RSVP to attend Godly Play training before Tuesday, July 7

C.C.S.C.'s "Back to School" Drive will be held Sundays in July

General Convention will be held July 8-17 in Anaheim, CA

The Daughters of the King will meet on Saturday, July 11

In Transition is for those who have lost jobs or are in career transition

Assemble school supplies for our Sixth Annual Health Fair

An All-Parish Meeting, to discuss the General Convention, will be held on Sunday, July 19

The Saintly Stitchers will meet on Monday, July 20

Discovering Your Membership at St. Martin's - Membership 101

Explore the Meaning of LIFE at The Alpha Course, which begins September 9 Explore the Meaning of LIFE at The Alpha Course, Mondays at Lunch program

Register now for Marketplace A.D., August 10-14

If you have ever considered becoming an Usher, we need you now more than ever!

Sun., Jul 05 C.C.S.C.'s "Back to School" Drive
Mark your calendars - July is the month for Christian Community Service Center's "Back to School" Drive! Thousands of children in greater Houston will begin the 2009-2010 academic year without the basic school supplies needed to succeed. You can help these students through CCSC's "Back to School" program!

Your $45 donation will provide one child with a new school uniform, shoes, and a grade-level appropriate package of new school supplies. To donate, you can enclose your cash or check in the "Clothes for Kids" envelopes located in the pew racks during July and place it in the offering. Or, send a check to St. Martin's Episcopal Church made payable to St. Martin's with the notation at the bottom, "CCSC BTS." Help a child to arrive at school on the first day of class feeling well prepared and ready to learn!
Sun., Jul 05 Fifth Sunday after Pentecost (Worship Services) - the Rev. Martin J. Bastian will preach at all services in The Church; "Perfect Freedom"
Schedule for Sunday, July 5, Fifth Sunday after Pentecost:


The Rev. Martin J. Bastian will preach at all services in The Church. His sermon title is "Perfect Freedom."
[Updated 6-30-2009]

8:00 AM - Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, spoken service, the Rev. Martin J. Bastian preaches

9:00 AM - Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, family service with hymns and anthems, with full choir, the Rev. Martin J. Bastian preaches

9:30 AM - Holy Communion with sermon, Old Church, for children and families with live music and storytelling (casual attire), storyteller is Jamie Martin Currie

10:15-11:00 AM - Members of the Order of St. Luke the Physician (OSL) will be available for healing prayer, or prayer for any need, in the Chapel

11:15 AM - Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, traditional service with hymns and anthems, with full choir, the Rev. Martin J. Bastian preaches

6:00 PM - Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, traditional service with hymns, cantors and organist (casual attire), the Rev. Martin J. Bastian preaches

Child care is available for all Sunday services.

With an emphasis on beautiful liturgy, thought-provoking messages and excellence in music, worship at St. Martin's provides an opportunity to give thanks and praise to God. The traditional language of The Book of Common Prayer (Rite I) is the form used at most services in The Church. All Christians who are baptized in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are welcome to receive Holy Communion at St. Martin's Episcopal Church.
Sun., Jul 05 Holy Communion and the flu (helpful information)
[Posted 4-30-2009]

Passing the peace and receiving Holy Communion should not pose a danger of infection if people are taking regular precautions.

However, communicants should be assured that:
  • The Exchange of the Peace does not require handshakes or hugs; a simple verbal exchange is sufficient.
  • Receiving just the wafer is perfectly acceptable and was for most of the Church's history the norm.
  • Clergy are taking extra precautions before they distribute Holy Communion.


  • Above all parishioners should be encouraged to stay home if they are sick or have any flu symptoms.

    Ken Fields
    Vice Rector
    St. Martin's Episcopal Church
    Mon., Jul 06 Alzheimer's Caregivers' Support Group
    The Alzheimer's Caregivers' Support Group meets the 1st and 3rd Mondays, 3:00-4:30 PM, in Room 217, Payne Education Center.

    Meetings are scheduled:
  • Monday, July 6 and July 20
  • Monday, August 3 and August 17
  • Tuesday, September 8 (due to the Labor Day holiday) and Monday, September 21


  • This group offers socialization and encouragement to caregivers of anyone with dementia. These meetings are open, and discussions are always kept confidential within the group. Call Jackie Baldwin or Kathy Tellepsen.
    Mon., Jul 06 Challenge: Managua, Nicaragua (off campus)
    Challenge: Managua, Nicaragua, for youth currently in grades 11-12, will be July 6-17.

    Our 11th and 12th graders will be heading to Managua, Nicaragua to serve the local community through construction projects and individual ministry.

