TULIP! A New Sermon Series ... coming soon!

/image  St. John's Presbyterian Worship Bulletin March 30, 2025, Fourth Sunday in Lent Gathering Prelude, Alina Klimaszewska *Call To Worship, The Rev. Dr. Jon Burnham Leader: Seek the treasure of God’s kingdom. People: It surpasses all earthly riches, worth more than gold or silver. Leader: Like a pearl of great price, it calls us to give our all. People: We delight in Your Word, O Lord, our greatest treasure. Leader: Come, let us worship the One whose kingdom is forever. All: With joy and surrender, we praise You, our King! Opening Prayer * God of Compassion, in Mercy Befriend Us, Hymn 436 1 God of compassion, in mercy befriend us, giver of grace for our needs all-availing. Wisdom and strength for each day ever send us, patience untiring and courage unfailing. 2 Though we are lost, you have sought us and found us, stilled our rude hearts with your word of consoling. Wrap now your peace, like a mantle, around us, guarding our thoughts and our passions controlling. 3 How shall we stray, with your hand to direct us, you who the stars in their courses are guiding? What shall we fear, with your power to protect us, we who walk forth in your greatness confiding? Prayer of Confession, Bill Ehrenstrom, Liturgist Merciful God, we confess chasing lesser things—ambition, possessions, or approval—rather than seeking Your kingdom first. Our hearts have been divided, and we’ve neglected the treasure of Your presence. Forgive us, Lord, and renew our desire to value what truly matters. Amen. (Silent Confession) Assurance of Pardon *Glory Be to the Father, Hymn 581 *Passing the Peace The Word Prayer for Illumination First Scripture Reading; Psalm 119:9-16 (Delighting in God’s Law) How can young people keep their way pure? By guarding it according to your word. With my whole heart I seek you; do not let me stray from your commandments. I treasure your word in my heart, so that I may not sin against you. Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes. With my lips I declare all the ordinances of your mouth. I delight in the way of your decrees as much as in all riches. I will meditate on your precepts, and fix my eyes on your ways. I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word. Anthem Sermon Scripture, Matthew 13:44-46 (Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl) The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which someone found and hid; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls; on finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it. The Word of the Lord for us today. Thanks be to God. Sermon, Parables of the Kingdom. The Rev. Dr. Jon Burnham *My Shepherd Will Supply My Need, 1 and 3, Hymn 803 1 My shepherd will supply my need; Jehovah is his name. In pastures fresh he makes me feed, beside the living stream. He brings my wandering spirit back when I forsake his ways, and leads me, for his mercy's sake, in paths of truth and grace. 3 The sure provisions of my God attend me all my days; O may your house be my abode, and all my work be praise. There would I find a settled rest, while others go and come; no more a stranger, or a guest, but like a child at home. The Apostles Creed, Prayers of the People and Lord’s Prayer Welcome and Announcements Offering *Doxology, Hymn 609 *Prayer after the Offering Sending *Today We All Are Called to Be Disciples, 1, 3 and 4, Hymn 757 1 Today we all are called to be disciples of the Lord, to help to set the captive free, make plowshare out of sword, to feed the hungry, quench their thirst, make love and peace our fast, to serve the poor and homeless first, our ease and comfort last. 3 Pray justice may come rolling down as in a mighty stream, with righteousness in field and town to cleanse us and redeem. For God is longing to restore an earth where conflicts cease, a world that was created for a harmony of peace. 4 May we in service to our God act out the living word, and walk the road the saints have trod till all have seen and heard. As stewards of the earth may we give thanks in one accord to God who calls us all to be disciples of the Lord. *Blessing and Postlude

Exploring the Parables of the Kingdom at St. John's Presbytery Church, Houston Introduction Welcome to St. John's Presbytery Church in Houston, Texas! Located at 5020 W Bellfort Ave, Houston, TX 77035-3204, our church is a vibrant community committed to fostering faith and transformation. We invite you to join us for our upcoming sermon, "Parables of the Kingdom," where we'll explore Matthew 13:44-46 and Psalm 119:9-16, uncovering the incomparable value of God's kingdom. Understanding the Parables In Matthew 13:44-46, Jésus shares two powerful parables: The Hidden Treasure: A man finds a treasure in a field, hides it, and joyfully sells all he has to buy the field, showing the kingdom of heaven's worth. The Pearl of Great Price: A merchant finds a pearl of great value and sells everything to acquire it, emphasizing the sacrifice needed to embrace God's kingdom. These parables teach us to value the kingdom of heaven above all else, a message that resonates deeply with our mission at St. John's Presbytery Church in Houston. Connecting with Psalm 119:9-16 Psalm 119:9-16 complements these parables by highlighting the joy found in God's law: "I rejoice in following your statutes as one rejoices in great riches" (verse 14). This scripture encourages us to delight in God's word, seeking it wholeheartedly, much like the man and merchant in the parables. Application for Our Community In zip code 77035, where many families and single parents reside, this sermon offers hope and direction. It challenges us to prioritize God's kingdom, finding fulfillment in our faith. At St. John's Presbytery Church, we aim to support our Houston community by providing a space to grow spiritually and connect with others. Join Us for the Sermon We hold services every Sunday at 10:00 AM. Whether you're searching for "Presbytery churches near me" or interested in "Parables of the Kingdom sermons," we welcome you to experience healing and transformation with us. Visit our website, Home | St. John's Presbyterian Church | Houston, TX, for more details or contact us at (713) 723-6262. Conclusion As we explore the "Parables of the Kingdom," let's be inspired to value and pursue God's kingdom with all our hearts. Join us at St. John's Presbytery Church in Houston, TX, and discover the joy of faith together.

