Celebrations in Austin District abound


I hope you will read the articles on Page 4 from the Austin District before this one. The Rev. Tim Abel writes of church efforts to reach its neighbors in Industry, and the Rev. Cheryl Broome writes about transformation at Hyde Park. Both are stories of faithful people making the changes necessary to bring new life to their churches.
Christ asks us for nothing more and nothing less. The great “Aha!” these churches have made is that being church and doing church are not focused on the people who are already there but on the people who are not there. Certainly we must help our members grow and mature in their faith, and part of that process is helping them gain a sense of mission outreach. When Jesus was asked, “Who is my neighbor?” he didn’t say, “Your bridge partner.”
Another celebration for us in the Austin District was the Confirmation Rally at Manchaca UMC April 29. Amy Howell, our district youth director, put together a great event. It is such a thrill to see young people make a commitment to Christ and his church.
Speaking of celebrations, Ed Chew turns 79 May 27. Ed is our volunteer bookkeeper, business administrator and finance wizard. He has served the district as a volunteer for many years. Ed, thank you for your faithfulness, commitment, competence and love for doing God’s work.