Connection - Kinsmen Lutheran Church

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Connection - Kinsmen Lutheran Church
ConnectionW W W. K I N S M E N L U T H E R A N . O R G
 12100 Champion Forest Dr. Houston, TX 77066 | 281-444-3126 (P) | 281-444-1733 (F)

                                                                    I ns id e Thi s Is s u e
                                                                  Inspiring Worship       2—4

                                                                  Experiencing Family     6—8

                                                                  Sharing Grace           9—13

                                                                  Kinsmen Budget Update   14

                                                                  Birthdays               15
Connection - Kinsmen Lutheran Church
February 2021                                                                                        Kinsmen Connection

                                                                                  Pastor’s word
                              As I reflect on what             • The heating element was fixed on the dishwasher in the
                              happened a year ago, the           kitchen making the food ministry of 200 free meals every
                              phrase “For such a time as         Wednesday much more possible.
                              this” has been coming to
                                                               • Other Capital campaign projects that have taken place
                              mind quite a bit. This phrase
                                                                 during this past year are the completion of the entire
                              is from the short book of
                                                                 campus electrical upgrade—a project that became more
                              Esther in the Old Testament.
                                                                 and more urgent as we learned more, demolishing and
                              This biblical story features
                                                                 rebuilding the north parking lot to get rid of the big
                              Mordecai, Esther’s stepfather,
                                                                 pothole, and a communications and branding
                              and Esther (both Jewish) and
                                                                 consultation.
                              non-Jewish King Ahasuerus
                              who makes Esther his queen.      Dear Kinsmen, thank you for envisioning, supporting and
Due to the jealousy and pride of Haman, all the Jewish         following where God has been leading us for such a time
people were under threat of being destroyed by a decree        as this!
from the king. In this moment of fear and anxiety,
Mordecai advises Queen Esther and tells her that she has       Grace and Peace,
become queen “for such a time as this” so that she is able
to save the Jewish people from destruction.
                                                               Beth Warpmaeker, Senior Pastor
                   “for such a time as this”

Although Kinsmen’s situation has not been one of looming
destruction, I do think God was preparing our
congregation in so many ways “for such a time as this.”
There were so many capital campaign projects that were
realized right before we entered into the pandemic a year
ago: cameras, computers, a church management system
(database), courtyard lights, Parish Nurse role, Spanish
language pastor, dishwasher heating element, and more…
• Cameras, cabling, and computers were installed. Then
  Aaron Sewell took the Media role just in time for us to
  move to online worship seamlessly.
• The ShelbyNext Church Management System (database,
  etc.) was installed just in time so we could move to
  online giving AND so that we could create RSVP forms
  and adjust worship numbers every week as the limited
  capacity changed.
• The courtyard lights were installed just as the days
  started getting shorter and we needed to continue Drive
  Thru communion with a bit more light.
• The Parish Nurse role (a big part of Lynnae Schatz’ job
  description) was part of the Capital campaign and came
  into place just as we were needing ongoing sound
  medical advice on how to keep everyone safe during the
  pandemic.
• The Spanish language mission start with Pastor Gabriel
  launched just right before we went online only. Some
  thought this was bad timing, but this actually enabled
  this mission start to begin worship services much earlier
  because we didn’t need to wait until enough people
  showed up.

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Connection - Kinsmen Lutheran Church
February 2021                                                                                      Kinsmen Connection

Sermon Series for Epiphany

                                                            We all know the frustration of not being heard. We
                                                            experience this when we have a bad phone connection,
                                                            when the internet connection is weak on our Zoom calls,
                                                            or when people twist the meaning of our words. These are
                                                            small annoyances. God, however, wants us to hear him
                                                            clearly. God calls each one of us for his Holy purposes.
                                                            Thankfully our God has infinite patience and calls us
                                                            again and again. Join us for this 6-week sermon series as
                                                            we hear the call stories of Samuel, Jonah, Jesus, and the
                                                            disciples. Then together let us listen to where God is
                                                            calling each one of us in 2021.

