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Following Jesus is a Call to Action.
Most say it’s not a spectator’s sport, and I would certainly agree. With all the changes happening in today’s world, we can feel pulled in so many directions. It’s like whack-a-mole. Alone, it feels daunting, but you’re not alone. Repeat… you are not alone.
How do we navigate the rapid changes in our national and state public policy that have put our most marginalized communities at risk?
- We do this in community.
- We do this by faith.
- We do this by getting involved.
- We do this by embodying Christ in the world.
- We answer Jesus’ Call to Action.
Who are the co-conspirators God is asking you to join hands with?
While the new administration is executing mass deportation raids, culling the letters D, E, I, T, and Q ( Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Transgender, Queer) from the governmental vernacular, making declarations redefining gender distinctions, and stripping food, medical aid, and HIV preventive services from vulnerable populations, I invite you to explore what you can do.
What tools and gifts do you bring to this challenge?
Have faith. There are ways right now that Jesus is calling you to take action. The 89th Texas Legislature’s regular session is already underway. State politicians will soon vote on new laws that could significantly change our everyday lives—and be replicated across the country. There are already dozens of bills awaiting legislative action:
- Anti-LGBTQ, especially anti-trans and anti-drag bills
- Voucher bills that will strip billions from public schools
- Bills that inhibit ballot access
- Anti-immigrant, anti-climate justice, and anti-gun violence bills
- Bills blurring the lines between church and state
Who better to defend our civil rights than you—an informed and engaged voter of faith?
Several organizations are tracking these bills and guiding you on how to contact your legislator to voice your concerns or offer praise. Two organizations I would suggest are:
If you’d like to join others in visiting your Texas legislators in person, Equality Texas and other organizations are hosting several Legislative Advocacy Days with round-trip chartered bus transportation from Houston to Austin.
For more information, please visit Equality Texas Legislative Visits.
For those looking to connect locally, I’d like to highlight two events specifically impacting
Resurrection MCC:
The Walk to End HIV and the Upcoming Immigration Forum
The 36th Annual Walk to End HIV fundraiser is essential this year, with likely cuts to lifesaving programs like the Texas HIV Medication Fund.
On Sunday, March 9th, we’ll once again be lacing up our sneakers and gathering at Sam Houston Park in Downtown Houston to raise funds for local HIV services. A portion of the proceeds will benefit RMCC’s AIDS Benevolence Fund.
To donate, create a walk team to raise funds, or participate in the walk, please visit WalktoEndHIV2025.
Immigration Forum: Understanding Immigration Law
Immigration Control and Enforcement is now operating in sensitive areas, including schools, hospitals, and places of worship. Resurrection MCC was founded over half a century ago as a safe haven for the oppressed, regardless of immigration or citizenship status. We continue this advocacy work by hosting an Immigration Forum:
Saturday, March 29th, hosted by the Social Justice and La Casa de Todos Spanish Ministries. topics include Asylum, DACA, family preparedness and guardianships, family separation, and Parole-in-Place. This is available for in-person participation and streamed online with interpretation. For event registration, please visit Event Registration.
Let Your Light Shine
In every moment, we can find the opportunity to show Love in Action. God is always at work through the message of the gospel.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus proclaimed:
"You are the world’s light—a city on a hill, glowing in the night for all to see. Don’t hide your light! Let it shine for all; let your good deeds flow for all to see so that they will praise your heavenly Father.” (Matt 5:14-16, TLB)
Let it shine. That light—let it shine.
In the practice of our faith, there is a place for worship, praise, solitude, Bible study, and contemplation. But ultimately, our faith is not meant to be kept quiet or hidden.
Whether grounded in the belief that each person is formed in the image of God or simply by uplifting the inherent worth and dignity of every person, our call requires us to uphold a love ethic and the human right to thrive.
Our faith is meant to be lived out in the real world.
Following Jesus is a Call to Action.
Justice is what God’s holiness looks like in public.
Who are the co-conspirators God is asking you to join hands with?
- Be encouraged.
- Know your role.
- Know what you’re supposed to do.
- And if you’re questioning how to help, ask God and the Holy Spirit to guide you, to lead you.
- Tap into the organizations and the people you know.
- Ask what you can do to help bring justice, peace, and equity to the world today.
Following Jesus is a Call to Action.
How is God calling you to live out your faith in the world today?
Be Courageous, My Friends,
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Please note that our Text-to-Give function in our new software is active. Please follow these steps:
- Text “Give” to 855.734.2902
- You will receive a link to setup/personalize “text to give” providing your name and card information and the donor will give in the moment
- To “text to give” in the future, the donor will go back to that text trail and just simply text the give amount “ex. 10, 50, 100” (the donation will default to general fund) or text “options” and the system will prompt the donor with more giving options.
