar with the show. You'll feel better prepared. :-) Break a leg!

Singer and songwriter David Wilcox will be in concert at SMBC, May 7. The doors of the Youth Center will open at 7pm, and the concert starts at 8pm. Admission is $15 and can be purchased online at smbc.org; under 20 remain, so hop on it if you want to attend!

The deadline to sign up for the Mission Trip to Guatamala from July 2-6 is TODAY! The group will lead a Disciple Now Weekend, complete a local service project, and fellowship with students in transitional homes. The land cost ($915) includes meals, lodging, in-country transportation, insurance, interpreters, bottled water, and sightseeing. Airfare will be arranged separately.

Manna, South Main's mission to the homeless right on our doorstep, takes place at 8:00am every Sunday morning. If you would like to volunteer to set up and/or help lead the Manna worship service, please contact Erin Conaway.


Prayer Requests and Praises:

Scott Bock (Virginia's friend) is going into the Army or Coast Guard this week!

Robyn Watson's back procedure did not work; she is still in pain.

Praise: Bryan Brooks' tumors were benign!

CORRECTION: The mother of Rachel Rentz's friend Aleeza had a miscarriage. Please pray for her and her family.

Update for April 11, 2010

Oh boy, finals aren't far away! Good luck to all of you! We're praying for your well-restedness and clarity of mind while you take exams, give presentations, and write essays -- and that you have a little fun too! :D

Please email Marie or Jennifer if you are coming to Missions Day this Saturday morning! More details are below.

Also, please mark your calendars: College Tour will be April 29-30.

The Share Campaign kicked off this past Sunday. This campaign is designed to engage the members of South Main in reaching out to the people they know and meet to share their faith and church community. During this campaign, we will discuss what it means to open ourselves up for God to work through us in the lives of those around us. Each week, we'll be studying what it means to live, learn, listen, and share as a Christian in today's world. Check out the South Main blog for encouraging articles and stories about your fellow church-goers.


Announcements:

This Saturday (April 17) is Missions Day. Bagels will be served from 8am-8:30am, and then the college class will troop to the South Main Community Garden to set up beds and planters & plant some veggies until around noon. Bring your own supplies (trowel, gloves, knee pads, etc). Last year, we had NO college students attend Missions Day, so please come out this year if you're in town! I know it's early in the morning, but we'll be making a huge difference for our community with this project, which will provide food and nourishment to our neighbors. Again, please RSVP by emailing Marie or Jennifer if you are coming!

Bring your used clothes to the Youth Building any time before Saturday; the Youth are sorting clothes for a clothing drive as their Missions Day project.

There will be no 8:30 worship service on April 25.

Susan's Rally, which supports the fight against cancer and is organized by SMBC's own Bruce Roberson, will be held April 25 at noon. The starting line is the Momentum VW/Audi dealership at 2405 Richmond, and the finish line is at the Post Oak Grill. To register, visit www.susansrally.org.

There will be a church business meeting April 25 at 12:30 in the Fellowship Hall.

College Tour is coming to a town near (most of) you, April 29-30!

The Youth are presenting Beauty and the Beast Friday, April 30 at 7:30pm and Saturday, May 1 at 2:00pm. Student tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the church or at smbc.org.

David Wilcox Concert at SMBC, May 7

Manna, South Main's mission to the homeless right on our doorstep, takes place at 8:00am every Sunday morning. If you would like to volunteer to set up and/or help lead the Manna worship service, please contact Erin Conaway.

College Mission to Collique, Peru, May 22-29, 2010, organized by Tallowood Baptist Church. The cost is $1,500 per person. We will be ministering through worship, VBS, sports camps, construction, and painting. We'll also get to sight see in Lima. Contact Chuck Westbrook if you are interested in going.


Prayer Requests and Praises:

Jennifer Gribble's sister was recently diagnosed with MS. Please pray for her as they explore treatment options and look at how life will now be different.

Sean and Amy's wedding was beautiful. Pray they have a safe and restful -- and fun! -- honeymoon!

Bryan Brooks is having surgery tomorrow, Friday April 16th. He needs blood donations through MD Anderson, so please donate if possible.

Marie Parks' mother had successful heart ablation on Monday, so she's out of atrial fibrillation and back in rhythm!

The mother of Rachel Rentz's friend Aleeza had a miscarriage. Please pray for her and her family.

Virginia Busby has an apartment in Nashville!

John Cate has a job!

Claire Hein has an apartment, but is looking for a job.

Update for March 14, 2010

Happy Spring Break past, present, and future to all of you! There are a LOT of announcements and prayer requests this week; sorry I have missed the past few weeks!

