the epistle - bethany- · pdf filepage 3 mark your calendars! “des na ontransforma...

The Epistle Volume 40, Issue 9 Leading people to experience God’s love, know Jesus Christ, and grow in His image. March 2, 2014

Join Us for Worship During Lent

Ash Wednesday Services—March 5 12 noon and 6:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary

Note: No Wednesday fellowship meal. Join us for Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper March 4, 5:30—7:00 p.m.

Sermon Series (Saturday & Sunday Worship Services)

Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives March 8 & 9 The Temptation March 15 & 16 The Call March 23 (no Saturday service; Sunday services at 8:45 & 10:45 a.m. only) The Vision March 29 & 30 The Challenge April 5 & 6 The Potential April 12 & 13 The Commitment (Response) 5:00 p.m., 8:15 & 11:00 a.m. The Rose of Calvary Cantata by Chancel Choir & Orchestra

Wholeness and Healing Services—March 9 & April 13 7:00—8:00 p.m. in Grimes Chapel

Join us in this meditative Taizé style service.

Lenten Midweek Communion Services Wednesdays, March 12—April 9

6:30 – 7:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary Join us for Soup Suppers at 5:15 p.m. and then come to Worship!

March 12 speaker: Zach Thompson March 19 speaker: Brian Stahnke March 26 speaker: Kristin Shelton April 2 speaker: Kelly Shoenfelt April 9 speakers from: Teen Challenge (San Antonio)

For more information see the Bethany website, www.bethany-umc.org

Backyard Transformation Around this time last year, my husband David and I began the process of starting a backyard garden. The area of our yard

that we chose was in desperate need of renewal. It was a wide strip along one side of our house that already had a garden

shed, excellent sun exposure, and a water source, but was otherwise an area of uneven ground overrun with weeds. We began

by killing the weeds. They would choke anything else we tried to grow, so they had to go before we could move forward.

Then we dug down and made the ground more even before constructing three raised beds. We also decided to install an

underground irrigation system in each bed, and set about building that before filling the beds to the brim with a mixture of

soil and compost. A great deal of research went into deciding the size of the beds and what to make them out of, the type of

underground irrigation system to build, the most effective methods of using rain barrels, and what type and mixture of soil

and compost to use. All of this, before even planting anything! It was arduous work. It took a long time, and when we were

“finished” with building the beds themselves, we had only just begun the process of growing our own herbs, fruits, and

vegetables. We had a structure, nothing more.

However, as the weather warmed, we began to plant seeds and starter plants. At first, it seemed as if nothing was

happening. Then slowly, little green leaves began to poke out of the soil. The leaves were attached to plants, which grew and

produced more leaves, and the leaves got bigger. We admired our big, beautiful plants. But they had yet to produce fruit.

Then one day – we saw a tiny cucumber, and some small green tomatoes, and baby green beans. We hoped and prayed

they would soon be large enough to eat. We tended them carefully, watering them regularly, and protecting them from a late

cold snap. We planted flowers to bring the bees, and watched as more baby vegetables appeared. Finally, those first fruits

became mature and ripe and were ready to eat! They were delicious, far better than anything we could buy in a store, and

totally worth the wait! Before we knew it, we had more produce than we could eat! We were giving it away and freezing it,

and eating it in abundance. As the summer growing season ended, we made fall plantings, and have kept the garden going

year‐round. We continue to enjoy having fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs within reach in our own backyard.

I am particularly struck by the transformation that has taken place over the last year. It’s hard to believe that a year ago,

we looked at an ugly area of our yard and decided to do something productive with it. What it has become is the beautiful and

life‐giving landscape that is there now. It has been a complete and total transformation in our yard, in our refrigerator, and in

our lives. We decide what to eat based on what is available. We give freely of our abundant crop. We spend time working in

the garden. We are more connected to the earth and to God. But it’s not the walls of the raised beds and the underground

irrigation that we built that has enabled this transformation; it’s what we did with those things once they were built.

Grace and Peace,

From the PastorFrom the Pastor

PrayersPrayers

FOR BETHANY UMC: We pray for unity in fellowship and shared vision as we

embark on the Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives capital stewardship program.

CELEBRATIONS:

BIRTHS: Asher Browning Vlass—2/20 to Brendan & Kelly Vlass (grandmother is Lana Smith); Caleb Ashton Warner—1/13

to Charles & Ashley Bramlett Warner in Midland (grandparents are Lea & Rick Bramlett)

MARRIAGE: Sydney Heard and Jim Deitrich on 2/3

CONCERNS:

HOSPITALIZED IN TOWN: Missie Houseright (Carol Stimson’s daughter); T.V. Minner; Denise Wilkinson

HOSPITALIZED OUT‐OF‐TOWN: Tom Beels (Rick Beels’ father) ‐ San Marcos; Harold Bobo (Carolyn Griswold’s stepfather)

‐ Woodlands; Willard B. Brown, Jr. (Amy Schreiber’s & Lisa Brown’s father) ‐ Plano; Carol Carlson (Gary Gossett’s cousin) ‐

Dallas; Arlye Deschner (Elizabeth Nettles’ uncle) ‐ Conroe; Julia Fay Fogle (Rita Auerbach’s cousin) ‐ TN; Bobbie Hunt (Billy

Rileyʹs sister) ‐ Abilene; Richard Kasel (Russell Haines’ cousin) ‐ WV; Gene Kinder (Carol Follmer’s grandfather) ‐ Tyler;

Colleen Knipp (Debie Marcinkiewicz’s mother) ‐ FL; Bill Martin (Rich Wilcox’s cousin) ‐ NC; Penny San Marco (Gina

Doolittle’s mother) ‐ San Antonio; Peyton Smith (Cathy & Joe Bourn’s granddaughter) ‐ Houston

DEATHS: Glenda Spence (Kate Hardin’s mother) ‐ Houston

Mark Your Calendars! “Des na on…Transforma on!” Worship and Celebra on Sunday, March 23 Worship at 8:45 am or 10:45 am (iden cal services, no

Saturday worship) Fabulous food and fellowship Exhibits highligh ng our campus transforma on Special ac vi es for children For more informa on, visit the www.bethany‐umc.org/beyondwalls website and read the Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives newsle er!

40 Days of Prayer Beginning March 5 you may pick up your copy of this daily prayer devo onal at the Connec on Point or Church Office. Use it to pray for your personal Lenten reflec on and for success of the Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives program.

Bake

Sale

March 2 in the Ministry Center

FOR

Student Ministries High School Youth invite you to participate:

In the PURPLE POTTY! February 16 - March 28 to benefit World Vision and the 30-hour Famine.

How it works: You pay $10 to have the Potty placed in someone’s

yard for a day. The following day, the Potty will be moved to the next yard.

We offer the opportunity to purchase insurance for $20 that will prevent the Potty from being put in your yard.

For $30 we will return the Potty to the person who sent it to you.

Stop by the Ministry Center on Sundays or the church office to send the Potty or purchase your insurance. (Pastors are ineligible for insurance!)

Got Prayer Time?

We Need Help! We are looking for prayer

partners for this summer’s 6

different mission trip that Student Ministries

coordinates. Here is how you can help us pray for the over

90 people going out on mission trips.

1. Email Sara Solomon ([email protected]) if you would like

to be a prayer partner. Please let her know which

mission trip and if there is a particular person you want

to pray over (student and/or adult volunteer) or flexible

about who you are praying for.

2. Prepare 5 cards for each day on their mission trip. You

can add a small trinket of some sort (please nothing

extravagant). More specifics will be coming closer to

summer time.

3. Pray! Pray! Pray! We need prayers that we get enough

prayer partners and we need prayers for all our

volunteers while on their mission.

Make a difference with a simple yes and email to Sara!

Support Bethany Youth! Order Ladybug Brand Fertilizer

Sundays in Ministry Center through March 9

$35/ bag covers 4170 sq. ft.

Pick-up on March 23 Lighthouse 9:00 am – 12:30 pm

Contact Reg Mills at [email protected]

Lent & EasterLent & Easter

Shrove Tuesday

Pancake Supper 5:30‐7:00 pm

In the Fellowship Hall (Pancakes, scrambled eggs,

sausage, & juice)

Cost: donations taken at the door NOTE: NO Wednesday night meal on March 5.

You are encouraged to fast through the day on Ash Wednesday and bring the money you would've spent on food

as an offering to the Ash Wednesday service.

Holy Week and Beyond

2014 is coming soon! If

you’d like to contribute a

devotion to this member‐

written publication, please

contact Patsy Cruser at [email protected]. Your one‐page

essay, single‐spaced, in 12‐point Arial font, should include a

scripture at the beginning and a prayer at the end. Please

include your name unless you wish to remain anonymous.

Adults, Youth, and Children are encouraged to write essays

or submit original artwork depicting what Christ’s death

and resurrection mean to you. Please submit artwork

in .PDF or .JPG format. Submission deadline is March

15. Late submissions may or may not be included, as

schedule permits.

EASTER Butterfly

Workshops If you have crocheted butterflies and

yet to turn them in, just bring them in

as soon as you can. We are now in the

ʹassemblyʹ stage of making the

butterflies:

Butterfly Workshops

Wednesday evenings, 7‐9 pm

March 12 & 26, April 9 & 16

If you canʹt make it on these dates and would like to help

with assembling the butterflies at home, just let me know.

Blessings, Elizabeth White

512‐569‐8396, [email protected]

I am excited to announce that we have completed our Toddler Playground Fund! We now have the $21,000 needed for our playscape and shade cover. Thanks to all of you who have helped us so generously. We hope to get the final plans finished and start the project as soon as possible. I will tell all of you when you can see the finished product!!! The children of Bethany thank you for all of your help.

We still have some spots available in Bethany School for next year. Please encourage friends and family to come and visit our school and see our wonderful staff in action. We would love to have them! Please contact Director Pat Rudd at 512-258-6965 or [email protected].

All Bethany Women and guests! YOU are invited to participate in the International

Women’s Day Celebration with our global Mary Kay

makeover contest to have the most facials conducted in one

given day!

International Women’s Day, March 8, where Women

across the World are Celebrated! Our company has

incorporated our BIGGEST Makeover Day of the Year to be

held in conjunction to International Women’s Day! Join us

Saturday, March 8, at 9:30am in the Bethany Fellowship

Hall to celebrate The Women in our Lives!

*must be l8 years or older to participate

Gift Drawings ‐ Media Coverage ‐ Sisterhood ‐ Fun!

Questions? Contact Debbie Yost at 512‐914‐9468 or

[email protected]

LEARNALLABOUTOURSEPTEMBER2014TRIP:Ifyouhaven’tcometoaninformationmeeting,

joinusinD209/210onSunday,March2,2‐3pmorMonday,March3,7‐8pm.

ContactPastorSheriorPastorWynnfordetails.

MissionsMissions

PET “Say Thanks

Austin” Tom Perkins was one of the

2013 RecognizeGood

Legends. The Legends

program is a monthly award

designed to recognize a

community contributor, or

Legend, who embodies the core

beliefs of RecognizeGood through his or her extraordinary

charitable actions. The monthly Legend chooses a registered

nonprofit to receive a Pay‐It‐Forward donation through

RecognizeGood. Tom chose PET‐Austin and PET received a

$1,000 donation in November.

