CHRIST UMC

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit Comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusa-lem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

-Acts 1:8

Global Outreach Team

Prayer

Dear Lord, bless the members of Christ UMC as they dedicate their time, prayers, and service to missions in Jerusalem, in all Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Give them guidance and a clean heart; give them your strength, grace, insight, and love as they walk with you in their service. Give them strength to reach out to those in need as we spread your name and love. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

This Prayer Calendar is prepared to help our congregation understand and pray for the missions of our church. It is designed so that you may pray daily for one week for a specific mission that needs your prayers. The first week of each month is dedicated to the mission identified for the Communion Rail Offering.

For each mission, you will find:

• the email address of an involved contact person. You are encouraged to contact that person to give them encouragement in their ministry.

• a website or blog address that provides additional information on the mission.

Should you wish to make financial donations to any of the missions, please write your check to Christ UMC, indicate the name of the mission in the memo line, and it will be directed appropriately. It will be credited to your Christ UMC donations record for tax deduction purposes.

May God bless you and those who dedicate their prayers, presence, service, time and gifts in missions for our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

–The GO Team

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Table of Contents

July7 - 13 Twin City Mission14 - 20 Youth U.M. ARMY Mission Trip21 - 27 Kenya Mission Team28 - Aug 3 School for Little People

August 4-10 Youth International Mission Trip11-17 Prayer Shawl Ministry18-24 Alan & Jill; Middle East25-31 Stephen Ministry

September1-7 Share the Gift8-14 Kuyay Talpuy Program; Peru15-21 Local Shelter Disaster Preparedness22-28 Heather Reed; Vietnam29-Oct 5 Hospice Brazos Valley

October6-12 UMCOR School Kits13-19 Helping Hands Grocery & Home Furnishing 20-26 General Board of Global Ministries27-Nov 2 The Drum Family; Spain

November 3-9 Voices for Children10-16 UMCOR Sager Brown17-23 HELP Orphanage; Nepal24-30 P.E.T. Ministry

December1-7 Save Our Streets Ministry8-14 Operation Christmas Child15-21 Christmas in the Village22-28 The Mercy Project29-Jan 4 Crestview Volunteers

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The MissionThe Bridge shelter is part of Twin City Mission and was the original focus of the mission at its inception in 1963. It provides emergency housing for any individual or family, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity or religion. The staff works hard to identify each indi-vidual’s needs and formulate a plan to get each person more per-manent housing. They seek to restore health, rebuild a sense of dignity and prepare individuals to meet the challenges they will face when they leave the shelter. The Community Closet provides clothes and/or household items (when available) to individuals and families in the community at no charge. The Community Café supplies food and is a source of comfort contributing to physical and mental health. Twin City Mission strives to provide the best food services that they can for Shelter families and anyone in the community in need of a hot meal. Meals are provided Monday - Friday at noon or 5 p.m. (community members can eat one meal a day at no cost, ei-ther lunch or dinner). From January to May 2013, Twin City Mission sheltered 547 men, 163 women, and families of 119 adults and 163 children. They fed 9,470 men, 3,063 women, and families of 2,456 adults and 3,255 children. They serve about 150 meals a day and provide a food pantry.The ChurchThe communion rail offering for July will be donated to help Twin City Mission provide food and shelter for homeless men, women, and families in Bryan/College Station.The PrayerHeavenly Father, thank you for your gracious gift of Twin City Mis-sion. Thank you for the staff who give tirelessly to those in need. Give them strength as they work to help the homeless. Give them the ability to smile at each person and the words of healing and caring that they may positively impact each person they serve. Please give this community an open heart to support this facil-ity, providing food, shelter and hope to your lost lambs. In Jesus’ name, Amen. Contact: Mark Dickson, Program Director, Homeless & Housing Services, 979-822-1492; Karen Couch, karencouch@christ-umc.org Online: www.twincitymission.org/bridge.shtml

Samaria

July 7-13Twin City Mission

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Judea

July 14-20Youth U.M. ARMY Mission TripThe MissionThe mission of U.M. ARMY is accomplished every summer when thousands of youth and adult volunteers give a week of their va-cation to join God’s ARMY. Using a local Methodist church as a base camp, they sleep on the floor, eat ARMY food and spend the week providing free home repairs for low-income, elderly, and disabled homeowners.The ChurchApproximately 55 youth and 27 adults from Christ UMC spent last week doing home repairs, building wheelchair ramps, painting, doing yard work, and witnessing to both the families served and the people in the community. They showed how our youth can make a difference in the lives of those they are serving.The PrayerFather, what a wonderful blessing it is to serve you and we are thankful we can send a group of your believers out to show people the love that you are and have for every person, whatever their situation. We pray for each youth and adult serving your people and spreading your Son’s name. We pray for the people who were served, that their lives may forever be touched not by our church members, but also by your Spirit. We pray you exceed our under-standing and move in ways we have no way of imagining. Lord we pray that you will meet the spiritual needs of each camper, lead-er, & client. Lord, we thank you for this opportunity, knowing this week changed people in ways we alone could never do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Contact: Vicki Rudder, rudder5@suddenlink.net; Graham Michel, grahammichel@christ-umc.orgOnline: http://www.umarmy.org/conference/texas/