         February 7           Called Back                            Isaiah 40:21-31; Mark 1:29-39

         February 14          Called and Sent                        2 Kings 2:1-12; Mark 9:2-9

Serie de Sermones para el tiempo de Epifanía
Título: ¿Puedes tu escucharme ahora?
Todos conocemos la frustración de no ser escuchados. Experimentamos esto cuando tenemos una mala conexión
telefónica, cuando la conexión a Internet es débil en nuestras llamadas de Zoom o cuando la gente tergiversa el
significado de nuestras palabras. Son pequeñas molestias. Dios, sin embargo, quiere que lo escuchemos con claridad.
Dios nos llama a cada uno de nosotros para sus santos propósitos. Afortunadamente nuestro Dios tiene una paciencia
infinita y nos llama una y otra vez. Únase a nosotros en esta serie de sermones de 6 semanas mientras escuchamos las
historias de llamadas de Samuel, Jonás, Jesús y los discípulos. Luego, escuchemos juntos a dónde nos está llamando
Dios a cada uno de nosotros en 2021.

      7 de febrero         Llamado de regreso                     Isaías 40:21-31; San Marcos 1:29-39

      14 de febrero        Llamados y enviados                    2 Reyes 2:1-12; San Marcos 9:2-9

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Connection - Kinsmen Lutheran Church
February 2021                                                                                          Kinsmen Connection

NEW SERMON SERIES
                                        Sermon Series for Lent: A Story to Tell
                                        Lent begins on Ash Wednesday which is February 17. This is a time for us to dive
                                        deep into the story of God’s self-giving love through Jesus’ ministry, suffering,
                                        death and resurrection. These are the core stories of our faith that we learn and
                                        then tell. On Sundays during Lent, we will focus on the stories of Jesus’ ministry.
                                        On Wednesdays during Lent we will hear the power of that story and how it has
                                        created faith in members of the Kinsmen community. Join us as we hear the sto-
                                        ries, as our faith is renewed, and as we are moved to tell this story to others.

                                        We have Lent Devotionals available for pick up. Please contact Lynnae to
                                        arrange a time to pick up at Kinsmen.

Sundays during Lent

       February 21         Lent 1: "Soul Share" - Psalm 25:1-10, Mark 1:9-15
       February 28         Lent 2: "A Ray of Hope" - Psalm 22:23-31, Mark 8:31-38
         March 7           Lent 3: "The Wisdom of God" - 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, John 2:13-22
        March 14           Lent 4: "Love Lifted up" - Numbers 21:4-9, John 3:14-21
        March 21           Lent 5: "A New Covenant" - Jeremiah 31:31-34, John 12:20-33
        March 28           Lent 6: Palm/ Passion Sunday "A View from a Colt" - Philippians 2:5-11, Mark 11:1-11

Wednesday Holden Evening Prayer at 7PM

       February 24         Midweek Wednesday speaker: Wade Ivey
         March 3           Midweek Wednesday speaker: TBD
        March 10           Midweek Wednesday speaker: Eric Fidler
        March 17           Midweek Wednesday speaker: Ken Loudermilk
        March 24           Midweek Wednesday speaker: Cassie Miller

                                                                 Ash Wednesday Services
                                              We will have two services on Ash Wednesday. At 5:30 PM we will
                                              have a Spanish language service and at 7:00 PM we will have our
                                              English service. Watch for details to come whether we will be in person
                                              or if these services will be live-streamed only.

Drive Through Ashes
If you or your friends or co-workers are not able to join us for our Ash Wednesday worship service, “drive through” ashes
will be available in the front parking lot from 2 - 6 PM.
We will hand out individual kits with ashes for each person and we will pray together.
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Connection - Kinsmen Lutheran Church
February 2021                                                                                           Kinsmen Connection

   Zoom Sunday School
   Kindergarten through 5th graders join us on Zoom, Sundays at 9:45 AM for
   a rockin’ good time! Email Sara for the link!

                                    Save the Date for Summer Camp at Lutherhill
                               Sunday, June 20 - Friday, June 25 (Wed. pick up for 1st graders)
                               1st through 5th graders (and Pastor Mark will be traveling with the middle schoolers
                               this same week).
                               Sara always takes a group to Lutherhill for a week (or partial week for those currently in 1st
                               grade). We've found it helps both parents and kids to have Sara as a connection while
                               trying new things like residential camp.
                               Contact Sara Ray for more information and to let her know you’ve
                               registered your child!

Lutherhill is a summer camp and retreat center in La Grange, TX and Galveston, TX. Kinsmen takes kids
to Lutherhill multiple times a year for retreats and summer camp.

Before & After School Program                             We serve the following schools: Klenk Elementary, Yeager
                                                          Elementary, Greenwood Forest Elementary, Wunderlich
                                                          Intermediate, and Harmony School of Enrichment, and Harmony
                                                          School of Technology. We are open from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
                                                          To register, contact Stefanie McIntosh.