Each January RecognizeGood has a ʺSay Thanks

Austinʺ campaign to allow the community to express their

gratitude by voting for Legends on the RecognizeGood

website. The Legend with the most Say Thanks votes may

again choose a nonprofit to receive his or her $10,000 Pay‐It‐

Forward check. This year Tom placed third and PET‐Austin

received $1,500 as a result.

Just as we did with the first $1,000 donation, the $1,500

check will go into our building fund for the new building

that hopefully will be constructed toward the end of this

year or early next year.

Thanks so much to everyone that voted for Tom and

PET‐Austin!

Feed My People Tuesday, March 11, 2014

5:00 AM @ First UMC, 13th & Lavaca

Bethany is sponsoring a breakfast each month to feed 300-400 downtown homeless. We purchase, prepare and serve a hot meal.

This month’s meal is being sponsored by the LIFE Sunday School class.

For information about volunteer opportunities, please visit:

http://www.bethany-umc.org/connect-serve/serve/hunger-food/feed-my-people

Or contact Debbie Childers [email protected]

Serving the Homeless in our Community

On the dates below, we will be preparing and delivering meals using the MLF food truck:

Monday, March 3 Friday, Feb 28 and Mar 21 & 28

For information about volunteer opportunities, please visit: www.bethany-umc.org/connect-serve/serve/homeless

or to volunteer, contact Debbie Childers, [email protected]

Primetimers Primetimers (Older Adults)(Older Adults)

AARP Driver Safety

Course Only 4 hours to complete!

Recommended for drivers age 50 and

over. Completion of the four‐hour

course improves skills and teaches compensating defensive

driving practices to avoid accidents and violations. Drivers

may also qualify for auto insurance discounts. Topics

covered include physical changes, risk assessment, traffic

hazards, aggressive driving/road rage, self evaluation, and

driving retirement. Course date is March 18 from 9 a.m. to 1

p.m. To register, call Charles Chupco at 512‐250‐0562.

PRIMETIMERS UPCOMING EVENTS

3/05 - Chit, Chat & Chew: Men’s Breakfast. Wednesday, 8am at Jim’s Restaurant, 183 & Spicewood Springs 3/07 - Game Night: Friday, 6:30–9:30pm in the Fellowship Hall. No

reservations needed! 3/09 - Lunch in the Café: Sunday immediately following the 11am Worship Service. $6 per person. Reservations are necessary; contact Shirley at 512-219-5842 by March 3. 3/16 - Palace Theatre in Georgetown: Sunday, see Curt Olson in “CATS”! Dinner at Cotton Patch afterwards. $25 plus your meal. Bus leaves Bethany 1:00, return by 7:30 pm. Call Shirley for reservations @ 512-219-5842 by Wednesday, March 12.

Curt Olson Charms

Audiences Again! Come make another MEMORY

at the Georgetown Palace Theater.

Join Primetimers on Sunday, March

16, at a true musical phenomenon,

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS .

Based on the universally popular poetry of TS Eliot, CATS

tells the story in song and dance of the annual gathering of

the Jellicats when one special cat is selected to be reborn into

a new life. Bethany’s Music Director, Curt Olson, plays Old

Deuteronomy, a very, very old cat!

The musical runs from February 14 – March 23.

Primetimers will leave Bethany at 1 p.m. on March 16,

attend the musical, dine at Cotton Patch restaurant and

return to the church by 7 p.m. Tickets are $25. Cost of meal

not included. Call Shirley Leydecker at 512‐219‐5842 by

March 8 for reservations.

Adult DiscipleshipAdult Discipleship

There are several Sunday School classes participating in the Explore God small group study:

Interpreter’s Class, 11:00am, D203/204, contact Rita Thompson, [email protected]

LIFE Class, 11:00am, D305/306, contact Debra Coe, [email protected]

Potter’s Wheel Class, 11:00am, D303/302, contact Ken Fox, [email protected]

Christian Foundations for Women, 11:00am, D211, contact Amy Rojas, [email protected]

Discovery Class is studying Adam Hamilton’s The Way. Using historical information, archaeological data, and stories of

faith, we will follow in the footsteps of Jesus examining the heart of His ministry, the people He loved, the parables He

taught, the enemies He made, and the healing He brought. Join us at 9:30, room D209/210. For more information, contact

Robert Snipes, [email protected]. Study ends April 13.

Searchers Class is studying Luke. Their discussions are led by Bill Toll, and they meet in D304/305/306 at 9:30. For more

information contact Linda McLeod, [email protected].

Bible Class is studying the book of Galatians. This small discussion class is open to all ages and learning levels. There are

no “prerequisites.” All anyone needs is a desire to read and study scripture. It is a good starting place for those who

would like to read the Bible but don’t want to do it alone. Join them in room D212 at 9:30. For more info contact Carolyn

Canfield at carolyn‐[email protected].

Disciples Under Construction is currently studying Proverbs. This discussion‐oriented group enjoys learning from each otherʹs life experiences. The main focus is encouraging spiritual growth on a weekly basis, but also in serving in

missions together and other social opportunities. Class consists of couples & singles, those with kids & no kids, and ages

late 20ʹs ‐ 40ʹs, but we are open to all. Join us at 9:30 in room D205. For more information, contact Jenna Duke at

[email protected].

Covenant Class, which meets at 9:30 in D203/204, is studying Titus. Come and visit this Bible‐based discussion oriented

class. For more information, contact Mel Barrentine at 512‐258‐8625.

The Wednesday Evening Bible Study meets each Wednesday evening from 7‐7:45pm in the Ministry

Center, right after the mid‐week worship service. Currently, they are participating in the Explore God small

group study. For more info, contact Jimmy Johnson at [email protected].

READY TO JOIN BETHANY? Come to our Connection Celebration!

Sunday, March 2, 2014 4:00 – 6:00 PM

Grimes Chapel (by the Ministry Center)

Learn about our history and service opportunities, meet pastors and ministry staff, and participate in a simple membership ceremony!

RSVP to [email protected] or 512-258-6017.

Childcare available upon request.

If you’d like greater depth, growth, and enrichment in your relationship, you’ll like the difference a Marriage

Encounter weekend can make!

Get Connected! …to Each Other on a Marriage Encounter Weekend

April 4-6, 2014 Holiday Inn Express® North Austin (Pflugerville)

For more information or to register: www.encounter.org

Student MinistriesStudent Ministries

Find Event and Fundraising info online: www.bethany-umc.org

SIGN UP FOR

2014 MISSIONS Join us in being the hands and feet of Christ in our community and our world.

(grade is for the 2013-2014 school year)

Mission By the Sea June 8-12

Mountain TOP June 13-22

U.M. ARMY June 22-28

B.A.S.I.C. June 29-July 3

El Salvador (closed) June 30-July 10

PURE SOUND Tour July 11-18

VBS Brownsville July 20-25

Mandatory Parents’ Meetings for Mission Trips: In order for a student to go on a Summer mission trip, a parent must attend a parent meeting.

Start Here: http://www.bethany-umc.org/ministries/student/missions/trips. Scholarships for mission trips are available. Contact Teresa Kingsbury for information

Sunday, March 2 Sunday School 9:30 & 11:00 PURE Sound Choir 3:30-5:00 JuBELLation Ringers 5:00-6:00 Middle School Bible Study 5:00-6:00 Fuel Jam 5:00-6:00 Fuel High School Youth Group 6:00-8:00 Confirmation Classes 6:00-8:00 Wednesday, March 5 Ignite Jam Praise Band 5:00-6:00 Ignite MS Youth Group 6:00-8:00

Thursday, March 6 Bethany Orchestra 6:30-7:30

Sunday, March 9 Sunday School 9:30 & 11:00 No Afternoon activities - Spring Break

Release the Feast! You can make a difference in the world by helping reduce hunger, providing clean water and enabling sustainability in Matete, Kenya.

If you are in 8th grade and up: 1. Participate in the 30-hour Famine

(March 28-29) Sign up and start fund-raising now!

2. Participate in Fundraisers: PURPLE POTTY - sign up to work the Ministry center or Place potty in yards March 1 - 28th

Bake Sale - Sign up to bring baked goods or make candy.

Goal: $15,000 Amt Raised $660

Earn funds for your mission trips and youth activities:

Sell Ladybug Organic Fertilizer! Pick up a packet in the Lighthouse classrooms and the choir room. Sales end March 9th. Pick up date March 23rd.

It is with much sadness that I need to let you all know that Kayte Forester, student ministries intern, will be leaving us in May to further pursue her career as a Physical Therapist. During Kayte’s two years on staff at Bethany she has joined us on many mission teams, assisted weekly with Fuel and Sunday School, as well as led the Sisterhood. She will be greatly missed. We have begun the search for a new intern. A job description as well as application are posted on the youth page of the Bethany website or may be requested in the youth office. All applications must be received by March 16, 2014. This position is 10 hours per week during the school year and full time during the summer. As the search progresses for a student ministries intern please pray for amazing candidates to come forward and the discernment of the hiring committee to know God’s will. Grace and Peace, Teresa Kingsbury Director of Student Ministries

Children’s MinistriesChildren’s Ministries The children are having fun and learning a lot in Children’s Sunday School! In Discover: Base Camp, the 3‐ and 4 year‐olds are con nuing to learn about the life of Jesus through stories about his ministry and his journey to Jerusalem.

In February, the Kindergarten through 5th graders in Discover: Trek learned about the Children’s Sabbath

theme: “Who Are the Children of God?” They worked hard preparing for Children’s Sabbath by prac cing singing, learning a memory verse (1 John 3:1a, NIV), and studying the Parable of the Lost Sheep. In March, they will learn about the Parables of Jesus in their “Gems of the Kingdom” unit. Sta ons include: cooking, science, art, movie, games, and drama! On March 23, for the special “Des na on…Transforma on” event, all children’s classes will have a special lesson and ac vi es focused on the

Want to know more about what is happening in Children’s Ministry? Go here to sign up for our kids newsletter

and other announcements:

http://www.bethany-umc.org/ministries/children/kids-news

If you are on Facebook make sure to “like” our page. We update it regularly with information about what is going on

in Children’s Ministry.

www.Facebook.com/BUMCChildren

SWTX Children’s Summer Camps - Join the Fun at Mt Wesley

Children attend camp to relax and experience God’s creation, love and grace through outdoor activities, crafts, scripture activities, music,

art & drama, and guided play. Adults attend camp to serve children and receive all of the above!

The Conference Council on Children’s Ministries offers camps for children in 3 age levels at Mount Wesley Retreat Center each summer. Choose the camp according to the grade that you will enter in the fall.

3rd/4th Grade Camp: July 6-9 and Preteen Camp - 5th or 6th grade: August 3-7 *Music-Art-Drama Camp - 4th, 5th, or 6th grade: July 23-26 *Arrival time 10:00 am on July 23rd. Camp ends 11:00 am on July 26th with a

performance for family & friends.

Prices coming soon. Scholarships available.

For more information contact Susan Hinderliter at 258-6017 or [email protected]

Children’s MinistriesChildren’s Ministries

A Crew Leader: Does not want to prep

anything Participates in fun and

interactive activities Gets to see how God is

working in children

Shepherds young hearts Learns from children Eats great food Loves to laugh Enjoys children

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the fun!

Children 2 and under may attend free with a 5-day adult volunteer. The cost is $20 dollars for children 3 and up with a 5-day adult volunteer.

Scholarships available.

If you have any questions, please contact Jen Seibel at 512-258-6017 ext 233 or [email protected].

Sign up online today at www.bethany-umc.org./vbs!