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Dear St. John’s Presbyterian Church Family, As I look back on my teenage and college years, I’m struck by how Christian theology, especially Calvinism, became a guiding light for me. It wasn’t just a set of ideas—it was a framework that helped me organize my thoughts about the world, humanity, and God. Questions about who we are (anthropology), who God is (theology), and how it all fits together found answers in the structured beauty of Calvinist thought. Its emphasis on God’s sovereignty and grace shaped not only my mind but also my heart, giving me a lens through which to see life’s complexities with clarity and hope. Lately, I’ve been reminded of that season as I’ve listened to some of you—faithful members of our church—who’ve asked, “What do Presbyterians believe?” Many of you have shared, “I’m not from this tradition, but I belong to this church—tell me what it’s all about.” These questions thrill me because they reveal a curiosity and a desire to grow deeper in our shared faith. And it’s a desire I feel called to meet. That collision of my past experience with Calvinism and the current needs within our congregation has sparked an idea: a new sermon series beginning the Sunday after Easter. This Eastertide series will dive into the heart of Presbyterian theology, focusing on Calvinism—often summarized by the acronym TULIP—and the broader Reformed tradition that shapes how we understand God, ourselves, and the world. For those new to it, TULIP stands for: Total Depravity: Recognizing our need for God’s grace in a broken world. Unconditional Election: Trusting in God’s sovereign love and choice. Limited Atonement: Marveling at the purposeful power of Christ’s sacrifice. Irresistible Grace: Celebrating the way God draws us to Himself. Perseverance of the Saints: Resting in the assurance that God holds us fast. But this won’t be a dusty theology lesson. Together, we’ll explore how these truths touch our everyday lives—how they help us navigate suffering, find purpose, build community, and grow in worship. Whether you’ve been Presbyterian your whole life or you’re just beginning to explore this tradition, these ideas have something to say about the way we live and love as followers of Jesus. I invite you to join me starting May 4, 2025 for this journey into the beauty of our faith. Let’s discover together how these timeless Presbyterian beliefs can deepen our understanding of God and strengthen our life as a church family. I can’t wait to see what God does among us through this series! In Christ, Pastor John   Men's Fellowship Wednesday, March 19 at 6:30pm in Session Room We will have a Men’s Group Meeting at 6:30 on Wednesday, March 19 in the Session Room. All men of the church are welcome to participate as we plan upcoming projects.     Chili Round-Up – Bring on the Heat! March 23 after worship It’s rodeo time and you think you make the best chili this side of the Pecos?! Well, bring that chili to St. John’s traditional Chili Brunch on Sunday, March 23. Whether it is traditional Texas chili with no beans, bean infused chili, vegetarian chili, white chili, etc., we want your chili! We always look forward to tasting all those various, delicious chilis! Dessert as well as sides, such as crackers, cheese, and onions will be provided, but if chili isn’t your thing to cook, then bring your best cole slaw, cornbread, or muffins to share. We look forward to seeing you and enjoying the fellowship this tradition always brings!      🎶 Experience the Depths of Classical Elegance This Sunday! 🎻🎹 Join us for the next iteration of the St. John's Lenten Arts Series on Sunday, March 23, at 4 PM in the sanctuary, as we welcome the extraordinary Polish Duo: Dominika Dancewicz (violin) and Alina Klimaszewska (piano). Prepare to be transported by Elgar and Brahms: Echoes of the Lost World—a breathtaking exploration of longing, memory, and the transcendent power of music. Elgar’s wistful lyricism and Brahms’ profound intensity weave together a program that will stir the soul and awaken the spirit. Amid this sacred season of reflection, come experience the divine dialogue between violin and piano—where every note becomes a prayer, and every melody an echo of eternity. 🌟 Admission is free. All are welcome. 📍 St. John’s Presbyterian Church | Sanctuary 📅 Sunday, March 23 | 4 PM Let the music lead you into deeper contemplation this Lent. Join us! 