    Nicaragua is the second poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and Managua is its largest city. Through ongoing missionary and humanitarian efforts, Managua is slowly recovering from a number of political and economic disasters. St. Martin's is honored to assist in the recovery effort.

    For more information, contact Barry Moore at 713/985-3842.
    Mon., Jul 06 Dancing Around the World Camp (ages 5-11)
    Take a trip around the world with dances from places near and far. Take a trip through the USA to learn dances from Hawaii, Texas and New York. Travel abroad to learn exciting dances from Ireland, Scotland, Israel, Mexico and more. Bring your dancing shoes for an active time learning about various cultures through dance. Please bring a snack and drink.

    This is a 5-day camp, Monday-Friday, July 6-10 from 9:00 AM-12:00 noon. This class is for ages 5-11. Students must be 5 years old before the start of class.

    The fee for parishioners is $150; $160 for non-church members. For more information, call the Activity Center at 713/621-8625 or click here to download a pdf of the registration form.
    Mon., Jul 06 Love Your Body Fitness Boot Camp (for women)
    Have some fun this summer and get in shape! This women's-only boot camp began in 2006 as an alternative to "military style" boot camps. Our fitness classes are go-at-your-own-pace with no yelling. Workouts are tough, but camaraderie and encouragement make them fun. You can do this! This class is for all levels - from beginner to the fitness enthusiast! The one-hour-per-week class is a great mixture of cario and strength traning using resistance bands, balls, and the weight of your body. So grab a buddy, check out our Web site at www.LoveYourBodyFitness.com and join in. You will be glad you did!

  • Monday-Friday, June 1-26, 9:00-10:00 AM (4-week session)
  • Monday-Friday, July 6-31, 9:00-10:00 AM (4-week session)
  • Ask about our new "early bird" class that's forming! It will be offered on Wednesdays, 6:00-7:00 AM


  • Please see the instructor for registration and pricing. For more information, call the Activity Center at 713/621-8625 or click here to download a pdf of the registration form.
    Tue., Jul 07 Deadline to RSVP for Godly Play Training
    Information for St. Martin's parishioners:
    Godly Play is an approach to religious education which uses the sacred stories, parables and liturgical actions of the Christian faith as tools for approaching the larger questions of life. This Godly Play workshop is designed especially for beginners. Since we have expanded our program, we need to train many more teachers and assistants. St. Martin's will provide child care, and meals are included. Call 713/830-4123 to reserve child care.

    Information for all interested persons:
    A two day Godly Play Training will be held on Friday-Saturday, July 17-18. The deadline for registration is Tuesday, July 7.

    Friday:
    5:00 PM - Registration
    6:00 PM - Light Supper
    6:30 PM - Training
    9:00 PM - Good night

    Saturday:
    8:30 AM - Training resumes
    12:00 PM - Lunch (could change depending on training)
    1:00 PM - Training resumes
    4:00 PM - Training ends

    The cost of this workshop is $50. For those attending outside the Diocese of Texas the fee is $100. For more information or to register, contact Janie Stevens at 713-520-6444 or 800-318-4452.

    About Godly Play:
    Godly Play is an approach to religious education which uses the sacred stories, parables and liturgical actions of the Christian faith as tools for approaching the larger questions of life. These stories and actions become the starting points for wonder and discussion. Following the Montessori tradition, the materials are always available for children to use in retelling the story, thus helping them to make the stories their own. In this Godly Play workshop, that is especially designed for beginners, you will focus on classroom management, storytelling, spiritual development of children, and program start-up and development.

    About our trainer:
    Lisa Mason discovered Godly Play in the mid 1990s when her parish set up Godly Play, and is blessed to see how Godly Play has enriched the lives of many children and adults ever since. She became a trainer in 2002 and enjoys helping parishes introduce Godly Play. She will graduate from the Seminary of the Southwest in Austin in May and will be ordained as a deacon in the Diocese of West Texas.
    Tue., Jul 07 Greenlaw Lecture Series - "The Power and the Glory" - The Cathedrals of Britain (morning & evening lectures)
    Among the great architectural and religious treasures of the British Isles are its Cathedrals - some of the most powerful and beautiful in Europe. Like all such structures, they are a testimony both to the power of faith, and that of human ambition to leave a lasting monument. From Canterbury in the South to the Orkney Islands in the North, and from St. David's in the West to Norwich in the East, we will survey these splendid buildings in this 4-week, slide-illustrated course.

    The course will be presented three times each week ~ on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings and on Tuesday evenings. The classes will begin on July 7-8 and conclude on July 28-29.
  • The Tuesday and Wednesday morning classes will be held from 9:30-11:30 AM.
  • The Tuesday evening class will be held from 7:00-9:00 PM.