  Early Learning Program   (6 weeks through 4-years-old) – We still have limited
  availability for the 2020-21 school year! We are open Monday through Friday
  from 7 AM to 6 PM. Contact Beverly Smith for more information!

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Connection - Kinsmen Lutheran Church
February 2021                                                                                           Kinsmen Connection

Middle School @Lutherhill
June 20 - 25 for 6th - 8th Graders
Join us for a week that will include creative bible studies, meaningful worship, fun at archery, the
pool, the pond, the ropes course and a lot more.
Sign up for “Jr High Camp” and name "Kinsmen" as your cabin mate when you
register at www.lutherhill.org. Then let Pastor Mark know you are joining us at the Hill this summer.

Colorado High School Summer Trip
June 20-26 – Rising 9th Graders - current 12th Graders

Join us at the AEI Basecamp in Colorado for a week that includes adventures hiking,
rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and other mountain adventures. The trip will be led
by Lutherhill Staff.
Contact Pastor Mark to see if there are spots available. Sign up soon. Space is limited.

Upcoming Milestones
Milestones are an opportunity to recognize, equip, gift, and bless youth and their parents
at important milestones in their lives. Look for more details in the youth e-news and
Remind texts.
7th Grade Milestone – Relationships
10th Grade Milestone (postponed from the fall) - Driver’s License.

                                                                 Camp Hope – Save the Date!
                                                           Camp Hope 2021 will be July 12-16, 19-23, 26-30
                                                               Registration will be open in Spring 2021!

                                                   Sign up today
 If you are not receiving the weekly Middle and High School email (sign up by emailing Pastor Mark)
 or not linked to the Middle School Remind text text @kincon2021 to 81010) or High School Remind
                       text (text @kinswat to the number 81010). Sign up today!

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Connection - Kinsmen Lutheran Church
February 2021                                                                                             Kinsmen Connection

         2021 Marriage Milestone Celebration
      Kinsmen's annual Marriage Milestone will be held virtually on
     Saturday, February 13, at 6:30 PM. Come enjoy an evening of
celebration - a virtual progressive meal, an evening with fellowship and an
                         evening with entertainment.
           Please make your reservations here by February 12.
                    Questions? Contact Lynnae Schatz.

Women’s Pampering Retreat
 Unwind at Lutherhill March 5-7, 2021
 Everyone needs a little time to unwind! This retreat is specially crafted to renew body and spirit. Women from all walks
 of life will explore the gracious, unwavering, vibrant spirit of our God. With this exploration, we are reminded that our
 own source of love and life flows from God!
 Schedule: Unwind begins Friday evening, March 5, with gathering time
 and an opening devotion led by a guest speaker. On Saturday, spirits will
 be renewed with Bible study, worship, a nature walk, and meaningful
 conversations with old friends and new. You will also you’re your choice of
 massage, yoga, and any of Lutherhill’s camp activities. The retreat will
 conclude on Sunday, March 7, with worship.
 Cost: $160 per person.
Interested? Register at Lutherhill.org or contact Lynnae Schatz.

February Movie Discussion
During February, we invite you to watch the movie "One Night in Miami." It is a dramatization
about what might have happened if Cassius Clay (before he became Muhammad Ali), Malcolm X,
Jim Brown, and Sam Cooke had found themselves in the same room in 1964. The setting of the film
is at a Florida hotel celebrating Clay’s victory over heavyweight boxing champ Sonny Liston. What
takes place is a spirited, deep discussion about fame, religion, civil rights and what it means to be a
Black celebrity in America. The characters (as portrayed in this film) also function as archetypes for
any struggle. This thought-provoking movie can be found on Amazon Prime (perhaps other platforms
as well). You are encouraged to watch the movie on your own and then join one of the online
groups on February 25 to discuss it on ZOOM. To see the movie’s trailer go to:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZprXMxKg--w
To register for the Movie Discussion, click HERE.