🎶     A Lenten Study on the Lord’s Prayer Saturday, 29 March from 8:30am – 2:30pm In the Session Room  Every week we recite the Lord’s Prayer in the worship service but how much have you really thought about each of the petitions in the prayer? It is easy to say it by rote each week without really thinking about what it means. The Lord’s Prayer is actually rich in theological meaning and depth. The Christian Education Committee is offering everyone an opportunity to study the prayer in depth in a study during Lent. The class will be on Saturday, 29 March from 8:30am – 2:30pm. Lunch will be provided. Save the date for what we hope to be an enriching study! Youth Retreat Report Mya Noons and I attended Youth Conclaves from 2/28 – 3/2 at the Trinity Pines Conference Center. This annual retreat for middle and high school youth is organized by the Presbyterian Youth Connection Council (PYCC) of New Covenant Presbytery. High school youth leaders demonstrated outstanding leadership capabilities by planning and leading all activities efficiently and enthusiastically, while adults served as advisors and supervisors. The theme for the weekend was “New People, New Places – God Remains,” emphasizing how youth can navigate changes while maintaining their commitment to God's purpose. The weekend was filled with small groups, engaging drama, uplifting worship, vibrant live music, fun activities, a meaningful mission project, and recreation, all in a stunningly beautiful setting. We highly encourage adults and youth to consider attending Conclaves next year to experience the transformative power of this retreat firsthand.  Mary Gaber     In Memory of Jan Herbert's Father William C. Morgenroth, A Great American Patriot and War Hero St. John’s Presbyterian Church joins the Herbert family in mourning the passing of William C. Morgenroth, father of our dear friend Jan Herbert. William passed peacefully last week at the remarkable age of 101½ years, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, courage, and honor. Born in 1923, William Morgenroth lived through more than a century of extraordinary change and challenge. In his 101.5 years, he bore witness to history and contributed personally to the cause of freedom and peace. A defining moment of his life came during World War II, where he served bravely in the brutal and pivotal Battle of Iwo Jima. The Battle of Iwo Jima, fought in early 1945, was one of the fiercest and most costly battles of the Pacific Theater. Over 6,800 Americans lost their lives, and more than 19,000 were wounded in relentless fighting against entrenched Japanese forces. William was among those courageous soldiers who faced unimaginable hardship, sacrificing greatly for the freedom of future generations. For his valor, perseverance, and duty, he earned the Purple Heart and lived thereafter as a quiet but powerful testament to courage and resilience. William was not only a war hero but also a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His legacy lives on through his family, especially in Jan Herbert, whose strength and compassion echo the values instilled by her father. We honor William C. Morgenroth, remembering his courage, celebrating his remarkable life, and offering heartfelt prayers of comfort and peace to Jan and her family. May his memory inspire us always. Rest in peace, faithful servant.     2025 Myrtis McPhail Scholarship Attention all Undergraduate College and/or Technical/Trade School Students! St. John’s is once again ready to accept applications to the Myrtis McPhail Scholarship Fund. These funds are available to any church member or relative of a church member who will be enrolled in undergraduate college or a technical/trade school in the fall of 2025. Applications are available at https://www.stjohnspresby.org/scholarship or by email to Kathy Barnhill (jabarnhill@comcast.net) or Mindi Stanley (mstanley@bcm.edu). Applications will be accepted until May 15, and we hope to distribute funds to recipients in June. The Scholarship Fund also is open for donations! If anyone would like to donate, please indicate the McPhail Scholarship Fund on a check or via Zelle.     🎶 Support Ronan Carretin and Enjoy an Evening of Music! 🎶 Join us in celebrating Ronan Carretin as he sings with the Bellaire Choirs in two fantastic upcoming performances! On May 23rd at 6 PM, all of Bellaire’s choirs come together for their annual Pop Show at Bellaire High School—a free, high-energy concert full of fun and great music. Then, on May 29th at 6 PM, don’t miss the End-of-Year Solo Recitals & Duets, a special evening showcasing individual and small-group performances. Both events are free and open to everyone—so if you’re looking for a wonderful night of local arts without the drive or downtown hassle, come support Ronan and enjoy some fantastic music! 🎤🎵 Hope to see you there!   St. John’s Shines at the BIM Mardi Gras Gala! The Mardi Gras Gala was a joyous and meaningful celebration, made even more special by the generosity and participation of St. John’s Presbyterian Church. With a grand total contribution of $3,353, your congregation has made a profound impact in supporting the mission of Braes Interfaith Ministries. A heartfelt thank you to Kay Swint for being our dedicated point person and for her outstanding efforts in rallying your community. We are also deeply grateful to Omar and Franklin for their gracious service as our Duchess and Duke, bringing warmth and spirit to the evening. And, of course, a special thank you to Alvina Hamilton, whose beautiful decorations set the perfect festive tone for the event. Your generosity, commitment, and joyful presence made this Mardi Gras Gala an unforgettable success. Thank you, St. John’s! 