  • The fee for this course is $75. For more information, call the Activity Center at 713/621-8625 or click here to download a pdf of the registration form.
    Wed., Jul 08 76th General Convention (off campus)
    [This is an Episcopal event.]

    For more information about General Convention 2009, which will take place July 8-17 in Anaheim, California, please click here.

    To view the General Convention Schedule, which remains in draft form until Convention adopts it (which is one of the first items of business), please click here.

    Wed., Jul 08 Wednesday Worship Services
    7:00 AM - Holy Eucharist, Chapel

    12:00 PM - Holy Eucharist followed by the Sacrament of Healing (Holy Unction), Chapel

    6:00 PM - Holy Eucharist, Chapel (location changes during Lent)

    With an emphasis on beautiful liturgy and excellence in music, worship at St. Martin's provides an opportunity to give thanks and praise to God. Rite I is the form regularly used. All Christians, baptized in the name of the Trinity, are welcome to receive Holy Communion in the Episcopal Church.
    Wed., Jul 08 Greenlaw Lecture Series - "The Power and the Glory" - The Cathedrals of Britain (morning lecture)
    Among the great architectural and religious treasures of the British Isles are its Cathedrals - some of the most powerful and beautiful in Europe. Like all such structures, they are a testimony both to the power of faith, and that of human ambition to leave a lasting monument. From Canterbury in the South to the Orkney Islands in the North, and from St. David's in the West to Norwich in the East, we will survey these splendid buildings in this 4-week, slide-illustrated course.

    The course will be presented three times each week ~ on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings and on Tuesday evenings. The classes will begin on July 7-8 and conclude on July 28-29.
  • The Tuesday and Wednesday morning classes will be held from 9:30-11:30 AM.
  • The Tuesday evening class will be held from 7:00-9:00 PM.

  • The fee for this course is $75. For more information, call the Activity Center at 713/621-8625 or click here to download a pdf of the registration form.
    Thu., Jul 09 76th General Convention (off campus)
    [This is an Episcopal event.]

    For more information about General Convention 2009, which will take place July 8-17 in Anaheim, California, please click here.

    To view the General Convention Schedule, which remains in draft form until Convention adopts it (which is one of the first items of business), please click here.

    Fri., Jul 10 76th General Convention (off campus)
    [This is an Episcopal event.]

    For more information about General Convention 2009, which will take place July 8-17 in Anaheim, California, please click here.

    To view the General Convention Schedule, which remains in draft form until Convention adopts it (which is one of the first items of business), please click here.

    Sat., Jul 11 Now You're Cookin'! presents "Summer Fun in the Sun" Cooking Workshop (ages 5-9)
    It is summer and what better way to spend a day than by learning a new skill! This hands-on class teaches beginner cooking skills allowing each child to open their heart and explore and experience the joy of cooking. We will prepare summertime treats that you will want to make again at home for your family. We will be measuring, mixing, pouring, blending, baking and eating our treats in class. Lessons will emphasize healthy eating, kitchen safety, table manners and teamwork. Students must be 5 years old before the start of class.

    This workshop will be offered in the Activity Center on Saturday, July 11.
  • Ages 5-6 will meet from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM, noon
  • Ages 7-9 will meet from 1:30-3:30 PM


  • The fee for parishioners is $85; $95 for non-church members. The fee includes recipe folder and all supplies. For more information, call the Activity Center at 713/621-8625 or click here to download a pdf of the registration form.
    Sat., Jul 11 Daughters of the King monthly meeting
    The Daughters of the King (DOK) will meet on Saturday, July 11, 10:30-11:30 AM in Room 210-212, Payne Education Center. For more information, contact Lynn Post at dok@stmartinsepiscopal.org.

    The Daughters of the King is an order for women who are communicants of the Episcopal Church, churches in communion with it, or churches in the historic Episcopate. The Order was founded in 1885 by Margaret J. Franklin at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in New York City. Our Anglican tradition includes Episcopal oversight, Holy Scripture containing all things necessary for salvation, recognition of the gift of the Holy Spirit in Baptism, the real presence of our Lord in Holy Eucharist and worship according to The Book of Common Prayer.

    Members undertake a Rule of Life, incorporating the Rule of Prayer and the Rule of Service. By reaffirmation of the promises made at Baptism and Confirmation, a Daughter pledges herself to a life-long program of prayer, service and evangelism, dedicated to the spread of Christ's Kingdom and the strengthening of the spiritual life of her Parish.
    Sat., Jul 11 Marriage Preparation Class
    The next Marriage Preparation class will be held on Saturday, July 11, 9:30 AM-12:00 PM, in Room 207, Payne Education Center. This is a requirement for all engaged couples. For information about weddings at St. Martin's, please click here. Contact Cyndy Ensign at 713/985-3808.