              FEBRUARY Menu
                 February 3
                  Salisbury Steak
                   February 10
                 Chicken Alfredo
                   February 17                       Wednesday meals are available “to go” from 5:30 – 6:45 PM
                     Spaghetti                             to the first 200 individuals. Please register at
                                                          kinsmenlutheran.org to reserve your meal to go.
                  February 24
                 Beef Stroganoff                                                                                             7
Connection - Kinsmen Lutheran Church
February 2021                                                                                            Kinsmen Connection

Intergenerational Lent Activity
We are offering ashes to be picked up so you can join us through live-stream worship and impose ashes on the people in
your household.
We are also offering our traditional Intergenerational Lent Activity on February 14 at 9:45 AM via Zoom. You'll need to
pick up your Lent Bag (including ashes) in order to participate in this event. All are welcome!
The ashes included in each container will be enough for a household when mixed with a small amount of cooking oil.
Please pick up your Lent Bag or your ashes during the specified times below.
Sunday, February 7: 9 AM to 12:30 PM
Wednesday, February 10: 5 PM to 6:30 PM
Sunday, February 14: For ashes only - 9 AM to 12:30 PM
Other times available by contacting Sara Ray or 281.444.3127 x 117
Register by February 10 for the Intergenerational Lent Activity and by February 14 for
ashes!
http://bit.ly/LentIntergenerational

Lenten Bible Study: The Gospel of Mark
Sundays at 9:45 AM beginning Feb. 14
The Gospel of Mark is not just good news about Jesus. It reveals, sometimes in surprising and scandalous ways, how Jesus
is God's good news to us. This study takes big questions based on Mark and challenges participants to explore them
thoughtfully together. Questions we will reflect on will be “What Kind of Beginning is This?, “Who's In? Who's Out?”,
“Who Do You Say Jesus Is?” The primary reading material for this class is the Bible—specifically the Gospel of Mark. Sign
up for this online class led by Pastor Beth HERE.

                      The Jesus I Never Knew – Philip Yancey
                      Sundays at 9:45 AM beginning Feb. 21
                      In this study, we will see how Philip Yancey offers a new and different perspective on the life of Christ
                      and his work – his teachings, his miracles, his death and resurrection – and ultimately, who he was
                      and why he came. From the manger in Bethlehem to the cross in Jerusalem, Yancey presents someone
                      who generates questions as well as answers. This study presents a Jesus who wants to radically
                      transform your life and your faith.
                      This is a 6-week study where we will share a video and have a chance to have a lively discussion
                      about Jesus discovering things we might not have thought about before. If you would like to purchase
                      the book that goes with this study, it is available on Amazon at this link http://bit.ly/YanceyStudy,
                      but it is not necessary for the study. You can register for this class led by Rudy Flores HERE and a
                      ZOOM link will be sent out before the class begins.

                                                  Lent is a great time to join a group. You can join one of the new Sunday

                             Group                morning classes or join one of the ongoing Small Groups or Bible
                                                  Studies. Let Pastor Mark know or register here.

                           Ministry               https://bit.ly/experiencefamily

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Connection - Kinsmen Lutheran Church
February 2021                                                                                          Kinsmen Connection

noisy                             FEBRUARY 13 & 14

offering
Kinsmen’s tradition is to collect a Noisy Offering for a        Since 2002, when Home Place of Texas was founded, we
Mission Partner on the second weekend of the month. This        have relied heavily on donors such as yourself to allow our
month’s Mission Partner is Home Place of Texas.                 families to attend Home Place at a reasonable cost.
The focus of Home Place of Texas is, and has always been,       Without your support, our fees would grow exponentially.
to teach adults with disabilities that God loves them, and      We are still faced with an uncertain year ahead. Now,
has a plan for them. We teach this through giving our
                                                                more than ever, we are relying on our generous supporters
adults opportunities to learn, volunteer, socialize, and
                                                                to allow us to not only remain operating, but also explore
spend time with their peers, and community. We have
activities such as dance class, soccer, iPad games,             new programming options. Thank you for your continued
shredding, music, and Bible Study.                              support and extraordinary generosity!
This past year has brought many challenges to Home Place
of Texas. In the middle of a global pandemic, we
renovated and moved into a new location, closed our
program for several months, and had to create a new
vision for the future.

¿Estás listo para crecer?
Escrito por: Pastor Gabriel Marcano
“Un Nuevo: Tú. El discipulado importa”
Este nuevo tiempo de Cuaresma que inicia el miércoles de ceniza, es un recuerdo constante de nuestra fragilidad humana
y una invitación a estar más cercano a Cristo. En este tiempo nuestro deseo es enfocarnos en un lema nuevo:
¡DISCIPULADO!, queremos inspirarte a reenfocar toda tu vida como discípulo de Cristo. A veces pensamos y actuamos
como si el discipulado es solamente una actividad dominical. La verdad es que el discipulado envuelve nuestra vida
entera. Pero entendemos que hacer esto no es algo fácil y por eso deseamos inspirarte semana tras semana por medio de
nuestras enseñanzas el domingo para vivir tu vida como un discípulo.
Todas nuestras relaciones y esferas de vida en que estamos envueltos deben estar comprometidas al discipulado. Imagina
nuestro impacto si tomáramos esto en serio como iglesia. Piensa bien.