VBS Committee Planning Meeting March 4 at 7:00pm in Creation Station (rm D217)

Are you interested in being a part of planning Vacation Bible School? Come to the committee meeting on March 4. Help is especially needed in the areas of coordinating Bible storytelling (drama), Recreation, & Crew coordinators.

Contact Jen Seibel for more information: 512-258-6017 x 233 or [email protected]

Coming UpComing Up What’s InsideWhat’s Inside

Saturday Worship 5:00 p.m.

Sunday Worship 8:15, 9:30, 11:00 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.

Sunday Chapel Communion Service 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School 9:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Sunday High School Worship 6:00 p.m.

Mid‐Week Worship Wednesday, 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Middle School Worship 6:30 p.m.

10010 Anderson Mill Rd. Austin, TX 78750

512-258-6017 www.bethany-umc.org

http://www.facebook.com/bethanyumc

Return Service Requested

The Epistle Weekly Church Newsletter The Epistle is published weekly (except Christmas) by Bethany United Methodist Church, 10010 Anderson Mill Rd., Austin, TX 78750

If you would like to subscribe to receive this weekly newsletter by mail or email, contact the church office at 512‐258‐6017.

Feature Article....................................... 1

Join Us for Worship During Lent

From Pastor Jessica Petersen: .............. 2

Backyard Transformation

Adult Discipleship ................................ 6

Bethany School ...................................... 4

Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives .... 3

Children’s Ministries ......................... 8,9

Connection Celebration ....................... 6

Explore God .......................................... 3

Holy Land Trip ..................................... 4

Lent & Easter ......................................... 4

Marriage Encounter ............................. 6

Missions ................................................. 5

Prayers .................................................. 2

Primetimers (Older Adults) ................ 5

Student Ministries ............................. 3,7

Sunday, March 2 8:30 a.m. Fundraiser Breakfast in the Café

2:00 p.m. Holy Land Trip info meeting (see p.4)

Monday, March 3 4:00 p.m. Mobile Loaves & Fishes meal prep (see p.5)

7:00 p.m. Holy Land Trip info meeting (see p.4)

Maua Trip info meeting

Tuesday, March 4 7:30 a.m. Job Support Ministry

5:15 p.m. Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper (see p.4)

7:00 p.m. Maua Trip info meeting

Wednesday, March 5 12:00 p.m. Ash Wednesday Worship (see p.1)

5:15 p.m. NO Fellowship Meal (see below)

6:30 p.m. Ash Wednesday Worship (see p.1)

7:00 p.m. Wednesday Evening Bible Study (see p.7)

Saturday, March 1 5:00 p.m. Saturday Worship

A complete calendar listing can be found outside the church office and on the Bethany website.

Coming Up in Worship Pastor David Minnich preaching 3/1 & 3/2

“Explore God:

Is Jesus Really God?

Is Christianity Too Narrow?”

Music Provided By: 5:00p Praise Team

8:15a SonShine Singers

9:30a & 12:30p Messengers of Grace

11:00a Chancel Choir

9:30a Chapel Meditation Pastor Wynn Stenftenagel

There will be no Wednesday Fellowship Dinner this

Wednesday, March 5.

We invite you to fast that day

in observance of Ash Wednesday.


Page 1

“Destination…Transformation”

Celebration

Sunday, March 23, 2014

Mark your calendars for a very exciting day for Bethany UMC! Join as we thank God for blessings and opportunities to transform lives!

Worship will be at 8:45 am and 10:45 am Both services will be identical, combining Messengers of Grace, Chancel Choir, Orchestra, Pure Sound and Children’s Choirs. There will be no Saturday service on this weekend and no adult or youth Sunday School classes, so everyone can enjoy food and exhibits!

Special Exhibits Visualize how our campus and ministries can be transformed! Take a tour inside the layout of where the proposed new building will be constructed, to see how we can transform our campus to transform more lives.

Also enjoy the Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives exhibits as we celebrate all the ways that Bethany UMC is already helping to transform lives across our city, our state, our country, and even the world! Enjoy the talents of Bethany music ensembles as they play throughout the exhibit areas.

Great Food Come early before the 8:45 am service or stay after worship and enjoy a bountiful brunch buffet, served continuously from 8:15 am until 12:45 pm. This buffet will include baked egg strata, honey-glazed ham, buttermilk biscuits, white cheddar grits, seasonal fruit salad and a pancake bar, featuring many toppings including strawberries, blueberries and Mexican whipped cream! Join us at the buffet and then go see all of the exhibits of “Destination...Transformation!”

Special Activities for Children Nursery and Sunday School classes will be available for children ages birth through 5th grade. Children will go to their usual classrooms, but classes will meet at 8:45 am and 10:45 am, concurrent with the worship services. Children will have special lessons and activities focused on generosity. They will learn about the generosity of Bethany UMC within and beyond the walls of our church, and how that generosity has transformed lives near and far. They will also learn how they can be generous.

Being Great A few years ago, I expressed that God was burdening my heart with a desire for Bethany to be “great.” I wasn’t really sure

what that meant. After all, Bethany is a great church. We have amazing worship, including wondrous music. We have a

plethora of spiritual growth opportunities. We lovingly care for each other. I have been delighted to see our outreach

mushroom – in our backyard and to the other side of the world. So, what did God mean in calling us to be great?

Then, in the last few years, as I was blessed to have a broader exposure to other faith communities, I realized what an

amazing heritage Bethany has. With all our differences, we have remained focused on the main thing: bringing people into

relationship with Jesus Christ. We recently baptized seven adults on one Sunday. That is more than all but a few UMCs in our

country will do annually! A few days later, I read the reports showing the huge number of people we field in mission and

dollars we send into mission. (Thank you, Bob Mossman, for planting that vision.) Isn’t that great, I wondered?

But as the Lead Team studied, prayed, studied and prayed more, God raised our vision. Bethany has been the kind of

faith community which people desire and God celebrates. Yet, we continue to be surrounded by people who are seeking what

we have found. (Have you ever said, “No, we are the church across the street from the arch?”) Part of our response was to

support a new plant in Lago Vista and The Bridge network of small groups. But, as God called Nehemiah to rebuild Jerusalem

as a place from which God’s name would be made known, we realized we were being called to transform our campus to be

more effective as a place from which God would transform lives. It was a greater call than we expected. It is an intimidating

call. We are being called to be great: to be a community in which God’s name is established and from which God’s grace is

made known.

You are going to be hearing a lot about this in the coming weeks. While it may be new to you, I assure you that much

prayer and discernment has been involved over the past several years. I am convinced that what you hear is part of God’s call

to become great. Yes, you will be hearing about construction. But this call is not just about construction. It is about going with

God “Beyond Walls” into “Transforming Lives.” It is about answering God’s call to be great for the Kingdom.

Grace and Peace,


Page 2

“To try to pray is to pray. You can’t fail at it. It’s the only human endeavor I can think of where trying is doing. Reaching out is holding on.

Joining in is letting go.” ‐ Rick Hamlin, 10 Prayers You Can’t Live Without

PrayersPrayers



CONCERNS:

HOSPITALIZED IN TOWN: Scott Griswold; Linda Russell

HOSPITALIZED OUT‐OF‐TOWN: Harold Bobo (Carolyn Griswold’s stepfather) ‐ Woodlands; Carol Carlson (Gary Gossett’s

cousin) ‐ Dallas; Arlye Deschner (Elizabeth Nettles’ uncle) ‐ Conroe; Julia Fay Fogle (Rita Auerbach’s cousin) ‐ TN; Bobbie

Hunt (Billy Rileyʹs sister) ‐ Abilene; Richard Kasel (Russell Haines’ cousin) ‐ WV; Gene Kinder (Carol Follmer’s grandfather) ‐

Tyler; Colleen Knipp (Debie Marcinkiewicz’s mother) ‐ FL; Bill Martin (Rich Wilcox’s cousin) ‐ NC; Penny San Marco (Gina

Doolittle’s mother) ‐ San Antonio; Corinna Saufferer (Rob & Jill Saufferer’s sister‐in‐law) ‐ Woodlands; Peyton Smith (Cathy

& Joe Bourn’s granddaughter) ‐ Houston

DEATHS: Herby Beard—2/28; Willard B. Brown, Jr. (Amy Schreiber’s & Lisa Brown’s father) ‐ Plano; Gail Edmond Johnson

(Stormy Johnson’s uncle) ‐ 2/25; Mary Kash—2/23; Don Robertson (Linda Russell’s uncle) ‐ 2/28 Houston; Jidge Ruth (Karen

White’s nephew) ‐ 2/24 MN


Saturday worship) Fabulous food and fellowship Exhibits highligh ng our campus transforma on Special ac vi es for children For more informa on, visit the www.bethany‐umc.org/beyondwalls website and read the Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives newsle er!


Support Bethany Youth! Order Ladybug Brand Fertilizer

Sundays in Ministry Center through March 9

$35/ bag covers 4170 sq. ft.

Pick-up on March 23 Lighthouse 9:00 am – 12:30 pm

Contact Reg Mills at [email protected]

If you’d like greater depth, growth, and enrichment in your relationship, you’ll like the difference a Marriage

Encounter weekend can make!

Get Connected! …to Each Other on a Marriage Encounter Weekend

April 4-6, 2014 Holiday Inn Express® North Austin (Pflugerville)

For more information or to register: www.encounter.org

Elizabeth Etter (Victoria & Catherine)

Debbie & Tommy Gardner (Cole, Travis, & Chance)

Bob & Diana Jameson

Kevin & Robin Keller (Wyatt)

Craig & Mary Pritzlaff (Riley & August)

Stacy White

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS!!!! We celebrate the 15 new members and their families who joined Bethany at

our Connection Celebration Sunday, March 2!!

Please help us welcome them!!

Thanks to all the volunteers who helped make this membership process a success!!

Megan Anderson-Chaplin (Hailey & Prescott)

Loe & Lisa Dennis (Abigail, Noah, & Kate)

Christine & Rhett Dillingham (Kaitlyn & Avery)


Holy Week and Beyond

2014 is coming soon! If

you’d like to contribute a

devotion to this member‐

written publication, please

contact Patsy Cruser at [email protected]. Your one‐page

essay, single‐spaced, in 12‐point Arial font, should include a

scripture at the beginning and a prayer at the end. Please

include your name unless you wish to remain anonymous.

Adults, Youth, and Children are encouraged to write essays

or submit original artwork depicting what Christ’s death

and resurrection mean to you. Please submit artwork

in .PDF or .JPG format. Submission deadline is March

15. Late submissions may or may not be included, as

schedule permits.

5:15 - 6:30 PM Wednesdays, March 19 - April 9

In the Fellowship Hall *Wednesday, March 12 - We will have POT LUCK

Bring a dish to share!*

A Lenten Tradition of Hospitality at Bethany Soup provided by Sunday School classes but feel free to bring a pot of your

favorite to share as well, or just come eat & fellowsh ip!

Join us for Soup Suppers during Lent

Enjoy this time of food and fellowship before attending the Wednesday Night Lenten Worship Service at 6:30 PM.

EASTER Butterfly





butterflies:

Butterfly Workshops


March 12 & 26, April 9 & 16





Join Us for Worship During

Lent

Sermon Series (Saturday & Sunday Worship Services) Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives

March 8 & 9 The Temptation March 15 & 16 The Call March 23 (no Saturday service; Sunday services at 8:45 & 10:45 a.m. only) The Vision March 29 & 30 The Challenge April 5 & 6 The Potential April 12 & 13 Our Response 5:00 p.m., 8:15 & 11:00 a.m. The Rose of Calvary Cantata by Chancel Choir & Orchestra

Wholeness and Healing Services—March 9 & April 13

7:00—8:00 p.m. in Grimes Chapel Join us in this meditative Taizé style service.