🎭💜💛💚 🎭🎉💜💚💛 Pictured below is the Mardi Gras Gala event which celebrated BIM's 40 year anniversary. St. John's was a founding member of BIM in 1985 along with Salem Lutheran and Braeburn Baptist Church.     College Student Ministry Update from Addie Carrettin Addie is one of our St. John’s college students who just transferred in January from the University of Saint Thomas, where she was studying psychology, to Texas A&M. Addie says, "Going to College Station has been a difficult transition, but it has also allowed me to grow as a person and as a Christian. I have much more independence here and I’ve met some amazing people. This time of transition has taught me the importance of relying on God above all other things. He has remained a true constant throughout all of these obstacles and unknowns. I feel so incredibly blessed to be attending this school and I’m so excited to see what God has in store for me! I am a psychology major, but I changed from BA to BS, and plan to go to Physical Therapy School after getting my Bachelor’s." May the Lord bless you in your studies and all you do, Addie! We are proud of you and wish you all the best in your new life in College Station.   Lending a Helping Hand – St. John’s Medical Equipment Library Thank you to everyone who has has donated their gently used medical equipment to our St. John’s “lending medical equipment library” we maintain here at St. John’s. If you have usable items such as crutches, wheelchairs, canes, etc. which are no longer being used and you would like to donate them to the church, please contact Virginia Krueger or Léonie Tchoconté of Caring and Fellowship Committee. If you need to borrow any of these items, please feel free. We do ask, when borrowing, to please complete the sign-out sheet.     Register Now for the Annual PCHAS Luncheon! It’s time to register for the Annual PCHAS Luncheon, which will take place at Lakeside Country Club (100 Wilcrest Drive) on Thursday, April 24, from Noon to 1:00 PM. This year, Ann Hardy (713-240-2690) and Shirley Boyd (713-598-0818) are serving as table hosts, and we kindly request that guest lists be finalized by March 27. If you need assistance with registration or additional information, please feel free to contact either of them. If you have already received your "Save the Date" card, you may register directly with Marla Endieveri as indicated on the card. Be sure to bring your card on the day of the event to present at the Lakeside entrance, ensuring a smooth parking experience. We look forward to sharing this special occasion with you!   Join One Hope Preschool for an Easter EGGstravaganza! One Hope Preschool invites St. John’s to join us for a fun-filled Easter EGGstravaganza on Saturday, April 12th, from 10 AM to 12 PM at 5020 W Bellfort Street! Bring the whole family for an exciting egg hunt, a petting zoo, and games that will delight children of all ages. Don’t miss this joyful celebration of spring, community, and Easter fun! We can’t wait to see you there! 🥚🎉     Wedding Shower for Tina Liljedahl & Steven Jump! Join us after church on Sunday, May 27, in McPhail Hall as we celebrate the upcoming wedding of Tina Liljedahl and Steven Jump with a joyous wedding shower! Come share in the love, laughter, and blessings as we shower this wonderful couple with our best wishes. Let’s gather as a church family to celebrate this special season in their lives. All are welcome! 💕🎉     Prayer Concerns For those looking for a job Family of Wilbert Harris Ann Nelson, home Felicity Bisase, health Alice Rubio, health Bob Hughes, health Ross Chitwood and his spouse, friends of Mark Swindler; they lost everything in the Pacific Palisades fire St. John's College Students Omar Ayah in the loss of her father in Africa Scott Moore, health Caring for One Another in Prayer Our prayer list is a vital way we support one another, lifting up joys and concerns before God. From time to time, we update the list to ensure it reflects current needs. If a name has been removed and you would like it added back, please reply to this email and let us know who they are and why you would like them included. Your input helps us pray more intentionally and stay connected to those in need of ongoing support. Thank you for being part of this ministry of care and intercession. Prayer List Update – How Can We Pray for You? As part of our commitment to intentional and meaningful prayer, we periodically refresh our prayer list to ensure we are staying connected with those who need support. If you or someone you previously requested would like to remain on the prayer list, or if you have a new name to add, please reply to this email and let us know. We are grateful for the opportunity to pray with and for you.   Presbyterian Women's Spring Gathering at St. Philip On March 5, St. Philip Presbyterian Church is hosting the Presbyterian Women’s Spring Gathering. The theme is “Cultivating a Well-Balanced Life,” and speakers are Mahlon Height, pastor of Preston Hollow PC in Dallas and Meg Scott-Johnson, Spiritual Director. Rev. Keaton King will lead worship. Programs begin at 9:30 with a continental breakfast and conclude with worship at 2:30. Early registration is $18 but only $15 for first time attendees, and includes the breakfast and lunch. Registration deadline is March 31. See Virginia Krueger for registration forms.   