Please see Terry Zenn if you have questions. Terry@ResurrectionMCC.org
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CHURCH BOARD NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS | |
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Board of Directors' News
Greetings from your Board members, who are working on many projects. Please click HERE to read the summary of the 1/27/25 monthly Board meeting. Some of the issues the Board is currently working on include fundraising, the sale of the property, the search for a new Senior Pastor, and the church’s response the challenges faced by the many people in our communities whose lives have been harmed by current governmental policies regarding immigration.
The Board of Directors is elected by the congregation of RMCC to oversee the business and finances of the church. The Board meets monthly, with additional meetings as needed. All are welcome to attend and listen. If you wish to address the Board at a monthly meeting, please email Cathleen Sheil-Hopper, Clerk, cathleen@resurrectionmcc.org, to request that your topic be considered for the agenda. The next monthly meeting is scheduled for February 24, 2025.
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Exciting Tech Upgrade – Help Us Keep the Vision Bright!
Hopefully, you’ve noticed a brighter and more dynamic presentation of our announcement slides this morning! This is thanks to the dedication and hard work of our Audio Team – Leon and Ken – who installed a new projector in our sanctuary this week.
A huge thank you to our Audio Team for their incredible efforts!
While this upgrade has greatly enhanced our worship experience, we are still in need of one more projector to fully restore our three-screen setup. Our second projector is aging and will need replacement soon.
How You Can Help
We are looking for individuals who feel called to support this effort financially so we can secure the second projector sooner rather than later. If you’d like to contribute, please reach out to Terry Zenn or any of our Board members for direction on how to give.
Thank you for your continued generosity and support in making our worship experience the best it can be!
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La Casa de Todos
Presencial o Online a las 13:00 horas
Bienvenido a nuestro servicio religioso en vivo todos los domingos en nuestro hermoso santuario. Nuestros servicios llenos de música celebran la adoración con expresión. Cada servicio es de aproximadamente 60 minutos. La comunión se sirve en todos los servicios de adoración y se puede recibir individualmente o con un pequeño grupo de amigos o seres queridos. En La Casa De Todos, celebramos una Comunión Abierta; no es necesario ser miembro de nuestra iglesia, ni de ninguna iglesia, para recibir estos dones de gracia, esperanza y amor.
UNASE A NOSOTROS PARA SERVICIOS VIRTUALES
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Events and Giving Opportunities | |
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English:
Join us for an informative Immigration Forum – Understanding Immigration Law on Saturday, March 29th, from 12 PM to 2 PM at Resurrection MCC, 2025 W 11th St., Houston, TX 77007. This event will be held in person and streamed online for those unable to attend in person. The discussion will cover important immigration topics, including asylum issues, vacation travel, family separation, and parole-in-place, helping to separate fact from fiction. This hybrid event will provide valuable insights from legal experts, and a Zoom link will be provided for virtual attendees.
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Español:
Foro de inmigración - cómo entender la ley de inmigración
Únase a nosotros para un Foro de Inmigración – Entendiendo la Ley de Inmigración el sábado 29 de marzo, de 12 PM a 2 PM en Resurrection MCC, 2025 W 11th St., Houston, TX 77007. Este evento se llevará a cabo en persona y en transmisión en línea para aquellos que no puedan asistir físicamente. La discusión abordará temas importantes sobre inmigración, incluyendo asuntos de asilo, viajes de vacaciones, separación familiar y parole-in-place, ayudando a diferenciar entre hechos y mitos. Este evento híbrido contará con la participación de expertos legales, y se proporcionará un enlace de Zoom
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Immirgation Forum Child Care
Mar 29, 2025
12–2pm
Child care for 3-8 year olds. Limited space available.
REGISTER HERE
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Ministry Leader Meeting
March 22nd from 9 AM - 12 PM
Calling all ministry leaders for a mandatory meeting to talk about the transition process. This meeting will be held in the RMCC Gathering Place. (In person only)
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Walk to End HIV
Join Resurrection MCC on Sunday, March 9, 2025, for the Walk to End HIV, gathering at Sam Houston Park in downtown Houston at 9:00 AM, with the program starting at 10:00 AM and officially ending at 12:30 PM. This important event raises awareness and funds for those affected by HIV, and Resurrection’s AIDS Benevolence Fund is once again a beneficiary. Fundraising continues through April 2025, providing an opportunity to support this vital cause beyond the event day. Join us as we walk together to make a difference in the fight to end HIV.
