Embracing our neighbors with Christ-like love | |
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Chalice News for
June 12, 2022
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This coming Sunday in worship --
June 12, 2022
The First Sunday After Pentecost
Philippians 2:5-21
"Choosing Christ: The Redemptive Route to Reconciliation"
Rev. Al Walker
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REVEREND AL WALKER
The Reverend Alfred M. Walker serves as Community Regional Minister for Reconciliation and
Anti-Racism, Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the Southwest. This Office is localized
and provides core regional services to South Central Texas and the Lower Rio Grande Valley.
Most recently, he served as Senior Pastor of the Bonnie View Christian Church and Staff
Chaplain II with Baylor Scott & White Health at the Baylor University Medical Center, both in
Dallas, Texas. During this time, he was instrumental in establishing the Social Justice Committee
of the Texas Christian Missionary Fellowship.
Reverend Walker is a native of Augusta, Georgia. Prior to answering the call to serve as Senior
Pastor of the Historic New Hope Baptist Church of Dallas, Texas, he pastored the Liberty Baptist
Church in Augusta, Georgia. During his tenure there, he also served as President of the Augusta
NAACP. He is a graduate of Morehouse College where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in
Religion. He also earned the Master of Divinity Degree, with a concentration in Psychology of
Religion and Pastoral Care, from Morehouse School of Religion in affiliation with the
Interdenominational Theological Center, both in Atlanta, Georgia. He has chaired and served on
numerous boards, both in Georgia and Texas.
Reverend Walker has a genuine love for people, pastoring, and preaching. He is married to
Angela Bedford Walker, and they are the proud parents of Azaria Ruth Walker and Alfred Mark
Walker, II. Their lovely daughter Aisha Renae’, her husband Tre, and their daughter Aria
complete his family.
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Scheduled Sabbatical Visiting Ministers: | |
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June 12 - Rev. Al Walker
June 19 - Rev. Steve Digby
June 26 - Rev. Steve Digby
July 3 - Rev. Venessa Harmel
July 10 - Rev. Dr. Andy Mangum
July 17 - Rev. Chuck Kutz-Marks
July 24 - Rev. Chuck Kutz-Marks
July 31 - Rev. Al Walker
August 7 - Rev. Chuck Kutz-Marks
August 14 - Rev. Christal Fisher
August 21 - Rev. Christal Fisher
August 28 - Rev. Christal Fisher
September 4 - Rev. Dr. Andy Mangum
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Online Giving
RRCC has three ways you can give your tithe:
Go to the RRCC website rrdisciples.org and click on the "GIVE HERE" button at the top of the main page. Or use the link at the top of each newsletter. It will take you to the same place.
- Use your bank's electronic bill pay feature to have a check mailed directly from your bank to RRCC.
- Mail your check directly to RRCC.
Address your envelope to:
Financial Secretary
Round Rock Christian Church
22 Chalice Way
Round Rock, TX 78665
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Sabbatical Commissioning of Pastor Mitch Maxted
From scripture we know that Jesus took time from his ministry to rest and reflect, and that he encouraged his disciples to do that also. In the spirit of our Lord’s custom of renewal Round Rock Christian Church extended to Reverend Maxted in the fall of 2015, the offer to become our senior minister that he would be eligible for a three-month sabbatical, with full pay, following five years of continuous service. The five years came during the height of Covid. Pastor Mitch was committed to the new programing and that the special needs of the congregation be met; thus, the eighteen-month delay.
From January 2016, the annual budget has included a savings plan for the period that he would be on sabbatical to underwrite expenses of pastoral and administrative duties. Our Commissioned Minister Anna Marie Blair is available during the week for pastoral duties. Four visiting clergy as well, as two of our Christian Church of the Southwest staff members, Rev. Andy Mangum and Rev. Al Walker will be with us to preach during the thirteen weeks.
Pentecost Sunday, June 5 was Pastor Mitch’s last Sunday in the pulpit until September 11. In a spirit of gratitude for his six and a half years of extraordinary leadership a service of commissioning was held to thank him, consecrate his servanthood, and encourage him as he departs for rest, renewal, and reconnecting with family and friends.
Rev. Katherine Cratin shared the scriptural basis of sabbaticals from the gospels of Matthew and Mark of how our Lord retreated on occasion from his ministry to reflect and pray. And when his disciples were weary from the throngs of people yearning to meet the Master, our Lord bid them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest. So, they went away, by themselves in a boat to a solitary place.”