Lenten Midweek Communion Services

Wednesdays, March 12—April 9 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary

Join us for Soup Suppers at 5:15 p.m. and then come to Worship!

March 12 speaker: Zach Thompson March 19 speaker: Brian Stahnke March 26 speaker: Kristin Shelton April 2 speaker: Kelly Shoenfelt April 9 speakers from: Teen Challenge (San Antonio)


Student Ministries Intern It is with much sadness that I need to let you all know

that Kayte Forester, Student Ministries Intern, will be

leaving us in May to further pursue her career as a Physical

Therapist. During Kayte’s two years on staff at Bethany she

has joined us on many mission teams, assisted weekly with

Fuel and Sunday School, as well as led the Sisterhood. She

will be greatly missed.

We have begun the search for a new intern. A job

description and application are posted on the youth page of

the Bethany website or may be requested in the youth

office. All applications must be received by March 16, 2014.

This position is 10 hours per week during the school year

and full ‐time during the summer. As the search progresses

for a Student Ministries Intern, please pray for amazing

candidates to come forward and the discernment of the

hiring committee to know God’s will.

Grace and Peace,

Teresa Kingsbury

Director of Student Ministries

www.bethany-umc.org/jobs

Full Time Facilities Specialist 40 Hours/Week, Full Benefits

We have an immediate opportunity in the Operations/

Facilities Department. Responsibilities include providing

assistance in maintaining the campus and supporting

special and big events. Special emphasis will be placed on

providing excellence and keeping the campus at “Wow

Factor” at all times. We are seeking individuals that are

team‐oriented and have a passion and vision for our

mission and ministry.

Duties include custodial, set ups, take downs and

restoration of facilities, being a presence during large and

complex events, opening and closing the campus, coverage

of department shifts during vacations and holidays, along

with other duties to be determined as necessary. Full

training will be provided.

Ideal candidate: Uncompromising commitment to

excellence, honesty, Christian character, ability to work

established and on‐call hours, live close to the campus, able

to lift 50 pounds and move equipment around, speak and

understand English, work well with team members and

support our Mission. For more information or to apply for

the position, contact Epi Chavez at 512‐258‐6017 x249 or

epi.chavez@bethany‐umc.org.

The preferred normal work schedule is Sunday,

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 2:00 p.m.

to closing at 10:00 p.m, off Monday and Tuesday.

A ministry begun by

Bethany member Mike

O’Dell, Servants on Standby

(SOS) has been serving

Bethany members since

2009! If you have a one‐

time, non‐monetary need,

please call the SOS hotline at 512‐258‐6092 x406 and receive

instructions for submitting your “ALERT,” which is then

emailed to our volunteers. SOS assists members in several

ways including rides to church, transportation to doctors’

visits, moving help, furniture relocation and providing

furniture for a member—to name a few. The intent of SOS is

to provide one‐time, non‐monetary assistance to members

in need. To be included as a volunteer in the email group,

please complete the volunteer sign‐up form in the church

office. Being in this email group is not an obligation to help,

it is an opportunity to serve when you are available.

All Bethany Women and guests! YOU are invited to participate in the International

Women’s Day Celebration with our global Mary Kay

makeover contest to have the most facials conducted in one

given day!

International Women’s Day, March 8, where Women

across the World are Celebrated! Our company has

incorporated our BIGGEST Makeover Day of the Year to be

held in conjunction to International Women’s Day! Join us

Saturday, March 8, at 9:30am in the Bethany Fellowship

Hall to celebrate The Women in our Lives!

*must be l8 years or older to participate

Gift Drawings ‐ Media Coverage ‐ Sisterhood ‐ Fun!

Questions? Contact Debbie Yost at 512‐914‐9468 or

[email protected]

MissionsMissions

Feed My People Tuesday, March 11, 2014



This month’s meal is being sponsored by the LIFE Sunday School class.





On the dates below, we will be preparing anddelivering meals using the MLF food truck:

Fridays, March 21 & 28


www.bethany-umc.org/connect-serve/serve/homeless or to volunteer, contact Debbie Childers, [email protected]

Rotary Club of Austin Centennial invites you to

Spirit of Sharing 5K & Family Fun Run & Fest Benefitting Bethany’s Matete Mission

& other charities Saturday, March 29, 2014

10:00 am – 2:00 pm Harper Park, 11008 Lake Creek Parkway

Austin, TX 78750

Info & registration at: www.SpiritofSharing.weebly.com. Select “Step into Africa”, to benefit our Matete, Kenya mission.








Got Prayer Time?














summer time.






Covenant Class, which meets at 9:30 in D203/204, is studying 2 Corinthians. Come and visit this Bible

‐based discussion oriented class. For more information, contact Mel Barrentine at 512‐258‐8625.

Discovery Class is studying Adam Hamilton’s The Way. Using historical information, archaeological

data, and stories of faith, we will follow in the footsteps of Jesus examining the heart of His ministry,

the people He loved, the parables He taught, the enemies He made, and the healing He brought. Join

us at 9:30, room D209/210. For more information, contact Robert Snipes, [email protected]. Study

ends April 13.










[email protected].

The Wednesday Evening Bible Study is taking a break during Lent, and will start again on April 23. For

more info, contact Jimmy Johnson at [email protected].

Primetimers Primetimers (Older Adults)(Older Adults) AARP Driver Safety











Curt Olson Charms

Audiences Again! Come make another MEMORY

at the Georgetown Palace Theater.

Join Primetimers on Sunday, March

16, at a true musical phenomenon,

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS .

Based on the universally popular poetry of TS Eliot, CATS

tells the story in song and dance of the annual gathering of

the Jellicats when one special cat is selected to be reborn into

a new life. Bethany’s Music Director, Curt Olson, plays Old

Deuteronomy, a very, very old cat!

The musical runs from February 14 – March 23.

Primetimers will leave Bethany at 1 p.m. on March 16,

attend the musical, dine at Cotton Patch restaurant and

return to the church by 7 p.m. Tickets are $25. Cost of meal

not included. Call Shirley Leydecker at 512‐219‐5842 by

March 8 for reservations.



2014 MISSION TRIPS Join us in being the hands and feet of Christ in our community and our world.








(Spaces are available on all trips except El Salvador)

Start Here: http://www.bethany-umc.org/ministries/student/missions/trips.

Sunday, March 9 Sunday School 9:30 & 11:00 No afternoon activities

Wednesday, March 12 No Ignite

Thursday, March 13 No Bethany Orchestra

Sunday, March 16 Sunday School 9:30 & 11:00 PURE Sound Choir 3:30-5:00 JuBELLation Ringers 5:00-6:00 Middle School Bible Study 5:00-6:00 Fuel Jam 5:00-6:00 Fuel High School Youth Group 6:00-8:00 Confirmation Classes 6:00-8:00

Know What’s UP in Student Ministries: Yahoo: [email protected]

Facebook: Bethany Student Ministries Rock!

Web: www.bethany-umc.org/ministry/student

Follow us on Twitter: #bumcstudents



(March 28-29) Sign up and start fundraising now!


Goal: $15,000 Amount Raised: $1,088

Earn funds for your mission trips and youth activities:

Sell Ladybug Organic Fertilizer!

Sales end and packets are due March 9th. Pick up date March 23rd.

Impact A Student Leadership Workshop

Designed for High School Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors who want to develop their leadership skills that they will need to be leaders in the church and outside our church.

Topics include:

Exploring Leadership and what that it means to be a leader.

Leaders know God.

Leaders know themselves. This topic in-cludes assessing your personality/leadership style using the Myers-Briggs assessment

Leaders are learners.

Leaders focus on others.

Leader lead now - you don’t have to wait to be a leader.

This workshop is required for student’s who want to be JC’s at MBTS or lead small groups during regular events.

When: Saturday, April 8th, 8:00am - 6:00pm Cost: $10

Register online: http://www.bethany-umc.org/ministries/student

Children’s MinistriesChildren’s Ministries

If you are on Facebook make sure to “like” our page. We update it regularly with information about what is going on

in Children’s Ministry.

www.Facebook.com/BUMCChildren

A Crew Leader: Does not want to prep

anything Participates in fun and

interactive activities Gets to see how God is

working in children

Shepherds young hearts Learns from children Eats great food Loves to laugh Enjoys children

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the fun!

Children 2 and under may attend free with a 5-day adult volunteer. The cost is $20 dollars for children 3 and up with a 5-day adult volunteer.

Scholarships are available.

If you have any questions, please contact Jen Seibel at 512-258-6017 ext 233 or [email protected]

Sign up online today at www.bethany-umc.org/vbs!

Want to know more about what is happening in Children’s Ministry? Go here to sign up for our kids newsletter

and other announcements:

http://www.bethany-umc.org/ministries/children/kids-news















Feature Article....................................... 1

Destination...Transformation Celebration

From Pastor Tom Deviney: ................. 2

Being Great


Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives . 1,3

Children’s Ministries ............................ 9

Church Staff Openings ......................... 5

Fertilizer Sales ....................................... 3

Lent & Easter ......................................... 4

Marriage Encounter ............................. 3

Missions ................................................. 6

New Members ....................................... 3

Prayers ............................................... 2,6

Primetimers (Older Adults) ................ 7

Servants on Standby ............................. 5

Student Ministries ................................ 8


7:00 p.m. Taizé Service of Wholeness & Healing (p.4)


Wednesday, March 12 5:15 p.m. Lent Potluck Supper (see below)

6:30 p.m. Lent Worship (see p.4)



Coming Up in Worship Pastor Sheri Clifton preaching 3/8

Pastor Tom Deviney preaching 3/9

Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives

“The Temptation”


8:15a SonShine Singers, Bethany Bells


11:00a Chancel Choir, Bethany Bells

9:30a Chapel Meditation Pastor Sheri Clifton

Join the Bethany family in Fellowship Hall

for a Potluck Fellowship dinner this

Wednesday, March 12, beginning at 5:15,

and followed by Lent Worship in the

Sanctuary at 6:30.

Speaker: Zach Thompson

Special Music by Joy Wukash


Page 1

A Crew Leader: Does not want to prep anything Participates in fun and interactive

activities Gets to see how God is working in

children

Eats great food Loves to laugh Enjoys children Learns from children Shepherds young hearts

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the fun! VBS is for children age 4 years to 5th grade. Children must turn 4 on or before 9/01/2014. Registration is open now for volunteers and their children. Children 2 and under may attend free with a 5-day adult volunteer. The cost is $20 for children 3 and up with a 5-day adult volunteer. Scholarships are available.

Registration is open to everyone April 1. Go to the VBS website for more information.


Sign up online today at www.bethany-umc.org/vbs

*Those completing 5th grade attend the 2nd week only.

The Promise of Spring Spring is one of my very favorite times of the year. The last week or so of winter I begin watching the trees in my yard,

certain that at any minute I will see new life budding. Despite the craziness of this winter, new life has begun to emerge. When

I first realized it, my whole being seemed to take in a deep breath as I stood in awe of God’s creation and faithfulness. It was as

if I’d been holding my breath since the leaves fell off a few months ago (or was it just a few weeks?). I’d been waiting to see if

life really would return to those branches. And it did. Spring is a time of new life and new opportunities, not only in nature,

but in our lives, as well. It is also a time, as we prepare to celebrate Easter, that we remember God’s love and faithfulness

demonstrated so profoundly in Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.