“A new disciple: You. Discipleship Matters”
This Lenten season that begins on Ash Wednesday is a constant reminder of
our human frailty and an invitation to be closer to Christ. At this time our
desire is to focus on a new motto: DISCIPLESHIP! We want to inspire you to
refocus your whole life as a disciple of Christ. Sometimes we think and act as
if going to worship on Sunday is enough, but the truth is discipleship involves
all aspects of our lives. We understand that doing this is not easy. That is
why we gather week after week-- to encourage each other in our
discipleship.
All relationships and spheres of life in which they are involved must be
committed to discipleship. Imagine our impact if we took this seriously as
a church.
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Connection - Kinsmen Lutheran Church
February 2021                                                                                           Kinsmen Connection

Optional Fee for On-Line Credit Card Giving
The financial support you have given to God’s mission at Kinsmen is a wonderful testimony to the work being done through
this church as well as to the faith and commitment to serve our Lord Jesus Christ. Through capabilities made possible by our
Capital Campaign-funded database, the online giving via Shelby Next has been used by many members, and that number
continues to grow.
In the August edition of the “Kinsmen Connection,” a table was included showing the fees associated with the various
options of sending in our offerings. Of particular interest was the amount for gifts sent by credit card. Fees for these
transactions vary and average somewhere around 2.5%. For a gift of $100.00, Kinsmen will receive approximately
$97.50.
An option now exists to add the transaction fee to the gift so that the church would receive the intended amount and the
charge to the account would reflect the gift and the fee. For those using your credit card, you will now have an option to
offset the processing fee by checking the appropriate box. Note: the added amount is also tax deductible.
If you have any problems or questions, please contact Jane Jacobi. May God bless you for your continued generous
support of the ministries at Kinsmen.

2021 Commitment Card update

                                                   The Stewardship Team thanks all who have returned Commitment Cards
                                                   or filled out the online form for our 2021 Annual Stewardship Drive. The
                                                   generosity shown by the congregation has been phenomenal and
                                                   continues to allow us to meet our annual budget and follow where God
                                                   is leading us. However, we want all members to indicate their
                                                   commitment to God’s mission at Kinsmen. If we have not heard from
                                                   you, please turn one in as soon as possible. You can find the
                                                   Commitment Card at the link HERE.

                                                   --The Stewardship Team

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February 2021                                                                                            Kinsmen Connection

COVID VACCINES
Across the country, the COVID-19 pandemic is having devastating effects. Here at
Kinsmen, we have felt the pain and loss in our own community. We’ve supported families
who have been affected. The last week of January we were aware of 12 positive
individuals related to Kinsmen. We grieve the sense of normalcy we had pre-pandemic.
While the pandemic has kept us apart, there is new hope—vaccines are here. They will
help us move closer to ending the pandemic.
We want everyone in our community to be safe. We want to be able to get back to
hugging our families and friends and sharing the peace during worship. Getting the
COVID-19 vaccine adds one more layer of protection for you, your family, and your loved
ones. Here are some key points about the COVID-19 vaccine:
• All COVID-19 vaccines currently available in the United States are very
  effective at preventing the disease.
• The most common side effects are pain in the arm where you got the shot, feeling tired, headache, body aches, chills,
  and fever.
• Stopping a pandemic requires using all the tools we have available—wearing masks, staying at least 6 feet apart from
  people who don’t live with you, avoiding crowds and poorly ventilated spaces, washing your hands frequently,
  and getting vaccinated.
We all play a part in this effort, and you are key.
I understand the demand for the vaccine is currently greater than the supply but I have faith this will be changing. If you
need help getting your name on a vaccine waitlist, please contact Lynnae Schatz. The Harris County Public Health
Department has developed a "weighted" waitlist. Everyone can register but understand that those in Phase 1A and then
1B will receive their vaccine first. The link for that waitlist is: https://vacstrac.hctx.net/.
If you want to know more about COVID-19 vaccines, visit www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines.
Blessings,
Lynnae Schatz, RN, BSN
Director of Congregational Life

Food Distribution
Kinsmen Lutheran Church, in partnership with Bridging for Tomorrow and the
Houston Food Bank, serves as a Mobile Food Distribution Site twice a
month. The distribution dates for February are February 6 and February 20
from 8:00 AM—11:00 AM or whenever the food is gone, whichever comes
first. The food is for everyone.
Volunteers are needed to make the Distribution possible. There are a variety of
volunteer opportunities available. Shifts begin as early as 7 AM and the entire
event is over by noon.
Visit http://kinsmenlutheran.org/events/ to sign up to volunteer.
Contact Lynnae Schatz if you have questions.