Moderator Tasha York charged Pastor Mitch to depart with the Holy Spirit leading him to new places, new experiences, and a new way of being in communion with our Creator and with God’s glorious creation. His response was, “I will.”
Pastor Mitch charged the congregation to prayerfully share in ministry and mission, welcome the visiting clergy, support the work of our Commissioned Minister, our administrative and music staff, the Guiding Board, Elders, Deacons, and Ministry chairs by participating in the work God calls us to do. He asked that we be open to innovative ideas and opportunities, seek to serve, and glorify God in all things, through the power of the Holy Spirit who guides and enables us. The congregation responded with, “I will.”
Head Elder, Steven Glover, concluded the commissioning letting Pastor Mitch know that while we will miss his presence this summer we will continue to carry out our mission. He told him that it is our prayer that Father, Son, and Holy Spirit be with him in new and unique ways and that we look forward to his return in September- restored and revitalized, ready to lead us down new paths of servanthood to embrace our neighbors with Christlike love.
Steven closed the service with a prayer of thanksgiving, asking for blessings and care for Pastor Mitch on his journey and to bring him back safely to us, and that the Holy Spirit be alive in each of us as we seek to do His will.
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From Anna Marie...
Prepare yourselves for the enriching experience of the first of Rev. Walker's visits during Pastor Mitch's absence. You know him as a member of our regional staff and as your own connection to the Christian Church in the Southwest Region. Surely he will bring a good message from the Lord's word and do so in ways that help you deepen your own faith.
Two points I want to make. The first is how much I appreciate the faith and trust you show me by having invited me to take on part of Pastor Mitch’s work during his sabbatical. Thank you so very much and know that I feel most humbled and honored to get to do this. I want to serve this church well, so please help me do so. When you know of any cause for concern, I truly want you to let me know, either at 417 543 5432 or at gamrich@gmail.com. Thank you.
Also, let us all keep Pastor Mitch as well as all our visiting preachers lifted in prayer for God’s guidance and strength as they pursue their duties. The Sabbatical Task Force has met frequently and worked diligently to plan for the necessary variations for the summer. Let us appreciate them for that and for the ongoing aspects of it as they are even serving as hosts to all our pulpit supply people. Of course, I must get back to Richland Springs on Sundays, but am truly sorry that I’ll miss worshiping with you throughout the summer.
Should you just want to check in face to face with me, after this week I plan to be at the church from 10:00 to noon on Thursdays. Feel free to come by.
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With Gratitude...
Thank you, thank you, thank you to all that helped make Pastor Mitch's "bon voyage" luncheon such a success. From coming Saturday to set up tables and decorate, providing the yummy desserts, setting out food Sunday morning, helping serve, putting up tables and chairs, and cleaning up after the meal. Also, taking meals to those that could not attend and the leftovers to the firefighters. There are too many names to mention and I wouldn't want to omit anyone. This RRCC family is amazing and we could not have pulled off this luncheon without all the hands involved.
Again, thank you, thank you, thank you!
Tasha and Amy
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Thank you to all you dear people of Round Rock Christian Church. You know that it has been my great pleasure to both receive a hip replacement and to get to worship with you for a few weeks.
You have tended me well, providing lots of cards and encouraging messages and even rides to medical appointments and to come join in fellowship. I have truly felt your love and am so grateful for it. Now, as I’m recovering, I’m also looking forward to spending a bit more time with some of you throughout the summer. I won’t be there on Sundays, but do hope to do a bit of path-crossing during our pastor’s sabbatical. Please do let me know if you’d care for a visit .I’m hoping to be allowed to ditch the cane soon and pretend that I’m all well again. I’m not caring much for the limitations even though they’re for my long-term benefit.
Many blessings to each of you,
Anna Marie
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| Texas Heat Volleyball meets in the gym throughout the week.