For some people, the winter season can be long, dark, and cold. And “winter” for some is not necessarily confined to

December, January, and February. Things happen in our lives and the lives of those we love … death, job loss, depression,

addictions, marital struggles, wayward children, absent parents, illness (sudden and chronic) … and we find ourselves in places

of confusion, heartache, disappointment, frustration, and perhaps despair. Our “normal” lives have been interrupted and we

don’t know how to find a new “normal”. We may even wonder where God is in the midst of our struggle. Can we trust God’s

promises? Can we believe that God really is present with us? Can we hold on to the hope of new life? Our faith in Jesus Christ

says we can … we can trust, we can believe, we can hold on to hope. And springtime is one reminder of life that dwells deep

within us. Life, that no matter how difficult it becomes, always has the possibility of being renewed.

Natalie Sleeth wrote a hymn called “Hymn of Promise” (it’s on page 707 of the UM hymnal). The words are: In the bulb

there is a flower; in the seed, an apple tree; in cocoons, a hidden promise: butterflies will soon be free! In the cold and snow of winter there’s a

spring that waits to be, unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. There’s a song in every silence, seeking word and melody;

there’s a dawn in every darkness, bringing hope to you and me. From the past will come the future; what it holds, a mystery, unrevealed

until its season, something God alone can see. In our end is our beginning; in our time, infinity; in our doubt there is believing; in our life,

eternity. In our death, a resurrection; at the last, a victory, unrevealed until its season, something God alone can see. This hymn

celebrates what my heart and soul long for every winter—the promise and hope of new life, and the confidence in God to do

what God promises to do, even when it has yet to be revealed to me.

I encourage you to take a look around you this week. Look closely at God’s creation as it reveals God’s faithfulness to

God’s promises. Listen closely for the song God has placed in your heart as it reveals God’s unending love for you. Pay close

attention to where God is bringing resurrection hope and light into your life. May this Spring be one of renewal and

refreshment for you, of new opportunities and new life.


Page 2

“I want you to watch in hope as you wait for Me, your Savior. Wait expectantly: confident that I will do what is best. The longer you have to

wait, the more you must rely on your trust in Me.” ‐ Sarah Young, Jesus Lives, Seeing His Love in Your Life

PrayersPrayers

FOR BETHANY UMC: We pray for unity in fellowship and shared vision as we embark on the Beyond Walls: Transforming

Lives capital stewardship program.

CELEBRATIONS:

BIRTHS: Isabella Lee & Dakota Faith Mestauskas (great grandparents, Ruby & Weldon

Fairchild)

CONCERNS:

HOSPITALIZED IN TOWN: Hariett Naden (Dan Nadenʹs mother).


cousin) ‐ Dallas; Julia Fay Fogle (Rita Auerbach’s cousin) ‐ TN; Bobbie Hunt (Billy Rileyʹs sister) ‐ Abilene; Richard Kasel

(Russell Haines’ cousin) ‐ WV; Gene Kinder (Carol Follmer’s grandfather) ‐ Tyler; Colleen Knipp (Debie Marcinkiewicz’s

mother) ‐ FL; Bill Martin (Rich Wilcox’s cousin) ‐ NC; Penny San Marco (Gina Doolittle’s mother) ‐ San Antonio; Peyton

Smith (Cathy & Joe Bourn’s granddaughter) ‐ Houston.

DEATHS: Larry Coats ‐ 3/4, Cedar Park; Lenora Strachen (Donna Woosley’s aunt) ‐ 3/5, CO.


Saturday worship, no 9:30 chapel service) No youth or adult Sunday School Fabulous food and fellowship Exhibits highligh ng our campus transforma on Special ac vi es for children For more informa on, visit the www.bethany‐umc.org/beyondwalls website and read the Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives newsle er!


An Invita on to Listening Prayer God has put “Listening Prayer” on our hearts in response to our call to confess, repent, and be transformed during the Lenten season, and also to be prayerful in the Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives capital stewardship program. Sessions will be held Sundays at 9:30am (D303) and 11am (D210). This is a prayer exercise designed to take any ques ons on our hearts to God. The goal is to individually discern His will for our lives and church, drawing closer to Him. Listening Prayer was introduced to Bethany's Prayer Team in 2008 via a booklet called God Guides. The exercise involves se ng aside the busy distrac ons of the world to be s ll and listen to the One who calls to us. Please join us in seeking Him! For more info or help with how to implement listening prayer in your own small group, contact Carolyn at carolyn.bawcom@bethany‐umc.org or 512‐258‐6017.

Women’s MinistriesWomen’s Ministries Hope Circle

Monday, March 17, 11am—1pm

Ministry Center

We will assemble butterflies for

Easter and Healing Touch baskets.

Bring a sack lunch for fellowship afterwards. For more info, call

Cindy Osborne, 512‐250‐8370. All women are invited to this

UMW Circle.

Charity Circle Tuesday, March 25, 10:00 a.m.

Ministry Center

Speaker will be Ross Tanner on his experiences attending The

Patriot Academy at the State Capitol.

Gideon by Priscilla Shirer

Womenʹs Bible Study Fridays, 9:30am‐11:30am

7 weeks beginning March 21

Facilitated by Christin Hakesley

Ever feel insufficient? Could it be that your weaknesses

are the keys that unlock Godʹs strength? Through a look at

the life of Gideon, you can discover that instead of ignoring,

neglecting, or trying to escape your weaknesses, you can

see them as the gifts, given specifically and strategically by

God to unlock the door of Godʹs strength.

Sign up today to reserve a book, using the link

below. Fee $14. Scholarships available upon request.

www.SignUpGenius.com/go/30E0D49AFA62CAA8‐pricilla


EASTER Butterfly





butterflies:

Butterfly Workshops


March, April 9 & 16






Lent



Wholeness and Healing Service April 13





March 19 speaker: Brian Stahnke March 26 speaker: Kristin Shelton April 2 speaker: Kelly Shoenfelt April 9 speakers from: Teen Challenge (San Antonio)


5:15 - 6:30 PM Wednesdays through April 9

In the Fellowship Hall


favorite to share as well, or just come eat & fellowship!



Easter Lily Sale Order Now in the Ministry Center Sundays through April 6

Cost: $10 each

Remember your loved ones with this beautiful gesture of peace and hope.

Final Deadline to order: April 6

Contact: Mack or Linda McLeod, 512-494-6270

Student Ministries Intern It is with much sadness that I need to let you all know

that Kayte Forester, Student Ministries Intern, will be

leaving us in May to further pursue her career as a Physical

Therapist. During Kayte’s two years on staff at Bethany she

has joined us on many mission teams, assisted weekly with

Fuel and Sunday School, as well as led the Sisterhood. She

will be greatly missed.

We have begun the search for a new intern. A job

description and application are posted on the youth page of

the Bethany website or may be requested in the youth office.

All applications must be received by March 16, 2014. This

position is 10 hours per week during the school year and

full‐time during the summer. As the search progresses for a

Student Ministries Intern, please pray for amazing

candidates to come forward and the discernment of the

hiring committee to know God’s will.

Grace and Peace,

Teresa Kingsbury

Director of Student Ministries


Thank you, Bethany, for your grand support of

Starlight Gala in February!

Twinkling lights and glittery

stars transformed the

Fellowship Hall into an

elegant, intimate space,

complimenting the delicious

dinner created by Chef Pat Bodin and Nancy Ruiz and their

talented culinary team. Two hundred attendees enjoyed

dinner music by Mike Vasquez and musical entertainment

by the Stardust Four. Fifty volunteers, including many from

Bethany, made this event possible. All Gala proceeds

($8,800) will directly benefit House of Friends, Bethany’s

weekly Alzheimer’s respite program. While HOF is a self‐

funding community outreach

ministry, Bethany UMC has

provided sturdy in‐kind support

since 2003 to this joy‐filled social

program that transforms lives.

Thank you for your generosity!

Amplify HOF! House of Friends (HOF) is excited for

this new opportunity to transform

lives! HOF will participate in Amplify

Austin Day on March 20 at 6pm to

March 21 at 7pm! Amplify Austin is

24 hours of giving to Central Texas

non‐profits, amplifying the donations

of individuals like you and me to

benefit local charities. We need your help! Read about this

fantastic day of giving and donate to HOF!

amplifyatx.ilivehereigivehere.org/bethanyHOF/overview

Susie Petersen, Director, House of Friends,

[email protected]

AARP Driver Safety











Registration We have some openings for the 2014-2015 school year at Bethany School. Please come visit and see what a great staff, curriculum and program we have here for your child. We are a part time 9 to 1 (Thursday 9-12) school with special classes including music, movement and science for your child. We also have 2 extended days for three/fours and PreK age children in Spanish and Art. Come see Bethany School.

Toddler Playground The magic total has been reached for our new Toddler Playground project. Thank you all for all of your support and also your contributions!!!

Pre‐assembled Bags of Grace are available in the church office during normal

business hours. Cost is still just $3 per bag; $30 for a case of 10. Need more than 1

or 2? Call the day before and let us know. To order Bags of Grace, contact Rita

Auerbach at 250‐3455 or 577‐7001 or email [email protected]. They are also

available for purchase the third Sunday of each month in the Ministry Center.

“Bags of Grace” are gallon size zip‐loc bags containing non‐perishable food

items, water and toiletry items. By passing a Bag from your car window to the

beggar on the street corner you are, according to Jesus, ministering to Him. Each month we deliver 300 Bags of Grace to the

homeless at Church Under the Bridge in downtown Austin. The cost of delivering these bags each month is over $1,200. Your

tax deductible gifts to help support this ministry may be made to BUMC. Please note ʺBags of Grace Donationʺ on the memo

line of your check. Thank you!

MissionsMissions Serving the Homeless in our Community


Fridays, March 21 & 28







Austin, TX 78750









Got Prayer Time?



different mission trips that Student Ministries











summer time.





SpiritWalk Classes include: Putting Your House in Order

(March 18 or 25)

Register at bethany‐umc.org or in the

church office (512) 258‐6017.

Page 7


LIFE Class is studying the film Son of God. Each week we will view clips and focus on different

lessons from Jesusʹ life and imagine what would happen if we applied these lessons to our own lives.

Class meets at 11:00 AM in room D305/306. Contact Debra Coe, [email protected] for more

information.

Covenant Class, which meets at 9:30 in D203/204, is studying 2 Corinthians. Come and visit this Bible

‐based discussion oriented class. For more information, contact Mel Barrentine at 512‐258‐8625.














[email protected].

The Wednesday Evening Bible Study is taking a break during Lent, and will start

again on April 23. For more info, contact

Jimmy Johnson at [email protected].

Annual Bethany Adult Spiritual Retreat Living with Courage

Summerʹs Mill Retreat Center ‐ Salado, TX

April 27 ‐ 29, 2014

Minimum age: 18

Enrich your life and experience the love of Jesus Christ by

spending three days at the beautiful Summers Mill Retreat

Center, the ideal setting for spiritual renewal. With an open

mind & a warm heart, let the Holy Spirit lead you as you immerse yourself in experiencing the enrichment of new

relationships. Experience inspirational music as you join others to lift your voices to some new songs & some oldies but

goodies. Hear spirit‐filled messages that will enrich your walk with Jesus.

