New Beginnings:
I have a love/hate relationship with August! Having taught for so many years and liking structure by nature, I loved it when it was time to get back into the routine of school. It meant a set rhythm of when to wake each morning, the thrill of meeting a new set of students, a fresh energy that comes with a clean classroom and the anticipation of the learning and growth that would unfold. It also meant new school supplies! I love the smell of new pencils and crayons, a fresh notebook, and don’t even get me started on the delights of a new monthly planner!

August also means facing another dreaded “first day of school.” As a teacher, and even now as Children’s pastor, it means the pressure of planning, the anxiety of managing a new group of personalities, and the inevitable bumps in the road as everyone adjusts to routines and expectations once again. As a mom the experience is bittersweet. Each new school year is a reminder that my kids were one step closer to leaving our nest forever. There is a deep sadness in knowing that these precious moments of daily life together are fleeting. I am on the tail end of these fleeting moments as our youngest just started his freshman year of high school and our oldest having just got married a month ago.

Through each new beginning, I love how I remember the Lord too offers us new beginnings. Oftentimes with the struggles of life or with the challenges we face we become immersed in only seeing the negative. It is as if we are holding our hand in front of our face and that is as far as we can see. When we focus too much on the negatives–our failures, disappointments, or the challenges we face— we risk missing the new things God is doing. We might overlook the blessings He’s placing in our path, or the growth we can have through the difficult times. Instead of dwelling on what’s wrong, we are encouraged to lift our eyes to Him, the unchanging One, and trust that He is making all things new. We must have a different perspective of our everyday life.

Here is the irony, God never changes, as the scripture reminds us in Hebrews 13:8, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever,” yet He reminds us to continue to look forward to what is to come and what is changing. Isaiah 43:18-19 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing.” God invites us to look forward with hope, trusting that He is constantly at work in our lives, bringing about new beginnings and opportunities for growth. As we trust in His unchanging nature and look forward with faith, may we release the negative and embrace the new, knowing that He is leading us into something beautiful.

Blessings,
Tena Roher
Christian Faith and Beliefs
Josh will be leading a Christian Faith and Beliefs class at the Bunce household on Wednesday nights at 7 p.m. starting on Sept. 4th.  This class is open to all adults. Whether you’re new to the faith or a more seasoned follower, this class is for you if you’re looking for a community of people who want to journey together in becoming deeper disciples of Jesus. Josh and Marcy and family live at 1303 Yorkshire Dr in Friendswood. We hope you feel welcome to journey with us.
Women’s Bible Studies
Women’s Morning Bible Study will begin on Wednesday, September 4th at 9:00 AM in the Coffee Cafe. We will study from Planted for the next 12 weeks over disciplines of Christian Faith. There is a link to purchase the book below. While purchasing the book is highly encouraged, it is not required to participate. There is also a link to “let us know you are coming” which includes a place to sign up for childcare. We look forward to studying together.
Purchase Planted Here
Let Us Know You’re Coming!
Women’s Evening Bible Study
Beginning September 18th, Women’s Evening Bible Study returns and will be studying from Epic of Eden: Jonah. This bible study meets at Susan Tam’s home on Wednesday Evenings at 6:30 PM. If you have questions about the study, you can contact Susan by email.  There is a link to purchase this book below.
Purchase Epic of Eden: Jonah Here
Sunday Mornings at 9:00 AM
Donuts and Discussions meets at 9:00 AM Sunday mornings in Friends Center for kids 3 years old – 12th grade. Join us as we discuss how we can lean on Jesus and each other as we navigate through school, family, friends, and life.

An Adult Sunday School Class for all ages meets at 9:00 AM in the Bride’s Room before Worship at 10:00. We would love for you to join us for scripture and conversation!
Sunday Evening Activities
All Sunday Evening Activities Resume on September 8th.
Student Ministries Update
Fuse and Core
Both Fuse and Core had their first regular meeting last week. It was Awesome! We will break this Sunday for Labor Day and be back at regular times on September 8th.
HS Volleyball Tournament
The Annual High School Volleyball Tournament is set for September 15th 7:00-9:30 PM. Each high school team needs a minimum of 6 players, a team name, and costumes are highly encouraged. Registration fee is a pair of used or new tennis shoes to be donated to Shower Ministry. Contact Katelyn Sanders if you would be interested in volunteering as a line judge, score keeper, or helping with concessions.
Children’s Ministry Update
In beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1
Every story in the Bible tells us something about Jesus. God loves us so much that He created this beautiful world for us to live in. In Children’s Church we have been learning and praising God over his amazing creations. Here are a few things that parents, grandparents, or awesome neighbors can do at home with children to continue emphasizing the wonder of God’s work:

Go for a walk with your family and look at things God made. How many different kinds of trees can you find? Or how many different kinds of flowers?

Have each member of the family choose a different alphabet letter. Ask: How many things God made can you think of that begin with that letter?

Thank God for the beautiful things in nature.
Tweens Registration is Now Open
Tweens registration is open for all 5th graders. Visit our website for the registration link or follow our Facebook page for updates. Tweens begins September 5th!
Register for Gym Kids
Gym Kids is a structured time for kids. Moms are free to take a break while their kids are busy using their gross motor skills and learning about Jesus. We welcome potty-trained children aged 3-5 years old. Registration is now available on our website. The first Gym Kids is September 6th.
Bell Friends
On August 29th at 11:00 AM, bring your lunch and let’s enjoy a meal together before beginning rehearsals. Regular rehearsal times will be Thursdays 12:30-2:00 PM.
Love. Learn. Listen.