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Around the World

July 21-27Kenya Mission TeamThe MissionChrist UMC will have a mission team in Kenya from July 25 – Aug 10. The team will work with the Maua Methodist Hospital, an agen-cy of the Methodist Church of Kenya that serves as a regional medical center. The hospital is located 200 miles north of Nairobi, almost on the equator. The vision of the hospital is to be a model Christian referral and training center, providing excellent health care in the community, to the glory of God. Serving a population of over 850,000 persons - including 110,000 children - the hospi-tal provides general medical services including maternity, surgery, dental and optical. Their extensive Community Health Department (CHD) includes palliative care, an outreach clinic, emergency food relief and feeding programs for school children. Maua Methodist Hospital oversees an Early Childhood Development program that provides a good start to area AIDS orphans. Our team will help with medical clinics, construction of small homes for orphans, ren-ovation of hospital buildings, building new staff flats, VBS for chil-dren and other activities. There are also opportunities for medical personnel to work in the hospital.The ChurchChrist UMC has funded the Famine Relief Program during a drought and the AIDS Orphans Program. Through the AIDS pro-gram, the hospital feeds, educates, clothes, provides medical help for and builds small homes for the orphans where they are cared for by surrogate grandmothers. Our mission team will work with all of these hospital programs.The PrayerDear Lord, we ask that you pour your richest blessings and grace on our mission team as they assist this hospital and the AIDS Or-phan Program in doing your work. Take care of them on their jour-ney, watch over them as they live in a new environment, protect them from illness, and give them the ability and knowledge to be your witnesses at all times. May they build loving relationships with everyone they meet and come home knowing that you will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”Contact: Colin Wilkinson, colinwilkinson@suddenlink.net; Stanley Gitari, community@mckmauahospital.org

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Jerusalem

The MissionThe purpose of the School for Little People is to provide a well-rounded program for the children (18 months-Kindergarten) of Christ UMC and its surrounding community. Through the pro-grams, each child can grow and develop spiritually, cognitively, physically, emotionally, and socially within a Christian atmosphere. SFLP believes each child is a gift of God, a special unique person valued for his/her own worth, who is growing and learning inde-pendently while interacting with the environment through play, a child’s “work.” A love of learning is fostered through an environ-ment that is rich with opportunities for growth in a variety of ac-tivities and experiences. The ChurchThe August communion rail offering will go to provide scholar-ships for those attending School for Little People. Approximately 164 children will attend for the 2013-2014 school year. The school employees 27 staff members. Approximately $6,500 was used to provide children scholarships for the prior school year.The PrayerFather we pray for your blessing upon School for Little People. We pray for the teachers and administration, that they would know your presence in their lives and be examples to the students they teach. We ask that you would encourage each of them as they give their time to lead others. We ask that you would bless each child that attends the school. We pray that in this environment they would come to know you more and be examples of your love to their friends. Amen.Contact: Karlene Hendershot, karlenehendershot@christ-umc.orgOnline: www.schoolforlittlepeoplebcs.com

July 28-Aug 3School for Little People

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Around the World

The MissionThis is the third year that junior and senior high school youth, along with adult volunteers, will travel on an international mission trip. The first two years, the youth traveled to Peru to join Billy and Laurie Drum in the Kuyay Talpuy project ministry. This year, our youth will be traveling to San Jose to work with Bryan and Beth Tatum, missionaries with the Mission Society in Costa Rica. The Tatum family has been serving in Costa Rica since 2009. Their ministry consists of working with children, youth, adults, and fam-ily units in primarily economically distressed communities. The Ta-tum family partners with and works alongside a great team in the Conexion Ministry. This team is made up of Costa Ricans, Colum-bians and the Tatums. Conexion was founded in 2004. The Conex-ion team believes in spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ by acts of “extreme service” in communities of great poverty and need.The ChurchThis week, a youth and adult team are traveling to Costa Rica to join the Tatum family to help spread the word of our Lord. They will contribute to the education and faith development of children and adults and will help carry the message of God’s love and hope to the jungles of Costa Rica. The PrayerDear Lord, we ask that you provide your richest blessings for the youth and adults traveling to Costa Rica to spread your word, love and hope to the people. Let your love and grace show through each team member as they work to share the gospel. Give them the strength and words to impact lives. Be with the people of Cos-ta Rica as they see the acts of unselfish giving. Let them under-stand and feel your word and love. Help build a loving bond based on a community of faith between the Costa Rican people and our team. Be with the team as they travel and may your grace enlight-en them as they do your work. In your loving Son’s name, Amen.Contact: Kelli Davis, kellidavis5@hotmail.com; Graham Michel, grahammichel@christ-umc.orgOnline: http://www.themissionsociety.org/connect/connectmis-sionaries/people/tatum

