Sat., Feb 04Baptism Instruction Class
The next Baptism Instruction class will be held on Saturday, February 4, 10:00-11:00 AM in the Parlor.

To attend this class:
Reservations must be made in advance to attend this class. To RSVP, contact Cyndy Ensign at 713/985-3808.

Child care may be provided for age 0 - Pre-K in Payne Education Center (1st floor), with advance reservation.
To reserve child care:
  • Please call the child care reservation line at 713/830-4123 no later than 2 business days prior to the event.
  • When leaving a message, be sure to include the name, date and time of your event, the number and ages of your child(ren), your name and your telephone number.
  • If you have reserved child care and later realize you will not be able to attend the event, please call the child care reservation line to cancel, being sure to include the information listed above.
  • If child care was not requested by your group leader, or if we have any additional questions, we will contact you at the telephone number provided.

  • Other Baptism Instruction classes are scheduled:
  • April 7 (public baptism only)
  • June 2
  • August 4
  • October 6
  • December 1
  • Future dates will be posted soon.

  • Sat., Feb 04Serve at The Beacon (off campus)
    St. Martin's volunteers will work at The Beacon (1212 Prairie, 77002) on Saturday, February 4, from 11:00 AM-2:00 PM. We will check in clients, prepare food and do laundry. The minimum age to volunteer without a parent is 15. We will need 12 volunteers. If you would like to help, RSVP to outreach@stmartinsepiscopal.org.

    For more information, contact Peggy Payne. To obtain the contact information for Peggy Payne, contact Cyd Gillette at 713/830-4128.

    For more information about The Beacon, click here.

    [Updated 11-30-2010]
    Sun., Feb 05Altar Guild Installation
    The Altar Guild Installation will take place on Sunday, February 5, during the 11:15 AM service.

    For more information, contact Barbara Piana at 713/830-4116.

    [Updated 12-2-2011]
    Sun., Feb 05Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany
    Sunday, February 5 is The Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany.
    The sermon title for the Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr. is "Game Changer...."
    [Updated 2-2-2012]


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

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

    9:30 AM - Family Table, Holy Eucharist with sermon, Old Church. This family-friendly service features a contemporary liturgy, a live band offering current Christian worship music in an "unplugged" style, and a sermon accessible to children and adults (casual attire), the Rev. Aaron M. G. Zimmerman is the Homilist.

    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 for age 0 - Pre-K is available during 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 Eucharist at St. Martin's Episcopal Church.
    Sun., Feb 05Singles Ministry - Pappadeaux's Restaurant
    Singles Ministry at St. Martin's formed to offer single, divorced and widowed parishioners an avenue to develop friendships with others without partners. Please join us on Sunday, February 5 for lunch at Pappadeaux's Restaurant, 6015 Westheimer, 77057, at 12:30 PM. Let's enjoy Cajun food in celebration of the upcoming Mardi Gras! This lunch will be Dutch Treat.

    Enjoy fellowship as well as opportunities to give back to our community and St. Martin's. Monthly outings will include various culinary venues, parks and museums. Future events are listed below.

  • March - Urban Chef Cooking Class
  • April - International Festival
  • May - Play at Talento Bilingue de Houston
  • June - Progressive Dinner
  • Future events coming soon!


  • To make your reservation or for more information, please contact Deb Tisch at 713/985-3817.


    [Keywords: singles, single, unmarried, meet-up, dating, fellowship]

    Note: This group will not meet on holidays or during Church campus closings. Please contact the group leader for updates.
    Sun., Feb 05Souper Bowl of Caring benefits St. Vincent's House
    As an outreach effort centered on the energy of the Super Bowl, the youth are asking the congregation to donate one dollar for the Souper Bowl of Caring (www.souperbowl.org) during the morning services on Sunday, February 5. All proceeds will benefit a local charity. This is a national movement that raises over $5 million each year.

    This year's collection will benefit St. Vincent's House in Galveston, which provides comprehensive social services and community outreach programs for the entire family. St. Vincent's House serves the disadvantaged, underserved and working poor population of the greater Galveston community with essential programs and services to enhance their mental, physical and spiritual well being. Their services are designed to meet the real and immediate needs of their clients for food, shelter, health care and child care.