Please check our website calendar for their latest schedule. | | Tuesday, June 7, 2022 | | 11:00 a.m. - NO Social Justice Study and Action Group - we will resume June 21 | | Wednesday, June 8, 2022 | | 1:00 p.m. - Caring Hearts Prayer Meeting Link HERE
6:30 p.m. - Chancel Choir | | Thursday, June 9, 2022 | | 11:00 a.m. - Wired WORD Class
1:00 p.m. - Book Group
7:00p.m. - Book Group | | Friday, June 10, 2022 | | Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age. Matthew 28:19 | | Saturday, June 11, 2022 | | 8:00 a.m. - Shalom Congregation
8:30 a.m. - Disciples Mens Ministry
9:30 a.m. - Handcrafters Ministry
3:00 p.m. - Private Event | | Sunday, June 12, 2022 | | 9:30 a.m. - Open Circle Sunday School-See below for Meeting Link Information
9:30 a.m. - Explorers Sunday School Link HERE
11:00 a.m. - Worship Link HERE
12:00 p.m. - Lunch Bunch
3:00 p.m. - Ministerio Internacional Manantial de Vida | | Monday, June 13, 2022 | | “You are my witnesses,” declares the Lord, “and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after me. Isaiah 43:10 | | Tuesday, June 14, 2022 | | And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead. Acts 10:42 | | |
Newsletter Deadlines
Please submit your Tuesday Newsletter articles and pictures before 10:00 a.m. on Mondays, and your Friday Reminders articles and pictures before 12:00 p.m. on Thursdays.
Thank you!
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June 7 - Alicia Sutherland
June 8 - Paul Maybaum
June 9 - Lisa Grant
June 11 - Mary Acree
June 12 - Mana Maxted
June 13 - Grayson Osteen
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Hopewell Middle School Staff Appreciation Breakfast
EMBRACING OUR NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL
Early Thursday morning (two days before Round Rock Schools broke for summer!), teachers and staff at Hopewell Middle School were greeted with signs of “APPRECIATION” outside and inside the school, and a “Grab n Go” breakfast of gourmet muffins, orange juice and fresh apples from RRCC. The foods were left for their enjoyment all day long. Included in the goodies were pens, bottles of water and sacks with appreciation notes attached. A lovely pathos ivy potted plant was provided for the door prize drawing which was won by the Orchestra Teacher; Hannah Tollesan.
Principal Lynda Garinger greeted us at the door to the school that morning and said how much the staff look forward to the delicious muffins and appreciate our support of the work that they do! It is a partnership that has been cultivated for several years and continues to deepen!
This breakfast is but a small token of our appreciation for what these folks do for our neighborhood children., and truly represents our Mission to “Embrace our neighbors with Christ-like love”!
PHOTO: Susan Kessler, Tricia and Perry Mouser, Janette Johnston and Pastor Mitch
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ALL-CHURCH GAME DAY NEXT MONDAY, JUNE 13
Everyone is welcome to join in the fun at 12:00 noon on Monday, June 13, for the ALL-CHURCH GAME DAY! Bring your own lunch and drink, and if you have a favorite game, bring it along! Games will be determined by participants.
ALL-CHURCH GAME DAY is hosted by your Disciples Women’s Ministry. Questions? Contact Mildred Adair, Anna Marie Blair, Linda Glover, Darlia Hunt, Susan Kessler, Jackie Switzer.
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Lunch Bunch
Lunch Bunch be meeting at La Margarita this Sunday after worship service. All are welcome!
Text or call Tasha York (512-567-8770) for more information.
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The Chancel Choir rehearses on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. in the sanctuary.