                    Sleep in Heavenly Peace gathered on January 23 and built 45 single beds and 30
                           bunk beds. Those present from Kinsmen were Peter Abt, Rob Adams,
                                  Kevin Edwards, John Landgraf, and Gary Simpson.                                             11
February 2021                                                                                             Kinsmen Connection

ENDOWMENT NEWS
                                                          If a brother or sister is without clothing and in need of daily food,
                                                            and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and be
                                                           filled,” and yet you do not give them what is necessary for their
                                                                                 body, what use is that?
                                                                                      James 2:15-16

These are just a few of the Projects Made Possible by your Gifts to the Kinsmen Endowment
Fund since 2016. Thank you for your generosity!!
2020
• Donation to Northwest Assistance Ministries for food insecurity in the community.
2019
• Christmas lights for the courtyard
• Conference tables and chairs for the Kinsmen library
• AD Players Performance
2018
• A Turf project for one of the Kinsmen Children’s Academy playgrounds
• Replacement of broken water fountain with a bottle-filling water fountain
2017
• Help with Kinsmen’s 45th Anniversary Celebration
• New AV Equipment for sanctuary and Video ministry
2016
•    Digital signage in the narthex
2016 was the first year we were able to begin grants for projects as it was
the first year we crossed the threshold for distributions.
For more information on the Endowment, click this link:
https://kinsmenlutheran.org/kinsmen-endowment-fund/

Mental Illness may be impacting your family
1 in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year
1 in 20 U.S. adults experience serious mental illness each year
1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year
50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-34
*All stats are from nami.org
NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) will begin a Family-to-Family class (via Zoom) on February 20 from
9:30 AM - noon. This free 8 session program is for family, significant others and friends of people with mental health
conditions. NAMI Family-to-Family provides information and strategies for taking care of the person you love. The class
also provides support in knowing that you are not alone. Recovery is a journey, and there is hope.
Would you like to register or learn more? Call 713-970-4435 or email register@namigreaterhouston.org.
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February 2021                                                                                             Kinsmen Connection

                                             At the end of December, our Capital Campaign was at 31 of the 36 months
                                             of the originally designated period of the campaign. Contributions have been
                                             impressive, given the circumstances we have experienced with the pandemic.
                                             While we are on track with the total of the pledged amount, monies from
                                             other sources (interest, credits, etc.) have been included in that total. The
                                             actual Pledge contributions to date are over 10% lower than the pledged
                                             total. Also, Pledges were lower than the $1.5M goal that was set for the
                                             Campaign.
                                             The Stewardship Committee would like the congregation to consider possible
                                             ways of achieving or exceeding our Campaign goal:
• If you are making monthly gifts to the Capital Campaign, consider continuing these until the end of 2021.
• Lump sum contributions could also be made with the full year amount in mind, rather than 5 months. OR
• Those receiving stimulus checks could consider donating a tithe (or more) from that income.
Several projects have been completed and others are in progress or about to begin. Full funding of the goal amount will
enable Kinsmen to improve the condition of the campus, enhance and expand our ministries and provide a stable financial
base to address those unexpected but all-too-often-occurring major expenses. Thank you for your prayerful consideration.
As of the end of December, contributions of $1,241,920 have been received, which is nearly 82.8% of the $1.5 million
Capital Campaign target. (We are through 31 of 36 months of the campaign 86%), so we are a bit behind at this time
if we are going to meet our goal. Please review your “Giving Statement” that was sent out at the end of January to make
sure you are keeping up with your commitment or consider making a special gift. If you have any questions about the
campaign or Kinsmen’s Long Range Vision, please do not hesitate to ask Peter Abt, John England, Joie Folkers or
Pastor Beth.

