In Touch with UPC

PASTOR'S NOTE

I hope you enjoyed the outdoor worship service and celebration last week as much as I did. As sad as it was to say good bye to Dhawn Martin, the beautiful weather and fun activities made it a festive event. This Sunday we will return to our regular schedule and locations. Our scripture this week is John 14:1-14 where Jesus comforts his disciples and shows them the way to God. During worship, Gary Dill will assist me in the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper.

The remining Sundays in May will be very special days. On Sunday, May 14, we will hear about the Children's Center and the Good Shepherd Scholarship Fund. On Sunday, May 21, we will recognize our graduating high school seniors as well as bid farewell to our Youth Ministries Director, Hannah Cooley. Then on Sunday, May 28, we will celebrate Pentecost.

Do you remember the story of Pentecost? The Christian celebration of Pentecost finds its roots our Jewish heritage, but that’s a story for another time. The story of Pentecost for the Christian church can be found in the book of Acts, Chapter 2. By tradition it happened 50 days after the resurrection of Christ. People were gathered from far and wide when a mighty wind blew through the house, and all sorts of extraordinary things happened including people being able to understand each other though their differences included speaking different languages. We celebrate Pentecost as the third great festival or holiday of our faith. It is often called the birth of the Christian church and is a great opportunity for the church to have a big party.

Divine Redeemer Presbyterian Church has invited UPC to join them for a joint morning worship service and potluck lunch on Sunday, May 28 to celebrate Pentecost together. Rev. Rob Mueller, pastor at Divine Redeemer told me that the two congregations held a joint worship service when Rev. Kelly Allen was at UPC. He said that they knew we were currently stretched pretty thin, and their session decided to invite UPC to worship with them as a sign of solidarity as we go through this transition.   

I can think of no better way to celebrate Pentecost than worshiping and fellowshipping with our siblings at Divine Redeemer. We will have adult Sunday school on the UPC campus, but otherwise we will meet at Divine Redeemer (407 N Calaveras, 78207.) The service will begin at 11 a.m. which means those who attend Sunday school and any persons who show up at the church at 10:30 a.m. will have time to make it over to Divine Redeemer for worship. Details are still being worked out so watch the newsletter, the Facebook page, and announcements during worship for more information. For now, please mark your calendar for a special celebration of Pentecost on May 28.  

Blessings,

Carla

WORSHIP INFORMATION

8 a.m. Outdoor Service

Participate in meditative worship out on the front lawn. Bring a blanket or chair and join us.

10:30 a.m. Hybrid Service

Join us for hybrid worship service by gathering in person in the sanctuary or watching the service online. Click here for worship bulletins. Leaders include Carla Harrel Mathews, Erika Stiner, Hannah Cooley, Keith Martinez, Christian Carpenter, and others. Click here for Zoom Webinar or click here for YouTube Live. You can also watch past services at any time by clicking here.

FAREWELL HANNAH

Please plan to join us on Sunday, May 21, during the 10:30 a.m. as we bid farewell to Hannah as she completes her 3-year commitment with Center for Youth Ministry Training. We will also recognize our graduating high school senior(s) during worship. The Welcome & Fellowship Committee will host a reception following worship for Hannah and our graduates.

LOAVES & FISHES

May 7 is Loaves & Fishes Sunday. Monetary donations to purchase baby supplies such as diapers, wipes, formula, cereal, and food for the House of Neighborly Service are welcome. Please mark online donations or checks mailed to the church office with "Loaves & Fishes.”

WHAT WAS JESUS LIKE?

For fun, that’s the question I asked an artificial intelligence tool.

Within a half a minute, ChatGPT answered back: 

“Jesus of Nazareth, according to the Christian Bible,

was a Jewish preacher and religious leader

who lived in the 1st century AD.

He is believed to be the son of God by Christians

and is known for his teachings, miracles, and crucifixion.”

That sounds like Breaking News in reporter-speak, but without a lot of humanness. How would you describe what Jesus was like? In the Bible we get brief vignettes, snapshots in words, some parables, and evidence of a compassionate man. He would teach people—many at a time—who liked him so much that he appeared a threat to the hierarchy. And, Jesus prayed to God. That’s what he was like. 

Of course, it will always be complicated to answer succinctly what Jesus was like as he walked this earth. So another path is to ask two questions. Who is Jesus? And, what did Jesus become after his death, then and today? Join us for our After-Word conversation and video this Sunday at 1 p.m.

Here’s all it takes to start:

• Come Sundays at 1 p.m.
• Click here to link to the Zoom session, or dial 346-248-7799 and enter Meeting ID 742 807 278.
• Use the same password as other UPC meetings.
• Contact the church office if you need assistance in advance. You may also contact Sheri Rosen.

