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BRETHREN JOURNAL October 2015/1

THE BRETHRENJOURNAL

BRETHREN JOURNAL January-February, 2000/1

Vol. 114 October 2015 No. 8 36 Pages

IN THIS ISSUE . . .

From the President . . . Final ReportThat’s a Good Question . . . by Jim PokornyResisting the Blanket Statement . . . by Rev. Vanessa MitchellHistory Symposium InvitationSummer Volleyball Tournament Results

. . . and much, much more!

Rev. Henry E. Beseda, Jr., Memorial Golf TournamentTier One Winners

Left to right: Billy Marricle, Jason Beamon, William Peschel,and Paul Martinez

(See story and additional winners in this issue.)

36/October 2015 BRETHREN JOURNAL

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Needed: FRIENDS OF THE BRETHREN JOURNAL– from the editor

The Brethren Journal has been publishing life and activitiesof the Unity of the Brethren in Texas for over 100 years. All of theseinclude records of weddings, baptisms, deaths, etc., of the minis-ters... when they were submitted. These records are invaluable forfamilies who wish to research their family history or activities thathave taken place in our congregations and the denomination. Itwould be fitting, in the eyes of the Brethren Journal BusinessCommittee, to ask for financial support for the continuation of thispublication.

If you wish to become a special FRIEND OF THE BRETHRENJOURNAL, please send your donation to the Business Manager(address inside front cover). These donations are tax deductible.

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THE BRETHREN JOURNAL

EDITOR –Cathleen Schlechte3635 CR 225Caldwell, TX 77836(979) [email protected]

BUSINESS MANAGER –Ben Polasek705 Woodson Dr.Caldwell, TX 77836(979) [email protected]

BUSINESS COMMITTEE –President: Rev. Mike GrosecloseTreasurer: Dorothy MilbergerSecretary: Kay Polasek

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS –Daily Morsels: Dorothy Kocian,

107 S. Barbara, Waco, TX 76705-1317.Sunday School Helper: Angie Hairrell,

11482 FM 2155, Somerville, TX [email protected]

Jim Pokorny, [email protected];blog: otherbrotherjim.blogspot.com

RATE – $15.00 per year via hard copy and/or email; $7.50 after June 1st(All subscriptions expire December 31st)FOR SUBSCRIPTIONS, RENEWALS, AND GIFTSUBSCRIPTIONS, Hard Copy & E-Mail, writeThe Brethren Journal Business Manager (seeaddresses above.

FOR ADDRESS CHANGES – Include ad-dress label from your most recent issue andwrite to: The Brethren Journal BusinessManager, 705 Woodson Dr., Caldwell, TX 77836,or email [email protected].

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Permit #064220THE BRETHREN JOURNAL (ISSN 0006-9655)is published monthly except for January andJuly, which are bimonthly, at $15.00 per yearby The Unity of the Brethren through SuzAnneKurten dba Your Business Center, 1050 S.Hwy. 95, Taylor, TX 76574, 512-921-1068,periodical postage paid at Taylor, TX. POST-MASTER: Send address changes to The Breth-ren Journal, Attn: Business Manager, 705Woodson Dr., Caldwell, TX 77836.

GRANGER NATIONALBANK

Ryze Ceska Banka, Member F.D.I.C.Granger, Texas

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Temple BrethrenChurch

Christmas Invitation

The Temple Brethren Churchwill host the University of NorthTexas presentation of ‘Ceskamse vanocni’: traditional Czechmusic under the direction of Dr.Tom Sovik on Wednesday, De-cember 2, 2015, at 7 p.m. in thechurch sanctuary.

The original composition isdated 1796 by Jan Ryba. Themusical group is being hostedin Temple by the Czech HeritageMuseum and Genealogy Cen-ter. The event is open to thepublic and there is no admis-sion fee. Non-perishable fooditems may be donated and theywill be given to Churches Touch-ing Lives for Jesus, a local foodpantry that is supported bymultiple congregations in theTemple area.

For more information, pleasecontact the church or email GraceLabaj at [email protected]


FULL TIME PASTORSRev. Linda Von Chandler, 13108 North Ridge

Circle, Leander, TX 78641. (512) 836-2712Pastor Tim Chaplin, 1326 Starlight Dr., Temple

TX 76502. (254) 778-5954;[email protected]

Rev. Adolfo Gonzalez, 3913 Brinkman Drive,Port Arthur, TX 77642. (409) 293-2065

Rev. Michael Groseclose, 352 NelsonvilleChurch Rd., Bellville, TX 77418.(979) 865-3026

Rev. Jim Heckman, 9849 PR 1015, Rockdale,TX 76567. (979) 739-1393, leave message. Ifno answer, try 2nd number, (979) 200-0513;[email protected]

Rev. James D. Hejl, 309 Cherrywood Circle,Taylor, TX 76574. (512) 365-6890

Rev. Curtis Holland, 1017 Southwood, Waco, TX76712. (254) 776-5886

Rev. David Johnson, 902 Timberlane, Caldwell,TX 77836. (979) 567-1838(h),(979) 220-3822(c);[email protected]

Dr. Larry Koslovsky, 4311 Fir Valley Drive,Kingwood, TX 77345. [email protected](281) 328-2442 (off), (713) 594-4518 (c)

Rev. John Kueker, P.O. Box 325, Buckholts, TX76518. (254) 605-0434

Rev. Denise Mikeska, 409 E. Upshaw, Temple,TX 76501. [email protected]

Rev. Vanessa Lucia Mitchell, 2070 Carter LakeDrive, College Station, TX 77845.(979) 574-0268; [email protected]: notboxingtheair.wordpress.com

Rev. Joseph Polasek, P.O. Box 54, Snook, TX77878, (979) 272-1624;[email protected]

Rev. Kay Polasek, 705 Woodson Dr., Caldwell,TX 77836. (979) 220-1289;[email protected]

Rev. Mark Sebek, 9235 FM 437, Rogers, TX76569. (254) 931-2000;[email protected]

Rev. Thomas Tallas, 3829 Sandstone, SanAngelo, TX 76904. (325) 949-7543;[email protected] (h), [email protected] (ch)

Rev. Dr. Jerry L. [email protected]

Rev. Ron Winsman, 3112 W. Ave. R, Temple, TX76504. (254) 742-0827

DIRECTORY OF MINISTERSRev. Larry Zabcik, 2013 Burnie Bishop Place,

Cedar Park, TX 78613. (903) 265-2277;[email protected]

SUPPLY OR INACTIVE PASTORSRev. Charles Amos, 845 Airville Road, Temple, TX

76501. (254) 742-2629Rev. Whitney Amos, 845 Airville Road, Temple, TX

76501. (254) 742-2629Rev. Joe Emerson, 5404 Southern Crossing Dr.,

Temple, TX 76502. (254) 791-0420;[email protected]

Rev. Gordon Hejl (retired), P.O. Box 426,Granger, TX 76530. (512) 963-9219

Rev. James Henry (retired), 1726 15th Ave. N.,Lake Worth, FL 33460. (561) 533-3893

Rev. William J. Hodge, 528 N. Post Oak Lane,Houston, TX 77024. (713) 957-8294

Rev. Robert W. Janek, 261 Edinburg, SanAngelo, TX 76901. (325) 942-8515

Rev. Lawrence Junek, 3316 Lyle, Waco, TX76708. (254) 714-2622

Rev. Eugene Kotrla, 4406 Antelope Trail,Temple, TX 76504. (254) 774-7484

Dr. Mark L. Labaj, 3410 Meadow Creek Lane,Temple, TX 76504. (254) 774-8179;[email protected]

Rev. Milton Maly, 6703 FM 2502, Brenham, TX77833. (979) 277-2619;[email protected]

Rev. Albert Michalik (retired), 304 ThunderValley Trail, Georgetown, TX 78626.(512) 688-1104

Rev. Al Newby, 2210 Forest Trail, Temple, TX76502. (254) 778-1860

Rev. Bill Rinderknecht, P.O. Box 228, Dennison,OH 44621-0228. (281) 433-7704 (cell);[email protected]

Rev. Nello Strickland, 1006 Top Hill Drive,Brenham, TX 77833. (979) 836-2609

Rev. Tony Taylor, P.O. Box 1680, Hilltop Lakes,TX 77871. (936) 855-2563

UNDER CALL OF THE UNITYMilitary ChaplaincyCH (Maj) Daniel Husak, 1627 Lakeview Street,

DeRidder, LA [email protected]

MINISTERIAL STUDENTSBen Kruse – [email protected]

(Westheimer)


Although my last report given atthe convention was less than 3 monthsago, there have been sev-eral developments in theUnity since that time.These developments haveprimarily been in the ar-eas of Missions, the His-tory Symposium plan-ning, the website, andthe new administrative po-sition. In this report wewill focus on these developments.