Calling All Thrivent Members

Did you know that Thrivent has a program to help us raise      the same project. You need to apply at least 21 days in
money for our church and community activities? It is called    advance of your project, and complete a post project report.
Thrivent ACTION TEAM. You can find out more about it
                                                            The list is extensive – so visit the website and learn about
here, but here is some initial information about the ACTION
                                                            this wonderful gift that Thrivent provides for people of faith.
TEAM opportunity.
                                                            In the past, some of the Action Team Awards received were:
Does your Small Group or others you are involved with want Grace Mielke – QUILTING; Barb & Mike Velotas –
to raise money for a worthwhile cause? If you just need a   THANKSGIVING FEAST; Karen Crisler – ELECTRONIC
little “seed money” to get your idea going, then a Thrivent CANDLES USED AT CHRISTMAS; Kevin & Colette Edwards
member is eligible for $250 to get your project going. Only – 2021 LENT DEVOTIONAL; Connie Jackson – QUILTING.
one action team for each project – in other words you       If you would like to talk about how your gift could be used
cannot have more than one $250 award for the same           at Kinsmen, please contact Pastor Beth or Pastor Mark or
project.                                                    Lynnae Schatz.
If you and your spouse are both Thrivent members, you are
eligible for two awards, but they cannot be combined for

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February 2021                                                                           Kinsmen Connection

        Glimpses
                 grace                                             GLIMPSES OF SHARING GRACE:
                                                                   CARE MINISTRY
KINSMEN BUDGET UPDATE - CHURCH ONLY                                JANUARY 2020
Operating Highlights for DECEMBER 2020                             Flower Delivery                58
                     Budget          Actual     Variance           Prayer Shawl                    8
Total Income         174,939        141,006     (33,933)

Total Expenses       162,783        140,383     (22,400)

Net                    12,156           623     (11,533)   GLIMPSES OF GRACE
 Year-to-date                                              DECEMBER 2020
                                                           Noisy Offering                      $769.40
Total Income        1,802,311      1,684,179   (118,132)
                                                           Bright Stars of Bethlehem

Total Expense       1,802,311      1,542,577   (260,053)   General Mission Support          $11,193.77

                                    141,921     141,921    Designated Mission Support        $1,330.00
Net                            -

                                                           KCA Scholarship                     $772.50
Giving Update                                              NAM                               $1,310.00

Thankoffering       Budget          Actual      Variance   DECEMBER TOTAL                   $15,735.67

Month-to-Date       135,878         127,219      (8,659)   Y-T-D TOTAL                     $138,410.55

Year-to-Date       1,297,724       1,163,462   (134,262)
Total Pledges           102
Against Pledge          100
Over Paid Pledge          -
Non-Pledged             219
Total Households
                        319
Giving

14
February 2021                                                                                                                     Kinsmen Connection

                                                                                                                             *
                           FEBRUARY BIRTHDAYS
Ruth Thompson                   1                      William Thompson Jr.                     8                  Ashley Blackwell              20
Anika Sutter                    1                      Cyrus "Rusty" Giroir                     9                  Edith Chuta                   22
Luke Reder                      1                      Steve Wooden                             9                  Teresa Cook                   22
Velsie Borja                    1                      Cailia Jean Roberts                      9                  Ian Wietstruck                23
Garrett Best                    2                      Maximus Silva                            10                 Season Davis                  23
Oliver Goodell                  2                      Oscar Caraveo                            10                 Kenneth Mersiovsky            23
Henry Goodell                   2                      Patsy Fretwell                           12                 Randy Grobe                   24
Jakki Schertle                  3                      Carol Simpson                            12                 Michael Hamric Jr.            24
Randy Bratsven                  3                      Connie Jean Simpson                      12                 Helene Roeger                 24
Kailey Cutbirth                 3                      Camila Broussard                         12                 Gayle Lyons                   24
Rachel Goodell                  3                      Glen Peterson                            13                 Jacob Awbrey                  24
Irma Yolanda Castillo Duarte 3                         Laroy Borchert                           13                 Molly Rall                    25
Elaine Monrad                   5                      Margo Watson                             14                 Renate Jorden                 25
Kevan Collins                   5                      Connie Jackson                           14                 Fay Cade                      25
Liam Ray                        5                      Ellen Wangsmo                            15                 Ronald Reder                  25
David Lehmann                   6                      Elizabeth Orosco-Stolz                   16                 Joy Coote                     25
Michael Velotas                 6                      Gloria Bernardino-Ray                    16                 Christopher Monrad            25
Joan Ebner                      6                      Jude Grimes                              16                 Carter Monrad                 25
Craig Sutter                    6                      Jaziah Joe Perez                         17                 Mary Jo Hjerpe                26
Al Holzman                      6                      Brett Kulhanek                           18                 Russell Petrucciani           26
Suzanne Nott                    7                      Richard Pravata                          18                 Karen Wood                    26
Ronald Coote                    7                      Jacob Warpmaeker                         18                 Alicia Baker                  26
Kristine McNeill                7                      Steven Schatz                            19                 Doug Wittenberg               27
Linda D. Thomas                 7                      Sophia LeMay                             19                 Annice Joyce                  27
Michael Patton                  7                      Erin Beecher                             19                 Max Rivera                    27
Eva Pate                        7                      Clinton Ray                              19
Allyson Schroeder Orta          8                      Bob Parliament                           20