    Other classes will be offered on September 12 and November 7.
    Sun., Jul 12 C.C.S.C.'s "Back to School" Drive
    Mark your calendars - July is the month for Christian Community Service Center's "Back to School" Drive! Thousands of children in greater Houston will begin the 2009-2010 academic year without the basic school supplies needed to succeed. You can help these students through CCSC's "Back to School" program!

    Your $45 donation will provide one child with a new school uniform, shoes, and a grade-level appropriate package of new school supplies. To donate, you can enclose your cash or check in the "Clothes for Kids" envelopes located in the pew racks during July and place it in the offering. Or, send a check to St. Martin's Episcopal Church made payable to St. Martin's with the notation at the bottom, "CCSC BTS." Help a child to arrive at school on the first day of class feeling well prepared and ready to learn!
    Sun., Jul 12 Holy Communion and the flu (helpful information)
    [Posted 4-30-2009]

    Passing the peace and receiving Holy Communion should not pose a danger of infection if people are taking regular precautions.

    However, communicants should be assured that:
  • The Exchange of the Peace does not require handshakes or hugs; a simple verbal exchange is sufficient.
  • Receiving just the wafer is perfectly acceptable and was for most of the Church's history the norm.
  • Clergy are taking extra precautions before they distribute Holy Communion.


  • Above all parishioners should be encouraged to stay home if they are sick or have any flu symptoms.

    Ken Fields
    Vice Rector
    St. Martin's Episcopal Church
    Sun., Jul 12 Sixth Sunday after Pentecost (Worship Services) - the Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr. will preach at all services in The Church; "How do you measure success?"
    Schedule for Sunday, July 12, Sixth Sunday after Pentecost:

    The Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr. will preach at all services in The Church. His sermon title is "How do you measure success?"
    [Updated 7-2-2009]

    8:00 AM - Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, spoken service, the Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr. preaches

    9:00 AM - Morning Prayer with sermon, The Church, family service with hymns, canticles and anthem, with full choir (children's choirs sing), the Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr. preaches

    9:30 AM - Holy Communion with sermon, Old Church, for children and families with live music and storytelling (casual attire), storyteller is Heston Groenewald

    10:15-11:00 AM - Members of the Order of St. Luke the Physician (OSL) will be available for healing prayer, or prayer for any need, in the Chapel

    11:15 AM - Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, traditional service with hymns and anthems, with full choir, the Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr. preaches

    6:00 PM - Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, traditional service with hymns, cantors and organist (casual attire), the Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr. preaches

    Child care is available for all Sunday services.

    With an emphasis on beautiful liturgy, thought-provoking messages and excellence in music, worship at St. Martin's provides an opportunity to give thanks and praise to God. The traditional language of The Book of Common Prayer (Rite I) is the form used at most services in The Church. All Christians who are baptized in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are welcome to receive Holy Communion at St. Martin's Episcopal Church.
    Mon., Jul 13 76th General Convention (off campus)
    [This is an Episcopal event.]

    For more information about General Convention 2009, which will take place July 8-17 in Anaheim, California, please click here.

    To view the General Convention Schedule, which remains in draft form until Convention adopts it (which is one of the first items of business), please click here.

    Mon., Jul 13 Children's Yoga Camp (ages 5-11)
    Kids will participate in playful poses, yoga games and storytelling through yoga. Yoga will strengthen and develop muscles and coordination in a non-competitive and nurturing environment. Yoga also enhances self-awareness, body control, imagination, empathy, self-discipline, focus, attention span and self-esteem. Lots of active fun! Please bring a snack and drink.

    This is a 5-day camp, Monday-Friday, July 13-17 from 9:00 AM-12:00 noon. This class is for children ages 5-11. Students must be 5 years old before the start of class.

    The fee for parishioners is $150; $160 for non-church members. For more information, call the Activity Center at 713/621-8625 or click here to download a pdf of the registration form.
    Mon., Jul 13 Contemplative Prayer Group
    The Contemplative Prayer Group meets the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month at noon for lunch. The meeting begins at 1:00 PM in the Parlor. This group concentrates on meditation, Bible reading, book study and prayer to listen for God's spiritual direction. For more information, contact Shirley McAllister.