MissionsOur mission efforts and the fund-

ing required to support these mis-sions continue to be a primary focusfor our denomination. As of August25th, home mission donations totaled$27,909 while foreign mission dona-tions totaled $31,291. Comparing thesegiving levels with the current bud-gets of $67,000 for each mission board,we can see that each budget is lessthan 50% funded. This is obviously“not good news.” We also have lostone of our monthly mission support-ers due to a relocation, so we willneed to find someone else (or hope-fully more than one) to commit $75 amonth so that we do not lose groundin the area of individual monthly

support for missions. It is worth re-peating that both of our mission bud-

gets would be fully fundedif each member in theUnity gave just $75 ayear or if just 10% of ourmembers would give $75per month. I remain con-fident that there are manypeople in the Unity thatcould commit to this levelof support or more, we

just need to keep praying that Godwill continue to touch hearts to sup-port the work He is doing through ourmission outreach. Anyone who wouldlike to become a monthly supporter ofmissions should contact a member ofthe Synodical Executive Committee toimplement a monthly bank draft onthe date of the giver’s choice.

In the way of good news on themission front, it appears that theproceeds from the 2nd Annual Rev.Henry E. Beseda, Jr., Memorial Golftournament will be over $9,000 thisyear. This represents a 20% increaseover last year’s tournament. On be-half of the Unity, I would like to thankTrish, Rev. Michael Groseclose, andall those involved in putting on thisfund raising event. We are certainly

Brethren Book StoreP.O. Box 321

Caldwell, TX 77836(979) 200-0513

Diane Heckman, Manager

President’s Column . . . James MarekFinal Report


PASTORAL RELATIONS COMMITTEEChairman: Jon Farrow: [email protected];(254) 933-1673; (254) 718-1938Dr. Ron Dusek; (979) 567-3732;[email protected] Janac; [email protected];(979) 587-0363Dorothy Kocian; [email protected];(254) 713-2761Adviser: Dr. Larry Koslovsky:[email protected]; (281) 328-2442Synodical Committee Liaison: Kent Laza

DIRECTORY OF MISSIONARIES

Carolyn GrosecloseNDOP.O. Box 630260Choma, Zambiae-mail: [email protected]

Pastor Pavel and Stanya KozakNorska 4277900 OlomoucCzech Repubice-mail: [email protected]

Phil & Eunice Raiford(parents’ address in U.S.)230 SW Sandy WayPort Saint Lucie, FL [email protected]

Rob and Anne Thiessen25 E. Camino NacionalTlalixtac de CabreraOaxaca, MEXICO 68627(011) 52-1-951-145-8947e-mail: [email protected]

Michael and Caroline WooP.O. Box 27Chiang Mai 50000Thailande-mail: [email protected] access their pictures, go tohttp://gallery.mac.com/woofamily

HOME MISSIONS BOARDMartha Dove, Chair – [email protected] Urbanovsky – (No email address)Angie Hairrell – [email protected] Kruse – [email protected] Hinson – [email protected] Kotrla – [email protected]. Lawrence Junek – [email protected]

SYNODICAL COMMITTEEPresident: Kent Laza, (979) 690-7608;

[email protected] Vice President: Rev. Mark Sebek,

(254) 931-2000; [email protected] Vice President: Rev. Michael Groseclose,

979-865-3026, [email protected] Vice President: Dr. Jerry Terrill, 281-364-

9865, [email protected]: Angie Hairrell, 11482 FM 2155,

Somerville, TX 77879; [email protected]: Harvey Treybig, 2504 Timberline

Dr., Austin, TX 78746; (512) 327-2504;[email protected]

Financial Secretary: Liz Ripple, 311 W StateHwy 71, Fayetteville, TX 78940;[email protected]

Ministerial Alternate: Rev. Larry Zabcik,(903) 265-2277; [email protected]

Pastor to Pastors: Dr. Larry Koslovsky;[email protected]

Non-Voting Lay Alternate:Wiley Marx, [email protected]

Lay Members:Austin – Eric Haynes;

[email protected] – Todd Snelgrove; [email protected] – Charlene Vogelsang;

[email protected] – Ron Dusek; [email protected] – Debbie Clark, [email protected] – Roger Runnels; [email protected] Box – Marvin Chlapek;

[email protected] – Liz Ripple; [email protected] Shepherd – Alfredo WilsonGranger – Edwina Jezisek,

[email protected] – Dorothy Hinson;

[email protected] – Harvey Treybig;

[email protected] – Daniel Merz;

[email protected] Tabor – Robert Schlechte;

[email protected] – Robin Brinkley;

[email protected] – Linda Planka;

[email protected] – Alice Kocurek;

[email protected] – Leonard Mikeska;

[email protected] – Connie Janac, [email protected] – James Marek; [email protected] – Kellie Chaplin;

[email protected] – Dewyan Weise; [email protected] – noneWest – Roy Janek; [email protected] – Leroy Parthum;

[email protected]


grateful for the huge benefit thisevent provides to our mission pro-gram and we are also grateful for theinspiration and example the eventprovides for the rest of us. We ap-plaud the demonstration of what canbe accomplished when a few peoplehave a good idea and are willing tocommit the resources, time, and effortnecessary to advance a good idea toa beneficial reality.

I am also glad to be able to shareanother creative and successful mis-sion fund raising project. One mem-ber of the Unity had the idea to do agarage sale for missions. This personshared the idea with a few otherpeople in their congregation as wellas their family, and they all agreed togive the idea a try. The garage salenetted over $600 and all proceedswere given to Unity missions. WhenI spoke to this person, they told methat when some of the garage salecustomers asked how much a certainitem cost, the member simply re-sponded, “whatever you think it isworth, all the proceeds are going tomissions.” This selfless response waswell received by the garage sale cus-tomers and seemed to increase theprice the customer was willing to pay

for the item. The person who hostedthe garage sale was quick to say thatthey did not want any praise for theidea because they had a lot of helpfrom their church and their family.This Brethren went on to say “Godhas been very good to me, so agarage sale for missions seemed to bethe right thing to do.” This made methink, what other ideas will God plantin the minds of Brethren to further Hisplans for missions? It is both excitingand inspiring to see God at work inour small denomination. My prayer asI conclude my service on the Synodi-cal Executive Committee is that we asa denomination will continue to sup-port and expand our missions pro-grams. As we have said before, wehave the easy part of mission out-reach, that is to support our missionefforts prayerfully and monetarily. Itis God and our missionaries that aredoing the heavy lifting in the missionfields so the least we can do issupport our mission efforts with ourand finances and our prayers.

Unity WebsiteThe convention committee tasked

with reviewing the website returned afrank and generally unfavorable as-

TAYLOR BRETHREN CHURCHTAYLOR BRETHREN CHURCHTAYLOR BRETHREN CHURCHTAYLOR BRETHREN CHURCHTAYLOR BRETHREN CHURCHSeventh Street at Sloan in Taylor, Texas

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 351, Taylor, TX 76574512-352-6423

Sunday School: 9:00 a.m. Worship: 10:15 a.m.Pastor President Secretary

James D. Hejl Kevin Page Mary Kokes512-365-6890 512-689-1593 M-Th 8:00 am-noon


New Tabor – Sunday School at 9:30 AM &Worship at 10:30 AM every Sunday,“Tune Up” on Wednesdays, 7:30 PM.

– Rev. Dave Johnson

Ocker – worship at 10:15 AM everySunday. Sunday School at 9:00 AMevery Sunday.

– Rev. Ron Winsman

Pasadena – Sunday School at 9:30 AMand worship at 10:45 AM every Sunday.Midweek Study twice per month onThursdays at 6:30 PM.

– Visiting Ministers

Community Christian Church of Rosenberg –Sundays: Adult Bible Study and Sunday

School for children at 9:00 AM; worshipat 10:30 AM.

Wednesdays: 5:30 PM Dinner; 6:30 PMBible Study.

–

Seaton –Sunday, 9:15 AM – Prayer Gathering;

9:30 AM – Sunday School, All Ages;10:30 AM – Worship Celebration Service.

Wednesday, 6:30 PM – Kid’s NITE Outand Priority ONE Youth (BYF), AdultBible Study.

– Rev. Denise Mikeska

Snook – Sunday School – 9:00 AM;Worship – 10:15 AM.