    For more information, contact Eric Moen at 713/985-3819.
    Sun., Feb 05Sunday School for Adults on Sunday, February 5
    Every parishioner is encouraged to become a part of a Sunday School offering. St. Martin's adult classes emphasize Christian education and fellowship, and provide a community in which you can develop your Christian understanding, a sense of belonging, and lasting friendships. All classes meet Sundays, 10:15-11:00 AM, except when special events are scheduled.

  • Absolutely Fabulous (40s and beyond)
  • Basic Bible Study (all ages)
  • Blended Family and Single Parent Ministry (all ages)
  • Community Blend (20s and 30s)
  • Foundations (30s and 40s)
  • Life: A User's Manual (all ages)
  • PrimeTimers (50s and beyond)
  • Seekers Class (adults with seniority)
  • "Welcome to St. Martin's" (all ages)

  • Expanded descriptions, locations and weekly topics are listed below.



    10:15-11:00 AM

    Lectionary-Based Classes:
    In Year B of the Lectionary, the study for the Adult Sunday School includes readings from Matthew, Mark and John, depending on a particular Sunday. The gospel Scripture takes us from John the Baptist preparing the way for Christ through a synopsis of Jesus' ministry in Galilee. I invite you to join us as we commit to a spiritual practice that will transform our entire Parish and our lives.
    This week's topic: Raised to Wholeness
  • Absolutely Fabulous
    Activity Center, Upper Hall (east)
    If you think the name is fun and whimsical, then you've got an idea of the personality of this class. Come check us out!


  • Community Blend
    Room 217, Payne Education Center
    We are single, couples, married and with or without children. Please join us for an in-depth study, a great network of friends and fellowship.


  • Foundations
    Room 210-212, Payne Education Center
    This group gathers each week for spiritual development, fellowship and a unified faith in Christ.


  • PrimeTimers
    The Parlor
    This group follows a course of study based on the Revised Common Lectionary. They share Good News and host events.




  • 10:15-11:00 AM

  • Basic Bible Study
    Bagby Parish Hall
    This week: False Teachers and Faithless Galatians
    The Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr. and others will continue our study on The Grace Filled Life: The Book of Galatians.


  • Blended Family and Single Parent Ministry
    Bride's Room, Choir Hall
    We continue our study of the DVD series, Single & Parenting.
    This week: Dating and Single Sexuality
    About the DVD series: If you're a single parent or parent of a blended family, you're probably tired, overwhelmed and feeling a bit underappreciated. In the Single & Parenting series, we will share tips and parenting wisdom that will help you encourage your kids, find rest and hope. Take the guesswork out of parenting alone.
    About the class: This group offers strength, encouragement and support, through fellowship and prayer, to those who are divorced or widowed, to single adoptive parents, to grandparents caring for a grandchild, or to those who have a spouse in the military.


  • Life: A User's Manual
    Vestry Conference Room
    We begin our study of the book, Jesus of Nazareth, by Pope Benedict XVI.
    This week: Chapter 1
    This is a focused discussion class based on a weekly assigned reading from books written by respected theological scholars. Our annual curriculum includes a variety of topics from the Old Testament, the New Testament and current culture.


  • Seekers Class
    Activity Center, Aerobics Room
    This week: A Time for Spiritual Growth
    This class will be studying how to prepare for Lent.


  • "Welcome to St. Martin's"
    Welcome Center
    You'll hear more about St. Martin's from our Lay Minister for Membership Services, and take a tour of The Church.


  • Note: These classes will not meet on holidays or during Church campus closings. Please contact Deb Tisch at 713/985-3817 or dtisch@stmartinsepiscopal.org for updates or more information.
    Sun., Feb 05Super Bowl Super Blast (grades 6-12)
    This year, St. Martin's youth (grades 6-12) will be throwing the best Super Bowl party known to mankind. Join the festivities at the Island on Sunday, February 5, from 5:30-9:00 PM. We'll have dogs, chips, queso, games, movies and, of course, the big game on multiple big screens. Don't miss it! Friends are always invited.

    For more information, contact Anthony Orona at 713/830-4110.
    Mon., Feb 06Alzheimer'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. The next meetings are on Monday, February 6 and February 20.