DONATE HERE
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OWLS Out on the Town - Galveston on the Strand
Mar 6, 2025
10am–2pm
Join the Resurrection MCC OWLS (Older Wiser Leaders Serving) for a day of fellowship and exploration in Galveston on the Strand on March 6, 2025, from 10 AM to 2 PM. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with friends, experience the coastal atmosphere, and appreciate the beauty of the island. Whether you are looking to browse the local stores, savor a delicious meal, or simply take in the sights, this outing will be a relaxing and enjoyable time together.
REGISTER HERE
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4th Friday Night Out Houston at Barbecue Inn
Come join us!! This is a social group for those in the Houston area. Our purpose is connecting, making friends and sharing a meal together at a selected restaurant. We will rotate around the city to give all a chance to attend. All are welcome!
When: 7:00 pm each 4th Friday of the month, with consideration given to holidays.
Additional Info: Each person is responsible for the cost of their own meal and drink. We will be asking for RSVPs to make appropriate arrangements.
REGISTER HERE
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Tea Chat with Rev. Mona
February 5th to December 17th, 2025
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
In the Gathering Place
"Discover the perfect blend of spiritual enlightenment and soulful conversations with weekly Tea Chat Bible Study Sessions! Together, we’ll explore God’s Word, reflect on its meaning, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and renewal. Join us as we infuse the essence of spirituality into every sip, guiding you on a journey of self-discovery and reflection. Let's put the 'tea' in spirituality together. Cheers to a harmonious mind, body, and spirit!"
REGISTER HERE
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The Galleria Group of RMCC Friends
Meets every Tuesday at 6:00 PM for dinner at Jason's Deli, located at 5860 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77057. This informal gathering is an opportunity to connect, share a meal, and build community with friends from Resurrection MCC. Anyone interested in joining is welcome to simply show up or connect through the Church Center App. For more information, please see Joe Martinez or Larry Ponder.
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2025 OWLS EVENTS (Older Wiser Leaders Serving)
1st Saturdays @ noon
2nd Thursdays @ noon
3rd Fridays @ 7pm
See Larry Ponder for more information
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Join us after service for in-person Brunch Buddies, Sunday, March 2nd, after service at Tia Marias, 4618 Dacoma St. View MENU. | |
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Registration for General Conference is now open!
The MCC General Conference is gathering in Scottsdale, AZ, July 3-6. Be sure to register early for hotel as accommodations go fast! We can't wait to see you there!
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
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Wednesday Book Study: Love Is the Way by Bishop Michael Curry
On Zoom from March 26th to May 7th | 7-8:30 PM
Join Rev. Vicki and Cathleen Sheil-Hopper in a study based on the book Love Is the Way, by Bishop Michael Curry. Sharing stories of his life as the descendent of slaves and the son of a civil rights activist, Bishop Curry leads readers in an exploration of the power of love and community in facing seemingly insurmountable challenges. Now retired, Bishop Curry was the first African American bishop of the Episcopal Church. The group meets on 6 Wednesday evenings: March 26; April 2 and 9:
April 23, and 30; May 7. There will be no meeting on 4/16.
Register on Church Center HERE
Register on Zoom HERE
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
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NextGen Presents: Liberation - Ancient and New
March 4th - March 22nd
Tuesdays on Zoom
Join the NextGen Bible Study for an exciting new series! We will explore how the story from the Exodus from Egypt has affected liberation and human rights movements from biblical times to current day. Let’s learn from the past how to organize for justice, equity, and fight in the timeless cause of liberation for all cultures and peoples. This study will meet one hour weekly from the first Tuesday in March to the Tuesday after Passover.
Please download and import the following iCalendar (.ics) files to your calendar system. DOWNLOAD
Join Zoom meeting HERE
Meeting ID: 830 9260 2489
Passcode: 024599
REGISTER HERE
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Weekly Online Devotions
"Hope As Old As Fire” daily devotionals
by Bishop Steven Charleston
If you are looking for a way to connect to our Online Church, then join our weekly devotional series on Facebook beginning February 14, 2025!
We are embarking upon a new prayer and devotional series that will be both refreshing and reflective of our spiritual values—written by Bishop Steven Charleston, an elder of the Choctaw Nation and the retired Episcopal Bishop of Alaska.
HOPE AS OLD AS FIRE is a collection of brief daily spiritual meditations for persons of all faith traditions. It has become a spiritual classic read by thousands of people around the world. This is the first of four books, the beginning of a mystical revelation that continues to this day. The author is Steven Charleston, a Native American elder of the Choctaw Nation, a Zen practitioner for over forty years, and the retired Bishop of Alaska. Part poetry, part practical advice, part mysticism: HOPE AS OLD AS FIRE will speak to you in a new way each and every day. It is a book you will want to keep near you and share with friends. Each meditation was written spontaneously every day in a matter of minutes after the author's daily practice of traditional Native American prayer. As Steven Charleston says, "I wrote these meditations, but I am not the author."