March Birthdays Layla Pennicuff (March 1) Laith Assad (March 3) Offing Glover (March 5) Kyra Noons-Adams (March 6) Mark Swindler (March 14) Gloria Glover (March 17) Madeline Graeter (March 29) Olive Mfobujong (March 30)  Anniversaries Jim and Lynne Parsons Austin (March 10) Kerry and Mary Gaber (March 22) Tad and Andra Mulder (March 25) *Note: If we did not list your March birthday or anniversary, please reply and let us know. Church Calendar Thursday, March 20 5:00 pm Exercise Class, Building 2 Sunday, March 23, Second Sunday in Lent 9:30 am Sunday School for Adults, Lectionary, Session Room 11:00 am Worship Service, live in sanctuary and on Facebook 12:00 pm CHILI ROUND-UP POT LUCK in McPhail Hall 1:30 pm Book Study on Zoom 3:30pm Girl Scouts in Session Room and Financial Secretary meeting room 4:00 pm Lenten Arts Series concert in sanctuary Coming Events Sunday, March 23 Chili Round-Up Potluck; Noon in McPhail Sunday, March 23 Lenten Arts Concert; 4 PM in Sanctuary Saturday, March 29 The Lord’s Prayer - Christian Education, 8:30 AM Sunday, March 30 Lenten Arts Concert; 4 PM in Sanctuary Sunday, April 6 Lenten Arts Concert; 4 PM in Sanctuary Sunday, March 23, Chili Round-Up Pot Luck; Noon in McPhail March 23 Lenten Arts Concert; 4 PM in Sanctuary Sunday, April 13, Palm Sunday; 11 AM in Sanctuary Thursday, April 17, Maundy Thursday, 7 PM in Sanctuary Sunday, April 20, Easter Sunday; 11 AM Sanctuary Thursday, April 24, PCHAS Luncheon; Noon; Details later Church Calendar Online For other dates, see St. John’s Calendar online: https://www.stjohnspresby.org/events/   Update For Retirement Accounts RMD Calculator for Required Minimum Distribution March, 2025 by Dan Herron Well, it is time again to think about RMD, the Required Minimum Distribution, from Tax Deferred Retirement Plans like IRA, 401K, 403B, 457, SEP, and other retirement accounts, if you are 73 years or older in 2025. If you turned 73 last year you get to begin following the RMD withdrawal rules before April 1! If you’re like me, I turned 73 some years ago and continue year after year with different RMD amounts. You could look on some websites like AARP.com or financial companies for when you must start taking the RMD dollars. Age 73 is the starting age for RMDs. After your first year, the annual deadline is December 31.​​ Again, if you turned 73 last year, start right now so you can complete your distribution before April 1. Now is the time to PLAN your RMD. How much do you have in tax deferred accounts? How much do you need? What’s the minimum amount you must? What’s the maximum amount that is practical to take? When can you take your RMD cash? What can you give to charities in the RMD amount? You can even take the total of all RMD amounts from a single account. You can look at websites like stock brokerages, AARP, etc. to see worksheets. You put in your birthdate, the total amount of your retirement savings, spouse’s birthdate, etc. You then see how much RMD dollars to pull out. You can also contact your financial company for when and how much. To use these online websites you first have to know the amount of money is in all the accounts at end-of-year 2024. And, remember that you can give all or part of the RMD cash to charities. Discuss this with your websites/financial institutions/tax advisor. Read the online text so you are sure to understand RMD rules. So, try out a likeable website and proceed. Then 2025 won’t be such a surprise to you. You can take the proper amount. You can take more. You can donate some to charities. You shouldn’t take less than the proper amount because you don’t want the IRS penalty for that. Good retiring.   2025 Session Members and Roles Elders on the Session: Class of 2025 Shirley Boyd: Christian Education Virginia Krueger: Caring & Fellowship Leonie Tchoconte: Caring & Fellowship Elders on the Session: Class of 2026 Barm Alsbrook: Stewardship and Finance Michael Bisase: Buildings and Grounds Jan Herbert: Christian Education Elders on the Session: Class of 2027 Lynne Parsons Austin: Worship Omar Ayah: Faith in Action Marie Kutz: Personnel and Administration Other Session Leaders and Support Staff Jon Burnham: Moderator of Session Lynne Parsons Austin: Clerk to Session Tad Mulder: Church Treasurer Amy Caraballo: Financial Secretary     Church Office Hours and Contact Info The church office is open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am to noon. Pastor Jon or Marie Kutz cover Monday and Tuesday mornings; Alvina Hamilton covers Wednesday and Linda Herron covers Thursday. For assistance outside of these hours, please call us at 713-723-6262. To update the Prayer List or contribute to the Wednesday Epistle, contact Pastor Jon directly. Church Website and Calendar Online Our church website: https://www.stjohnspresby.org/ For dates, times, and events, see St. John’s Calendar online: https://www.stjohnspresby.org/events/ Email Pastor Jon to request an addition to the church calendar or to add an event or article to The Epistle.