Aug 4-10Youth International Mission Trip; Costa Rica

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Jerusalem

Aug 11-17Prayer Shawl MinistryThe MissionMembers of the Prayer Shawl Ministry at Christ UMC create shawls at home or at weekly meetings, praying for the recipient of each one. Most of the time, the crafters don’t know who will receive the shawls they make. Since the first meeting of this group in 2006, the shawls have been given to individuals in our church, commu-nity and even in other countries. The ChurchTo request a shawl for someone you know, contact Pat Kelley. If you would like to be a part of the Prayer Shawl Ministry, no prior knitting or crocheting experience is necessary. The team meets on Sunday afternoons at 4 p.m. in room S109 of the Sanctuary building. The Prayer“Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you! I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer.” - Psalm 63:3-4. Gracious Lord, how wonderful are the works of Your hands! You who made the heavens and the earth also created us. You have given us so many blessings! Please use our hands to work for you. May the shawls we make serve to reflect your boundless love to those who receive them. May our prayers to you infuse ev-ery thread. Amen.Contact: Pat Kelley, pjkel74@verizon.net, 979-690-6746

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Around the World

Aug 18-24Alan & Jill; Middle EastThe MissionAlan and Jill will participate in a two-year language program to learn the local culture and the complex language spoken where they will serve. They will build relationships with local people in everyday contexts, seeking to disciple them into the Kingdom and equip them to be disciple-makers. During these years, they will explore long-term ministry possibilities including student ministry, teaching, and business. The ChurchChrist UMC will provide financial support to Alan and Jill’s mis-sionary service through the Mission Society. These funds will sup-port them as they begin to disciple local people and equip them to then disciple others. The PrayerDear Lord, we pray for Alan and Jill to have the wisdom to grow in their service to you and the people of the Middle East. May they find God’s favor in developing relationships with people. Give them wisdom and discernment in how and with whom they share Jesus. We ask for your blessing as they strategically make connections and seek opportunities for local employment. Lord, find favor in them and shower them with your grace to quickly understand and adapt to the local culture and language. Contact: Robert & Susie Lightfoot, Susie.light@suddenlink.net

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Jerusalem & Samaria

Aug 25-31Stephen MinistryThe MissionThe Stephen Ministry is a group of highly trained lay people who provide confidential Christian care to individuals in our congrega-tion and community who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. It is a one-on-one ministry and offers individuals a caring Christian who listens and has received 50 hours of training in how to provide distinctive Christian care. Stephen ministers are friends to those ex-periencing difficulties such as loneliness, loss of a loved one, retire-ment changes, unemployment, discouragement, childbirth, hospi-talization, separation, divorce, terminal illness, or being shut-in.The ChurchOn December 19, 2011, Christ UMC officially became included in the Stephen Ministry. In the fall of 2012, a class was conducted for new Stephen Ministers. The team includes several members who were trained and served as caregivers in other churches prior to joining Christ UMC. Currently we are in search of others who are interested in being trained as a Stephen Minister.

The PrayerDear God, thank you so much for those who vol-unteer to go through train-ing and learn to be a Ste-phen Minister so they can reach out to your children in need. We pray for those going through a difficult time right now that you would give them the cour-age to step forward and ask a Stephen Minister for help. Bless this ministry abundantly and let your name be glorified through it. We pray all of this in Je-sus’ name, Amen.Contact: Judy Draper, 979-777-2801, jdraper@suddenlink.net

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Jerusalem & Judea

Sept 1-7Share the GiftThe MissionBryan and College Station have approximately 15,000 students on the free and reduced school lunch program. For many of these students, these are the only meals they eat all day. For these chil-dren, the Christmas holidays are not marked by presents and fam-ily time as much as they are by hunger because these children do not have the free breakfast and lunch. Bryan ISD and College Station ISD have asked the local churches if there is anything we might be able to do to aid this situation. Seven churches have come together over the past three years to help meet this need. Food is purchased in bulk through the Brazos Valley Food Bank. The goal is to provide food for the 1500 most at-risk kids in the school districts and an additional 500 families identified through various other community agencies. In order to do more, additional churches and businesses must be involved. In addition to the food, a brochure is included, identifying the local mission opportunities offered by participating churches. Also included is a brochure in English and Spanish with the plan of Salvation, and a Christmas card decorated by children from the churches.The ChurchChurches can participate in one or all of the following ways: vol-unteer for shifts to bag groceries, volunteer for help with deliver-ies to schools and other agencies, have your children decorate a Christmas card to insert in the bags, encourage members to do-nate money to the project to cover the cost of the food.The PrayerDear heavenly Father, thank you for this opportunity to help our neighbors in our own community through sharing the gift of food during the Christmas season. We pray for your blessings on the families involved in this program as we all celebrate the birth of our savior, Jesus the Christ, by caring for our neighbors. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Contact: Della Stephenson, dellastephenson@hotmail.com; Mi-chelle Sanderson, SOS Ministries, 979-775-5357; Mary Walraven, Bryan ISD Special Programs, 979-209-2881