Enjoy a tram ride, tour the farm, photograph the animals, visit downtown Salado & shop at their many quaint stores.

Make new friends, get reacquainted with old ones during table games and other activities. There will also be plenty of free

time for reading, for resting & spiritual reflection, as you enjoy nature’s springtime beauty in the country.

Please contact Shirley Leydecker at 512‐219‐5842 with questions.














Designed for High School Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors who want to develop their leadership skills they will need to be leaders in the church and outside our church.

Topics include:


Leaders know God.

Leaders know themselves. This topic includes assessing your personality/leadership style using the Myers-Briggs assessment.



Leaders lead now - you don’t have to wait to be a leader.




Sunday, March 16 Sunday School 9:30 & 11:00 PURE Sound Choir 3:30-5:00 JuBELLation Ringers 5:00-6:00 Middle School Bible Study 5:00-6:00 Fuel Jam 5:00-6:00 Fuel High School Youth Group 6:00-8:00 Confirmation Classes 6:00-8:00

Wednesday, March 19 Ignite Jam 5:00-6:00pm Ignite 6:00-8:00pm

Thursday, March 20 Bethany Orchestra 6:30-7:30

Sunday, March 23 Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives Event No Youth Sunday School - enjoy the church wide event, worship at 8:45 or 10:45, food in fellowship hall and more. PURE Sound Choir 3:30-5:00 JuBELLation Ringers 5:00-6:00 Middle School Bible Study 5:00-6:00 Fuel Jam 5:00-6:00 Fuel High School Youth Group 6:00-8:00 Confirmation Classes 6:00-8:00






Chrysalis (9th-12th graders)

A Chrysalis Flight is a 3-day spiritual renewal time that provides an opportunity for you to learn more about faith, to experience Christian love and support, and to make new faith commitments.

Girls & Boys Flights: July 16 - 19

Information and forms can be found at: www.bethany-umc.org/ministries/student

Children’s MinistriesChildren’s Ministries 4th and 5th Graders

Sunday, April 6, 9:30 and 11:00

4th and 5th graders have the opportunity to attend our Tween Worship Service!! Sign in at your usual classrooms and then your leaders will bring you to the Lighthouse. We will have worship and then return to the classroom.

Questions? Contact Pastor Jessica Petersen at 512-258-6017 x232 or [email protected].

Volunteer in Children’s Sunday School! Get to know some awesome kids and have a great time serving God! All curriculum and supplies are provided for you. Volunteer on a regular basis or as a substitute!

Discover: Base Camp is designed to introduce 3- and 4-year-olds to the Bible stories that will remain with them forever. Children will have opportunities to learn about God's love through popular Bible stories, crafts, and playtime.

Teachers – comfortable leading any portion of the class, lesson, music, craft, etc. Helpers – assist with the lesson

Discover: Trek for Kindergarten through 5th graders gets children out of a single classroom. Each week they will move to a different fun and exciting learning center. Trek activities include: theater, cooking, games, art, and more!

Station leaders – teach the same lesson for 4 consecutive weeks to different classes Shepherds - travel with the same children to a different learning station each time they serve

From current volunteers: “We had an absolute blast. I really encourage you to try it out, you would be surprised at how easy and how much fun it is.” -- Fiona McInally

“Spending time with the Sunday School children in Discover: Trek was a great experience. The lesson was easy to understand and completely ready for me with my only preparation being reading it the week before.” -- Kristen Duffey

Interested in serving? Visit: www.bethany-umc.org/ministries/children/sunday-school or contact James Benefiel at 512-258-6017 x413 or [email protected]















Feature Article....................................... 1

VBS 2014

From Pastor Sheri Clifton: ................... 2

The Promise of Spring


Adult Spiritual Retreat ......................... 7

Bethany School ...................................... 5


Children’s Ministries ............................ 9


House of Friends ................................... 5

Lent & Easter ......................................... 4

Missions ................................................. 6

Prayers .................................................. 2


Women’s Ministries ............................. 3


11:00 a.m. Pastor’s Baptism Class

Monday, March 17 10:30 a.m. Hope Circle (see p.3)


9:00 a.m. AARP Driver Safety (see p.5)

Wednesday, March 19 5:15 p.m. Lent Soup Supper (see p.4 & below)


Friday, March 21 4:00 p.m. Mobile Loaves & Fishes Meal Prep (see p.6)

Saturday, March 22 5:00 p.m. NO Saturday Worship (see p.3)


Coming Up in Worship Pastor Sheri Clifton preaching 3/15

Pastor David Minnich preaching 3/16


“The Call”


8:15 & 11a Grace Notes, Ann Moeller,

SonShine Singers/Chancel Choir




for Soup Suppers each Wednesday during

Lent, beginning at 5:15, and followed by

Lent Worship in the Sanctuary at 6:30.

This week, March 19:

Speaker: Brian Stahnke

Music led by Nic Whitworth


Page 1

Friday, March 28 - Saturday, March 29, 2014

30-hour Famine is an event designed by World Vision to help teenagers understand the long-term effects of hunger, raise funds, and experience hunger first hand.

$35 can feed and care for a child for a month through World Vision. We are trying to raise $15,000 to feed more than 35 children in a year. All funds raised will go toward food and sustainability in Matete, Kenya.

We invite you to join us in our effort:

1. Pray. Ask God to work in and through our Students

2. Volunteer. Join us for an amazing Famine weekend.

hang out with us for the event,

drive and accompany us on our mission projects,

assist with the Break the Fast meal.

3. Give. Write a check, donate online, send the Purple Potty to your best friend.

The event:

Students will begin fasting after lunch on Friday then join their friends on campus for 30 hours of fasting, worshiping, praying, playing games, sleeping in cardboard boxes and serving others.

During the day on Saturday we go out into the community to serve in local missions. We will participate with Mobile Loaves and Fishes, PETS, Bags of Grace and Street Youth Ministries.

Saturday evening we will break the with a Communion worship service followed by a delicious soup supper and grilled cheese sandwiches.

http://www.bethany-umc.org/ministries/student/missions/projects/30-hour-famine

Breaking the fast

Small Groups

Cardboard city.

Free time

Covenanting with God Now the Lord said to Abram, “Go…and I will bless you…So Abram went, as the Lord had told him. Genesis 12

Throughout the Bible, God and the prophets speak to the people of God about the covenants that have been made by God

with us. These are covenants to which God is always faithful, never failing to uphold His promise. Men and women, on the

other hand, break our end of the covenant all the time. We must constantly seek God’s forgiveness, and we do that together

through our prayers of confession each weekend (at traditional services of worship) or at least once a month. Our confessions

not only serve to put us into conversation with God about pardoning us, but also have the purpose of reminding us of our

covenant to offer the love that God first gave us by returning it to God and sharing it with others.

As we entered Lent season on Ash Wednesday, we began by considering what sin it is we need to die to, what confession

of breaking the covenant do we have to offer. Beyond the practice of giving something up or preparing ourselves for the death

and resurrection of Christ, Lent for me is a reminder of my covenant with God, a time to remember myself as a woman

committed to honoring and serving God for all the ways God has loved and saved me.

As I prepare myself during Lent, I am really reminding myself of my response to Christ’s invitation to a redeemed life.

John Wesley’s Covenant Prayer helps me to realign my will with God’s will for all of those who seek to be reconciled with

God. May it also encourage you to be the sacrifice that God really longs for ‐ our love for Him over the world and in the

world.

I am no longer my own, but thine.

Put me to what thou wilt, rank me with whom thou wilt.

Put me to doing, put me to suffering.

Let me be employed by thee or laid aside for thee,

exalted for thee or brought low for thee.

Let me be full, let me be empty.

Let me have all things, let me have nothing.

I freely and heartily yield all things

to thy pleasure and disposal.

And now, O glorious and blessed God,

Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,

thou art mine, and I am thine. So be it. And the covenant which I have made on earth,

let it be ratified in heaven.

Blessings in the Journey,


Page 2

“Prayer is not some massive net we use to trawl for the will of God; it is our opportunity to agree with what He wants to do. When we pray in

the will of God, we build the faith and confidence needed to further declare God’s plans.” ‐ Graham Cooke

PrayersPrayers



CELEBRATIONS:

BIRTH: Louis Martin Stehli—2/19 to Martin & Annie Stehli in Ohio (great‐grandparents are Nick & LaRue Sisak

CONCERNS:

HOSPITALIZED IN TOWN: Roland Cozby; Mary McCall; Richard Rohlik (Lois Rohlik’s son)


cousin) ‐ Dallas; Julia Fay Fogle (Rita Auerbach’s cousin) ‐ TN; Bobbie Hunt (Billy Rileyʹs sister) ‐ Abilene; Richard Kasel

(Russell Haines’ cousin) ‐ WV; Gene Kinder (Carol Follmer’s grandfather) ‐ Tyler; Colleen Knipp (Debie Marcinkiewicz’s

mother) ‐ FL; Bill Martin (Rich Wilcox’s cousin) ‐ NC

DEATHS: Mavis Miller (Ann Barlow’s mother) ‐ 3/14 Hamilton; Patsy Ryan (Tom Perkins’ sister) ‐ 3/13 OK


Saturday worship, no 9:30 chapel service) No youth or adult Sunday School Fabulous food and fellowship Exhibits highligh ng our campus transforma on Special ac vi es for children For more informa on, visit the www.bethany‐umc.org/beyondwalls website and read the Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives newsle er!


What am I supposed to do about....? Did you know you can take your concerns & ques ons to God and—when we are s ll and listen—He will answer? Here are some of the ques ons He is answering for Bethany members: What should I do? What am I/we missing? What is your vision for our church, Lord? The goal is to individually discern His will for our lives and church, drawing closer to Him. Listening Prayer was introduced to Bethany's Prayer Team in 2008 via a booklet called God Guides. The exercise involves se ng aside the busy distrac ons of the world to be s ll and listen to the One who calls to us. Please join us in seeking Him! Sessions will be held Sunday, March 30, at 9:30am (D303) and 11am (D210). For more info or help with how to implement listening prayer in your own small group, contact Carolyn at carolyn.bawcom@bethany‐umc.org or 512‐258‐6017.

Amplify HOF! House of Friends (HOF) is excited for this

new opportunity to transform lives! HOF

will participate in Amplify Austin Day on

March 20‐21. Amplify Austin is 24 hours

of giving to Central Texas non‐profits,

amplifying the donations of individuals like you and me to

benefit local charities. We need your help! Log in to

AmplifyATX.org, read about this

fantastic day of giving, and pledge to

HOF!

Susie Petersen, Director

House of Friends

[email protected]

Registration We have some openings for the 2014-2015 school year at Bethany School. Please come visit and see what a great staff, curriculum and program we have here for your child. We are a part time 9 to 1 ( Thursday 9-12) school with special classes including music, movement and science for your child. We also have 2 extended days for three/fours and PreK age children in Spanish and Art. Come see Bethany School.

Toddler Playground The magic total has been reached for our new Toddler Playground project. Thank you all for all of your support and also your contributions!!!