Announcements:

Blood Drive in Activities Building March 21st from 8am to 1pm.

Learn about the spiritual gifts God has given you and how to apply them at Discovery Weekend, March 26-27. I have taken this course and, trust me, it's fanTAStic! The retreat is from 6:30-9:30 on the 26th and from 8:45-3:00 on the 27th. The retreat is NO COST. To register, contact Martha Dethrow by March 23.

The Youth Auction will be held on March 28 at noon in the gym. If you have a good or service to donate to the auction (such as hair cuts, gift cards, photography services, baked goods, tickets, etc), contact Angie Durand, Sally Reed, or Missy Wells. All proceeds will go to the youth mission trip fund.

Missions Day is April 17, 8:30am - noon. Let us know if you have any ideas of projects we could take on, but we'll be sure to have some great assignment for our class!

Prayer during Worship Service: The Discipleship Committee is looking for volunteers to pray during worship services. To sign up, please contact Ruth Campos or Lu Alcazar.

David Wilcox Concert at SMBC, May 7

Manna, South Main's mission to the homeless right on our doorstep, takes place at 8:00am every Sunday morning. If you would like to volunteer to set up and/or help lead the Manna worship service, please contact Erin Conaway.

College Mission to Collique, Peru, May 22-29, 2010, organized by Tallowood Baptist Church. The cost is $1,500 per person. We will be ministering through worship, VBS, sports camps, construction, and painting. We'll also get to sight see in Lima. Contact Chuck Westbrook if you are interested in going.

SMBC is participating in a Buckner mission trip to Guatemala July 2-6. The group will lead a Disciple Now Weekend, complete a service project, and fellowship with students in transitional homes. The land cost ($915) includes meals, lodging, in-country transportation, insurance, interpreters, bottled water, and sightseeing. Airfare ($500-$550) can be arranged by the Buckner on-site Travel Consultant. Contact Chelsea Wade with questions or if you're interested in going.


Prayer Requests and Praises:

Sarrean's cousin as she grieves for her husband

Elizabeth as she decides which nursing school to attend

Elizabeth will be living in Peru this summer; pray for her safety and quick assimilation

Church-wide mission trip in Eagle Pass this week

Safe travel during spring break

Praise: Bill arrived safely in Australia (for those of you who don't know, he has taken a 20-month position in Australia; the rest of his family still in Houston)


Here are some additional prayers and praises from the past few weeks:

Praise: Peter and Sara's church has a permanent pastor

Virginia got a scholarship to Vanderbilt and will be heading to Nashville in August

As of Feb 28, Jessica's dad (Emily & Kyle's uncle) is having coronary problems

As of Feb 28, Zach's uncle was at MD Anderson

Update for Feburary 21, 2010

It's even snowing in Texas!

Announcements:

Manna, South Main's mission to the homeless right on our doorstep, takes place at 8:00am every Sunday morning. If you would like to volunteer to set up and/or help lead the Manna worship service, please contact Erin Conaway.

The Youth Auction will be held on March 28 at noon in the gym.

Church-wide BBQ Dinner and Line Dancing will be held on March 6 at 6:00pm in the gym. Tickets are available here:

David Wilcox Concert at SMBC, May 7. Tickets will be available to the community on March 8, so to secure your seat early, contact us or check email announcements for a link.

College Mission to Collique, Peru, May 22-29, 2010, organized by Tallowood Baptist Church. The cost is $1,500 per person. We will be ministering through worship, VBS, sports camps, construction, and painting. We'll also get to sight see in Lima. Contact Chuck Westbrook if you are interested in going.


Prayer Requests and Praises:

Joey is taking a 2-day medical license exam next week; keep him in your thoughts, as this is a biggie!

Hooray for upcoming seniors' acceptance at schools (we heard Emily got into Alabama last week, but there are many more exciting announcements)!

Keep each other in your prayers during midterms.

Marie's grandmother with ALS has been having a pretty rough past couple of weeks.

Musical Mission Trip to China

Bill and Michele Cayard, missionaries in China who are also members of South Main, have requested we send a musical group from July 8-17, 2010. If you are interested and have the requisite time to help form a group, please speak to Thomas Coker. We hope to have some scholarships available for this trip.

January Bible Study: Dr. Todd Still Teaches from the Book of James

This coming Sunday is January Bible Study. The four-part lesson series will be led by Truett's Dr. Todd Still on the book of James. Sunday school will be held at 9:40 in regular classrooms, as usual.