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

Far Flung but Close Together

One of the unique aspects of the UPC Shawl Ministry is that many of our knitters and crocheters neither live in San Antonio nor belong to UPC. Yet they faithfully create beautiful shawls and lap robes for this ministry and bear the burden of mailing or bringing them to San Antonio. This week I would like to salute Julie Adkins, who has undertaken the task of keeping UPC supplied with wonderful baby afghans, and to salute Shirley Cotton, who sends her delicate lace shawls all the way from Chicago! The deacons present each newborn a baby blanket so Julie's creations are doubly appreciated. Shirley, who is a San Antonio transplant to colder climes to be with her family, has nevertheless continued her long years of service to the knitting community here. We are blessed by their faithful service.

Zoom allows us to keep in touch and fosters community. It kept us strong and sane during Covid lockdowns and has become an innervating part of our social life. Thanks to Zoom, the UPC Shawl Ministry attracts participants from other Texas cities like Fredericksburg and other states like California, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Illinois, and Massachusetts. This week Zoom connected us with participants in London and Budapest!

And as Covid has not departed and there is still a fair bit of transmission (click here for article by Peter Hotez), it appears that we will be depending on Zoom for some time to come. Having far flung members enriches and energizes the group, but we are always hoping to recruit more local knitters, crocheters, and weavers. If you would like to become part of this caring ministry or to request a shawl, contact Caryl Gaubatz.

On Sunday, May 14, members of the Shawl Ministry will be outside the Sanctuary from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. to give out shawls and lap robes. If you are holding someone in your heart who is facing a crisis, challenge or change, please stop by our table to select a shawl. Shawls are also given in celebration or gratitude.

WOMEN'S MONDAY NIGHT BOOK GROUP

The book group will meet on Monday evening, May 22, at 6:30 p.m. at the home of Patti Jewett to discuss The Last Flight by Julie Clark under the leadership of Becky Huston. Sandy Nicholson will facilitate zoom access. Bring a salad to share and prepare for lively discussion. All are invited even if you've not read the book yet.

Please contact Patti to let her know you will be there and to get her address. If you are interested in the Women's Book Group and would like to be on the email list, please contact the church office.

PHOTOS FROM UPC'S EARTH DAY FIESTA CELEBRATION - APRIL 30

OPPORTUNITIES TO CONNECT

Join us for a host of different opportunities to connect with the UPC community. Visit our website calendar for the most up-to-date information. And please note, some events and times have changed with the new Sunday schedule.

SESSION HIGHLIGHTS - APRIL 19 MEETING

• UPC's summer office hours will be the same as in the last few years: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Mondays - Thursdays and 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Fridays between Memorial Day and Labor Day (May 29 - Sept. 1.)
• Elder and Deacon training will take place on Saturday, May 20, from 10:30 a.m. until 2 p.m. Ordination and Installation of new Elders and Deacons will be on Sunday, June 4, during the 10:30 a.m. worship service.
• A farewell recognition during worship and a reception for Dhawn Martin will be a part of the Earth Day and Earth Care Celebration on Sunday, April 30.

HONORING DHAWN MARTIN

We bid farewell to Dhawn during a wonderful outdoor Earth Day worship service surrounded by the sounds of the birds and the warmth of the sunshine.

In addition to presenting her with the UPC cross ornament, it was announced that the Session had established the Dhawn Martin Earth Care Fund. This fund will help UPC continue to do the work of being an Earth Care Congregation.

And finally, the leadership of UPC purchased a tree as a tangible and living testimony to Dhawn's commitment to and love of nature.

BRIDGES TO CARE

UPC's Bridges to Care Representatives want to share the information about the upcoming 21st Annual Behavioral Health & Wellness Conference on Thursday, May 18 and Friday, May 19. Presented by Bexar County’s Center for Health Care Services (CHCS), this is a free two-day conference for families, consumers, caregivers, and professionals featuring educational workshops about mental health topics/resources and a health/wellness resource fair. It may be attended in person at The Norris Conference Center OR virtually on Zoom. Click here for further information and to register.

UPC FINANCIALS

Thanks to all who pledged for 2023 and we ask that everyone keep up with their pledge payments. For the month of March, our operating expenses were slightly higher than anticipated. We have a healthy balance in most of the special funds, which are non-operating funds usually designated for a particular purpose. The overall balance in the special funds account is $93,080. The SoL Center offers interfaith adult education and has an operating budget of $23,250 and separate endowment accounts.