Partners in Ministry Training for Effective Communication

Saturday, April 5 8:45 am – 4 pm Room D-206/207

Lead from the H.E.A.R.T. (HEART Principles) Listen with more skill and understanding Create an environment of win/win problem solving Give and receive feedback more effectively Confront others in a more caring & constructive way Build and keep trust and credibility

Cost of Materials - $10 per person

Childcare available with one week advance reservation. Register with Cecilia Barrentine: 512-258-6017 or [email protected]


EASTER Butterfly





butterflies:

Butterfly Workshops


March, April 9 & 16






Lent








March 26 speaker: Kristin Shelton April 2 speaker: Kelly Shoenfelt April 9 speakers from: Teen Challenge (San Antonio)









Cost: $10 each




Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the fun! VBS is for children age 4-5th grade. Children must turn 4 on or before 9/01/2014. Registration is open now for volunteers and their children. Children 2 and under may

attend free with a 5-day adult volunteer. The cost is $20 dollars for children 3 and up with a 5-day adult volunteer. Scholarships are available.

Registration is open to everyone April 1. Go to the VBS website for more information.




A Crew Leader: Does not want to prep anything Participates in fun and interactive activities Gets to see how God is working in children Eats great food

Loves to laugh Enjoys children Learns from children Shepherds young hearts

Student Ministries Intern It is with much sadness that I need to let you all know that Kayte Forester,

Student Ministries Intern, will be leaving us in May to further pursue her career as

a Physical Therapist. During Kayte’s two years on staff at Bethany she has joined

us on many mission teams, assisted weekly with Fuel and Sunday School, as well

as led the Sisterhood. She will be greatly missed.

We have begun the search for a new intern. A job description and application

are posted on the youth page of the Bethany website or may be requested in the

youth office. All applications must be received by March 16, 2014. This position is 10 hours per week during the school year

and full ‐time during the summer. As the search progresses for a Student Ministries Intern, please pray for amazing

candidates to come forward and the discernment of the hiring committee to know God’s will.

Grace and Peace,

Teresa Kingsbury, Director of Student Ministries


MissionsMissions





Austin, TX 78750









Got Prayer Time?














summer time.







Friday, March 28



For the last several years Bethany has helped organizations with a special

outreach project for children by making Easter baskets. This year we will be

involved in that project again and will be supporting several groups including

Texas Baptist Children’s Home and San Gabriel Foster & Adopt Group.

The following items are needed for each basket:

8‐10ʺ wide Easter baskets

8‐12ʺ tall stuffed Easter animals (new or like new)

6ʺ chocolate bunny

individually pre‐wrapped candy

toothbrush and toothpaste

cellophane to wrap basket

Monetary donations are also accepted. (Please make checks out to “Bethany UMC” and write “Easter Basket Project” in the

memo line.) There will be donation bins around the church and contributions will be taken until Palm Sunday, April 12.

If you would like a more active role in this ministry, this is great community service project for the whole family. If you

are interested in helping assemble Easter baskets, please contact Christy Bryant at [email protected] or (512) 973‐3443.

SpiritWalk Classes include: Putting Your House in Order

next Tuesday, March 25

Register at bethany‐umc.org or in the

church office (512) 258‐6017.

Page 7


Disciples Under Construction is currently studying Proverbs. This discussion‐oriented group enjoys learning from each otherʹs life experiences. The main focus is encouraging spiritual growth on a weekly

basis, but also in serving in missions together and other social opportunities. Class consists of couples &

singles, those with kids & no kids, and ages late 20ʹs ‐ 40ʹs, but we are open to all. Join us at 9:30 in room

D205. For more information, contact Jenna Duke at [email protected].

LIFE Class is studying the film Son of God. Each week we will view clips and focus on different lessons from Jesusʹ life

and imagine what would happen if we applied these lessons to our own lives. Class meets at 11:00 AM in room D305/306.

Contact Debra Coe, [email protected] for more information.

Covenant Class, which meets at 9:30 in D203/204, is studying 2 Corinthians. Come and visit this Bible‐based discussion

oriented class. For more information, contact Mel Barrentine at 512‐258‐8625.











The Wednesday Evening Bible Study is taking a break during Lent, and will start

again on April 23. For more info, contact

Jimmy Johnson at [email protected].

Women’s MinistriesWomen’s Ministries

Charity Circle Tuesday, March 25, 10:00 a.m. in the Ministry Center

Speaker will be Ross Tanner on his experiences attending The

Patriot Academy at the State Capitol.

Gideon by Priscilla Shirer

Womenʹs Bible Study Fridays, 9:30am‐11:30am, 7 weeks beginning March 21

Facilitated by Christin Hakesley

Ever feel insufficient? Could it be that your weaknesses

are the keys that unlock Godʹs strength? Through a look at

the life of Gideon, you can discover that instead of ignoring,

neglecting, or trying to escape your weaknesses, you can

see them as the gifts, given specifically and strategically by

God to unlock the door of Godʹs strength.

Sign up today to reserve a book, using the link

below. Fee $14. Scholarships available upon request.

www.SignUpGenius.com/go/30E0D49AFA62CAA8‐pricilla

Sacred Secrets by Beth Moore Women’s Tuesday Morning Bible Study

March 25—May 6, 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon, Room D305-306 Find out what happens when we let God teach us

“wisdom in the secret heart.” For questions or to register

email [email protected] or call Prissy Pense at

512‐258‐2222.













Sunday, March 23 Church Event No Sunday School PURE SOUND Choir 3:30-5:00 JuBELLation Ringers 5:00-6:00 Middle School Bible Study 5:00-6:00 Fuel Jam 5:00-6:00 Fuel High School Youth Group 6:00-8:00 Confirmation Classes 6:00-8:00 Wednesday, March 26 Ignite Jam 5:00-6:00 Ignite 6:00-8:00 Thursday, March 27 Bethany Orchestra 6:30-7:30 Friday, March 28 6:00pm to Saturday, March 29 8:00pm 30-hour Famine Sunday, March 30 Sunday School 9:30 & 11:00 PURE Sound Choir 3:30-5:00 JuBELLation Ringers 5:00-6:00 Middle School Bible Study 5:00-6:00 Fuel Jam 5:00-6:00 Fuel High School Youth Group 6:00-8:00 Confirmation Classes 6:00-8:00








Topics include:


Leaders know God.

Leaders know themselves. This topic includes assessing your personality/leadership style using the Myers-Briggs assessment



Leader lead now - you don’t have to wait to be a leader.















Discover: Trek for Kindergarten through 5th graders gets children out of a single classroom. Each week they will move to a different fun and exciting learning center. Trek activities include: theater, cooking, games, art, and more!



















Feature Article....................................... 1

30‐Hour Famine

From Pastor Wynn Stenftenagel: ........ 2

Covenanting with God


Bethany School ...................................... 3




House of Friends ................................... 3

Lent & Easter ......................................... 4

Missions ................................................. 6

Partners in Ministry ............................. 3

Prayers .................................................. 2


Vacation Bible School ........................... 5


Sunday, March 23 8:15 & 10:15 a.m. Destination … Transformation! Worship


Wednesday, March 26 5:15 p.m. Lent Soup Supper (see p.4 & below)


Friday, March 28 4:00 p.m. Mobile Loaves & Fishes Meal Prep (see p.6)



Coming Up in Worship Pastor Tom Deviney preaching


“The Vision”

Two Identical Services

at 8:45 & 10:45 a.m. only

(see p.3 for details)

Music Provided By: Bethany Orchestra, Chancel Choir,

Children’s Choirs, PURE SOUND,

Messengers of Grace





This week, March 26:

Speaker: Kristin Shelton

Special Music by Elizabeth Etter


Page 1

Lent Cantata

The Chancel Choir and Orchestra will

present the Lent Cantata The Rose of

Calvary Palm Sunday weekend on

Saturday, April 12, at 5 p.m. and Sunday,

April 13, at 8:15 and 11 a.m. worship

services. Composed by Joseph Martin, The

Rose of Calvary was written as a sequel to

the Christmas Cantata The Winter Rose

which we presented this past

December. Narrators for The Rose of

Calvary will be Pam Mitchell and Margaret

Wilson, with soloists Julia Powers, Jamieson

McCaffity and Steve Young.

Using the image of a sacred flower, The Rose of Calvary portrays the life,

ministry, passion and death of Jesus Christ, the Rose of Sharon. When translated

into music, this image becomes a song that speaks to our deepest needs for

restoration and redemption. It reveals to us a lonely garden where ancient olive

trees stand silent witness to the suffering of the Savior. It is God’s tender love

song, reminding us all that we are children of the garden. Finally, at its heart, it

is the image of one truly perfect Rose, who, choosing grace, died for His beloved

thorns.

Come and invite your family and friends to experience this powerful

presentation of hope and comfort. It will be a meaningful way to begin Holy

Week.

Lent For some reason, I have always enjoyed knowing the roots of the words we use. When I began studying philosophy, I

discovered that there is a whole field devoted to linguistic analysis. Indeed, there are some who hold that the language we use

is the true indicator of what we consider to be “real.” All systems of thought, however, recognize the need for a specialized

vocabulary to express certain concepts. The followers of Christ have also developed a specialized vocabulary. Words such as

sin, grace, atonement, sacrifice, etc., all spring out of the Judeo‐Christian tradition. There are so many such words that we

began to assume that all religious language has special meaning. But this isn’t always true.

The season of Lent is observed just before Easter. It lasts for forty days, excepting Sundays. It is a season of penitence and

preparation for the sacrifice and Resurrection of Christ. “Lent,” however, is not derived from any sacred source. It began in the

Old English “lengten” or German “lenzin.” Both of these words mean just what they look like: lengthen. They refer to the time

of year when the daylight hours begin to lengthen. From them was derived the Middle English name for Spring, “lente.” Over

time, this was shortened to “lent.” Thus, the name for our church season is simply a formalization of the archaic name for

Spring. Sometimes, our “specialized” vocabulary isn’t so specialized!

I feel tugged in two directions by Lent. One direction is the somber, self‐reflective and penitent mode. It is a time to think

of what God has done for us in Christ’s sacrifice. Having the opportunity to pray in the Garden of Gethsemane in 1998

brought that home to me with great power. The other direction is the jubilant, life‐renewing celebration which really belongs

to Easter but, in our part of the world, is already beginning. It is hard to be somber when wildflowers and Redbud trees are

blooming. In the midst of the dark time of Christ’s Passion, I am also aware of the joy of Christ’s Resurrection.

Perhaps that is meant to be. The early church fathers and mothers taught that the Crucifixion and Resurrection could not

be separated. Both were part of one great act of love by God. They require each other and only make sense when grasped

together. Holding them together in our hearts makes the agony of the Crucifixion bearable and the joy of the Resurrection

more powerful. Maybe that’s why I find myself led to both in this season of Lent.

I invite to give yourself fully to this season. The depth and fullness of what God is doing in those season is far beyond

casual observance. To truly take in what God is doing requires much more than vocabulary or ritual or definition. It can only

be apprehended by those whose hearts, minds, and spirits are broken open to receive this great act of love that God is pouring

out.