Session 1: "Make Lemonade!" (James 1:2-8, 1:12-18) - 8:30, Sanctuary
Session 2: "Taming the Tongue" (James 3:1-18) - 11:00, Sanctuary
Session 3: "On Judging Books, Laying Plans, and Stockpiling Resources" (James 2:1-13, 4:13-5:6) - 1:45, Fellowship Hall
Session 4: "Pacifiers, Pink Ducks, and Other Things that Go Together" (James 2:14-26) - 2:45, Fellowship Hall.

Dr. Still serves as an Associate Professor of Christian Scriptures in the George W. Truett Theological Seminary of Baylor University. Dr. Still, who joined Truett's faculty in the fall of 2003, teachers courses in New Testament Studies and Greek. Before coming to Truett, he taught at Gardner-Webb University's School of Divinity in Boiling Springs, NC, where he occupied the Bob D. Shepherd Chair of New Testament Interpretation. Dr. Still's first academic appointment was at Dallas Baptist University in Dallas, TX, where he served from 1995-2000.

In addition to his acadmic work, Dr. Still is committed to and involved in local churches. A licensed and ordained Baptist minister, he has had the opportunity to preach and teach in many congregational and conference settings and has served in a variety of ministry capacities, including church custodian, music minister, youth minister, college minister, education minister, pastor, and interim pastor.

Dr. Still is married to Carolyn, his wife of some twenty years. They, along with their two sons (Samuel, age 14, and Andrew, age 10), live in Waco. Outside of work, Dr. Still enjoys gardening, golfing, watching Baylor Bear athletics, playing with his family's many pets, and traveling.

Update for January 17, 2010

Announcements:

• Manna, South Main's mission to the homeless right on our doorstep, takes place at 8:00am every Sunday morning. If you would like to volunteer to set up and/or help lead the Manna worship service, please contact Erin Conaway.
  
• This month, we're taking up a special missions offering that will be distributed among several organizations, including the CBF Global Missions Offering, Texas State Missions Offering, and several local endeavors. You can make your contribution at smbc.org or in the offering plate; just designate "missions." To give specifically to the Haitian relief efforts, please designate "Haiti."
  
• January Bible Study is January 31. Dr. Todd Still of Truett Seminary will be leading four sessions about James at 8:30am (Sanctuary), 11:00am (Sanctuary), 12:45 (Fellowship Hall), and 1:45 (Fellowship Hall).
• An Interest Meeting for the All-Church Mission Trip to Eagle Pass will be held February 3, 5:30-6:30 in the Parlor (behind the Sanctuary). There is a missions activity for anyone and everyone on this trip, so be sure to check it out!
  
• Join us in the Fellowship Hall on Feb 7th at 5:00pm for our annual Chili Bowl. The Super Bowl will be playing on the big projector screen, and crockpots full of steaming chili will abound!
• The Youth Auction will be held on March 28 at noon in the gym. If you have a good or service to donate to the auction (such as hair cuts, gift cards, photography services, baked goods, tickets, etc), contact Angie Durand, Sally Reed, or Missy Wells. All proceeds will go to the youth mission trip fund.
  
• College Mission to Collique, Peru, May 22-29, 2010, organized by Tallowood Baptist Church. The cost is $1,500 per person. We will be ministering through worship, VBS, sports camps, construction, and painting. We'll also get to sight see in Lima. Contact Chuck Westbrook if you are interested in going.

Prayer Requests and Praises:

• Bryan (former college community student) has had a recent medical scare. Please keep him in your prayers.
  
• Keep Jim's mom in your prayers as she continues to recover.
  

Update for January 17, 2010

I hope you enjoyed the little break Monday (for those of you who had the day off) and took the opportunity to give thanks for our nation's diversity and its earnest efforts -- past and present -- to end discrimination. We have a lot going on at the church, so be sure to check out the announcements and prayer requests.

Announcements:

• Manna, South Main's mission to the homeless right on our doorstep, takes place at 8:00am every Sunday morning. If you would like to volunteer to set up and/or help lead the Manna worship service, please contact Erin Conaway.
  
• You know you want to come to the quarterly business meeting this Sunday, Jan 24th in the Fellowship Hall at noon! Lunch will be served for $7. Seriously, though, it's good to know the ins and outs of the church and to be involved in our decision-making process. So come on down!
  
• This month, we're taking up a special missions offering that will be distributed among several organizations, including the CBF Global Missions Offering, Texas State Missions Offering, and several local endeavors. You can make your contribution at smbc.org or in the offering plate; just designate "missions."
  
• January Bible Study is January 31. Dr. Todd Still of Truett Seminary will be leading four sessions about James at 8:30am (Sanctuary), 11:00am (Sanctuary), 12:45 (Fellowship Hall), and 1:45 (Fellowship Hall).
  