In addition to operating funds and special purpose funds, we also have endowment funds, which are funds invested for the long term that help support programs of the church, The SoL Center, and the University Presbyterian Children's Center. The March market value of UPC endowments is $657,920, and the book value is $475,534, up slightly this month. The March market value of SoL endowments is $143,134, and the book value is $115,677, up slightly this month. Endowments are invested and only the earnings or a percentage of the current value may be used regularly.

ADULT CHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Living Our Faith

This group will discuss their options for the month of May on Sunday, May 7. The format of the class is informal and you are welcome to drop in anytime. The class meets at 9 a.m. in CE Room 4 with the first 15-20 minutes for visiting and getting coffee. If you have any questions about the class, please contact Sandy Nicholson.

Sunday Morning Book Study

This group continues their discussion on Genesis for Normal People: A Guide to the Most Controversial, Misunderstood, and Abused Book of the Bible by Peter Enns and Jared Byas. The class participants take turns leading the discussions over a multiple week time frame. They meet at 9 a.m. in CE Room 3. Please join! Contact Bonnie Flake for more information.

Bible Study Class

This group continues their series centered on the prophets of the Old Testament using Walter Brueggemann’s book From Judgment to Hope: A Study on the Prophets. The class meets at 9 a.m. in CE Room 2. Please contact Janifer Meldrum with any questions. Everybody is welcome!

PENTECOST OFFERING

"Teach and inspire our young people

to dream dreams and

follow those dreams in serving you."

-Excerpt from the PC-USA Pentecost Offering Prayer of Dedication.

On Sunday, May 28 UPC will collect the special Pentecost Offering. This special offering unites us with congregations across the Presbyterian Church (USA) in supporting our youngest members of the body of Christ so that they may share their faith, ideas, and gifts with the Church and the world. 40% of this offering stays within the UPC congregation to develop and support programs for young people in our own community, 25% supports Young Adult Volunteers around the world, 25% supports Ministries with Youth, and 10% is devoted to at-risk children to improve education and provide safe havens. We ask that you prayerfully consider how your generosity will impact these youth and our communities. Please mark donations with "Pentecost Offering."

DEACONS EASTER LILY FUNDRAISER

Paula and Ben Henderson

in memory of Guadalupe Valdez, Lucy Valdez

Lydia Hernandez-Trickey

in memory of Virginia Hernandez-Daniels and Daniel Hernandez

CHILDREN

Sunday Morning Childcare

Childcare for infants-4 years old will be held in the Community Room and Playground 1 (weather permitting.) It is available 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Contact Erika Stiner with questions.

Children's Sunday School

Sunday School for children Kinder-5th grade will be in CE Room 6, 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m. Children will leave worship or childcare together during the Offertory. Contact Erika Stiner with questions or to find out about the schedule.

YOUTH

Youth Ministries

The youth group will meet most Sunday evenings, 6-7:30 p.m., during the school year. Contact Hannah Cooley with questions or to find out about the activity schedule.

SCHOOL NEWS

Some of the classrooms at UPCC have started composting the fruit leftovers from their snacks and lunches. The walks around campus now include a regular stop at the composting bin on the side of the CE Building in addition to the recycle bins by the Administration Building and cardboard closet by the Community Room. What a great way to introduce Earth Care in our youngest generation.

CONGREGATIONAL NEWS AND CHURCH INFORMATION

Partnership of Prayer

Over 160 people are currently united in praying for others as needs arise. If you would like to participate or if you have a prayer request, please contact the church office.

Sympathies

We mourn the death of Eugene "Gene" Ellis Clark who passed away on Wednesday, April 19, at home with his wife, Jeanette, by his side. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 13, at 2 p.m. with a reception to follow.

We also mourn the death of Rose Ellen "Suzie" Ranson who died at the age of 94 on Friday, April 28.

She was a long-standing member of UPC, currently living in Athens, GA. A memorial service at UPC is being planned.

Staff Vacation/Study Days

Cindi Catlin Gaskins: May 22-23

Carla Harrel Matthews: May 22-24

Anastasia Bernal: May 26

Office Hours and Closures

Regular Church Office Hours: Mondays-Fridays, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

All Facilities Closed: May 29

Children's Center Closed: May 30-June 2

SENIOR RECOGNITION - CLASS OF 2023

Sloane Emory Foy Spriester

Sloane has been attending UPC since she was born! She was baptized, in the same gown her other two sisters wore, by then-pastor Lib McGregor Simmons. Some of her most fond memories of childhood revolve around the church, UPCC and youth group. She is forever grateful to everyone who has given their time and talents to guide kids in spirituality, nature and the meaning of a sacred place like UPC. The standout times in her mind with the youth group were going to Heifer Ranch in Arkansas, Mo Ranch trips, confirmation and many lock-ins.