– Rev. Joseph Polasek

Taylor – worship at 10:15 AM everySunday.

– Rev. James Hejl

Temple – Sunday School at 9:30 AM.,Worship at 10:45 AM.

– Pastor Tim Chaplin

Vsetin – A non-official member congregationof the Unity of the Brethren – Worship at10:00 AM every Sunday.

– Dr. Mark Labaj5th Sunday – Visiting Ministers

Wall – Sunday School (for all ages) at9:30 AM; worship at 10:45 AM everySunday.

– Rev. Thomas Tallas

Wesley – worship at 9:00 AM everySunday. Sunday School follows.

– Rev. Michael Groseclose

West – Sunday School at 9:00 AM andworship at 10:15 AM every Sunday.

– Rev. Curtis Holland

Westheimer Community – 9:30 AM, ChristianEducation; 10:30 AM, Worship, with HolyCommunion every 5th Sunday.

– Visiting Ministers

Austin – Bible Study at 10:00 AMAustin – Worship at 11:00 AM.

– Rev. Linda Chandler

Bryan-College Station – worship at9:00 AM every Sunday.

– Rev. Mark Sebek

Buckholts – worship at 9:00 AM everySunday except the 5th Sunday.Holy Communion on 1st Sunday.Guest speaker on 4th Sunday.

– Rev. John Kueker

Cade Lake Community Chapel – A HomeMission Project since 10-22-11 – SundaySchool at 11:00 AM; Fellowship Lunchat Noon; Worship at 1:00 PM.

– Rev. Jim Heckman

Caldwell – Sunday School at 9:30 AM,worship at 10:30 AM every Sunday.Family Night, 1st & 3rd Weds. eachmonth in Fellowship Hall. Bring asnack, a game, and a friend if able.

– Rev. Vanessa Mitchell

Christ Covenant Church – TuesdayEvening Bible Study.

– Carl Shamel

Crosby – 9:00 AM: Worship10:00 AM: Faith Adventure

– Dr. Larry Koslovsky

Cy-Fair Community Church – worship at10:45 AM every Sunday.

1st & 3rd Sundays – Rick Chandler2nd, 4th, & 5th Sundays – open

Dime Box – worship at 9:00 AM everySunday.

– Rev. Jim Heckman

Fayetteville – Sunday School at 9:45 AM,worship at 10:45 AM every Sunday.

– Rev. Kay Polasek

Good Shepherd Moravian – worship at11:30 AM and 6:30 PM every Sunday.

– Rev. Adolfo Gonzalez

Granger – Bible Study every Sunday at9:00 AM with worship service followingat 10:15 AM.

– Rev. Larry Zabcik

Houston – Sunday School at 9:15 AM;Worship at 10:30 AM every Sunday.

– Rev. Dr. Jerry Terrill

Industry – worship at 9:00 AM everySunday with Sunday School for allages following.

– Rev. Kay Polasek

Nelsonville – Sunday School at 9:00 AMNelsonville – Worship at 10:15 AM

– Rev. Michael Groseclose

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES


WESTHEIMER COMMUNITY CHURCH

15635 Westheimer RoadHouston, Texas 77082

Worship Service 10:30 a.m.Westheimercommunitychurch.org

sessment of the new Unity website.The committee cited the need for thesite to be upgraded to function onmobile devices such as IPads, An-droid devices, and Smart Phones.They also expressed concerns thatthe site was not user friendly. Inaddition to recommending that therotating banner on the home page bemodified to include a brief descriptionof who the Brethren are, the commit-tee also recommended adding fea-tures such as the ability for visitors todownload the Unity emblem in sev-eral different file formats, including“print ready” files. These files couldbe used by Unity churches whenevermarketing materials or signage wasneeded at the local level. Finally, thecommittee recommended that the com-mittee consider finding a new webdeveloper after September 1, 2015,when the current agreement with theweb designer expired. Two of themain issues that led to the committee’srecommendations were the need fortimely updates and the ability to eas-ily update and maintain the site goingforward. These issues had plaguedthe website due to the language inwhich the site was created. The newsite was built in a platform that al-

lowed for the expansion of the site aswell as the implementation of modernweb site tools. This functionality,however, requires someone with atleast a small level of programmingknowledge to adequately manage thesite and someone who can be respon-sive to maintenance needs and sitechanges.

Our Unity website committee metwith the current web designer onAugust 28th to discuss these andother issues related to the website. Inthat meeting, the web designer agreedto add mobile functionality to the site,modify the banner page, and add themarketing files to the site so that theycan be downloaded by local churchesas needed. The committee also re-ceived some initial instruction onwebsite maintenance. The designeralso agreed to host instructionalwebinars for committee members sothat the committee members couldmake some changes to the site goingforward. In addition to instructing thecommittee on web changes, the webdesigner offered to continue main-taining the site for $25 per month. Thefee would be sufficient unless thechanges required more than an hour a


DAILY BIBLE READING GUIDEDaily Morsels for October 2015

- by Dorothy E. Kocian

1. The Son is the radiance of God’sglory and the exact representationof His being. Heb. 1:3

2. I will be their God, and they will beMy people. Jer. 31:33

3. For I will forgive their wickednessand will remember their sins nomore. Jer. 31:34b

4. Once more made perfect, JesusChrist became the source ofeternal salvation for all whoobey Him. Heb. 5:9

5. Jesus Christ was designated to behigh priest in the order ofMelchizedek. Heb. 5:10

6. This Melchizedek was king ofSalem and priest of God MostHigh. Like the Son of God heremains a priest forever. Heb. 7:1,3

7. Because Jesus lives forever, Hehas a permanent priesthood.Heb. 7:24

8. He is able to save those who cometo God through Him. Heb. 7:25

9. Without the shedding of bloodthere is no forgiveness. Heb. 9:22

10. When we were still powerless,Christ died for the ungodly.Rom. 5:6

11. He saved us, not because ofrighteous things we had done,but because of His mercy.Titus 3:5

12. Give thanks to the Lord for He isgood; His love endures forever.Ps. 107:1

13. Let the redeemed of the Lord saythis, those He redeemed from thefoe. Ps. 107:2

14. Jesus Christ, the Righteous One, isthe atoning sacrifice for our sins.1 Jn. 2:2

15. But God demonstrates His ownlove for us in this: While we wereyet sinners, Christ died for us.Rom. 5:8

16. Count yourselves dead to sin butalive to God in Jesus Christ.Rom. 6:11

17. For sin shall not be your master,because you are not under law,but under grace. Rom. 6:14

18. I consider everything a losscompared to the surpassinggreatness of knowingJesus Christ my Lord. Phil. 3:8

19. If I were still trying to please men,I would not be a servant of Christ.Gal. 1:10

20. Jesus said, “I am the light of theworld. Whoever follows Me willnever walk in darkness, but willhave the light of life.” Jn. 8:12

21. Let us throw off everything thathinders and the sin that so easilyentangles. Heb. 12:1a

22. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, theauthor and perfecter of our faith.Heb. 12:2

23. See to it that no one takes youcaptive through hollow anddeceptive philosophy. Col. 2:8

24. Just as you received Christ Jesusas Lord, continue to live in Him.Col. 2:6

25. It is better to take refuge in theLord than to trust in man.Ps. 118:8

26. With everlasting kindness will havecompassion on you, says the Lord,your Redeemer. Isa. 54:8

27. God has said, “Never will I leaveyou, never will I forsake you.”Heb. 13:5

28. Jesus Christ is the same yesterdayand today and forever. Heb. 13:8

29. Before the mountains were born oryou brought forth the earth andthe world, from everlasting toeverlasting you are God. Ps. 90:2

30. If you confess with your mouth“Jesus is Lord,” and believe inyour heart that God raisedHim from the dead, you will besaved. Rom. 10:9

31. Rejoice and be glad, becausegreat is your reward in heaven.Mt. 5:16


month to do. The synodical commit-tee will need to decide how to pro-ceed with the current website, whowill maintain the site and be respon-sible for the ongoing updates that willbe required.