📚 Expand Your Faith & Mind with The Thoughtful Faith Series by Jon Burnham! 🌟 1. The Open Church: Faith That Welcomes Questions Ever felt your doubts and questions made you an outsider in church? The Open Church warmly invites you back in! Discover a Christianity that thrives not in certainty, but in curiosity and growth. Jon Burnham boldly explores how questioning strengthens faith and how love, not absolute certainty, is the true hallmark of belief. ✅ Embrace a church culture that values inquiry. ✅ Understand why true faith evolves and deepens through curiosity. ✅ Learn how to trust God amidst life's mysteries. Faith isn't a closed system; it's an open journey. Begin yours today! 2. Because You Had To: AI, Predestination, and the Sovereignty of God How do we reconcile free will with God's sovereignty—especially when even AI predicts our choices? In Because You Had To, Jon Burnham guides readers compassionately through deep theological questions about predestination, prayer, and suffering. This insightful exploration blends philosophy, Scripture, and heartfelt pastoral reflections. ✅ Find clarity in the complexities of divine election. ✅ Deepen your trust in God's purposeful sovereignty. ✅ Discover meaningful engagement with prayer and responsibility. Experience comfort and clarity in trusting a God who is intimately involved in every moment. 3. Divinely Mashed: AI, Faith, and the Kingdom of God Ready for a faith adventure where Scripture meets Silicon Valley? Divinely Mashed is your quirky, profound, and wildly entertaining guide to navigating faith in the age of AI. Jon Burnham hilariously and insightfully remixes tech and theology, inviting you into a playful exploration where drones deliver hope and prayer apps respond to life's chaos. ✅ Laugh and learn as tech intersects with timeless faith. ✅ Enjoy a refreshing, humorous, and deeply meaningful read. ✅ Join the movement blending Kingdom work with cutting-edge tech. Warning: May inspire laughter, spiritual growth, and immediate updates to your prayer playlist! 📖 All three transformative books are now available on Amazon in Paperback, Kindle, and Audible versions! Here is Pastor Jon's author page on Amazo n. Embrace deeper faith. Welcome challenging questions. Experience the divine in our digital age. Get your copies and join the thoughtful faith movement today!

The Epistle February 19, 2025   The Power of Systems Over Goals in Church Leadership I am currently working on a book titled Systems Over Goals in Church Leadership, exploring how churches can thrive not by chasing fixed milestones but by cultivating faithful, Spirit-led systems. Inspired by Scott Adams’ distinction between goals and systems, this book applies that wisdom to ministry, showing how churches can build sustainable discipleship, generosity, and leadership structures that lead to long-term faithfulness rather than short-term successes. Too often, churches fall into the trap of goal-driven leadership—whether it’s growing membership numbers, meeting budget targets, or launching new programs. While goals can be useful, they often lead to burnout, frustration, and cycles of "permanent presuccess failure"—always striving but never feeling fully accomplished. Instead, the early church thrived through systems: daily rhythms of prayer, breaking bread, and discipleship (Acts 2:42-47). This book will guide leaders in developing ongoing systems for spiritual formation, financial stewardship, leadership development, and congregational care—ways of leading that bring consistent fruitfulness, regardless of external circumstances. For St. John’s, this perspective invites us to think not only about what we hope to achieve, but about the faithful patterns we cultivate that will sustain our church for years to come. For example, starting a school on our property through a Ground Lease arrangement would provide St. John’s with a steady, predictable revenue stream for the next 25 years, ensuring long-term financial sustainability without the constant pressure of annual fundraising. This approach reflects systems thinking—creating a self-sustaining model that generates consistent income—rather than relying on the short-term goal of asking members for donations each year and struggling to balance the budget. Instead of chasing financial targets, we would be building a durable system of support, allowing our congregation to focus on ministry, mission, and spiritual growth without the anxiety of financial instability. I hope this book will serve as a resource not only for our church but for other congregations navigating the challenges of ministry today. Let’s focus on faithfulness over fleeting success, trusting that God’s work unfolds in daily obedience, not just in major milestones. Stay tuned for more updates on this journey! Walking in Christ's Grace, Pastor Jon Men's Fellowship Wednesday, February 19 at 6:30pm in Session Room We will have a Men’s Group Meeting at 6:30 on Wednesday, February 19 in the Session Room. All men of the church are welcome to participate as we plan upcoming projects. Troop 740 Completes Eagle Scout Project for Cameron Crane at Bunnell Family Playground Troop 740 recently undertook a remarkable service project that culminated in an Eagle Scout achievement for Cameron Crane. The Scouts dedicated their time, skills, and teamwork to enhance the Bunnell Family Playground, leaving a lasting impact on the community. This project would not have been possible without the generous support of Jeanne Leach, who provided the necessary funds to bring Cameron’s vision to life. The Scouts displayed tremendous effort and commitment throughout the process, ensuring that the playground improvements serve both current and future generations. Their hard work reflects the Scout Oath’s call to "help other people at all times" and embodies the values of leadership and service.  