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Around the World

Sept 8-14Kuyay Talpuy Program; PeruThe MissionIn the Quechua language, the words “Kuyay Talpuy” mean “plant-ing seeds with the love of God.” The Kuyay Talpuy preschool pro-gram was started by missionaries Billy and Laurie Drum in 2009 in the Andes Mountains. Teaching about Jesus and learning to pray are emphasized, but they also follow the prescribed preschool curriculum of Peru. Billy and Laurie left Peru in December 2012, but the Peruvian missionary teachers of Kuyay wanted to contin-ue this evangelistic program. Tania, Luz and Rosio have seen this dream come true. The parents are very happy that this program has continued because of the positive influence the program has had on their children. Tania, Luz and Rosio share the teaching at the school in Iscos. In addition, Rosio goes to the public school up the mountain in Tinyari once a week to have Kids’ Club with the school children there. She also shares Christ with the three communities through home visits and through a knitting club that meets twice a week in Tania’s home to share knitting skills, Bible study and friendship with the mothers of the community.The ChurchChrist UMC supports the continuation of the Kuyay Talpuy pro-gram through once-a-year funding. Christ UMC also sent two youth teams to Peru in 2011 and 2012 to build playgrounds, con-duct VBS and to develop relationships with the children and their families.The PrayerDear Lord, we ask for your blessings on Tania, Luz, Rosio and on the sweet children of Iscos, Partacocha and Tinyari, Peru. Be with

them as they go about their daily lives teaching and hearing the stories of Jesus. Please continue to make missionaries of the sweet children of the mountain who go home from school and teach their families the stories of Jesus and how to pray. We ask your blessings on all of these people as they spread your word. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.Contact: Pat Goins, pishtrish@suddenlink.net, Karen Couch, karencouch@christ-umc.orgOnline: Follow Kuyay Talpuy on Facebook

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Jerusalem

Sept 15-21Local Shelter Disaster PreparednessThe MissionThe mission of the Local Shelter Disaster Preparedness team is to assist local residents in times of emergency situations such as natural disasters.The ChurchThis mission team works to identify persons who may need as-sistance during an emergency. An older widow or widower living alone with no family nearby would be an example of a person these team members would contact and visit during an emergen-cy situation. They can help the person seek assistance and make sure they are safe and cared for in times of emergency.The PrayerOur gracious Lord, we ask that you hold the hand and hearts of those who have been affected by disaster, both man-made and natural. Thank you for those willing to give of their time, gifts and talents to assist those in need after a disaster. Give them the strength to see what is needed to help others and to act on it. Give them the words of encouragement and let them speak your words of grace, hope and love to those in need. Help us to see the good in life and to walk your path even when there is no hope. Only through you, there is a future of joy, hope and love. In your holy name, Amen.Contact: Jerry Vinson, jerryvinson65@gmail.com

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Around the World

Sept 22-28Heather Reed; VietnamThe MissionHeather Reed is a missionary that has been supported by Christ UMC since she participated in the World Race. Currently, Heather lives in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, bringing Christ’s message to several communities throughout the country.The Church Our ministry opportunities include several ministries in which Heather participates. Financial support options include a family feeding program, education scholarships for students and teach-ing material for Bible courses. Providing the emotional and spiri-tual support through communications provides comfort through the turbulent times inherent in missionary work.The PrayerHeavenly Father, we pray for your protection on Heather as she heeds your call to go out and make disciples of all people. As the embodiment of your hands and feet, we ask that you continue to guide her ministries in Vietnam. Direct our prayers of support, com-passion and generosity to Heather in Vietnam, empowering her with your Spirit. We pray the message of hope, grace and peace found in Christ reaches all those in Vietnam and the redemption of new believers brings joy in heaven. We thank you for Heather,

and all the mission-aries that bring your light into this needy world. We ask for blessings on Heather. In Christ’s holy name we pray, Amen. Contact: Benjamin Tkach, ben.tkach@gmail.com; Della Stephenson, dellastephenson@hotmail.com; friend Heather Reed on Facebook