Join us wherever you are in the world. Just need to follow our group Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/resurrectionmccdevotionalgroup
This group is moderated by Rev. Dr. Carol Kiesling of Taos, NM, Resurrection MCC Online
All are welcome!
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Wednesday Night Group Study: Fierce Love by Rev Dr Jacqui Lewis
February 5th to March 12th
7-8:30 PM
Fierce Love, by Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis. Available in Kindle, Audio, Hardcover and Paperback.
Description: “A healing antidote to our divisive culture, full of evocative storytelling, spiritual wisdom, and nine essential daily practices – by the first female, Black senior minister at the historic Collegiate Churches of New York.
Readers say the book is powerful and engaging. It includes stories and wisdom from the author, who is a model of living a life full of love… facing challenges, healing ourselves and the world around us.
Join Rev Vicki Sheil-Hopper 409-599-0434 revvicki@resurrectionmcc.org rev.vicki.sheilhopper@gmail.com and Cathleen Sheil-Hopper 713-304-9913 cathleen.sheilhopper@gmail.com for this Wednesday night study. Class will run from February 5th - March 12th no class on March 5th (Ash Wednesday).
REGISTER HERE
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God Talk: Conversations About Faith, Society and
Self-Love with LBGTQ+ Christians
Weekly Thursdays 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm CST
“God Talk” is another way of saying ‘Theology’, in other words: how we think and talk about Divine Presence. Many LGBTQ+ people have been hurt by oppressive or toxic theology, the kind of messaging that describes God as condemning and cruel. These wide-spread messages are often subtle, perhaps from well-meaning sources, so we don’t even realize how we internalized them. The trauma can run deep! No wonder so many people have difficulty developing a relationship with the Sacred.
Resurrection MCC strives to build community to heal those wounds. This group is a safe haven to explore, question and discover how God works in and through us, regardless of who we are or the societal labels we carry. We will discuss our imaginings of the Divine in our lives and hear from people whose partnering with God brings meaning and hope into their lives. We seek to reframe our thinking and expand our imagination to move into a broader understanding of the God of Love.
12/26/24 SESSION REPLAY - "How do you perceive 'Beauty'"
Facilitator:
Rev. Dr. Carol Kiesling - Taos, NM
Online Ministry
Have You Joined the Community?
Join the Online Community Facebook Group Here:
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1708269556183327
PLEASE REGISTER
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Weekly Online Devotions - "On the Wings of Prayer”
Daily Prayers by Dr. Kathy Culmer
Facilitator: Rev. Dr. Carol Kiesling
If you want to connect to our Online Church, join our weekly devotional series on Facebook continuing through 2025! We are embarking upon a new prayer and devotional series that is bound to be both refreshing and reflective of our spiritual values. Written by Dr. Kathy Culmer, On the Wings of Prayer: Daily prayers, thoughts and meditations to lift your spirits, will offer us hope and comfort during a time when so much in our world can make us feel challenged and estranged.
This is a Facebook group dedicated for those individuals who want to connect online for weekly devotions and spiritual connection. A new post will be released weekly through 2025.
Be sure to access the devotions on Facebook, where you can leave a comment about how each devotion has inspired and encouraged you for the week.
JOIN THE GROUP HERE
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Weekday Devotional and Prayer is held every weekday at Noon on Zoom. During these virtual gatherings, we participate in a daily devotional, scripture readings, prayer, and a time to check-in with our church family.
NEW ZOOM LINK BELOW
Click HERE
to launch Zoom at Noon on weekdays.
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Join us for virtual Brunch Buddies on Sunday at 12:30 pm at the same restaurant venue as in-person.
Join the Zoom here at 12:30 pm
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RECURRING MEETINGS AND ACTIVITIES | |
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Resurrection MCC's Social Justice Ministry is about celebrating the diversity within our church family, giving a voice and outlet of supported advocacy for, and on behalf of members inside our MCC community and the community at large.
This is achieved through specific ministry campaign development in areas where a need has been identified under the overall scope of Social Justice Ministry.