A heartfelt thank you to Cameron Crane for his dedication, as well as to the Scouts, leaders, and church members who contributed to making this project a success. Your efforts are deeply appreciated and will be enjoyed by many for years to come. Giving New Life to Technology: St. John’s Donates Computer Equipment to Booker T. Washington High School  At St. John’s, we believe in stewardship—not just of our finances, but of all our resources. That’s why we are thrilled to see our worship slideshow operator, Jarrett Lindsey, take our older computer equipment to Booker T. Washington High School in the Heights, where he teaches Computer Science. Instead of collecting dust, these machines will now serve as hands-on tools for students to practice networking, computer repair, and maintenance skills. Jarrett’s car was packed—both the trunk and the back seat filled with monitors, desktops, and other equipment ready to be repurposed for learning. This act of generosity is a reminder that even used technology can make a huge impact when placed in the right hands. Go, Jarrett! Go, St. John’s! May our gifts continue to be a blessing beyond our walls!   Lenten Arts Series Begins Sunday, March 9, 4 pm. This year’s series begins with the RADIZ Cello Quartet playing some Bach and including Armenian and Danish folk tunes. Let’s make an intention to attend this year’s five concerts as one of the ways we observe a holy Lent. Come, let the music wrap around you like a soft embrace—this is not just a concert, it’s a journey for the soul.  Will you be there? A Lenten Study on the Lord’s Prayer Saturday, 29 March from 8:30am – 2:30pm In the Session Room  Every week we recite the Lord’s Prayer in the worship service but how much have you really thought about each of the petitions in the prayer? It is easy to say it by rote each week without really thinking about what it means. The Lord’s Prayer is actually rich in theological meaning and depth. The Christian Education Committee is offering everyone an opportunity to study the prayer in depth in a study during Lent. The class will be on Saturday, 29 March from 8:30am – 2:30pm. Lunch will be provided. Save the date for what we hope to be an enriching study! College Student Ministry Update The Caring Committee continues to keep in touch with our college students (Addie Carrettin, Tori Gorby, Naomi Hughes, Nnaji Bennett LaGrone, Jade Adams Noons, and Loic Mimche). At the start of each semester, they each receive a book that we hope will support their growth in Christ amidst the challenges of college life. In January, they received a book entitled, “Holy Habits,” by Noah Herrin. Here are a few comments from them: Great choice on the book, it is an amazing one. I will definitely enjoy reading it. Thank you so much to everyone ! The ten practical habits outlined by Noah Herrin have provided me with a roadmap to deepen my relationship with Jesus and live a more purposeful life. One habit that particularly resonated with me is the practice of "resting where you once were striving." In the midst of my busy academic schedule, I have found great comfort and renewal in setting aside time for rest and reflection, allowing me to recharge and maintain a healthy balance. The insights and guidance from this book have not only strengthened my faith but also equipped me with practical tools to navigate the complexities of college life. I am truly grateful for the support and encouragement from our church community, and I am excited to continue growing in my faith with the help of these holy habits. A New Book Study: The Message of Jesus What was the actual message of Jesus Christ during his ministry? We often focus on his birth, death and resurrection. But what did he actually say during his ministry and how might reviewing those messages help us to grow in our faith or explain our faith? On February 16, 2025, a new book study will begin with Adam Hamilton’s The Message of Jesus; Words that Changed the World. Hamilton’s book focuses on and explores the message of Jesus revealing his radical and provocative teachings. Using a writing style that is both clear and concise, Hamilton offers us an opportunity to reacquaint ourselves with the essence of our Lord’s words in a practical and powerful way. Join us on Zoom at 1:30pm on Sunday afternoons from the comfort of your home. Everyone is welcome. Contact Lynne Parsons Austin at lynnep@sbcglobal.net for the link. This is an opportunity not to be missed. BIM Mardi Gras Ball, Fat Tuesday, March 4, 6 pm, Willow Meadows Baptist Church Join the celebration of 40 years of service, with Cajun cuisine and festive attire. A sign-up sheet is in the narthex. Whispers of Grace: Email Devotionals for Lent and Holy Week Launching Mardi Gras, March 4, 2025 Join St. John’s for a transformative Lenten