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Jerusalem

Sept 29-Oct 5Hospice Brazos ValleyThe MissionHospice Brazos Valley is a non-profit health care organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of central Texas resi-dents who have terminal or chronic illness. Hospice Brazos Valley strives to prevent and alleviate pain and suffering. They also pro-vide the highest quality services to patients and families through professional care guided by calming, compassionate values and delivered by an experienced Palliative Care Team. Our collabora-tive relationships are energized by our commitment to patient ad-vocacy and palliative medical education.The ChurchThe communion rail offering for October will be donated to Hos-pice Brazos Valley to help individuals in the Brazos Valley who are suffering from a terminal or chronic illness. Our resources will be used to support the professional care of the Palliative Care Team and to help prevent and alleviate patient pain and suffering.The PrayerFather, thank you for the many blessings of this life, for each other, those we love who are with us and those we keep close to our hearts. We ask you to be present with us today to help us always show love to those around us. Lord, we ask you to pour blessing on Hospice Brazos Valley and keep them near your heart. We ask that you give them wisdom, guidance, compassion and understanding so they may be your hands and feet. We ask this in your name, Amen.Contact: Craig Borchardt, President and CEO, 979-821-2266; Kar-en Couch, karencouch@christ-umc.org Online: www.hospicebrazosvalley.org

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Around the World

Oct 6-12UMCOR School KitsThe Mission The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) provides school kits for children. In some countries, children don’t have books or school supplies, and many have no classrooms. Classes are held in inadequate or half-destroyed buildings, tents, or even in open air. Often, students must write down everything the teach-er says, or record their work on a board. Their teacher’s knowl-edge and their own notes are their only source for information. School kits may be these children’s only educational resources. The UMCOR kit is designed for a variety of ages and $11 provides one kit. More information is available on the UMCOR website for those interested in making their own kit. The ChurchOur October Communion Rail offering will be sent to UMCOR to put together kits. They will be shipped by UMCOR wherever they are needed.The PrayerGracious God, thank you for blessing us so we may bless oth-

ers as we provide school kits for students. We take education for granted and don’t realize how fortunate we are. Open our hearts and remind us to pray for the children who will receive the kits we provide. Bless everyone involved in the preparation and distribution of the kits and those who receive them. Thank you for using us to help spread your love around the world. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.Contact: Irene Keating, irenekeat-ing@verizon.netOnline: www.umcor.org/UMCOR/ Relief-Supplies/Relief-Supply-Kits

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Judea

Oct 13-19Helping Hands Grocery & Home FurnishingThe MissionThe mission of the Helping Hands Grocery and Home Furnish-ings Program is to assist families with specific needs as they arise. These programs offer assistance with food and light home furnish-ings, along with encouragement and prayers from the volunteers serving them. We work closely with the management at South-gate Village Apartments who are able to make us aware of extra or emergency needs.The ChurchVolunteers sign up to sponsor a week’s worth of groceries to a fam-ily in need. The volunteer purchases groceries and delivers them to the apartment complex on a day they choose. Many times, they are able to share a brief conversation with the resident and offer prayers and kind words to encourage them through a tough time. Additionally, there are sometimes needs for light home furnish-ings or kitchen items that we are able to provide through items that have been donated.The PrayerFather God, thank you for these opportunities to help our neighbors in their times of need. We pray for each family touched by these programs, that they will see your hand at work through every effort. Thank you for the resources you provide us and the heart to share them with others. Help us spread your message of love and the joy of knowing Christ to all around us. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.Contact: Della Stephenson, dellastephenson@hotmail.com

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Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, Around the World

Oct 20-26General Board of Global MinistriesThe MissionThe General Board of Global Ministries (GBGM) is the global mis-sion agency of the United Methodist Church, its General and An-nual Conferences, and local congregations. Its purpose is to “con-nect the church in mission,” which it does through its vision of equipping and transforming people and places for God’s mission around the world. It has four primary mission goals:1. Make disciples of Jesus Christ2. Strengthen, develop, and renew Christian congregations and communities3. Alleviate human suffering4. Seek justice, freedom, and peaceThe GBGM connects 13 million United Methodists in mission in 136 countries - through people, projects, and partnerships – making disciples, building up the church, alleviating suffering, and pro-moting justice, freedom, and peace worldwide.The ChurchChrist UMC uses the GBGM programs through its Global Outreach activity. We financially and prayerfully support trained GBGM mis-sionaries and their projects, namely. Additionally, we support oth-er programs directed to alleviate suffering, such as the eradication of malaria.The Prayer Heavenly Father, we pray that you will bless the mission efforts of the Methodist Church as it moves forward to make disciples of all nations. Bless your missionaries in the field, often in difficult

circumstances and many miles away from family and loved ones. Strengthen them with your word as they go out daily to face evil forces and enable them to teach that you are the one true God with salvation for all.Contact: Colin Wilkinson, colinwilkinson@suddenlink.netOnline: www.umcmission.org