The project of updating and re-building the website has definitelybeen a huge undertaking. The websitecommittee has encountered expectedand unexpected challenges along theway. Nonetheless, the website com-mittee generally believes that thewebsite now contains more informa-tion than ever before. We have workeddiligently to update the informationso that it is timely and useful. Weunderstand that the site is a work inprogress and one we see as a vitalresource for the denomination. Weencourage all local churches to sendinformation about local activities tothe Unity secretary so that we caninclude as much information about“what is going on around the Unity”as possible. We welcome any sugges-tions on how to make the site easierto navigate, user friendly and helpful.While we welcome input about thingsthat are wrong or need to be fixed, weare really in need of more people whoare willing to volunteer their time and

expertise to maintain the site on anongoing basis. In other words, whilewe appreciate “noses” (people whoare able to identify a problem), wewould really like to find more “hands”(people who are willing and able toaddress the problems) to make thewebsite better. If you know the webtool Word Press and are willing to jointhe Website committee, please con-tact a member of the Synodical Execu-tive Committee. If you don’t knowwho the members of the executivecommittee are, get on the internet andgo to www.unityofthebrethren.org.Once on the site click on the “AboutUs” link at the top of the page andthen “Synodical Committee.”

History SymposiumAssuming that expenditure for the

History Symposium passes the refer-endum, the event is planned for Sat-urday November 14th on the campusof Blinn College in Brenham. Theevent will be also sponsored by theUnity, Blinn College, and The CentralTexas Historical Society. The conven-tion recommended that the fundsneeded to pay for the Symposium betaken from those funds under themanagement of the Board for Grants


Hus to Comenius. Information on registration and hotel accommoda-tions will be distributed in the next few weeks. For any otherinformation, please contact Dr. Larry Koslovsky at (281) 328-2442 oremail; [email protected].

SAVE THE DATE…

December 2, 2015 – Presentation by the University of NorthTexas of “Ceska ms vanocni,” traditional Czech music at the TempleBrethren Church. The program will begin at 7 p.m. in the churchsanctuary. The event is open to public and there is no admission fee.Non-perishable food items may be donated and they will be given toChurches Touching Lives for Jesus, a local food pantry. For moreinformation, please contact the church or email Grace Labaj [email protected].

Does your church/organization have an activity that you would liketo include in this listing? Please send activity information includinga contact name, phone number and/or email address to the BrethrenJournal Editor at: [email protected]. Informationmust be received by the first day of the month immediately precedingthe month of publication.

The Community Christian Churchof Rosenberg

5220 Reading RoadRosenberg, TX 77471

(281) 342-3060

Sunday School 9:00 AMWorship Service 10:30 AMWednesday Eve. 5:30 PM

Prayer Service and Bible Study

Youth Minister: Position open

VITAL STATISTICS

DOROTHY LEE ONDRASEK, age86 and a member of Seaton Breth-ren Church, died on May 15, 2015.She was born on December 4,1928. Services were held on May20, 2015, at Seaton Brethren Church.Burial was in the Seaton Cemetery.Survivors include sons, DavidOndrasek and wife Gwen, MichaelOndrasek and wife Mindy, grand-children Chad, Dustin, Cole & CarlyOndrasek, sister, sister-in-law, andnumerous nieces and nephews. Min-ister: Rev. Denise Mikeska

RECENT DEATHS

KUBENA Funeral Home507 South Main St.

Hallettsville, Texas 77946Pre-Arranged Funerals

Low Cost Funeral InsurancePhone 361-798-3271


and Bequests. Back in July, the Boardfor Grants and Bequests balancestopped $373,000, and it was agreedthat this project met the criteria spelledout in the Bylaws relative to use ofthese funds. Appendix C, Article II (B)of the Unity Bylaws says “The Boardwill receive and manage special grantsand bequests for the benefit of agen-cies and undertakings of the Unity ofthe Brethren in coordination with theSynodical Committee and responsibleto Unity of the Brethren Conventions.”

Dr. Thomas Fudge, who is consid-ered by many to be the world author-ity on Jan Hus and Dr. Craig Atwood,author of “The Theology of the CzechBrethren from Hus to Comenius,”have both agreed to speak at thesymposium. These two gentlemen aresome of the most knowledgeable indi-viduals in the world on our denomina-tional roots and history and stand to

make this event very interesting andinformative for Brethren and non-Brethren alike. This symposium shouldbe an excellent tool, especially forBrethren to learn more about ourdenomination and better equip us toexplain to others when we are askedthat (sometimes dreaded ) question“What is Brethren?”

Administrative PositionOver the last several years the

executive committee has discussedthe possibility of creating a new paidposition to serve at the pleasure andassistance of the Synodical ExecutiveCommittee. While the specifics of thejob description are yet to be deter-mined, the purpose of the positionwould be to ensure that directionprovided by the Convention and Syn-odical Committee is followed and to

Call us if you have questionsabout naming your churchor a Unity of the Brethrenagency as a beneficiary

in an existing or newSPJST insurance certificate.

SPJST520 NorthMain StreetTemple, Texas 76501

(800) 727-7578www.spjst.org

MembershipBenefits

• Life Insurance• Annuities• Home Loans• Family Activities• Community Involvement• Youth Activities and Camp• Scholarships• Vestnik weekly newspaper

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Schedule and Details of Upcoming Unity Activities

October 9-11 – Annual Primetimers’ Retreat at the Hus Encamp-ment. Bible Study and Discussion on Enhancing Prayer Life. Cost forthe entire weekend including food and lodging is $45 per person, or if youcan only come for the day on Saturday the cost is $25. Registrationsshould be available at your church or by contacting Kimberly Kennardat (254) 931-5657.

October 24, 2015 – Fall Synodical Committee Meeting at theHus Encampment – 9:00 a.m.; refreshments served at 8:00 a.m. Alight lunch will be served at noon. The newly elected officers for 2015-2017 will be installed and the results of the referendum votes from the66th Biennial Unity Convention will be canvassed. All congregations arekindly asked to please return the Referendum Results and the name ofthe Representative that will serve their church for the next 2 years bythe designated deadline to Liz Ripple – outgoing Secretary. The agendawill be sent out soon. Please share this information with your churchmembers. If you have any questions, contact Kent Laza,[email protected] or 979-690-7608, or Angie Hairrell,[email protected].

November 7, 2015 – Seaton Brethren Church Christian SistersAnnual Bake Sale & Quilt Show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the church,12561 State Highway 53, Temple (Seaton community). For additionalinformation, see article in this issue.

November 8, 2015 – Industry Brethren Church Honor OurVeterans Service: Texas A&M Singing Cadets Quartet will perform.For more information, please contact Liz Treybig at: [email protected] (512) 327-2504.

November 14, 2015 – Unity of the Brethren History Symposiumcommemorating the 600th Anniversary of the Martyrdom of Jan Hus, tobe held on the campus of Blinn College, Brenham, Texas, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. The event is sponsored by the Unity, Blinn College, and TheCentral Texas Historical Society. Speakers are: Dr. Thomas Fudge, whois considered by many to be the world authority on Jan Hus, and; Dr.Craig Atwood, author of The Theology of the Czech Brethren from


also ensure continuity and consis-tency is maintained as the executivecommittee changes year after year.Ideally, the person who fills this posi-tion would have a good understand-ing of and familiarity with the UnityConstitution and Bylaws. This knowl-edge could help the executive com-mittee, Synodical Committee, and eventhe Convention operate within theboundaries of the Constitution andBylaws while making sure that thework of the denomination is com-pleted even in the midst of constantchange in the personnel serving inthese leadership positions. After serv-ing in Unity leadership roles, I sup-port the creation of this position andbelieve the Unity would be wise toinvest in such a position.

OCKER BRETHREN CHURCH17454 State Highway 53

Temple, Texas 76501

Preaching the Word, Loving the PeopleSunday School 9:00 AM

Worship 10:15 AM

Elder Board PresidentJohn Brinkley

119 CR 3000, Lott, TX 76656(254) 721-3196

[email protected]

PastorRev. Ron Winsman

3112 W. Ave. R, Temple, TX 76504(254) 742-0827

[email protected]

Youth DirectorJennifer Chervenka

9494 Big Elm Creek RoadRogers, TX 76569

(254) 983-1002

CemeterySharon Marek

23383 Milam RoadBurlington, TX 76519

(254) 869-2845

In closing, I would like to thank theUnity for their confidence and sup-port which has been extended to mein my roles of service on the executivecommittee over the last 8 years. Theexperience has been both challengingand rewarding. I want to also thankeveryone on the executive committeeand throughout the Unity with whomI have served and worked over theselast 8 years. As I conclude my serviceon the Synodical Executive Commit-tee, I remain convinced that God hasa definite plan for the Unity of theBrethren, and I pray we will continueto seek that plan and make ourselvesavailable for His service.

Respectfully Submitted in Christ’sService, James Marek, President


3rd Place: Wall Brethren

2nd Place: Bryan-College Station Brethren


The Giving and Stewardship Cor-ner is a small way of reminding uswhat the Bible has to say aboutgiving and stewardship. Generosityis not only an act of worship but anexpression of our gratitude to Godour Father and provider. Giving isalso a spiritual discipline that pro-motes spiritual development and ma-turity. What is God prompting yourheart to give?