Current Campaigns include:
- Voting & Legislative Engagement
- Civil and human rights issues
- Local Civic Engagement
- Advocating for the Marginalized and Oppressed
- Immigrant Justice
- Creation Care & Environmental Sustainability
- Protecting and advancing the rights, dignity and freedom of the LGBTQ community
- Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities
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Imani Vida Drum Circle
Imani means Faith in Swahili, and Vida means Life in Spanish. We are a group of diverse individuals of the Greater Houston Area who love to come together in community and make music together. We make music through all sorts of percussion instruments...hand drums, shakers, rain sticks and even the sound of foot-stomping music. Drummers of all skill levels are welcome. No prior drumming experience is required to participate in our circle. Dancers are welcome too! We only ask that you bring your desire to be apart of our community drum circle. Meets 1st Saturday of the Month at Resurrection MCC at 1:30 pm.
For more information, please visit https://www.meetup.com/drummingcircle/
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Rev. Vickey Gibbs Children's Church
Every Sunday at 11 AM
Fellowship for ages 0-12
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Toastmasters is every Monday, from 6:30 - 8 pm in the Gathering Place. Impress your clients, your boss, or even a potential employer during your next job interview. Speak with confidence in one-on-one situations and in presentations for groups of 20 to over 200. Surprise yourself by becoming a member of Toastmasters and see how your personal goals will come true. With Toastmasters you will learn by doing as you improve your public speaking skills in a super supportive environment. Join us for our very own Toastmaster Club right here at Resurrection MCC. Contact Horacio Rodriguez at 954-662-4926 or FindYourVoiceToastmaster@gmail.com for details. Toastmasters.org | |
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You'll never know what you're missing until you do it! We have a place for you in our volunteer ministries. What are you good at? What makes you happy? Do you have a skill or talent that will benefit others? Visit our Connect page on the website and learn more about our volunteer opportunities and how to join us!
VISIT THE CONNECT PAGE HERE
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We build deep connections with a network of others that love praising God.
Join us as we commit ourselves to growing the ministry and glowing up!
Resurrection Choir Rehearsal - Thursday at 6:30 P.M. - 8:00 P.M.
Ability to sing in tune is helpful.
RMCC Chimes Rehearsal - Thursday at 5:15 P.M. - 6:15 P.M.
Being able to read music is helpful.
For Dance, Theater, and other performance-based ministries, reach out directly to Cassandra White via email. Cassandra@ResurrectionMCC.org
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Cold Drinks, a Snack, Books, and More!
The bookstore is open before and after each Sunday church service. Our books are carefully curated to fuel your spirit.
Come on in and say hello. We are happy to have you.
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Amazing things happen when we pray for one another in times of grief and celebrate together in times of joy. Send Requests online here: COMPLETE ONLINE FORM or by texting the word RMCCPRAY to 97000. We hope this electronic method will make it quick and easy to communicate the struggles and triumphs you are experiencing in a way that can provide our Pastoral Care Ministers with the information they need to support and encourage you along your journey. The form allows you to provide your name, contact information, the information about your prayer request or celebration, as well as an easy way to request a contact from a Pastoral Care Minister (only if you indicate you'd like a contact). Based on your preferences we can communicate by text, phone, video chat, or even in-person visits when necessary. We want to hear from you! | |
If you haven't downloaded the church app, it's important that you do! Each time you attend a service in person or virtually, please CHECK IN so we know you were here. Using the church app is easy! You can find detailed instructions here. We hope you will download it and stay connected! | |
Pride Charities, our partner agency which operates the food pantry at Resurrection MCC, relies on donations and financial support for the food needed to help the 175 families we assist each month. Please consider picking up a few extra Cornbread, Dried Spaghetti, Dried Beans, Rice, or any of the items found on this list. We are pausing clothes donations. | |
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🎁🎁🎁🎁🎁🎁Rainbow of Hope 🌈Narcotics Anonymous is every Tuesday and Thursday at 7:00 p.m. on our campus in the Gathering Place. This Twelve Step recovery program offers hope and freedom from active addiction in a safe space for the LGBTQ community. This support group meets regularly in order to help one another learn a new way of life through sharing experiences, strength, and hope. All are welcome to come and learn more. For more information, please contact Patrick at 281-908-9729.
re:MIND Depression & Bipolar Support Groups in-person meetings are now on Fridays at 12:00 pm in the Chapel. For more information on groups visit the website www.remindsupport.org . Online groups are available at https://www.remindsupport.org/online-support-groups/.
If you need assistance signing up please call 713-600-1131 or email info@remindsupport.org.
Overeater’s Anonymous meets Saturdays at 9:30 am in the Chapel and will still offer the zoom meeting on Saturdays at 9:30 am on Zoom. Meeting ID: 402 391 084, Password: 176233. Phone in option (use same Meeting ID as above): +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston).
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