    Meetings are scheduled:
  • July 13 & 27
  • August 10 & 24
  • September 14 & 28
  • October 12 & 26
  • November 9 & 23


  • Note: This group will not meet on holidays or during Church campus closings. Please contact the group leader for updates.
    Mon., Jul 13 LEGO Camp (ages 5-6)
    Learn to build simple machines using gears, levers and pulleys and then motorize these machines using Lego and K’NEX educational kits and curriculum while building math and science skills. Campers will learn how to apply engineering principals to everything they build.

    Campers will understand why a machine works and will learn how to manipulate a machine to go faster or slower. Fine motor skills, critical thinking skills, imagination and confidence will increase in this fun-filled camp atmosphere. All building Brains courses build on one another and lead into compound machines and Robotics. All camps are for students ages 5-6 only. Students must be 5 years old before the start of class.

    The 3 hour camps will be held in the Activity Center on:
  • Monday-Friday, June 22-26 from 9:00 AM-12:00 noon
  • Monday-Friday, July 13-17 from 9:00 AM-12:00 noon
  • Monday-Friday, August 17-21 from 9:00 AM-12:00 noon


  • The fee for parishioners is $200; $210 for non-Church members. For more information, call the Activity Center at 713/621-8625 or click here to download a pdf of the registration form.
    Mon., Jul 13 Texas Boys and Girls Basketball Camp (ages 6-14)
    Terrence Raford will conduct a "skills and drills" basketball camp for boys and girls ages 6-14 in June and again in July. The goal of the camp is to increase the student's knowledge and skill of the game. The camp will emphasize the fundamentals of basketball with drills in defense, offense, passing, rebounding, and shooting. Students will receive individual and team instruction with scrimmages and instructional videos.

    Terrence Raford played for Northwestern State University in Louisiana where he was All Conference his sophomore, junior and senior year. He played professional basketball for 10 years in the European Professional Basketball Association and was voted Most Valuable Player in the Portugese basketball league. Terrence is a certified basketball official and Director of Texas Boys and Girls Basketball Camps - a skills and drills camp. Terrence is also a refeeree with the WHCSA basketball league in which St. Martin's is a member. Please bring money for snack and drink machines.

    Camps for students ages 6-14, will be held in the Activity Center Monday-Friday, July 13-17 from 9:00 AM-12:00 noon.

    The fee for parishioners is $140; $150 for non-church members. For more information, call the Activity Center at 713/621-8625 or click here to download a pdf of the registration form.
    Tue., Jul 14 "In Transition," for those in career transition
    The new program, "In Transition," dedicated to those who have lost jobs or are in career transition, meets every other Tuesday at 6:00 PM in Room 207-209, Payne Education Center. Professionals within the employment industry offer guidance and assistance during this difficult period. Child care is available with advance reservation; call 713/830-4123 no later than four days prior to the event. There is no cost for child care or this program.

    Upcoming meeting dates include:
  • Tuesday, July 14 and 28
  • Tuesday, August 4 and 18
  • Tuesday, September 1, 15 and 29
  • Tuesday, October 13 and 27
  • Tuesday, November 10 and 24
  • Tuesday, December 8 and 22


  • For more information, contact the Rev. Jerald W. Hyche at 713/985-3839.

    Note: This group will not meet on holidays or during Church campus closings. Please contact the group leader for updates.
    Tue., Jul 14 76th General Convention (off campus)
    [This is an Episcopal event.]

    For more information about General Convention 2009, which will take place July 8-17 in Anaheim, California, please click here.

    To view the General Convention Schedule, which remains in draft form until Convention adopts it (which is one of the first items of business), please click here.

    Wed., Jul 15 76th General Convention (off campus)
    [This is an Episcopal event.]

    For more information about General Convention 2009, which will take place July 8-17 in Anaheim, California, please click here.

    To view the General Convention Schedule, which remains in draft form until Convention adopts it (which is one of the first items of business), please click here.

    Wed., Jul 15 Wednesday Worship Services
    7:00 AM - Holy Eucharist, Chapel

    12:00 PM - Holy Eucharist followed by the Sacrament of Healing (Holy Unction), Chapel

    6:00 PM - Holy Eucharist, Chapel (location changes during Lent)

    With an emphasis on beautiful liturgy and excellence in music, worship at St. Martin's provides an opportunity to give thanks and praise to God. Rite I is the form regularly used. All Christians, baptized in the name of the Trinity, are welcome to receive Holy Communion in the Episcopal Church.
    Wed., Jul 15 Assemble school supplies for our Sixth Annual Health Fair
    St. Martin's will hold its Sixth Annual Health Fair on Saturday, August 1, at the Westland YMCA in southwest Houston. We expect the Fair will attract about 1,000 medically underserved children and parents. Other participants this year include Epiphany Community Health Outreach Services (ECHOS), Episcopal Church of The Epiphany, Santa Maria Virgen mission, St. Luke's United Methodist Church, and St. Thomas Episcopal Church.