Proverbs 8: 18-21“Riches and honor are with me,

enduring wealth and prosperity. Myfruit is better than gold, even finegold, and my yield than choice sil-

Giving and Stewardship Corner

ver. I walk in the way of righteous-ness, along the paths of justice, en-dowing with wealth those who loveme, and filling their treasuries.”

Hebrews 13:16“Do not neglect to do good and to

share what you have, for such sacri-fices are pleasing to God.”

“People go through 3 conver-sions: Their head, their heart, andtheir pocketbook. Unfortunately, notall at the same time.” – Martin Luther

Have you gone through all 3 con-versions yet?

Denominational Mission Givingas of August 25, 2015

Given (where we are) YTD Budget (where we should be)

Deficit (still needed by year end)

$67,000

Foreign Missions Home Missions Total Mission Giving

$44,666.67

$31,375

$35,625

$67,000

$44,666.67

$27,250

$39,750

$67,000

$89,333.33

$58,625

$75,375

$134,000

ADERHOLDFUNERAL HOME, INC.“Thoughtful Service –

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The BYF year ended with a heatwave at the summer convention andvolleyball tournament. Conventionbusiness was good, and 2015-2016retreat dates were set for September12-13 and January 9-10. The summerretreat dates will be set after the camp

Summer Retreat a SuccessFall Retreat September 12-13

1st Place: Snook Brethren

dates are set. The volleyball tourna-ment began around 10:30 a.m. andplayers braved the heat until mid-night to determine the champions.Snook Bigs took first place. B/CStook 2nd. Wall took 3rd. Wesley/Industry/Nelsonville AB took 4th.

HOUSTON BRETHREN CHURCH6207 North Main, Houston, TX 77009 – (713) 864-6707

YOU ARE CORDIALLY INVITED TO WORSHIP WITH USSunday School 9:15 a.m. – Church Service 10:30 a.m.

Pastor: Rev. Dr. Jerry L. Terrill

Dorothy Hinson John David SkrivanekPresident Secretary

7331 Misty Morning Lane P.O. Box 1605Humble, TX 77346 Bellaire, TX 77402

(281) 620-0480 (713) 626-0522


In God’s Hands MinistryP. O. Box 321

Caldwell, TX 77836979-574-7134

Everyday Ministries to Meet Everyday NeedsA Home Mission Work to Cade Lake and Burleson County

The Unity of the Brethren will besponsoring a history symposium en-titled, Jan Hus after 600 Years: His-tory and Heritage. Co-sponsoringthe event with the Unity of the Breth-ren will be Blinn College and theTexas Historical Society.

The event will allow for reflectionabout who Jan Hus was and what hissignificance is for Christians today.The symposium is also gearedat acknowledging other events in theworld that were taking place in thisera as well as the lingering impact thatJan Hus has had on thousands ofCzech Americans.

The main speakers for the eventinclude Rev. Dr. Craig Atwood and Dr.Thomas Fudge. Atwood is the direc-tor for the Center for MoravianStudies. Fudge is the author of TheMagnificent Ride: First Reformationin Hussite Bohemia and The CrusadeAgainst the Heretics in Bohemia,1418-1437. Dr. Fudge has worked atthe University of Canterbury inChristchurch, New Zealand lecturingmainly on European History.

In addition, Dr. Arnold Krammer,professor emeritus from Texas A&MUniversity, Dr. Kenneth W. Howellfrom Blinn College, and Dr. CharlesGrear from Central Texas College

Jan Hus after 600 Years: History and HeritageHistory Symposium

have been instrumental in assistingwith planning and logistic arrange-ments for the event.

The anticipated audience include:members of the Unity of the Brethren,others from Czech descent (includingthe large population of Catholics inTexas), students of history, historiansand seminary students. It is believedthat between 100 and 200 individualswill participate the history sympo-sium. Partnerships with organizationsnot listed above who are interested inthis event are actively being soughtby committee members.

If you, or an organization that youare affiliated with, would like to lendsupport to the history symposium,please contact Dr. Larry Koslovsky,[email protected] or Dr. Dawn MarieBaletka, [email protected].

The event will take place on No-vember 14, 2015, at Blinn College inBrenham, TX, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Infor-mation on registration and hotel ac-commodations will be distributed inthe next few weeks.

If you have any questions con-cerning this event, please feel free tocontact any of the Hus History Sym-posium Committee members or chair-person, Dr. Larry Koslovsky,[email protected].


Use the pictures below to retell the story of Samson. Cross out the onesthat do not belong.


On the morning of Sunday, July 12,2015, members of the Unity of theBrethren from various places gath-ered together for a worship service onthe grounds of the Wesley BrethrenChurch. A large tent was set up toaccommodate a gathering of this size.

As dawn broke, the overnight fogbegan to concede defeat to the risingTexas sun. A gentle breeze made itsway through the tent promising adegree of comfort for those who wouldsoon gather.

As final preparations were made,members of the Unity began gather-ing together to take part in whatpromised to be a very special worshipservice. A service that marked boththe 600th anniversary of the martyr-dom of Jan Hus and the 150th anni-versary of the congregation at Wesley.

One of the things that emergedfrom that worship service was how tobest answer the question: What is theUnity of the Brethren? That is a veryprofound question and one couldtake a number of different approachesin attempting to answer it.

Certainly one way to approach the

That’s a Good Question-by Jim Pokorny

question is by comparison. We cancompare ourselves to other Protes-tant denominations such as Lutheranor Calvinist. We might then clarifythat answer by pointing out a distinc-tion or two. In reality, the Unity pre-dates these and all other Protestantdenominations. The Unity was part ofthe Czech Reformation long beforethere was a Protestant Reformation.Once it became part of the largerProtestant Reformation, the other de-nominations had some influence onthe Unity. It must also be stated thatthe Unity also had a great deal ofinfluence on them, as well.

We can also approach the ques-tion historically. We can say thatUnity came into being in Kunwald,Bohemia, where men of like mind andheart looked to the martyr Jan Hus forexample as well as men of integritylike Peter Chelcicky. There Gregoryand his followers sought the will ofGod and forever parted with the Catho-lic and Utraquist Churches. This oc-curred at a historic synod which tookplace on Maundy Thursday in 1457.

GGGGGRANGERRANGERRANGERRANGERRANGER B B B B BRETHRENRETHRENRETHRENRETHRENRETHREN C C C C CHURCHHURCHHURCHHURCHHURCH

1903 Where it all began306 West Broadway Street, Granger, TX

76530

Bible Study 9:00 a.m.Worship Services 10:15 a.m.

Pastor, Rev. Larry Zabcik(903) 265-2277


One Strong KidBackground:The story of Samson is from Judges13:1-5,24, & 16:4-6,15-20. Samson wasborn to be dedicated to the work of the Lord. His hair was to never be cut.He grew up to be the strongest man to ever live. He fell in love withDelilah, who cut his hair, causing him to lose his strength and become aprisoner. He realized his strength came from God and pushed down thepillars of the temple.

Read & Tell:Go to the Bible Story Guy for the story of Samson.http://www.essex1.com/pages/paul/bible42.html orhttp://childrensministry.com/articles/bible-activity-samson-samson/

Do:A Recipe of MeThis activity will help students identify the special gifts and talents thatGod has given them.

1. Give each child an index card or use the template on the blog.2. Under ingredients, list characteristics that make you unique. You can

include physical characteristics (blue eyes, brown hair, strong legs)and personality characteristics (sense of humor, love of music, goodat math).

Bible Truths:1. God can use the good and the bad to accomplish His work.2. All sin has consequences.3. God would rather forgive than judge. God saw Samson as a man of

faith; he is listed among those in the hall of faith (Hebrews 11:32).4. God gives us gifts and talents. Samson was the strongest man to ever

live. God gave him this strength, and Samson let himself be used byGod.

Check out the blog and Pinterest Board for more ideas and links!

http://sundayschoolhelperbrethrenjournal.blogspot.com/

https://www.pinterest.com/ahairrell/ss-helper-samson/


Having assured themselves that thiswas indeed God’s will for them, theylooked within their own ranks andestablished a new priesthood.

One could also approach the ques-tion somewhat philosophically. Thesixteenth century Dutch HumanistErasmus described his own theologyas “The Philosophy of Christ.” It wasbased on the example of Christ andhis teaching, especially the Sermonon the Mount. This was, in the wordsof Erasmus, “more real and preciousthan any material relics of him thatcould be found.” In 1519 Erasmuswas the first Western writer to defendthe Brethren publicly. Erasmus ap-proved of the Unity’s stricter disci-pline and offered the heretical Unityas a model the Catholic Church shouldemulate.