    Do you have a loved one or know someone with Alzheimer's? Then this is the group for you. Come and learn how to cope with this disease and help your loved one adjust. The support group is filled with individuals affected by Alzheimer's, all who are facing difficult situations from which you can learn. We talk about our families and share tips. Call Kathy Tellepsen.

    Our 2012 schedule:
  • Monday, March 5 and March 19
  • Monday, April 2 and April 16
  • Monday, May 7 and May 21
  • Monday, June 4 and June 18
  • Monday, July 2 and July 16
  • Monday, August 6 and August 20
  • Tuesday, September 4 and Monday, September 17
  • Monday, October 1 and October 15
  • Monday, November 5 and November 19
  • Monday, December 3 and December 17
  • Mon., Feb 06The University of Texas Medical School Friends' Luncheon - "Keeping Your Brain Healthy"
    [This is not a St. Martin's event.]

    The University of Texas Medical School Friends' Luncheon will be held on Monday, February 6, in Bagby Parish Hall. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend!

    The topic is: "Keeping Your Brain Healthy"

    The speakers are Dr. Paul Schulz and Dr. Claudio Soto, both of whom are with the University of Texas Medical School - Houston and nationally and internationally recognized for their research in the area of brain diseases and disorders. Dr. Soto has a special interest in Alzheimer's disease and has made groundbreaking discoveries in that area in 2011, which he will share at the luncheon. Dr. Schulz is an expert in dementia and neurodegenerative disorders and will share ways to keep your brain healthy.

    A ticket is $25 ($250 of a table), which covers the cost of our box lunches, printing of table information, and reimbursement to St. Martin's. Purchase your ticket/table online at http://giving.uthouston.org/friends. If you prefer to pay by check, please make it out to UTHealth and write Friends of UT Medical School in the memo line, and send it to Ms. Katie Mears, The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, 6431 Fannin, Suite G150, Houston, TX 77030. Your ticket purchase will serve as your RSVP.

    To RSVP by phone with a credit card or for more information, call Katie Mears at 713-500-5164 or email Mary.M.Mears@uth.tmc.edu.

    We hope to hear from you soon!

    Sally Harvin and Mary Chandler
    Friends of the Medical School Luncheon Co-Chairs
    Tue., Feb 07Come make sandwiches for Kids' Meals
    Come make sandwiches for Kids' Meals. This is a fun time for families!

    Help us make over 500 sandwiches for Houston's children on Tuesday, February 7, from 4:00-5:00 PM in the Kitchen/Community Room. Enjoy fun and fellowship for all ages.

    Kids' Meals offers a community-based approach to ending hunger for children. Save your spot by sending an e-mail to outreach@stmartinsepiscopal.org.
    Tue., Feb 07Holy Strollers "Mom and Baby" Yoga
    The Holy Strollers will meet on Tuesday, February 7, from 10:00-11:30 AM in the Activity Center Game Room. Regain flexibility and strength while bonding with your baby during this Mom and Baby Yoga class led by an instructor from the Motherhood Center. Babies must be between the age of 4 weeks old and crawling. Wear your yoga gear; bring your own mat and a blanket for your baby. (Childcare provided for older children; see group leader for specific reservation requirements.)

    For more information, contact the leadership team at holystrollers@stmartinsepiscopal.org.

    Holy Strollers is a ministry of St. Martin's, providing a network of support for mothers of newborns to 5-year-olds, as well as expectant mothers. Moms within the parish family and from the greater Houston metro are discovering this caring community. Through Christian spiritual guidance and education, activities such as play-dates, mom's nights out, family picnics and speakers, Holy Strollers offers support in a casual environment...all the while having a heck of a good ol' time!

    [Updated 1-5-2012]
    Tue., Feb 07RSVP by Feb. 7 to attend An Evening to Remember
    Click here to register online.

    Hosted in a parishioner's home, this event is a lively evening of fellowship. The Evening Social will be held on Thursday, February 9, 6:30-8:30 PM at the home of Rick and Susan McConn. Spouses and friends are welcome. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres will be served. This event costs $25/person. Valet parking will be available. The deadline to RSVP has been extended to Tuesday, February 7.