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Around the World

Oct 27-Nov 2The Drum Family; SpainThe MissionLaurie and Billy Drum have been serving with The Mission Society since 2007. For the past five years, they have been living and serving the Quechua Wanca people in rural Peru. They are now living in Spain, serving immigrant peoples from Northern Africa and The Middle East. Laurie and Billy are both Christian counselors, certified life and lead-ership coaches, certified trainers, and certified marriage counselors. They put their skills to use as they serve and lead the people of Spain, immigrants, and other missionaries. They use experience, skills and passion for people to share the love of Christ internationally.The ChurchChrist UMC is the Drum’s home church and has always support-ed them with their prayers, gifts, and service. In 2011 and 2012, a team of Christ UMC youth went to Peru to build playgrounds in needy communities, hold VBS for community children, and learn more about Peruvian culture. In 2013, the Drums taught two mis-sions courses while at home in Texas: Missions & the Bible, and the popular Global Missions Today course. In the future, Christ UMC will have opportunities to further support the mission by bringing small teams to Spain to help the Drums minister there, as well as to learn about Spanish culture and the church.The PrayerFather, guide Laurie and Billy and Sarah as they minister to others around the globe. Give them peace as they live far from their older children, Ryan and Miles. Help them reach out to the displaced and lonely immigrants who have found themselves in Spain. Give them compassion and wisdom as they counsel and work to strengthen and build up lives of the many that they touch. Most of all, give them abundantly more than they can ask or imagine. Bless them, Father. Amen.Contact: Billy and Laurie Drum, billy@drums forchrist.org (You can call on a US phone line 979-985-5238 - it’s a local call for you); Pat Goins, pishtrish@suddenlink.net Online: www.drumsforchrist.org or www.themis-sionsociety.org

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Around the World

Nov 3-9Voices for Children

The MissionVoices For Children, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to children in our community. Through the use of highly trained vol-unteers as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), Voices for Children is dedicated to the safety and needs of the children we serve. Their mission is to advocate for the best interest of abused and neglected children under the court’s jurisdiction until each is placed into a safe, nurturing, and permanent home and to ensure that each child’s needs are addressed and fully met.The ChurchThe November communion rail offering will be donated to Voices for Children in the Brazos Valley. Our donations will help to sup-port children who have been the recipients of abuse and neglect in the Brazos Valley and to provide them a safe haven before be-ing placed in a permanent, safe home.The PrayerGracious and loving God, we ask you to be present with us today to help us always have love in our hearts, even during those times when things are difficult or when we are misunderstood. We call upon you today Lord, to bless Voices for Children. Give them the gift to be strong advocates for children in our community and com-munities around the world. Be with those with whom we are work-

ing, to give us peace and love so we will continue to give to others. In your holy name, we pray, Amen.Contact: Liana Lowey, Executive Director, 979-822-9700; Ellie Mander, elliecm@yahoo.comOnline: www.voicesforchil dreninc.org/about

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Around the World

Nov 10-16UMCOR Sager BrownThe MissionThe United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) Sager Brown Depot, in Baldwin, LA is the headquarters for their relief-supply operations. Each year, more than 2,000 volunteers prepare about $4 million in supplies for shipment from the Baldwin campus. Locally, UMCOR Sager Brown reaches out to Baldwin neighbors through food distribution and housing rehabilitation projects, en-gaging volunteers in these projects that help families and the el-derly. UMCOR relief supply kits are stored at this material resourc-es depot, which provides increased opportunities for kit ministry to United Methodist churches. Congregations can send or drop off kits and supplies at the depot nearest to them, assured that their donations will be accounted for and distributed by UMCOR. The ChurchChrist UMC has supported UMCOR’s relief supply operations by funding Flood Buckets. Separately, we have directly funded di-saster operations in hurricane, tsumani and drought ridden areas of the world. This year, we sent a mission team to Sager Brown to work at the depot assembling kits, etc. The Prayer Lord, we pray you will bless the hands which work on the assembly, storage and shipping of relief supplies used to assist those in need due to natural disasters. We ask you to bless, guide and take care of teams when they are able to partici-pate with hands in the mission.Contact: Irene Keating, irenekeating@verizon.net; volunteers@sagerbrown.orgOnline: www.sagerbrown.org