These are just some of the ap-proaches one could take in answeringsuch a profound question.

As the worship service continued,the pastors who led the service sharedspecial memories of Nelsonville,Wesley, and other Unity congrega-tions. Each shared his particular giftof wit as they good naturedly sparredwith each other. This took me backseveral decades, as it very much

reminded me of the camaraderie myfather once shared with his brothers.I was reminded of the laughter theyloved to share with each other andthose around them. As my laughtermingled with the laughter of the otherworshippers, I imagined that joyoussound making its way across theTexas countryside. I could not helpbut wonder at how inviting that soundmust have been to any who happenedto hear it. Perhaps this is yet anotherway in which one could approach thequestion.

Of course, my thoughts also turnedto Jan Hus who preached outdoors tolarge crowds and how fitting a tributethis worship service was to a manwho served as an example and aninspiration to the founders of theUnity in 1457.

Communion was served to all inattendance. Communion is always aspecial experience, but to share thebody and blood of the Savior withother members of the Unity wasuniquely special and exceeds my ca-pacity for description. Music in theCzech language was offered up. AsCzech was my first language, thisbrought back a flood of wonderfulmemories of my parents, grandpar-

Temple Brethren ChurchTemple Brethren ChurchTemple Brethren ChurchTemple Brethren ChurchTemple Brethren Church2202 Birdcreek Drive2202 Birdcreek Drive2202 Birdcreek Drive2202 Birdcreek Drive2202 Birdcreek DriveTemple, Texas 76502Temple, Texas 76502Temple, Texas 76502Temple, Texas 76502Temple, Texas 76502

(254) 778-8759(254) 778-8759(254) 778-8759(254) 778-8759(254) [email protected]@[email protected]@[email protected]

Sunday School:Sunday School:Sunday School:Sunday School:Sunday School: 9:30 a.m.9:30 a.m.9:30 a.m.9:30 a.m.9:30 a.m. Tim Chaplin, Interim PastorTim Chaplin, Interim PastorTim Chaplin, Interim PastorTim Chaplin, Interim PastorTim Chaplin, Interim PastorWorship:Worship:Worship:Worship:Worship: 10:45 a.m.10:45 a.m.10:45 a.m.10:45 a.m.10:45 a.m. (254) 718-3898(254) 718-3898(254) 718-3898(254) 718-3898(254) 718-3898


Samson was a child with a purpose from before he was born!Samson’s parents longed for a child and were excited when theangel proclaimed they would have a child who would be Nazirite,meaning he was set apart for service to God. Even when Samsonstrayed from his original purpose, God used him for His glory. Thestory of Samson reminds us that God created each of us for areason and we each have a purpose. God wants us to use our giftsand talents and do things we enjoy for the glory of God. KnowingGod created us for a purpose gives children a confidence and asecurity like nothing else. They become confident of their worth –worth that is not bound to what they do or how they act or whatthey wear, but worth that is inherently theirs because they are achild of God. Because He created them for His purpose.

Sunday School Helper

For I know the plans

I have for you…

Jeremiah 29:11a


Seaton Brethren ChurchSeaton Brethren ChurchSeaton Brethren ChurchSeaton Brethren ChurchSeaton Brethren Church12561 State Highway 53

Temple, TX 76501Church Phone: 254-985-2694

[email protected]

Rev. Denise Mikeska, Pastor –[email protected]

Charles Amos Sr., Board of Elders Chair

ents, uncles, and aunts.For the record, I did not participate

in the singing in Czech. I have alwaysheld that God gave my mother the giftof music. He gave me the gift ofwisdom because I am wise enough toknow that I do not have the gift ofmusic. Perhaps that is one of thereasons I sit up front in church. Theonly one who regularly gets a gooddose of my singing is Brother Jimmy,and he pretty much has to forgive me.

Of course, it will come as no sur-prise to anyone remotely familiar withthe Unity that a meal was servedafterward. It was a wonderful experi-ence to share in that meal with somany members of my extended churchfamily. Afterward, I continued to ex-perience God’s love for me as I visitedwith many individuals from through-out the Unity.

I also spent a great deal of timeinside the original church erected atWesley. In January I found myself atthe old church for the first time, butwas only able to see it from theoutside. This time would be different.Before entering, I paused below thesign above its doors and reflectedupon the words written in the Czechlanguage “Ja tsem ta cesta i pravda i

zivot – slova Jezise Krista” whichtranslate “I am the way the truth andthe life – words of Jesus Christ.”

I will not deny there is a specialfeeling that comes over me each timeI read those words in Czech. That iswhy I referred to that very sign in theclosing of my devotional which re-volved around Jan Hus who defendedthe truth even though it would ulti-mately cost him his life.

I then stepped inside that historicchurch building and took many pho-tographs of its wondrously paintedinterior. As I absorbed the historyaround me and photographed itsbeauty, I was reminded of somethingvery important a pastor shared duringthe worship service. The church isnot the building; it is the people.

Pastor Lacjak began painting theinterior of the church before his un-timely death, and it remains just theway he left it. I was able to clearlyphotograph the pencil marks on theceilings and walls indicating where heintended to continue his work.

This served to remind me that thework of the church – the work of thepeople – is never really complete. Aslong as we draw breath there remainswork for us to do.


Editor’s Note: Is your church look-ing for a way to raise money forMissions? The following was sent inas a possible idea how your churchcould raise money for missions andget rid of “stuff” at the same time. Awin-win idea! If you have an ideahow to raise funds for Missions thatyou would like to share with others,send an email to:[email protected]

I have moved and “down sized”.This effort is still going on. Questionis: What to do with all the “stuff”. Ihad donated and given away much,but still there was more.

My Church did a clean-up in prepa-ration for the Church Convention andhad a lot of “stuff” to get rid of also.

So the idea came together that wewould do a garage sale. With the helpof Church members we got it set up,and with help from my family it was

What to Do With All the Stuff?

PLEASE JOIN US AS WE

“Bear ye one another’s burdensAnd so fulfill the Law of

Christ.” (Gal. 6:2)

THE MUTUAL AIDSOCIETY

Rev. Joseph J. Polasek, PresidentDaniel Vojtek, Vice-PresidentNatalie Outlaw, Gen. SecretaryRuth Ann Wuensche, TreasurerDorothy Hinson, Jr. Dept. SecretaryAnn Sebesta, Board MemberRev. Michael Groseclose,

Synodical Liaison

accomplished. When all was done,$635 was collected and donated toHome Missions. Items not sold werethen donated to Goodwill, Faith Mis-sions, and other local mission agencies.

Just an idea for raising $$ formissions.

WALL BRETHREN CHURCH12 miles east of San Angelo, Loop 570, Wall, Texas

P.O. Box 195, Wall, Texas 76957Phone: 325-651-4444 ~ Fax: 325-651-5100

Pastor: Rev. Thomas TallasHome: 325-949-7543 Cell: 325-656-8558

Home: [email protected]: [email protected]

www.wallbrethrenchurch.org

Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Worship: 10:45 a.m.

President Pastor/Director of Youth Church OfficeBoard of Elders and Young Family Ministries Secretary

David Miller Ryan Volkman Johnie Smith325-651-7597 325-213-0671 Tu-F-8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.


As I prepared to depart, mythoughts turned once again to JohnAmos Comenius, the last bishop (el-der) of the Bohemian Unity of theBrethren.

In spite of the tragedies and losseshe personally experienced, his theol-ogy remained one of hope. Some oftoday’s so-called experts mistakenlyregard him as little more than a piousdreamer. I continue to hold thatComenius was a true genius in everysense of the word. He had no illu-sions about the states of the world,the church and society, having expe-rienced many of their injustices firsthand.

It was during the darkest period ofhis life that he wrote his truly beauti-ful epic Labyrinth of the World andParadise of the Heart. In that alle-gory Comenius examined many injus-tices, but his conclusion is evidencethat he never relinquished hope.

The Unity of his day was a victimof persecution and political intrigueand Comenius could do little butwatch it die. In spite of these circum-stances, Comenius never lost hope.He wrote, “the wise, good God wastearing down his little house in orderto prepare a place for a bigger one…that is, in place of his dear little Unityerecting a bigger one, even morebeloved by him. In this way not onlyeverywhere in the fatherland, butamong the peoples of the entire earth,the candle, which hitherto only glim-mered under a bushel of particularsects and unities, would now be placedon a high lampstand. From there itwould shine brightly to all humanityin the houses of the church and in thehouses of the world.”