• College Mission to Collique, Peru, May 22-29, 2010, organized by Tallowood Baptist Church. The cost is $1,500 per person. We will be ministering through worship, VBS, sports camps, construction, and painting. We'll also get to sight see in Lima. Contact Chuck Westbrook if you are interested in going.

Prayer Requests and Praises:

• Bryan (former college community student) has had a recent medical scare. Please keep him in your prayers.
  
• Virginia had an excellent visit at UTD! Looks like we have a winner, folks!
  
• Jennifer's 98-year-old grandmother, Iva Bell Enos, had successful partial hip surgery & already has been walking without assistance -- praise!
  
• Jim's mom has been transferred to a rehabilitation facility! Hooray!
  

Update for January 10, 2010

Hi everyone! I hope your semester is getting off to a great start!

Announcements:

• The ministry that we provided to the homeless at Peggy's Point has begun again, now with a new name: Manna. We will host a service on the north end of our campus at 8:00 a.m. each Sunday morning. If you would like to volunteer to set up and/or help lead the service, please contact Erin Conaway.
  
• Stewardship Sunday is January 17. If you would like to commit to give to the church this year, please fill out a card.
• There will be a Blood Drive in the Fellowship Hall this Sunday, January 17 from 8am-1pm.
  
• January Bible Study is January 31. Dr. Todd Still of Truett Seminary will be leading four sessions about James at 8:30am (Sanctuary), 11:00am (Sanctuary), 12:45 (Fellowship Hall), and 1:45 (Fellowship Hall).
  
• College Mission to Collique, Peru, May 22-29, 2010, organized by Tallowood Baptist Church. The cost is $1,500 per person. We will be ministering through worship, VBS, sports camps, construction, and painting. We'll also get to sight see in Lima. Contact Chuck.Westbrook@interfaceflor.com if you are interested in going.

Prayer Requests and Praises:

• Remember our homeless, who struggle even more than usual during the winter with cold weather.
  
• Praise: Molly got engaged after Christmas
  
• We pray that Duffy's job and home searches are successful!
  
• Please continue to pray for Anna Barkley's recovery
• The surgery Marie's mom had on the 12th was aborted; she's doing well & they'll try again next month
  

Being Good Stewards

"Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint." -Isaiah 40:31

Stewards are those who know God has blessed them in many ways.

The blessings of God include the gift of life itself. While life has its ups and downs, most of the time we are immensely grateful for the opportunity to be alive. There is so much in life to enjoy -- beautiful sunrises, good food, friendships, and the joy of human love. God gives us everything in life.

Best of all, God gives us the promise of love, God's presence, and the gift of forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ. We are truly blessed. As an old song says, "count your blessings before you sleep...."

Stewards do count their blessings. Stewards, as a result, want to give thanks to God in how they use life and by the gifts they share.

Prayer: "God, sometimes I become overwhelmed with so much to do, with never enough time to do it all. Lead me to a quiet place to sit with you to refresh my mind and body. Let me find hope and renewal with you. Then my weariness will fade away, and I will no longer feel faint as my spirit begins to soar in your presence."

Update for January 3, 2010

Hi everyone! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas and New Year, and that 2010 is treating you well so far!

Announcements:

• The ministry that we provided to the homeless at Peggy's Point has begun again, now with a new name: Manna. We will host a service on the north end of our campus at 8:00 a.m. each Sunday morning. If you would like to volunteer to set up and/or help lead the service, please contact Erin Conaway.
  
• If you would like to commit to give to the church this year, please fill out a card. Stewardship Sunday is January 18.
• January Bible Study is January 31. Dr. Todd Still of Truett Seminary will be leading four sessions about James at 8:30am (Sanctuary), 11:00am (Sanctuary), 12:45 (Fellowship Hall), and 1:45 (Fellowship Hall).
  
• College Mission to Collique, Peru, May 22-29, 2010, organized by Tallowood Baptist Church. The cost is $1,500 per person. We will be ministering through worship, VBS, sports camps, construction, and painting. We'll also get to sight see in Lima. Contact Chuck.Westbrook@interfaceflor.com if you are interested in going.

Prayer Requests and Praises:

• Please continue to pray for Anna Barkley (Jim's mom) and her family; she has had some additional complications.
  
• Robyn is moving back to Houston -- we are grateful that her medical complications have stopped, and we pray that her move is safe and uneventful.
  
• Please pray for Sarrean's grandmother's health and for Sarrean's cousin, whose spouse recently passed away.
  
• Keep each other in your thoughts and prayers as you travel back to school.