When she was even younger, she loved pretending she had to leave the church service to go to the bathroom, just so she could go into the women's bathroom to play with the basket of toys that someone thoughtfully put in there for kids. The huge oak tree outside the narthex was a magical spot for her and her sisters, too. They'd go up and down branches, making up stories of which room each was in a huge treehouse, and it even had an "elevator" where you could go up and down! It's no surprise that Sloane volunteered one summer as a teacher's helper at UPCC, where she also attended and loved the teachers and the playground and everything! Sloane also has now forgiven the church acolyte adult leaders who, she alleges, made her the "forever" acolyte because she was always there, already trained and responsible. She swears she was asked to acolyte until she was 14 haha!

Sloane is graduating summa cum laude from the International School of the Americas and will attend Loyola University in Chicago in the fall. 

GIFTS & MEMORIALS

Loaves & Fishes

Gay Spinks

Janifer Meldrum and Bud Eaton

Jeanette and Gene Clerk

Pastor's Discretionary Fund

Jeanette and Gene Clark

Capstraw Art Fund

Tracy Wilson

Antje and Norman Klaunig

Memorial Fund

in memory of Ed Baxter

Linda Lowan

Memorial Fund

in memory of David Rezentes

Barry Hubbard

Barbara and Ross Smith

Frank Seaman

Adam Allen

Memorial Fund

in memory of Gene Clark

Barry Hubbard

Prayer Shawl Ministry

Jeanette and Gene Clark

Erica Johnson



Dhawn Martin Earth Care Fund

Linda Ireland

Melissa Almsted

Kay and Jerry Todd

Lisa Clyde

Don White

Sandy Nicholson

Amy Shaw

Marian and Larry Higgins

Melinda and Jay Louden

Barbara Martin

Cathy Leary

Barb Warren

Robert Browning

Judy and Garry Cole

Lyn and Sam Stahl

Gayle Kipp

Andrea and David Anthony

Nancy and Mark Vaughan

Melody and Andy Hull

Elena and Alex Serna-Wallender

Children's Center Good Shepherd

Scholarship Fund

Carla Monroe-Posey and Doug Posey

Jeanette and Gene Clark

Lou and David Williams

SoL Center Programming Fund

Jane Warsaw and Willy Ryan

Jeanette and Gene Clark

STAFF

Anastasia Bernal - Church Administrator

Allan Catlin - Facilities & Event Steward

Cindi Catlin Gaskins - Children's Center Director

Hanna Cooley - Youth Ministry Director

Carla Harrel Mathews - Temporary Pastor

Keith Martinez - Choral Music Director

Erika Stiner - Children's Spirituality Director

Frank Villalpando - Custodian

SESSION

Ruling Elders - Committee Serving

David Anthony - Stewardship & Finance Chair

Lisa Clyde - Christian Education (Children & Youth)

Elinor Gingerich - Welcome & Fellowship Chair

Taylor Hile - Youth Elder

Andy Hull - Mission Outreach & Justice Chair

Karen Jensen - Christian Education (Adult)

Melissa Kirkpatrick - Worship & Arts Chair

Melinda Louden - Mission Outreach & Justice and

SoL Board Liaison

Melissa Richard - Clerk of Session and

Welcome & Fellowship

Jim Rogers - Facilities & Operations

Jerry Todd - Mission Outreach & Justice

Don White - Facilities & Operations Chair

DIACONATE

Deacons - Parishes and Assignments

Carol Brown - Northwest

Dale Clyde - University

Paula Henderson - Stone Oak and Secretary

Marian Higgins - Fredericksburg

Melody Hull - Olmos

Linda Ireland - Northeast

Cathy Leary - Windcrest/Out-of-Town and Treasurer

Bonnie Simons - Castle Hills and Vice-Moderator

Kay Todd - Downtown South

Barb Warren - Alamo Heights

Lou Williams - Northwood

Janice Zitelman - Moderator

UPC'S MESSAGE TO YOU  

Wherever you may be in the journey of faith, UPC welcomes you. 

We are a community where honest questions are valued 

and where faith is considered a process, not an arrival.

Affirming that every person has worth as a unique creation and a child of God, 

we welcome into full participation people of every age, sex, 

race, color, ethnicity, culture, immigration status, political affiliation, 

economic condition, physical and mental ability, marital status, 

sexual orientation, and gender identity and expression.

If you are passing through, we extend God's blessings to you as you continue on your way. 

If you are seeking a home, we invite you to join us in the adventure 

of serving Jesus Christ in a challenging world.