Comenius saw himself as the door-

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keeper whose duty was “to closebehind me the door of the little Unityand to open before me the door of thegreat Unity.” Such was the unfailinghope of Comenius.

Although many days have passedsince that worship service, my thoughtshave returned many times both to itand that profound question: What isthe Unity of the Brethren?

To be completely honest, I amrather glad that there is no simple,cookie cutter way to answer thatquestion. I think it is the kind ofquestion we need to keep askingourselves from time to time if wedesire not only to survive but toserve effectively.

I remain convinced that God haskept the Unity alive for reasons of Hischoosing rather than our own. TheUnity of today faces many challenges,but if we look back upon our history,we find we are well equipped to faceany and all of them.

In Christ, we find our faith. In JanHus, we find an example. In PeterChelcicky, we find integrity. In Gre-gory the Patriarch, we find leadershipthat seeks the will of God. In JohnAmos Comenius, we find unfailinghope.


Closest to theHole Winner:

Gladys KeatonClosest to theHole Winner:

Tommy Hooker

hole sponsors, those individuals whodonated items to the gift bags, as wellas the members from Nelsonville andWesley who volunteered their timeand efforts to make this event such ahuge success. Without their supportwe could not make this event work.

We also want to thank Faith BridgeRanch Golf Course for allowing us theuse of their facility for this event. Avery big thank you goes to JenellZettel, whose generous gift allowedus to do many things at the tourna-ment, including sponsoring a youthteam in the tournament.

Plans are already being made fornext year’s golf tournament, whichwill probably be held in June.

In Christ,Bro. Mike Groseclose

Longest DriveWinner:

Kami Hooker


We all do things that are wrong.We all say things that injure.We all think things that are toxic.We all fall short of perfection.Yet with this reality in mind, we all

tend to believe that we are living rightin God’s eyes.

One of the most often forgottengenres of prayer is the prayer offorgiveness. We know in the depthsof our beings that simply asking theLord Jesus to forgive us in a blanketstatement reveals that our hearts aredeceptive. Naming our sins to Godand more importantly, asking the HolySpirit to reveal our specific sins to us,is critical to the mission of living a lifethat not only pleases God, but genu-inely enjoys the freedom of havingbeen forgiven for all that we say,think, and do.

I challenge myself and I challengeyou to take Psalm 51 below, written byKing David in the biblical Book ofPsalms, and pray this aloud until youfeel that God has cleansed you of therightful guilt that your sins and theworld’s merit. Pray this aloud on your

“Resisting the Blanket Statement”- by Rev. Vanessa L. Mitchell

knees at home, standing out in a field,or walking down a quiet sidewalkduring your lunch break. Pray it be-cause you cannot afford not to. Not asingle person can. Do it now and seehow good the ministry of the HolySpirit is to your heart, mind and soul.

Psalm 51:1-17Have mercy on me, O God, accord-

ing to your unfailing love; accord-ing to your great compassion blotout my transgressions. 2 Wash awayall my iniquity and cleanse me frommy sin. 3 For I know my transgres-sions, and my sin is always before me.4 Against you, you only, have I sinnedand done what is evil in your sight,so that you are proved right whenyou speak and justified when youjudge. 5 Surely I was sinful at birth,sinful from the time my mother con-ceived me. 6 Surely you desire truthin the inner parts; you teach mewisdom in the inmost place. 7 Cleanseme with hyssop, and I will be clean;wash me, and I will be whiter thansnow. 8 Let me hear joy and glad-

SNOOK BRETHREN CHURCH9882 FM 2155/P.O. Box 247, Snook, TX 77878

Church Phone – (979) 272-3303COME WORSHIP WITH US

Sunday School – 9:00 AM; Worship – 10:15 AMBible Buddies – 2nd Wednesday, 6:00-7:30 PM

Pastor Board of Elders President Youth DirectorsRev. Joseph Polasek Rayfield Slovacek Randall & Jonna See

P.O. Box 54 P.O. Box 267 P.O. Box 345Snook, TX 77878 Snook, TX 77878 Snook, TX 77878

(979) 272-1624 (979) 272-8845 (979) 272-8179


On July 9, 2015, 50 Golfers andanother 20+ people gathered at FaithBridge Ranch Golf Course in Monavilleto enjoy a day of golf, great Bar-B-Que, and fellowship at the 2nd annualRev. Henry E. Beseda, Jr., Golf Tour-nament for Missions. A great timewas had by all.

We were able to raise $9,586.73 forthe Unity’s Mission Fund.

Results of the Tournament are asfollows:

Tier One Winners: They had thebest score of all the teams that partici-pated: Billy Marricle, Jason Beamon,William Peschel, and Paul Martinez.

Beseda MemorialGolf Tournament Results

Tier Two Winners: Kathy Gardner,Jim Gardner, Boo Lindgrin, and GladysKeaton.

Winner of both Longest DriveContests: Kami Hooker

Winner of the Closest to the HoleContest: Gladys Keaton and TommyHooker.

The winners of the contests won$50 gift cards and the teams wontrophies.

Along with the golfers and visi-tors, Trish and I want to thank our 37

Tier Two Winners:Kathy Gardner, Jim Gardner,

Boo Lindgrin, and Gladys Keaton


Unity ArchivistClint Machann

[email protected] or 979-845-4898

ness; let the bones you have crushedrejoice. 9 Hide your face from my sinsand blot out all my iniquity. 10Create in me a pure heart, O God,and renew a steadfast spirit withinme. 11 Do not cast me from yourpresence or take your Holy Spiritfrom me. 12 Restore to me the joy ofyour salvation and grant me a will-ing spirit, to sustain me. 13 Then Iwill teach transgressors your ways,and sinners will turn back to you. 14Save me from bloodguilt, O God, theGod who saves me, and my tonguewill sing of your righteousness. 15 OLord, open my lips, and my mouthwill declare your praise. 16 You donot delight in sacrifice, or I wouldbring it; you do not take pleasure inburnt offerings. 17 The sacrifices ofGod are a broken spirit; a brokenand contrite heart, O God, you willnot despise.

Do you feel free now?Is the weight of your particular

sins off of your shoulders now?Go in the peace and joy of Jesus

Christ.He will continue to walk with you

as you strive to remain open to theministry of cleansing of the HolySpirit in your being.

You can resist the temptation ofthe “blanket statement prayer” offorgiveness.

Amen.Amen.Amen.

HUS ENCAMPMENTBOARD OF TRUSTEES

Voting Members:

Chair: Mark Olsen, 1316 Howard St.,Taylor, TX 75674. (512) 630-5153;[email protected]

Vice-Chair: Rick Weise, P.O. Box 28,Vancourt, TX [email protected]

Treasurer: Ron Krueger, P.O. Box 1225,Taylor, TX 76574. (512) 365-7191;[email protected]

Secretary: Connie Janac (Chr. Sis. 2010)1002 Munson, College Station, TX 77840.(979) 696-1953; [email protected]

At-Large: Phil Michalik, 15918 BrookForest Dr., Houston, TX [email protected]

Member: Debbie Grimm (Chr. Sis. 2010)1409 Stone Ridge Rd., Taylor, TX 76574.C: (512) 718-2310;[email protected]

Member: Erin Brinkley (BYF: 2012), 119CR 3000, Lott, TX 76656;[email protected]

Member: Angie Hairrell (Bd. Chr.Ed.),11482 FM 2155, Somerville, TX 77879;[email protected]

Member: Todd Snelgrove, 5207 DraycottCt., Bryan, TX 77802. (979) 229-7524;[email protected]

Non-Voting Appointments:

Programming Director: Kayla Marek, 901Hidden Valley Dr. #9302, Round Rock,TX 78665; [email protected]

Unity Youth Coordinator: JenniferChervenka (Synodical CommitteeAppointment), 9494 Big Elm Creek Road,Rogers, TX 76569. (254) 983-1002;[email protected]

Facilities Manager(s): Jim and DawnMarie Baletka, 600 Benchmark Drive,College Station, TX 77845;[email protected]; [email protected]

Caretakers: Robert and CathleenSchlechte, 3635 CR 225, Caldwell, TX77836; (979) 324-5560,

(979)255-8266; [email protected];[email protected]

Oversight of Synodical Committee: Rev.Dr. Jerry Lee Terrill, 7 Torch Pine Court,The Woodlands, TX 77381. (281) 364-9865; [email protected]


From the Woo’s...September 1, 2015

Greetings partners,It’s hard to believe September is

here. The boys are having a BLASTin school! We are so thankful.