    Event Co-Chairs: Katrina Murchison & Margaret Murphy


    The Episcopal Church Women (ECW) of St. Martin's is open to all women of the Episcopal Church over age 21. The mission of the ECW is to encourage the women of St. Martin's in their life in Christ; to promote their spiritual growth through fellowship in their Christian faith; and to foster their active participation in the mission of the church.

    [Keywords: ECW, Episcopal Church Women]
    Tue., Feb 07Serve Dinner at Bo's Place (off campus)
    Volunteers will serve dinner prepared by St. Martin's Cafe to Bo's Place families attending the grief support groups. The dinner will be held on Tuesday, February 7th at Bo's Place.

    Bo's Place
    10050 Buffalo Speedway
    Houston, TX 77054

    We need five volunteers at 5:30 PM for table decorations,to serve food and clean up. If you can help, send an e-mail to outreach@stmartinsepiscopal.org. For more information, contact Cyd Gillette at 713/430-4128.

    About Bo's Place:
    Bo's Place offers free ongoing grief support groups to families with children ages 3 to 18 who have experienced the death of a parent or sibling. It was founded on the belief that grieving children need to share with other grieving children in order to heal. Ten dollars will sponsor a family activity for a bereaved child and their family attending a grief support group.

    This outreach opportunity is part of our "Feed My Sheep" program.

    About "Feed My Sheep:"
    This program is unique because it allows families of our Parish community to directly "feed God's sheep," - to adopt a family or a group of people for a special celebration that they would otherwise be unable to afford or when other help is needed, such as the victims of Hurricane Ike. We use the term "team" because our program consists of volunteers who sign up ahead of time to directly help families and groups of people in need in the future. Contact us now and sign up to be rewarded and energized! Questions? Contact Cyd Gillette at 713/830-4128.

    One of our "Feed My Sheep" programs is called the Group to Group program:
    The Group to Group program matches people from the St. Martin's community with people in need from one of the agencies we support to take them meals and gifts and, perhaps, entertain them. Last Christmas 45 St. Martin's volunteers celebrated with the residents of one of New Hope Housing (NHH)'s downtown facilities. It was such a success that NHH has asked us to return for Christmas.
    Tue., Feb 07Worship Roundtable Meeting
    We offer voluntary Worship Roundtable meetings. Any interested volunteers within the Altar Guild, the Chalice Bearers/Lay Readers and the Ushers ministry groups are welcomed. We meet the first Tuesday of each month, from 5:30-6:30 PM, in the Welcome Center.

    Upcoming meeting dates include:
  • February 7
  • March 6
  • April 3
  • May 1


  • The purpose of the Worship Roundtable meetings is for our volunteers to touch base regularly with our Vice-Rector, the Rev. Ken Fields, in an informal question and answer format. Additionally, it is a chance for staff and leaders to offer input, training and support, and it is an opportunity for volunteers to interact together and with staff about their needs.

    Water, iced tea and coffee are provided. No reservations are necessary. We hope to see you there!

    This invitation is extended to Altar Guild members, Chalice Bearers, Lay Readers and Ushers.

    For more information, contact Kristin Early at 713/985-3848.
    Wed., Feb 08Wednesday 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 Eucharist in the Episcopal Church.
    Wed., Feb 08Faith in Literature "Day Group"
    The Faith in Literature groups meet monthly to explore, discuss and make relevant connections between faith and works of fiction, past and present. While operating within the framework of Christian theology, we seek to ascertain in our reading how all good literature, if even by its omission, deals with and reflects themes of faith. Our reading choices range from early nineteenth century works to present day authors. While staying primarily within the confines of fiction (with occasional forays into the nonfiction world), the books we read cover a multitude of genres, including crime, science fiction, allegory, young adult, historic and just good story telling.

    We delight in God's gifts to authors, through their words, to prod, soothe, challenge, confound, and reveal grace in the lives of their characters, and reflect on our own frail likeness to these fictional beings. In sharing our passion for literature, the groups also share laughter, friendship and fellowship. The day group meets for lunch in St. Elisabeth's Refectory before their meetings. The evening group has at least one yearly "off-site" gathering, recently taking in "The Heiress" in conjunction with reading Washington Square, by Henry James.

    Come join us for a thought-provoking, Christ-centered, joyful examination of the beauty we find through the written word.