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Around the World

Nov 17-23HELP Orphanage; NepalThe MissionServing children in the Himalayas since 2002, Jyoti Niwas (House of Light) is an orphanage which is a ministry of Health Environ-mental and Learning Program (H.E.L.P.) in Nepal. Jyoti Niwas pro-vides shelter to children who have no parents or relatives able to care for them. Children receive food, education, health care, love, a family, and the gospel of Jesus Christ. The ChurchRev. Jerry House Jr. led a Bible conference for children in 2011, and Christ UMC helped with improvements to the children’s home. Also, Binoj and Ruben, two orphans who recently graduated from high school have been sponsored by the GO Team to attend school to become health workers and serve as medical missionaries for their own country. The PrayerHeavenly Father, please protect and lead the children of Jyoti Ni-was. Please guide Binoj, Ruben, and other young men and women

who have met you there, as they become young adults. We ask that they would be a bea-con of light to lead their own people to faith in you. Please provide sponsors for the chil-dren, and lead the most needy children to their doors. Please continue to touch the hearts of the younger children, so they would devote their lives to you. Thank you for love for the “least of these.”Contact: Tim & Lani Ackerman, admin@missionforhelp.org Karen Couch, karencouch@christ-umc.org Online: www.missionforhelp.org

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Around the World

Nov 24-30P.E.T. MinistryThe MissionP.E.T. seeks to reflect the love of Jesus Christ by bringing the “gift of mobility and dignity” to those in developing countries who are unable to walk. The United Nations estimates that 22 million peo-ple worldwide have lost the use of their legs due to land mines, disease, accident or injury. Of these, 15 million are bedridden or use wheelchairs. What about the other 7 million? Brazos Valley P.E.T. is one of 25 production and distribution centers throughout the US that produces a rugged, sturdy hand-cranked cart, called a “Personal Energy Transporter” that provides mobility to these leg-handicapped individuals.The ChurchThe P.E.T. vehicles, fabricated by the Brazos Valley P.E.T. Project in Bryan, cost about $250 per unit. Our donations are used to sup-port this effort. Members of our church can also volunteer their time and labor to fabricate and assemble the P.E.T. units. To date, Brazos Valley P.E.T. has distributed over a thousand of these units to third world countries. Nationwide, some 30,000 units have been produced.The PrayerDear Lord, thank you for the wonderful people and missionaries throughout the world who donate time and money to provide re-lief for the millions who strug-gle daily to survive in war-torn and remote areas. We pray the vehicles provided by P.E.T. will give a crippled father, or moth-er, or child mobility and dignity and a chance to be produc-tive individuals. May the love and concern expressed by our efforts be a blessing to all in-volved, whether providers or recipients.Contact: Colin Wilkinson, colinwilkinson@suddenlink.netOnline: petinternational.org

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Samaria

Dec 1-7Save Our Streets MinistryThe MissionThe dream at S.O.S. Ministries is to see dreams come true. To res-cue, restore, and release, to put themselves in the world of those they serve, that they might help revolutionize the lives of others. God has called them to dedicate time and talent as a testimony of his transforming power to raise up, equip, and empower others to “Save Our Streets.” S.O.S. Ministries is penetrating neighborhoods in Bryan/College Station and beyond through high-impact pro-grams focused on spiritual and community transformation. Today, S.O.S. partners with approximately 300 volunteers and over 75 churches and organizations to effectively take the love of Jesus Christ to the streets.The ChurchThe communion rail offering will be donated to help the S.O.S. Ministry continue its mission and vision of helping those on the street.The PrayerDear Lord, we come to you to ask your blessing on the S.O.S. Minis-try. Please provide strength and grace to those who dedicate their time and resources to reach out to those on the streets who are hurting, lost, and need their help. Give them the right words to en-courage and change the lives of those who they seek to help. We ask that you open the hearts and minds of those people in need of help so that they take that first step toward understanding your love, grace and a life that includes you at the center. Give them the strength to fight to change their lives, to see your way, and to understand that you are what is missing from their lives. Walk with them, hold their hands and hearts, give them the strength and power to overcome the road blocks in their lives to walk the path that leads to eternal life. In your son’s name, Amen.Contact: sos@saveourstreetsministries.orgOnline: www.saveourstreetsministries.org

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Judea

Dec 8-14Operation Christmas ChildThe MissionOperation Christmas Child is the world’s largest children’s Christ-mas project and it is run by the Christian charity, Samaritan’s Purse. The mission has been in place since 1990 and has brought the joy and hope of Jesus Christ into the lives of over 94 mil-lion underprivileged children. Children or individuals fill a shoebox with gifts for a child and the boxes are delivered to needy children at Christmas time. The purpose of Operation Christmas Child is to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way to needy children around the world, and together with the local church, to share the good news of Jesus Christ. The ChurchOur children’s ministry through the MOPS program (Mother’s of Pre-Schoolers) coordinates Operation Christmas Child at Christ UMC. Each children’s Sunday school and pre-school class will be given the information on how to fill a shoebox with gifts for needy children. The shoeboxes will be gathered and sent to Operation Christmas Child for delivery across the world.The PrayerDear Lord, we ask that you open the hearts of children and fami-lies during this most holy of seasons that they may provide sup-port and gifts for Operation Christmas Child. We pray that the gifts they provide are statements of your unending love and grace. May the children receiving these gifts be touched deeply by the generous love of those who give. May they see you, Christ, through these gifts. Help them under-stand that it is through you and your love that there is hope and joy and that you are the only way to grace and light. Bless all who participate in this loving ministry and those who receive these gifts of love. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.Contact: Ally McNeil, austindesign group@gmail.com; Jori Kennedy, jorikennedy@christ-umc.orgOnline: www.operationchristmaschild.org.uk