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Prayer Needs
LEADERSHIP
- Guiding Board, Ministries Council, Task Forces, Elders, Deacons, and Ministries
- Our staff: Jimmy, Mitch, Katie, Randy, and Molly
- Our music ministries and their leaders: Randy Preston, Rod Walker, and Jimmy Horowitz
- Our tech team: Gary Collier, Tara Pollock, Dan Knight, Randy Preston, Rod Walker, and Katie Maybaum
- Our Caring Hearts Prayer Group and Stephen Ministries (Care Receivers and Caregivers)
- Our partnership with Iglesia Adventista Shalom & Ministerio Internacional Manantial de Vida congregations (and their pastors Edy Rosa Paez and Maria Rosario)
- Our Regional Ministers Andy Mangum and Al Walker
- The church as a whole who work together so beautifully to discern and carry out God's will for RRCC
MEMBERS AND FRIENDS
- For all who are grieving the loss of a loved one
- For all who are or have been ill with COVID-19, and their families
- Barnett, Barbara -- recoveing from an infection
- Blair, Anna Marie -- recovering from hip replacement surgery May 16
- Cratin, Roger and Katherine -- Katherine's brother Kenneth Smith recovering from coronary bypass surgery
- Cueva, Rafael and Deb -- Deb is recovering from a broken foot; Rafael's mother Gladys remains hospitalized and has been able to breath for intervals without a ventilator
- Fennimore, Nancy -- niece Thresa is undergoing cancer treatments
- Guilbeau, Cynthia and Rick -- Cynthia recovering from multiple upper arm fractures
- Grant, Caleb -- finally feeling some improvement from migraines
- Greene Family in the loss of Judson Greene III, Emmiline's son; prayers for Emmiline, for Judson's wife Karrie and their children Maleeya and Judson IV, sisters Sonia and Janice, and the whole family
- Habtemariam, Solomon and Meaza -- We were blessed by the attendance in church last Sunday
- Hunt, Darlia -- has begun injection treatments for macular degeneration
- Jenkins, Bob -- Bob's sister Janet is receiving treatments for melanoma
- Johnston, Janette -- her mother Billie is in failing health; granddaughter Izzy is consulting for ongoing heart valve issues
- Osteen, Amy and Steve -- brother-in-law Mike Murphy is being treated for pancreatic cancer
- Sherry, Bea -- continues to adjust to life at Franklin Park
- Tucker, Gary and Amy -- Amy seeking relief from tinnitus and Gary recovering from a medical procedure; brother Terry Tucker continues cancer evaluations and treatments as needed
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Walker, Lisa -- awaiting insurance approval for final placement on transplant list
- Wilson, Phyllis -- adopted sister Jane Hudson is battling kidney cancer
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Acree, Mary -- briefly hospitalized with an infection, but is back at Franklin Park.
- Boles, Gayle -- temporary displacement due to a flood in her house
- Gilbert, Red -- recovering from Covid
- Nichols, Martha -- is quarantining due to Covid exposure
OTHER
- All events at Disciple Oaks
- All who don't know Jesus
- COVID-19 (ongoing efforts for improved vaccines and treatments)
- For all who have struggled physically, emotionally, and spiritually during these two-plus years of the pandemic--a long-term trauma
- All people who are persecuted for their faith throughout the world
- Our military personnel and families
- An end to Russia's invasion of Ukraine
- Development of an immigration policy for the U.S. that is fair, just, and responsible
- Courage for teachers and administrators to resist efforts to censor the teaching of parts of our American history, no matter how uncomfortable they might be
- For all efforts toward affordable health care for all Americans
- For all affected by the mass shootings in Uvalde, TX
- All teachers, administrators, students, and parents of our two neighborhood schools: Union Hill Elementary School and Hopewell Middle School; a safe, restful, and healthy summer
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Early Childhood Class (ages 4-7) -Taught by Lisa Walker
Intermediate Class (3rd-5th grade) - Taught by Jennifer Kienzle
Chi Rho Class - (6th - 8th grade) - (studying the book, "Middle School TalkSheets" for ages 11-14. "These TalkSheets present every aspect of Jesus' life in a way that young teens can connect with as they learn to apply the lessons to their own lives.")
CYF Class (9th - 12th grade)
Open Circle (primarily adult women) - 9:15 a.m. Sunday mornings in person and via ZOOM, studying Holy Envy: Finding God in the Faith of Others by Barbara Brown Taylor. ALL ARE WELCOME! If needed, please call Bea Whitley 512 633 8616 or Janette Johnson 512 876 1010 prior to 8:30 am to insure the link's activation. Link HERE
Explorers (mixed adults) - 9:30 a.m. Sunday mornings via ZOOM, facilitator is Mildred Adair; studying Paul's letter to the church at Corinth. Link HERE
The Wired WORD (adult men) - 11:00 a.m. Thursday mornings. Led by Rev. Maxted, this class looks at what the scriptures have to say about important current events and issues.
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Elders Prayer/Closing Message | |
Our Forgiving Of Others
By Ron Boatwright
Jesus in His teaching on prayer and in asking God to forgive us of our sins says, "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses" (Matthew 6:14-15). Our forgiving others may be difficult, but it is essential if we want God to forgive us of our sins. If we aren’t forgiven of God then our sins will separate us from God and we will be eternally lost.
We must not hold grudges and have hatred in our hearts for the wrongs others have done to us. God’s word says to us "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, and if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you must also do" (Colossians 3:12-13). We must be forgiving of others if we want God to forgive us so we can go to Heaven.
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(Disciples of Christ)
22 Chalice Way
Round Rock, TX 78665
(512) 244 3260
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