    The Faith in Literature day group will meet on Wednesday, February 8, 12:30-2:00 PM in Room 217, Payne Education Center. For more information, please contact Camille Powell.
    Wed., Feb 08Wellness Series: The Force of Faith in Hospitals
    The Wellness Series focuses on the importance of the mind/body/spirit connection to health and well being. Join us for one or all four Wednesday evenings. There is no charge for the series. Reservations are not required to attend the program. Cafe St. Martin's dinner prices are charged for the meal.

    5:15-6:15 PM - Dinner, Bagby Parish Hall
    6:00-6:30 PM - Holy Eucharist, Chapel
    6:30-7:30 PM - The Wellness Series, Bagby Parish Hall
    5:30-8:00 PM - Child Care, Founders' Hall

    Our schedule:
    Wednesday, February 8: David Fine, "The Force of Faith in Hospitals"

    The Wellness Series is sponsored by St. Martin's Prevention & Recovery Council.

    Child care may be provided for age 0 - Pre-K in Founders' Hall, with advance reservation.
    To reserve child care:
  • Please call the child care reservation line at 713/830-4123 no later than 2 business days prior to the event.
  • When leaving a message, be sure to include the name, date and time of your event, the number and ages of your child(ren), your name and your telephone number.
  • If you have reserved child care and later realize you will not be able to attend the event, please call the child care reservation line to cancel, being sure to include the information listed above.
  • If child care was not requested by your group leader, or if we have any additional questions, we will contact you at the telephone number provided.

  • For more information, contact Deb Tisch at 713/985-3817, or visit the Prevention & Recovery Web page.


    About our guest speaker:

    Wednesday, February 8 -- David Fine, serves as president and chief executive officer of St. Luke's Episcopal Health System. He has 36 years of experience as a healthcare executive, including more than 25 years as chief executive officer of university hospitals, multi-hospital systems, medical groups and managed care organizations. Prior to joining St. Luke's in June 2004, Fine was chief executive officer of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Health System, a joint venture of the University of Alabama Health Services Foundation and The University of Alabama Board of Trustees. During his tenure, UAB managed publicly and privately owned healthcare delivery assets, comprising $2.0 billion in net patient revenues, 11,000 employees and 800 physicians. In 1972, Fine received a Bachelor of Arts degree magna cum laude from Tufts University and in 1974 a Master of Hospital Administration degree from the University of Minnesota School of Public Health, where he was a U.S. Public Health Service Trainee and winner of the James A. Hamilton Prize. Prior employers include The University of California-San Francisco and Tulane University.

    [Updated 11-30-2011]
    Thu., Feb 09ECW Evening Social - An Evening to Remember
    Click here to register online.

    Hosted in a parishioner's home, this event is a lively evening of fellowship. The Evening Social will be held on Thursday, February 9, 6:30-8:30 PM at the home of Rick and Susan McConn. Spouses and friends are welcome. Drinks and hors d'oeuvres will be served. This event costs $25/person. Valet parking will be available. RSVP by Tuesday, February 7 to Katrina Murchison.

    Event Co-Chairs: Katrina Murchison & Margaret Murphy


    The Episcopal Church Women (ECW) of St. Martin's is open to all women of the Episcopal Church over age 21. The mission of the ECW is to encourage the women of St. Martin's in their life in Christ; to promote their spiritual growth through fellowship in their Christian faith; and to foster their active participation in the mission of the church.

    [Keywords: ECW, Episcopal Church Women]
    Fri., Feb 10Parish Choir Variety Show
    Friday, February 10, 7:00 PM, Bagby Parish Hall -- Parish Choir Variety Show-Fundraising for Choir Tour -- Our volunteers and staff singers will bring an evening of light-hearted entertainment to raise funds for our June, 2012 tour to England. A reception will follow in Bagby Parish Hall.

    A free will offering to benefit the Parish Choir Tour to England in June, 2012.

    Child care may be provided for age 0 - Pre-K in Payne Education Center (1st floor), with advance reservation.
    To reserve child care:
  • Please call the child care reservation line at 713/830-4123 no later than 2 business days prior to the event.
  • When leaving a message, be sure to include the name, date and time of your event, the number and ages of your child(ren), your name and your telephone number.
  • If you have reserved child care and later realize you will not be able to attend the event, please call the child care reservation line to cancel, being sure to include the information listed above.
  • If child care was not requested by your group leader, or if we have any additional questions, we will contact you at the telephone number provided.