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Judea

Dec 15-21Christmas in the VillageThe MissionTo share the joy and celebration of Christ’s birth with our neigh-bors, this Christmas mission program provides wrapped gifts to children ages 18 and under as well as elderly residents at South-gate Village Apartments.The ChurchVolunteers from the Helping Hands Team collect and prepare wish-lists to distribute to the congregation. Congregation volun-teers take the wish-lists and shop for their special person. Many times, they include a Bible or devotional book along with the gifts. As people bring their wrapped gifts to church, they are stored and sorted by volunteers. About a week before Christmas, the Helping Hands Team takes the gifts to the Lincoln Center where they are picked up by the residents. This has been a great mission program for families to do together. Children love to help load the moving truck and hand out the gifts!

The PrayerFather God, thank you for sending your son Jesus to live among us and teach us the truth of your word. As we joyfully celebrate his birth, we would like to lift up everyone involved in this special mission program. We pray that all the children, families, and elderly who re-ceive these gifts know they come from sharing the love of Christ. We pray they cel-ebrate his birth with joy and thanksgiving along with us. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.Contact: Della Stephenson, dellastephenson@hotmail.com

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Around the World

Dec 22-28The Mercy ProjectThe MissionThe Mercy Project began in August of 2009 when Chris Field trav-eled to Ghana, Africa for the first time. On that trip, he met Tomas who was a child slave; one of an estimated 7,000 enslaved children who work in the fishing industry of Ghana today. Meeting Thomas both broke and stole Chris’s heart. He has been working ever since that fateful day to bring justice and mercy to the enslaved children working on Lake Volta. The Mercy Project uses different methods from most organizations. They seek long-term, sustainable solutions that empower and equip the Ghanaians who use the children to work. The Mercy Project wants to be creative and innovative in their economic development projects. They don’t just want to rescue a few kids, they want to remove the structures that cause these chil-dren to work as slaves. Their story is a story of hope, faith, and trust.The ChurchThe Church provided funding for The Mercy project through the 2012 Christmas Eve Offering which went directly to help free chil-dren from slavery in Ghana.The Prayer Dear Lord, thank you for the individuals involved in The Mercy Proj-ect. Give them the strength and insight to work with innovative solutions to reduce slavery in Ghana. Provide them with hands and feet to carry your love and mercy to those who have been enslaved. Give them the words and actions that will provide these children the strength to overcome this terrible infliction placed on their lives. Bless these children as they learn to live as free children. Show them your mercy and love and light. In your son’s name, Amen.Contact: Chris Fields, info@mercyproject.net; Karen Couch, karencouch@chirst-umc.orgOnline: www.mercyproject.net

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Jerusalem

Dec 29-Jan 4Crestview VolunteersThe MissionThe Crestview Volunteer Program is a non-profit corporation with a membership of 115 women and men dedicated to enhancing the lives of the residents of the Crestview Methodist Retirement Com-munity – a full-service retirement community whose policy is to continue to care for long-time residents after they have outlived their personal finances. They staff the Jane Lee Gift Shop five days a week, host birthday parties, Koffee Klatch, Bingo, special events and many other activities. The ChurchMen and women can volunteer for sing-alongs for the residents, sponsor and participate in Bingo, be special friends and more. The January Communion Rail Offering will go to the Crestview Be-nevolent Fund to help provide care for those long-time residents who have outlived their resources. The PrayerLord, this week as we pray for the residents of our community who serve as Crestview Volunteers, we pray you will go with them as they work to “provide special services and activities to enrich the lives of the residents of Crestview Retirement Community.” May all the residents of Crestview experience an extra measure of your love through each one of these selfless people who have served this special group of your children in our community over the past 49 years. May your wisdom, caring compassion and grace encompass this ministry in such a way that all who play a part may experience you more fully each and every day. May the last years of the resi-dents’ lives not be spent “waiting” for your kingdom but may each

one “experience your kingdom in the here and now.” May they face each day knowing that your promise of eternal life is sure and that your grace is “abundant.” Bless the Crestview volunteers. In Jesus’ name, Amen.Contact: Judy Draper, jdraper@sud denlink.netOnline: www.mrcaff.org/communities

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“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptiz-ing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey every-thing I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

- Matthew 28:19-20

CHRISTUNITEDMETHODIST CHURCH

GO Team Purpose:To awaken and activate God’s people for missions and to provide ways and methods for people and groups to engage in cross-cultural missions.