I have 8 more treatments, everyFriday, hopefully ending on Isaac’s4th birthday, October 23. Then I willhave a few weeks to rest and thenstart 6 weeks of every-day radiationending around Christmas.

If you have seen me lately I’veprobably looked pretty good. Butthen my stomach pain hits and I willhave a terrible day. This week I havefelt really bad from Sunday night allthe way to Tuesday. This stomachpain is probably connected to someextreme constipation caused by thechemo. Please pray the Lord will makethings move and flow in my body andfor the pain to go.

OCTOBER is coming – and thatmeans it is October month of dailyprayer for the SD people we workwith. If you have participated beforeyou are probably still on the list. Ifyou are not please consider signingup for one of the following.

Those who want to participate cansign up by 3 ways:

1) Sign up for a daily email lettingthem know you want to be on the list(or off): [email protected]

2) Like the Facebook: pray for theShan-Tai

3) Follow us on Twitter:@ShanPrayer

Would you also consider beingthe advocate for your congregation?This would mean you could ASAP dosome of the following.

1) Announce this upcoming eventin your congregations’ newsletter orbulletin or webpage.

2) Encourage small groups andSunday schools classes to take upthis challenge.

3) Pray for the SD from the pulpitduring Sunday morning.

If you want to be an advocate Imay be able to give you a video andsome helpful things to encouragethose in your congregation. Just letme know.

Your prayers do matter and DOhave POWER. Join with hundreds allover the world as we boldly go beforethe throne of God and plead for thesebeautiful people.

Thanks so much for yourencouragement and love,

Caroline

BOARD OFCHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Tami Laza, Chair;[email protected]

Charles Groseclose, Representa-tive to Foreign Mission Board;

[email protected]

Angie Hairrell, Representative toHus Board of Trustees;[email protected]

Jennifer Chervenka;[email protected]

Dorothy Kocian;[email protected]

Jean Kotrla; [email protected]

Rev. Dr. Jerry Terrill, SynodicalCommittee Liaison;

[email protected]

Debbie Clark

Peggy Hejl


The Christian Sisters of SeatonBrethren Church are hosting a bakesale and quilt show on Saturday,November 7th, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. atthe church, 12561 State Highway 53,Temple (Seaton community).

Featured items in the sale will bekolaches, cakes, pies, cookies, bread,jellies, home-made canned goods andcraft items. A re-sale/rummage shopwill be opened. Sandwiches and home-made soup will be available to pur-chase for lunch. Quilts will be ondisplay in the sanctuary.

A hand-made quilt, a $100, a $75and a $50 gift card from Wal-Mart,two $50 HEB gift cards, a $50 Bush’sChicken gift card, & other gift cardswill be given away for a love donationof $1 per ticket or 6 tickets for $5. Theproceeds from the fundraiser benefit

Seaton Brethren ChurchBake Sale and Quilt Show Invitation

the many projects the Sisters’ sup-port. The sale is open to the publicwith free admission.

CALDWELL BRETHREN CHURCH401 South Main Street

(979) 567-7203Sunday School

9:30 AMChildren’s ChoirPractice, Sundays

10:15 a.m.Sunday Worship

10:30 AM

Come as you are . . .

Church email: [email protected]

Wednesday Family Night Gathering:1st & 3rd Wednesdays each month

Rev. Vanessa Mitchell, [email protected]

(979) 574-0268

www.lifeatcbc.org Friend us on Facebook!


dress, though, for now). Mikael haddriven here on his way from TX toWheaton (where they are both at thecollege) and was a great help inmoving things over (as well as agroup from our church). He and Elaileft last Monday, since their schoolstarted on Wednesday. So, we arejust a mile or two to the north of wherewe were staying for the first fivemonths, still in the same circle ofclose friends who are helping providefor us during this year. This year ofbig changes has been made so mucheasier through the loving help ofmany friends, and especially the oneshosting us. We are incredibly blessedby these provisions. Thanks!

Another marker of summer beingdone is Anne’s upcoming mastec-tomy and lymph node removal sur-gery this Tuesday, September 1st.That will start around 11a.m., and sheis supposed to be released thatevening. Then she will have six weeksof recovery followed by five weeks ofdaily radiation. If everything is heal-ing well from the surgery, we hope totravel to Oaxaca for a two-week visit,right before the radiation.

We also hosted some fellowMBMission missionaries for four days.

They are from Columbia, have spent13 years now with an indigenousgroup in Panama, and are on their wayto a retreat at headquarters and sometime with supporting churches.They’ve only visited BC and SK inthe winter (and the Toronto airport),so to be toured around this verdantfruit and wine country in the fullnessof summer was special for them. Theyhad a hard time reconciling this withtheir previous image of Canada. AndEiner and I got to spend yesterdayafternoon helping my nephew har-vest three tons of organic potatoes,not exactly only by hand, but cer-tainly in a labour-intensive mannerthat my friend loved. He is a farmer atheart, and has done some organicfarming in his mission work in Panama(at the very end of the Pan AmericanHighway), and this was a perfectending to their short visit here in thesouth of Canada. We got up at 4:30this morning to take them to theairport, and hopefully they will enjoythe rest of their visit to Canada asmuch as this part.

We are thankful for all the waysyou uphold us and help us.

Thank you, Robert

Mailing Address: Church 9:00 A.M.P.O. Box 9283 Sunday School 10:45 A.M.College Station, TX 77842 Off: 979-693-3606

email: [email protected]

BrBrBrBrBryyyyyan/College Stan/College Stan/College Stan/College Stan/College Staaaaat ion Brethren Churchtion Brethren Churchtion Brethren Churchtion Brethren Churchtion Brethren Church2650 Earl Rudder Freeway South

www.unityofthebrethren.org

Rev. Mark Sebek


Thoughts about giving…

Remembering the Unity of the Brethren or anyof its ministries is a fitting testimony of yourbelief. Your gift in a will can be a legacy thatcontinues to affect the Christian values, mission,and ministry that is important to you.

You can give without restrictions and let us use the funds forthe most pressing needs or you can specify how, when, orwhere you want the funds used.

You can require that we hold the principle as an endowmentand use only the earnings each year.

You can give in memory or in the honor of someone.

Your gift can be contingent. The funds go to someone if theysurvive you and if not, then to the Unity.

You can tell us now that you have named the Unity in yourwill and allow us to express our gratitude…or you can let itbe known later.

There are many other ways to give. Contact any Board ofGrants and Bequests member about what you can give andhow you can give.

Leroy Parthum, Chair – Westheimer; betty [email protected] Runnels – Cy-Fair – 281-469-4302, [email protected] Treybig – Industry – Unity Treasurer and Synodical

Committee Liaison, 512-327-2504; [email protected] Tyson – Houston – 281-373-4376 (home),

[email protected] Tomasek – 512-859-2197, [email protected] Weise – Wall – Unity Treasurer and Synodical

Committee Liaison – 325-651-8550, [email protected] Haisler – Ocker – 254-985-2316, [email protected]


In Christ’s Love . . .from the Foreign Missions Field

From the Thiessen’s...August 30, 2015

Hello dear friends,Our summer is drawing to a close;

it’s good to be back where there areseasons to watch. We just celebrated25 years of marriage last week (the26th) with two nights and two playsin one of Ontario’s theatre centers,Stratford. We enjoyed the time away,and to ourselves, with walks aroundthe small city in blustering coolweather, and leisurely mornings andquiet nights.

That came right on the heels ofhaving Elai with us for three weeks.She came for a visit after a summer jobin Fresno, CA, staffing a two-week re-entry retreat for third culture kidsgoing to university, and a week withher friends in TX. She was only goingto stay for three days, but thingsstarted to change drastically with herannouncement getting off the plane,“I’m getting married!” MikaelBerthiaume, her boyfriend of two years,proposed to her while she was in TX.After a bit of thinking about howquickly that might happen, we are

pleased to announce that Elai andMikael have decided on December22nd as a wedding date, here in Ontario.This is kind of a general invitation,too, so just let us know if you cancome, and we’ll send you a “real”one.

Sandwiched between these twothings, actually at the end of Elai’stime here, we moved into a smallhouse that recently became available(we will continue with the same ad-

To communicate with the Hus Encampment . . .. . . regarding scheduling* of meetings or events there, contact:

Dawn Marie Baletka600 Benchmark Drive

College Station, TX 77845 (979) 777-9940 or (979) 693-2710

[email protected]*This must be done well in advance.

Elai and Mikael

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