  • To learn about all of the events in our Music St. Martin's Music Series, visit our Web site at www.stmartinsepiscopal.org and enter the word concert in the Search box.

    For more information, contact Dr. David Henning, Director of Music and Parish Organist, 713/985-3820.

    [Keywords: Gloria Dei Organ, concert, music, performance, 2011-2012 series]
    Sat., Feb 11Daughters of the King Monthly Meeting
    The Daughters of the King invites all women to our journey into a deeper personal relationship with God. We will provide the DOK book, >Continuing the Journey: The Spiritual Formation Guide.

    "By seeking and being touched by the Holy God in quiet daily prayer and resting in God's presence, our spirit soars." The journey continues Saturday, February 11, in Founders' Hall, 9:30 a.m. (social & refreshments), 10:00 - 11:30 a.m. (for the meeting). This month's topic: Tools in Prayers and Scripture as a Prayer Tool.

    For information call Pam Bentley or Judy Gilbert, or send an e-mail to dok@stmartinsepiscopal.org.

    St. Martin's Daughters of the King has a long history of service in all aspects of St. Martin's parish life and the Houston community at large. As a group and individually, we provide hundreds of hours of service every month.

    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. Members undertake a Rule of Life, incorporating prayer and service in our daily lives.

    Come to a meeting and find out what DOK is all about! For more information, contact DOK at DOK@StMartinsEpiscopal.org.
    Sat., Feb 11New baby items needed for ECW service project
    The ECW is hosting a baby shower benefiting clients of The Source for Women. We are in need of the following new items for the baby gift baskets:

  • Boy and girl onesies (newborn to 18 months)
  • Burp cloths
  • Socks
  • Receiving blankets
  • Changing pads
  • Pacifiers
  • Diapers and wipes
  • Infant to toddler bath tubs
  • Infant books (board books, touch/feel, counting, etc.)


  • Between now and February 25, please drop off donations in the box at the Activity Center. For information, contact Nancy Troxel.

    Gently used donations may be placed in the C.C.S.C. box located in the Activity Center.

    Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." - Matthew 9:14
    Sun., Feb 12Are you ready for Lent?
    The Bookstore & Gift Shoppe is selling the book, Provoking Thoughts, by the Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr. This compilation is designed to carry one through the season of Lent.

    Books may be purchased now in the Bookstore & Gift Shoppe for $10. Consider also purchasing Preparing Room, the Advent companion.

    For more information, contact the Bookstore & Gift Shoppe at 713/985-3840.

    About this book:

    "The ache of the human heart has always been to be made whole and the thrust of the Christian hope is that it can only come to that wholeness by being connected in a personal relationship with God, through Christ. This book is intentionally written as perhaps one more avenue towards deepening, strengthening and for some, maybe birthing such a relationship." -- the Rev. Dr. Russell J. Levenson, Jr.

    "Dr. Levenson's book speaks so powerfully to the heart of contemporary people. I love the natural, easy way he writes. Furthermore, he does not duck the tough questions as some preachers tend to do, neither does he offer simplistic solutions to the moral demands that come our way day after day. Instead, he reminds us why being a Christian is the most wonderful thing in the whole world." -- The Most Reverend and Right Honorable Dr. George L. Carey, 103rd Archbishop of Canterbury
    Sun., Feb 12Sunday School for adults
    For information about Sunday School for adults, please contact Deb Tisch at 713/985-3817 or dtisch@stmartinsepiscopal.org.
    Sun., Feb 12The Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany
    Sunday, February 12 is The Sixth Sunday after the Epiphany.
    The sermon title for the Rt. Rev. Mike Hill, The Bishop of Bristol, will be posted later.
    [Updated 2-2-2012]


    8:00 AM - Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, spoken service

    9:00 AM - (First, third and fifth Sundays) Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, family service with hymns and anthems, with full choir

    9:00 AM - (Second and fourth Sundays) Morning Prayer with sermon, The Church, family service with hymns, canticles and anthem, with full choir (children's choirs sing)

    9:30 AM - Family Table, Holy Eucharist with sermon, Old Church. This family-friendly service features a contemporary liturgy, a live band offering current Christian worship music in an "unplugged" style, and a sermon accessible to children and adults (casual attire).