journey. Imagine raw conversations between a Disciple and the Holy Spirit—honest questions, divine whispers, and the cost of love. Inspired by Whispers of Grace: A Disciple’s Conversations with the Holy Spirit, each email offers Scripture meditations, reflective questions, and practical steps for daily faith. Highlights include: 🌿 The Desert’s Invitation: Purpose in wilderness 💧 The Gift of Tears: Healing sorrow 🌑 Walking in Darkness: Trusting through uncertainty Be ready for the call. The journey begins soon! Prayer Request: Wilbert Harris on Hospice Care Dear St. John's Family, We ask for your prayers for Wilbert Harris, who has now been placed on hospice care at SW Memorial Hospital. Please lift up Wilbert and his granddaughter, Tatiana, pictured here, who is faithfully caring for him during this time. May they both find strength, comfort, and peace in the presence of our Lord. Tatiana dropped by the church office on Sunday morning to give me an update and I visited Wilbert on Monday at SW Memorial Hospital and had prayer with him and Tatiana. Let us surround them with love and prayer, trusting in God's grace and mercy. In Christ’s peace, Pastor Jon St. John's Presbyterian Church Prayer Concerns Wilbert Harris, Hospice Care, SW Memorial Hospital Ann Nelson, Methodist Hospital, Smith Tower, Rehab Felicity Bisase, health Alice Rubio, health Bob Hughes, health Ross Chitwood and his spouse, friends of Mark Swindler; they lost everything in the Pacific Palisades fire St. John's College Students Omar Ayah in the loss of her father in Africa Scott Moore, health Caring for One Another in Prayer Our prayer list is a vital way we support one another, lifting up joys and concerns before God. From time to time, we update the list to ensure it reflects current needs. If a name has been removed and you would like it added back, please reply to this email and let us know who they are and why you would like them included. Your input helps us pray more intentionally and stay connected to those in need of ongoing support. Thank you for being part of this ministry of care and intercession. Prayer List Update – How Can We Pray for You? As part of our commitment to intentional and meaningful prayer, we periodically refresh our prayer list to ensure we are staying connected with those who need support. If you or someone you previously requested would like to remain on the prayer list, or if you have a new name to add, please reply to this email and let us know. We are grateful for the opportunity to pray with and for you. February Birthdays Teresa Darr (Feb 11) Christi Edmonsond (Feb 13) Joe Sanford (Feb 14) Ken Krueger and Bob Jump (Feb 15) Brad Urquhart (Feb 17) Omar Ayah (Feb 20) Benjamin Jump (Feb 23) Asher Caspa (Feb 25) Alina Klimaszewska (Feb 25) Shirley Boyd (Feb 27) Diane Ragan and Shadai Noons-Adams (Feb 28) *Note: If we did not list your February birthday or anniversary, please reply and let us know. Our Church Calendar Thursday, February 20 11:00 am Keenagers Lunch, McPhail Hall 5:00 pm Exercise Class, Building 2 Saturday, February 22, 10:00 am Pack 8 Pinewood Derby Setup in McPhail Hall 2:30 pm Willow Rock Community Girl Scout Meeting, McPhail Sunday, February 23, Seventh Sunday after Epiphany 9:30 am Sunday School for Adults, Lectionary, Session Room 11:00 am Worship Service, live in sanctuary and on Facebook 1:30 pm Book Study on Zoom 3:00 pm Pinewood Derby in McPhail, Concert in Sanctuary Coming Events Sat, Feb 22, Girl Scout Community Meeting Sat, Feb 22 and Sun, Feb 23, Pack 8 Pinewood Derby, McPhail Tuesday, March 4, 6:30 PM Mardi Gras Ball (Fundraiser for BIM at Willow Meadows Baptist Church, sign up sheet in narthex) Wed, March 5, Ash Wednesday Sun, March 23, Chili Round-Up Pot Luck Sun, April 13, Palm Sunday Thurs, April 17, Maundy Thursday Sun, April 20, Easter Sunday Church Calendar Online For other dates, see St. John’s Calendar online: https://www.stjohnspresby.org/events/ 2025 Session Members and Roles Elders on the Session: Class of 2025 Shirley Boyd: Christian Education Virginia Krueger: Caring & Fellowship Leonie Tchoconte: Caring & Fellowship Elders on the Session: Class of 2026 Barm Alsbrook: Stewardship and Finance Michael Bisase: Buildings and Grounds Jan Herbert: Christian Education Elders on the Session: Class of 2027 Lynne Parsons Austin: Worship Omar Ayah: Faith in Action Marie Kutz: Personnel and Administration Other Session Leaders and Support Staff Jon Burnham: Moderator of Session Lynne Parsons Austin: Clerk to Session Tad Mulder: Church Treasurer Amy Caraballo: Financial Secretary   Church Office Hours and Contact Info The church office is open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am to noon. Pastor Jon or Marie Kutz cover Monday and Tuesday mornings; Alvina Hamilton covers Wednesday and Linda Herron covers Thursday. For assistance outside of these hours, please call us at 713-723-6262. To update the Prayer List or contribute to the Wednesday Epistle, contact Pastor Jon directly. Church Website and Calendar Online Our church website: https://www.stjohnspresby.org/ For dates, times, and events, see St. John’s Calendar online: https://www.stjohnspresby.org/events/ Email Pastor Jon to request an addition to the church calendar or to add an event or article to The Epistle.

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