    We need volunteers:
  • On Wednesday, July 15, from 2:00-4:30 PM, Activity Center, Upper Hall, to assemble gift bags of HISD-recommended school supplies - paper, crayons, glue, pencils, and scissors - for each child receiving services at the Health Fair. Children are welcome to help if accompanied by a parent.
  • On Thursday, July 30, all Health Fair Volunteers are required to attend the Orientation meeting in Room 203, Payne Education Center from 6:30-8:00 PM.
  • With SUVs, on Friday, July 31, to transport the school and other health fair supplies from St. Martin's to the Westland YMCA, unload, and set up for the Fair.
  • On Saturday, August 1, 8:00 AM-1:00 PM at the Health Fair located at 10402 Fondren, just south of South Braeswood.


  • Texas Children's Hospital and the University of Texas Dental Branch, respectively, will provide immunizations to the children and dental checkups to the adults and children. Over thirty other vendors will provide blood pressure and glucose testing, vision, HIV and sickle cell disease screening, counseling in mental health and domestic violence, and information about enrolling in CHIP and other insurance programs, as well as GED and ESL classes.

    Volunteer by sending an e-mail to outreach@stmartinsepiscopal.org or contact Cathy Brandenburg at 713-985-3811.
    Wed., Jul 15 Sign up for the Christian Life Study (CLS) Evening Class by Saturday, August 15
    Saturday, August 15 is the deadline to register for the Christian Life Study (CLS) Evening Class.

    The Christian Life Study (CLS) Evening Class meets Thursdays, September 10-April 29, from 7:00-8:30 PM. The 2009-2010 course will cover the Gospel of Luke. The class remains open to visitors and/or new members throughout the year.

    We are excited about the growth of our evening class and are pleased to offer the same format as our morning class. Following the discussion of the home study lesson, Ann Wilson will offer applicable insight into the scripture passages. Child care is available.

    Registration for women: To register, download a PDF of the registration form. The cost of materials (25 lessons) is $25. Please pay what you can afford and make your check payable to St. Martin's. For more information, contact Ann wilson.

    A registration form will be inserted in The Star of July 12, 2009.
    Wed., Jul 15 Sign up for the Christian Life Study (CLS) Morning Class by Saturday, August 15
    Saturday, August 15 is the deadline to register for the Christian Life Study (CLS) Morning Class.

    The Christian Life Study (CLS) Morning Class meets Thursdays, September 10-April 29, from 9:30-11:30 AM. The 2009-2010 course will cover the Gospel of Luke. The class remains open to visitors and/or new members throughout the year.

    This study offers women of every age the opportunity to study the Bible in a comfortable and unintimidating atmosphere. Beginning students are encouraged to join us. The format includes home study, small group discussions, and relevant teaching. Child care is available.

    Registration for women: To register, download a PDF of the registration form. The cost of materials (25 lessons) is $25. Please pay what you can afford and make your check payable to St. Martin's. For more information, contact Janie Putman.

    Registration for children: For our morning class, children aged 3-5 years will experience the joy of discovering God, using the methods and materials of Godly Play. Child care for younger children is provided. Two-year-olds are introduced to Bible stories by Glory, the puppet. Registration information can be found on the registration form for women.

    A registration form will be inserted in The Star of July 12, 2009.
    Thu., Jul 16 76th General Convention (off campus)
    [This is an Episcopal event.]

    For more information about General Convention 2009, which will take place July 8-17 in Anaheim, California, please click here.

    To view the General Convention Schedule, which remains in draft form until Convention adopts it (which is one of the first items of business), please click here.

    Fri., Jul 17 76th General Convention (off campus)
    [This is an Episcopal event.]

    For more information about General Convention 2009, which will take place July 8-17 in Anaheim, California, please click here.

    To view the General Convention Schedule, which remains in draft form until Convention adopts it (which is one of the first items of business), please click here.

    Fri., Jul 17 Godly Play Training
    A two day Godly Play Training will be held on Friday-Saturday, July 17-18.

    Friday:
    5:00 PM - Registration
    6:00 PM - Light Supper
    6:30 PM - Training
    9:00 PM - Good night

    Saturday:
    8:30 AM - Training resumes
    12:00 PM - Lunch (could change depending on training)
    1:00 PM - Training resumes
    4:00 PM - Training ends

    The cost of this workshop is $50. For those attending outside the Diocese of Texas the fee is $100. The deadline for registration is Tuesday, July 7. For more information or to register, contact Janie Stevens at 713-520-6444 or 800-318-4452.