    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

    6:00 PM - Holy Eucharist with sermon, The Church, traditional service with hymns, cantors and organist (casual attire)

    Child care for age 0 - Pre-K is available during 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 Eucharist at St. Martin's Episcopal Church.
    Mon., Feb 13"Men Only" Cancer Support Group
    The "Men Only" Cancer Support Group meets the second Monday of each month, from 7:00-9:00 PM, in Room 217, Payne Education Center. For more information, contact Steve Thorney, Staff Chaplain at the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, at 713/563-3988.

    Upcoming meeting dates:
  • Monday, February 13
  • Monday, March 12
  • Monday, May 14
  • Monday, June 11
  • Monday, July 9
  • Monday, August 13
  • Monday, September 10
  • Monday, October 8
  • Monday, November 12
  • Monday, December 10


  • [Updated 10-26-2011]

    [Keywords: "Men Only", "men only", Men Only Cancer Support, Men's Only, Mens Only]
    Mon., Feb 13Contemplative 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:
  • February 13 & 27
  • March 12 & 26
  • April 23 (one meeting only in April)
  • May 14 (one meeting only in May)
  • June 11 & 25
  • July 9 & 23
  • August 13 & 27
  • September 10 & 24
  • October 8 & 22
  • November 12 & 26
  • December 10 (one meeting only in December)


  • Note: This group will not meet on holidays or during Church campus closings. Please contact the group leader for updates.
    Mon., Feb 13Men of St. Martin's make sandwiches for Kids' Meals
    The Men of St. Martin's group is banding together to help with this outreach project. Come make sandwiches for Kids' Meals. This is a fun time as we work to help feed the children in Houston!

    Help us make sandwiches for Houston's children one Tuesday a month, from 5:00-6:30 PM in the Activity Center Fellowship Room. Enjoy fun and fellowship on these dates:

  • February 13 (Monday)
  • March 13
  • April 17
  • May 8
  • June 12
  • July 10
  • August 14
  • September 11
  • October 9
  • November 13
  • December 11
  • Other dates will be posted soon.


  • Kids' Meals offers a community-based approach to ending hunger for children. Save your spot by sending an e-mail to outreach@stmartinsepiscopal.org.

    For information about the Men of St. Martin's group, contact Deb Tisch at 713/985-3817.

    Note: This group will not meet on holidays or during Church campus closings. Please contact the group leader for updates.
    Tue., Feb 14Church Under the Bridge - Street Ministry
    Join us Tuesday, February 14, at 7:30 PM as we take part in the downtown service, located at the Pierce elevated at 1800 Chartres Street, known as Church Under the Bridge. We will be serving a meal, serving as prayer partners, handing out blankets and providing praise music for the service. Volunteers, age 18 and older, will meet in the St. Martin's parking lot at 6:45 PM to carpool to the service. For more information or to volunteer, please contact Candace McCoin, or send an e-mail to outreach@stmartinsepiscopal.org.

    For more information, contact Cyd Gillette at 713/830-4128.
    Tue., Feb 14Holy Strollers: Nutrition in Infants and Toddlers
    The Holy Strollers will meet on Tuesday, February 14, from 10:00-11:30 AM in the Bride's Room. Our speaker is Louise Goldberg, Child & Family Dietician and her topic is Nutrition in Infants and Toddlers. Louise, a certified pediatric nutrition specialist, will discuss feeding transitions (milk/formula to solids and texture progression), food allergies, dealing with the picky eater stage and what "normal" portion sizes are for little kids. (Child care provided through lunch. See group leader for specific reservation requirements. After the speaker, we can continue our fellowship in Cafe St. Martin's. Children can bring their lunches to enjoy in the nursery.)

    For more information, contact the leadership team at holystrollers@stmartinsepiscopal.org.

    Holy Strollers is a ministry of St. Martin's, providing a network of support for mothers of newborns to 5-year-olds, as well as expectant mothers. Moms within the parish family and from the greater Houston metro are discovering this caring community. Through Christian spiritual guidance and education, activities such as play-dates, mom's nights out, family picnics and speakers, Holy Strollers offers support in a casual environment...all the while having a heck of a good ol' time!