Grace and Peace,


Page 2

“Intercession is more than prayer; it is a permanent posture one assumes … More than an occasional hour of prayer, intercession is a constant

state.” ‐ Derek Prince, Protection From Deception

PrayersPrayers



CONCERNS:

HOSPITALIZED IN TOWN: Richard Rohlik (Lois Rohlik’s son)

HOSPITALIZED OUT‐OF‐TOWN: Carol Carlson (Gary Gossett’s cousin) ‐ Dallas; Julia Fay Fogle (Rita Auerbach’s cousin) ‐

TN; Bobbie Hunt (Billy Rileyʹs sister) ‐ Abilene; Richard Kasel (Russell Haines’ cousin) ‐ WV; Gene Kinder (Carol Follmer’s

grandfather) ‐ Tyler; Colleen Knipp (Debie Marcinkiewicz’s mother) ‐ FL; Bill Martin (Rich Wilcox’s cousin) ‐ NC

DEATHS: Gary Griffith—3/4 Hutto; Janet Johnson (Sharon Wilson’s sister) ‐ 3/17; Greg Leonard (Paul Calmes’ cousin) ‐ 3/18;

Gene Miller (Cynthia Langdon’s father) ‐ 2/17; Amanda Toupin (Leo Toupin’s mother) ‐ 3/17 IN; Sandy Park Zgonce (Phyllis

Cram’s cousin) ‐ 2/26


What am I supposed to do about....? Did you know you can take your concerns & ques ons to God and—when we are s ll and listen—He will answer? Here are some of the ques ons He is answering for Bethany members: What should I do? What am I/we missing? What is your vision for our church, Lord? The goal is to individually discern His will for our lives and church, drawing closer to Him. Listening Prayer was introduced to Bethany's Prayer Team in 2008 via a booklet called God Guides. The exercise involves se ng aside the busy distrac ons of the world to be s ll and listen to the One who calls to us. Please join us in seeking Him! Sessions will be held Sundays through April 13th at 9:30am (D303) and 11am (D210). For more info or help with how to implement listening prayer in your own small group, contact Carolyn at carolyn.bawcom@bethany‐umc.org or 512‐258‐6017. For more informa on, visit the www.bethany‐umc.org/beyondwalls website and read the Beyond Walls: Transforming Lives newsle er!




Discover: Trek for Kindergarten through 5th graders gets children out of a single classroom. Each week they will move to a different fun and exciting learning center. Trek activities include theater, cooking, games, art, and more!






EASTER Butterfly





butterflies:

Butterfly Workshops


April 9 & 16






Lent








April 2 speaker: Kelly Shoenfelt April 9 speakers from: Teen Challenge (San Antonio)

Listen to audio of past speakers at www.bethany-umc.org/lent-speakers









Cost: $10 each




Youth Fundraiser: Cookie Dough &

Desserts! Orders taken through April 23

Delivery the week of May 5

Place orders at the table in the Ministry Center on March 30, April 6 or 13, or ask any Bethany youth.

These delicious goodies come frozen and cost $14 to $16.

Stock up your freezer, and support Bethany youth at the same time!

Registration We have some openings for the 2014-2015 school year at Bethany School. Please come visit and see what a great staff, curriculum and program we have here for your child. We are a part-time 9 to 1 (Thursday 9-12) school with special classes including music, movement and science for your child. We also have 2 extended days in Spanish and Art for threes/fours and PreK age children. Come see Bethany School! For more information contact Director Pat Rudd at 512-258-6965.

Partners in Ministry Training for Effective Communication

Saturday, April 5 8:45 am – 4 pm Room D-206/207

Lead from the H.E.A.R.T. (HEART Principles) Listen with more skill and understanding Create an environment of win/win problem solving Give and receive feedback more effectively Confront others in a more caring & constructive way Build and keep trust and credibility

Cost of Materials - $10 per person

Childcare available with one week advance reservation. Register with Cecilia Barrentine: 512-258-6017 or [email protected]

Sacred Secrets by Beth Moore Women’s Tuesday Morning Bible Study

March 25—May 6, 9:30 a.m. to 12 noon, Room D305-306 Find out what happens when we let God teach us

“wisdom in the secret heart.” For questions or to register

email [email protected] or call Prissy Pense at

512‐258‐2222.

Parents of College Students and

Military Personnel

This Spring, Student Ministries will send cards of encouragement and a small gift to all of our college students and military personnel. Please send the mailing address of your college/military child as soon as possible to:

[email protected] Deadline: April 18, 2014

We make up our mailing address list from scratch every semester. We will not be using any old addresses from last semester. You must send us a current mailing address in

order for them to receive a card of encouragement.

PRIMETIMERS UPCOMING EVENTS

4/02 - Chit, Chat & Chew: Men’s Breakfast, Wednesday 8:00 am at Jim’s Restaurant, 183 & Spicewood Springs 4/04- Game Night: Friday 6:30 – 9:30 pm in the Fellowship Hall. No

reservations are needed. 4/09 – Day Out: Tour Circuit of the Americas Race Track and have lunch at Cleveland’s in Buda. Wednesday, leave Bethany 9 am, return by 4:30 pm. $20 plus lunch. Call Shirley at 512-219-5842 by April 7. 4/13 – Lunch in the Café: Sunday after 11 am worship. $6 each. Reservations required, contact Shirley at 512-219-5842 by April 7.

MissionsMissions

Got Prayer Time?














summer time.





For the last several years Bethany has helped organizations with a special

outreach project for children by making Easter baskets. This year we will be

involved in that project again and will be supporting several groups including

Texas Baptist Children’s Home and San Gabriel Foster & Adopt Group.

The following items are needed for each basket:

8‐10ʺ wide Easter baskets

8‐12ʺ tall stuffed Easter animals (new or like new)

6ʺ chocolate bunny

individually pre‐wrapped candy

toothbrush and toothpaste

cellophane to wrap basket

Monetary donations are also accepted. (Please make checks out to “Bethany UMC” and write “Easter Basket Project” in the

memo line.) There will be donation bins around the church and contributions will be taken until Palm Sunday, April 12.

If you would like a more active role in this ministry, this is great community service project for the whole family. If you

are interested in helping assemble Easter baskets, please contact Christy Bryant at [email protected] or (512) 973‐3443.


On the dates below, we will be preparing and delivering meals using the MLF food truck:

Monday, April 7 & 14 Friday, Mar 28 & April 25


www.bethany-umc.org/connect-serve/serve/homeless or to volunteer, contact Debbie Childers,

[email protected]

Feed My People Tuesday, April 8, 2014






or to volunteer, contact Debbie Childers, [email protected]


Bible Class is studying the book of Galatians. This small discussion class is open to all ages and

learning levels. There are no “prerequisites.” All anyone needs is a desire to read and study

scripture. It is a good starting place for those who would like to read the Bible but don’t want to do

it alone. Join them in room D212 at 9:30. For more info contact Carolyn Canfield at carolyn‐

[email protected].

Disciples Under Construction is currently studying Proverbs. This discussion‐oriented group enjoys learning from each otherʹs life experiences. The main focus is encouraging spiritual growth on

a weekly basis, but also in serving in missions together and other social opportunities. Class consists

of couples & singles, those with kids & no kids, and ages late 20ʹs ‐ 40ʹs, but we are open to all. Join

us at 9:30 in room D205. For more information, contact Jenna Duke at [email protected].

LIFE Class is studying the film Son of God. Each week we will view clips and focus on different lessons from Jesusʹ life

and imagine what would happen if we applied these lessons to our own lives. Class meets at 11:00 AM in room D305/306.

Contact Debra Coe, [email protected] for more information.

Covenant Class, which meets at 9:30 in D203/204, is studying 2 Corinthians. Come and visit this Bible‐based discussion

oriented class. For more information, contact Mel Barrentine at 512‐258‐8625.







The Wednesday Evening Bible Study is taking a break during Lent, and will start again on April 23. For

more info, contact Jimmy Johnson at [email protected].

Annual Bethany Adult Spiritual Retreat Living with Courage

Summerʹs Mill Retreat Center ‐ Salado, TX

April 27 ‐ 29, 2014

Minimum age: 18

Enrich your life and experience the love of Jesus Christ by

spending three days at the beautiful Summers Mill Retreat

Center, the ideal setting for spiritual renewal. With an open mind

& a warm heart, let the Holy Spirit lead you as you immerse yourself in experiencing the enrichment of new relationships.

Experience inspirational music as you join others to lift your voices to some new songs & some oldies but goodies. Hear spirit‐

filled messages that will enrich your walk with Jesus.

Enjoy a tram ride, tour the farm, photograph the animals, visit downtown Salado & shop at their many quaint stores.

Make new friends, get reacquainted with old ones during table games and other activities. There will also be plenty of free

time for reading, for resting & spiritual reflection, as you enjoy nature’s springtime beauty in the country.

Please contact Shirley Leydecker at 512‐219‐5842 with questions.











(Spaces are available on all trips except Mt TOP & El Salvador)


Sunday, March 30 Sunday School 9:30 & 11:00 PURE Sound Choir 3:30-5:00 JuBELLation Ringers 5:00-6:00 Middle School Bible Study 5:00-6:00 Fuel Jam 5:00-6:00 Fuel High School Youth Group 6:00-8:00 Confirmation Classes 6:00-8:00 Wednesday, April 2 Ignite Jam 5:00-6:00pm Ignite 6:00-8:00pm Thursday, April 3 Bethany Orchestra 6:30-7:30 Sunday, April 6 Sunday School 9:30 & 11:00 PURE Sound Choir 3:30-5:00 JuBELLation Ringers 5:00-6:00 Middle School Bible Study 5:00-6:00 Fuel Jam 5:00-6:00 Fuel High School Youth Group 6:00-8:00 Confirmation Classes 6:00-8:00

Release the Feast! Students are making a difference in the world by helping reduce hunger, providing clean water and enabling sustainability in Matete, Kenya. This weekend students will have fasted for 30 hours, learned about how hunger and lack of clean water affects whole communities, slept in the church courtyard, spent time in worship and reflection, served in local missions and celebrated with communion. You can still participate by donating to World Vision’s 30-Hour Famine.










Saturday, April 26 & Sunday, April 27

All Services

Youth are encouraged to participate by signing up to greet, usher, read scripture, or pray at one or more services this weekend. PURE SOUND and the Youth Jam Praise Band will be performing. Sign up sheets will be passed around during Sunday School, Fuel & Ignite. Questions? Contact Teresa Kingsbury at [email protected].







Good Friday Friday, April 18 Doors open 9:30 to 11:00 AM

Children (accompanied by an adult) are invited to the Sanctuary to walk through the Stations of the Cross. Printed material is geared for children in elementary through

middle school. Younger siblings will enjoy the experience as well, although childcare will be available in the nursery.

This is an interactive experience and is a come-and-go, self-paced event.

Questions, contact Sheri Clifton, [email protected]

Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the fun! If you have any questions, please contact Jen Seibel at 512-258-6017 ext 233 or [email protected]















Feature Article....................................... 1

Lent Cantata—The Rose of Calvary

From Pastor Tom Deviney: ................. 2

Lent


Adult Spiritual Retreat ......................... 7

Bethany School ...................................... 5



College Ministries ................................. 5

Cookie Dough Sales ............................. 5

Discover Sunday School ...................... 3

Lent & Easter ......................................... 4

Missions ................................................. 6

Partners in Ministry ............................. 5

Prayers .................................................. 2

Primetimers ........................................... 5



Sunday, March 30 7:45 a.m. Blood Drive

8:30 a.m. Fundraiser Breakfast


Wednesday, April 1 5:15 p.m. Lent Soup Supper (see p.4 & below)

6:30 p.m. Lent Worship (see p.4 & below)

Saturday, April 5 5:00 p.m. Saturday Worship






This week, April 2:

Speaker: Kelly Shoenfelt

Music led by Aislinn Deviney

Coming Up in Worship Pastor Sheri Clifton preaching 3/29 and 3/30


“The Challenge”


8:15 & 11a PURE SOUND, Julia Powers,

SonShine Singers/Chancel Choir



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