                         *This list is compiled from church records. If your name is missing or the information listed above is
                                       incorrect, please notify the church office. (smcmahon@kinsmenlutheran.org)

                                                                                                                                                 15
Kinsmen Staff
                    Reach a staff member directly by dialing 281-444-3127,
 In person and      plus their extension
     ONLINE         Rev. Dr. Beth Warpmaeker, Senior Pastor
Worship Schedule:     bwarpmaeker@kinsmenlutheran.org — Ext 118                 Connection
                    Rev. Mark England, Youth & Family Ministry                  is a monthly publication
                      mengland@kinsmenlutheran.org — Ext. 124                   of Kinsmen Lutheran
TRADITIONAL                                                                     Church. Deadline for
                    Rev. Gabriel Marcano, Ministerio Latino
WORSHIP               gmarcano@kinsmenlutheran.org — Ext. 119
                                                                                submitting news is the
                                                                                15th day of each month
Sundays             Lynnae Schatz, Director of Congregational Life              or the previous church
                       lschatz@kinsmenlutheran.org — Ext. 143
8:30 AM                                                                         business day if the
                    Sara Ray, Director of Children’s Ministry & Outreach        deadline falls on the
                      sray@kinsmenlutheran.org — Ext. 117                       weekend or on a church
EDUCATIONAL         Colette Edwards, Special Events Coordinator                 holiday. Articles are
HOUR                   cedwards@kinsmenlutheran.org — Ext. 111                  preferred electronically,
                                                                                but may be faxed or
                    Sherrie McMahon, Office Manager
Sundays               smcmahon@kinsmenlutheran.org — Ext. 110                   hand-delivered to a staff
                                                                                member.
9:45 AM             Aaron Sewell, Director of Media
                      asewell@kinsmenlutheran.org

CONTEMPORARY        Jane Jacobi, Payroll Clerk
                       jjacobi@kinsmenlutheran.org — Ext. 115
WORSHIP
                    Anh Truong, Accounts Payable Clerk                       OFFICE HOURS
Sundays               atruong@kinsmenlutheran.org                            Monday—Thursday
11:00 AM            Kristen Schulze, Contemporary Worship                    9 AM—5 PM
                    Co-coordinator
                       kschulze@kinsmenlutheran.org                          Friday
MISA en ESPAÑOL     Alvin Johnson, Keyboardist for the Praise Team           9 AM—12 PM
                       ajohnson@kinsmenlutheran.org
Sundays
                    Sherrie McMahon, Organist, Abendmusik
12:30 PM              smcmahon@kinsmenlutheran.org— Ext. 122
                                                                             CONTACT
                    Elizabeth Marks, Alleluia Choir Director
                        emarks.klc@gmail.com                                 INFORMATION
                                                                             281-444-3126 Phone
                    Beverly Smith, KCA Preschool Director                    281-444-1733 FAX
                      bsmith@kinsmenlutheran.org — Ext. 123
                                                                             kinsmen@kinsmenlutheran.org
                    Stefanie McIntosh, KCA Before and After School
                    Care Director
                       smcintosh@kinsmenlutheran.org — Ext. 135                  Membership
                    Rudy Flores, Seminary Student,                           Interested in learning more about
                    Communications Director
                                                                              Kinsmen? Contact Pastor Beth,
                      communications@kinsmenlutheran.org — Ext. 121
                                                                              Pastor Mark, or Lynnae Schatz
                    Ruben Aranda, Custodian                                   (lschatz@kinsmenlutheran.org)
                    Gonzalo Montes, Custodian                                     for more information.
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