    [Updated 11-19-2011]
    Tue., Feb 14O.P.U.S. "Second Tuesday"
    Once a month, on the "Second Tuesday" of each month, O.P.U.S. has a variety of guest speakers, musical groups and other special activities. The next "Second Tuesday" is on February 14, 11:00 AM-12:30 PM. Our entertainment will be the St. Martin's Preschool children with a Valentine's Day presentation. In addition, the Rev. Helen Appleberg from Abundant Living will be our guest speaker. (This ending time differs from the regular Tuesday Bible Study ending time.)

    The O.P.U.S. Bible Study is a group of men and women age 55 and up who gather once a week on Tuesdays, 11:00 AM-12:00 PM, for fellowship and Bible Study. We meet in the Activity Center Aerobics Room - just take the elevator to the 2nd floor. Handicapped parking is available for O.P.U.S. members at the east entrance to the Activity Center. Many then continue their fellowship with lunch at Cafe St. Martin's.

    Under the leadership of the Rev. John R. Bentley, Jr., our mentor, we are studying "Adventures in the Bible ..." weekly journeys through the pages of the world's most significant book ... a road map to biblical understanding; examining the lives of saints and sinners throughout the Bible.

    There is no fee other than the cost of lunch at the Cafe. Please join us for fun, fellowship, food and spiritual growth.

    Our Deacon is the Rev. Jim Cunningham, and our President and Convenor is Janie Martin. New members are always welcome - this group is open to all, especially those 55+. Contact Janie Martin.

    Note: This group will not meet on holidays or during Church campus closings. Please contact the group leader for updates.

    Keywords = Outstanding, Opus, Seniors
    Tue., Feb 14Purchase a Valentine's Day card from The Giving Tree
    The Giving Tree, a branch of St. Martin's Episcopal Church's Outreach Ministries, offers members of the Church and surrounding community the opportunity to honor a loved one on a special occasion through a heartfelt gift that empowers worthy organizations while touching hearts and changing lives. For more information, send an e-mail to outreach@stmartinsepiscopal.org.

    The Giving Tree cards are sold in the Bookstore & Gift Shoppe.
    Wed., Feb 15Wednesday 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 Eucharist in the Episcopal Church.
    Wed., Feb 15Special Tour of the Clerestory Windows
    On Wednesday, February 15, at 11:00 AM, Lee Hunnell will offer a tour of the Clerestory stained glass windows. (upon request) Bring your own binoculars. For information, or to schedule a group tour, please call 713/830-4117.


    Other tours are scheduled on:
  • March 21
  • May 16
  • June 20
  • July 18
  • August 15
  • September 19
  • October 17 (tentative)
  • The schedule for 2013 will be posted soon.


  • The Church is open to receive visitors several hours each week.
    The tour schedule changes from time to time. For an updated schedule, please visit our Web site and enter the keyword: Tour
    For information, or to schedule a group tour, please call 713/830-4117.

    Note: This group will not meet on holidays or during Church campus closings. Please contact the group leader for updates.

    [Keywords: Stained Glass, stained glass, window]
    Thu., Feb 16Men of St. Martin's "Breakfast and a Speaker"
    If you are a man and you are part of the St. Martin's family, then you are part of the Men of St. Martin's!

    Join us on the third Thursday of each month, from 7:00-8:00 AM in Bagby Parish Hall, for the Men of St. Martin's Breakfast and a Speaker program, which offers an opportunity for fellowship and Christian growth with a message from our outstanding line-up of special guests and speakers.

    Special Guest Speakers Schedule:
  • Thursday, February 16, 2012, Mrs. Susan Baker, "What Every Wife Wishes Her Husband Knew!"
  • Thursday, March 22, 2012, Mark DeMoss, "Making Right Choices in a World of Wrong Opportunities"
  • Thursday, April 19, 2012, Norman Jetmundsen, "Christian Faithfulness in the Office and at Home"
  • Thursday, May 17, 2012, the Rt. Rev. C. Andrew "Andy" Doyle, "Summer is Coming: What Will You Do?"


  • For more information, please contact:
  • Carol Gallion at 713/985-3813
  • Brittney Jacobson at 713/985-3821
  • Perry Ruthven, Men of St. Martin's President