    About Godly Play:
    Godly Play is an approach to religious education which uses the sacred stories, parables and liturgical actions of the Christian faith as tools for approaching the larger questions of life. These stories and actions become the starting points for wonder and discussion. Following the Montessori tradition, the materials are always available for children to use in retelling the story, thus helping them to make the stories their own. In this Godly Play workshop, that is especially designed for beginners, you will focus on classroom management, storytelling, spiritual development of children, and program start-up and development.

    About our trainer:
    Lisa Mason discovered Godly Play in the mid 1990s when her parish set up Godly Play, and is blessed to see how Godly Play has enriched the lives of many children and adults ever since. She became a trainer in 2002 and enjoys helping parishes introduce Godly Play. She will graduate from the Seminary of the Southwest in Austin in May and will be ordained as a deacon in the Diocese of West Texas.
    Sun., Jul 19 All Parish Meeting
    On Sunday, July 19, we will hold an all-Parish meeting after the 9:00 AM and 11:15 AM services in Bagby Parish Hall. We will discuss the 76th General Convention.

    For more information about General Convention 2009, which will take place July 8-17 in Anaheim, California, please click here. To view the General Convention Schedule, which remains in draft form until Convention adopts it (which is one of the first items of business), please click here.

    Adult Christian Education will not be offered.
    Lunch service will not be offered on Sunday, July 19.

    [Updated 5-21-2009]
    Sun., Jul 19 C.C.S.C.'s "Back to School" Drive
    Mark your calendars - July is the month for Christian Community Service Center's "Back to School" Drive! Thousands of children in greater Houston will begin the 2009-2010 academic year without the basic school supplies needed to succeed. You can help these students through CCSC's "Back to School" program!

    Your $45 donation will provide one child with a new school uniform, shoes, and a grade-level appropriate package of new school supplies. To donate, you can enclose your cash or check in the "Clothes for Kids" envelopes located in the pew racks during July and place it in the offering. Or, send a check to St. Martin's Episcopal Church made payable to St. Martin's with the notation at the bottom, "CCSC BTS." Help a child to arrive at school on the first day of class feeling well prepared and ready to learn!
    Sun., Jul 19 Holy Communion and the flu (helpful information)
    [Posted 4-30-2009]

    Passing the peace and receiving Holy Communion should not pose a danger of infection if people are taking regular precautions.

    However, communicants should be assured that:
  • The Exchange of the Peace does not require handshakes or hugs; a simple verbal exchange is sufficient.
  • Receiving just the wafer is perfectly acceptable and was for most of the Church's history the norm.
  • Clergy are taking extra precautions before they distribute Holy Communion.


  • Above all parishioners should be encouraged to stay home if they are sick or have any flu symptoms.

    Ken Fields
    Vice Rector
    St. Martin's Episcopal Church
    Sun., Jul 19 Seventh Sunday after Pentecost (Worship Services) - the Rev. Ken L. Fields will preach at all services in The Church
    Schedule for Sunday, July 19, Seventh Sunday after Pentecost:

    The Rev. Ken L. Fields will preach at all services in The Church.
    [Updated 7-2-2009]

    8:00 AM - Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, spoken service, the Rev. Ken L. Fields preaches

    9:00 AM - Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, family service with hymns and anthems, with full choir, the Rev. Ken L. Fields preaches

    9:30 AM - Holy Communion with sermon, Old Church, for children and families with live music and storytelling (casual attire), storyteller is Jamie Martin Currie

    10:15-11:00 AM - Members of the Order of St. Luke the Physician (OSL) will be available for healing prayer, or prayer for any need, in the Chapel

    11:15 AM - Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, traditional service with hymns and anthems, with full choir, the Rev. Ken L. Fields preaches

    6:00 PM - Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, traditional service with hymns, cantors and organist (casual attire), the Rev. Ken L. Fields preaches

    Child care is available for all Sunday services.

    With an emphasis on beautiful liturgy, thought-provoking messages and excellence in music, worship at St. Martin's provides an opportunity to give thanks and praise to God. The traditional language of The Book of Common Prayer (Rite I) is the form used at most services in The Church. All Christians who are baptized in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are welcome to receive Holy Communion at St. Martin's Episcopal Church.
    Mon., Jul 20 "By the Sea" Art Camp (ages 6-10)
    Seashells, sea life, mermaids, and ships are some of the subjects we will explore in this art camp. Campers will use paint, clay, drawing and mixed media to create our maritime masterpieces. Campers will have a mid-morning break; bring a snack.

