Annual Conference, Day 1

The business of the SWTX Annual Conference began in earnest this afternoon with sessions for both lay and clergy members of the Conference.  Belinda also went to the First UMC - Corpus Christi for a reception for the spouses of conference clergy members.

Pastor Charles & Belinda met up with Jim & Mary Witcher for supper along with Gini Christian (District Ministries Coordinator) and the District Lay Leader, Jill Preston.  

This evening, everyone gathered at the American Bank Center for the annual memorial worship service. 

Ascension Sunday Blessings

The worship services at the First UMC and at the McCamey Convalescent Center (MCC) were both Spirit-filled today!  The choir sang a beautiful hymn, "Walk On, O People of God," a Spanish tune which really fit today's scripture lessons.  The choir was singing without Gloria and Louise, both of whom are under the weather this weekend.

The MCC service was really a blessing with more than 25 in attendence.  Thanks to Belinda Alkula, Roy & Alice Kephart, Bill & Bobbie Lester and Cytha Peters for sharing this time with the residents, visitors and staff.

Joys from this morning's worship:
Eric and Sara H.’s Family Pew.
Gary and Luann E.’s Family Pew.
Healing joys: Verla F., Sheila H. (Belinda A.’s mother)
Coy and Joan C.’s great grandbaby.
Beautiful flowers donated by the family of Billie Reaves (from her memorial service).

Concerns from this morning's worship:
Family of Billie Reaves.
Next week’s meetings of the Southwest Texas Conference.
Healing Mercies: Louise C., Gloria O., Sara H.’s grandmother.
Travelling mercies.
Today’s Empty Pews: Where are the other 66 people who are on the church rolls? All of us need to commit to connect with them and invite them to return to their home church.

Collect for Ascension Sunday

O Almighty God, whose blessed Son our Savior Jesus Christ ascended far above all heavens that He might fill all things: Mercifully give us faith to perceive that, according to His promise, He abides with his Church on earth, even to the end of the ages; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

Anglican Book of Divine Worship

Billie Reaves Service (part 2)

The family of Billie Reaves made the drive to San Angelo's Fairmount Cemetery this afternoon, taking Billie to her final resting place alongside of her husband, Ernie.  Following the service, those present placed pink roses atop Billie's urn in a farewell gesture.

Billie Reaves Service (part 1)

The community gathered in the sanctuary this morning to bid farwell to Billie Reaves, a 65-year member of the First UMC in McCamey.  We were blessed to have our choir sing, "It Is Well With My Soul," one of Billie's favorite hymns. 

The congregation joined in singing an old standard from the 1938 Cokesbury Song Book, "Love, Mercy and Grace" and, in a tribute to the ministry Billie took part with the MYF (Methodist Youth Fellowship) during the 50's and 60's, "Let There be Peace on Earth."

Following the service, a wonderful lunch was provided in the fellowship hall by the ladies of the church for Billie's family and friends.

Billie Jean Reaves Memorial Service

Vacation Bible School in McCamey

The First Baptist Church in McCamey is inviting all children to Vacation Bible School! 

The dates are June 6 - 10, 9:00 a.m. - Noon each day.

Contact the First Baptist Church at 652-8674 for more information.