    This artistic week will be taught by Beverly Lawson. Beverly has an extensive background in art instruction. She is the art instructor for kindergarten through fourth grade at St. Francis Episcopal Day School and for 17 years she taught art at St. Martin's Episcopal School in Atlanta, Georgia for pre-K through second grade. Beverly was also the art instructor for third through eighth grade at the Spruill Center for the Arts in Atlanta for over 10 years. She was nominated Elementary Art Teacher of the Year by the Georgia Art Education Association and she is an active ceramic artist.

    This is a 5-day class, Monday-Friday, July 20-24 from 9:00 AM-12:00 noon. This class is for children ages 6-10.

    The fee for parishioners is $190; $200 for non-church members. For more information, call the Activity Center at 713/621-8625 or click here to download a pdf of the registration form.
    Mon., Jul 20 Karate Kamp! (ages 5 & up)
    Karate Kamp! with Master Bruce. Come have fun at Karate Kamp this summer! Activities will include: Karate, Bo, numchucks, crafts - make your own t-shirt, games and more fun!! Bring your own snack. These camps are for students 5 years old and up. Students must be 5 years old before the start of class.

    The camps will be held in the Activity Center on:
  • Monday-Friday, June 8-12 from 9:00 AM-12:00 noon
  • Monday-Friday, July 20-24 from 9:00 AM-12:00 noon
  • Monday-Friday, August 17-21 from 9:00 AM-12:00 noon


  • The fee for parishioners is $115; $125 for non-Church members. For more information, call the Activity Center at 713/621-8625 or click here to download a pdf of the registration form.
    Mon., Jul 20 Saintly Stitchers
    The Saintly Stitchers meet one Monday a month, at 10:00 AM in the Activity Center Upper Hall (East). Please join us for a stitch-in and camaraderie meeting which is open to all, regardless of the type of stitching or one's stitching proficiency. Refreshments are served. For information, contact Audrene Shahrdar.

    Meeting Schedule:
  • July 20
  • August 17
  • September 21
  • October 26
  • November 16
  • December 21


  • The Saintly Stitchers are working on wedding kneelers; we still are waiting for the finished painted canvases. We also are in the process of finding a designer for the Chancellery. If you are interested in participating, contact Audrene Shahrdar. We are collecting the names of Parish stitchers.
    Mon., Jul 20 Summer Woodworking Camp - Carpentry I (ages 5-6), Advanced Carpentry, and Carpentry II (ages 7 & up)
    Camps are taught by Linda Engelland who has a B.S. in education with a minor in psychology and is an A.M.S. (Pre-Primary) Montessori certified teacher. She has taught young children for many years and has very successfully taught Woodworking with children for more than 15 years. Linda's classes are very popular and we are delighted to have her at the Activity Center. Classes are open to boys and girls.

    Classes will be held at the Activity Center on:
    Carpentry I (ages 5-6)
  • Monday-Thursday, June 8-11, 12:30-1:45 PM
  • Tuesday-Friday, June 16-19, 12:30-1:45 PM
  • Monday-Thursday, July 20-23, 11:00 AM-12:15 PM
  • Monday-Thursday, July 27-30, 11:00 AM-12:15 PM


  • Carpentry II (must have taken Carpentry I or be 7 years or older)
  • Tuesday-Friday, June 16-19, 2:00-3:15 PM
  • Monday-Thursday, July 20-23, 2:00-3:15 PM
  • Monday-Thursday, July 27-30, 12:30-1:45 PM


  • Advanced Carpentry (must have taken Carpentry I and II)
  • Monday-Thursday, June 8-11, 2:00-3:15 PM
  • Monday-Thursday, July 20-23, 12:30-1:45 PM
  • Monday-Thursday, July 27-30, 2:00-3:15 PM


  • The fee for parishioners is $85; $90 for non-Church members. For more information, call the Activity Center at 713/621-8625 or click here to download a pdf of the registration form.
    Wed., Jul 22 Wednesday Worship Services
    7:00 AM - Holy Eucharist, Chapel

    12:00 PM - Holy Eucharist followed by the Sacrament of Healing (Holy Unction), Chapel

    6:00 PM - Holy Eucharist, Chapel (location changes during Lent)

    With an emphasis on beautiful liturgy and excellence in music, worship at St. Martin's provides an opportunity to give thanks and praise to God. Rite I is the form regularly used. All Christians, baptized in the name of the Trinity, are welcome to receive Holy Communion in the Episcopal Church.