News
 
Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
St. Andrew Christmas Music Festival Two performances - at 9:30 and 11 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 10. The event features choirs, full orchestra and more. Bring your family - there is no cost.

A glorious morning of music with full orchestra, choirs, carols and photos with Santa and his reindeer

St. Andrew Methodist Church hosts its annual Christmas Music Festival, a joyful celebration featuring favorite carols, choirs, full orchestra, and more, on Sunday, Dec. 10, at both 9:30 and 11 a.m. (two performances), in the sanctuary, 5801 W. Plano Parkway. Before or after the festival, guests are invited to visit with Santa and his reindeer and pose for a photo in his sleigh – complete with falling snow.

Performed live for the first time will be five new Christmas carol arrangements by Taylor Davis, creative director of traditional music and worship, St. Andrew.  The carols, including “Joy to the World,” “Silent Night, “and “O Come All Ye Faithful,” are newly released by the Decca Classics record label in A Choral Christmas, which also includes a five-movement centerpiece, “Magnificat,” also written by Davis and receiving its Carnegie Hall premiere in New York in May 2024.

As described by Opera Today, Davis’ carols’ “imaginative instrumentations, new chord progressions and textures, re-harmonisations, and added melodic strands bring freshness to the familiar themes.”

Davis first began working on the pieces in A Choral Christmas in September 2021, when England’s VOCES8 Artistic Director Barney Smith, a long-time friend and collaborator, asked him to arrange the carols for choir and orchestra for an upcoming holiday broadcast. Davis and VOCES8’s Barney and Paul Smith (brothers) first met at a conference in 2012 and became instant friends. Since then, VOCES8 has become well known in the Collin County community performing at St. Andrew and working in partnership with The St. Andrew Arts Foundation’s educational outreach with local school choirs.

“I had to have all parts and scores to him by the first of November, so I essentially had to write a carol arrangement per week,” said Davis.  “I flew over, still masking and having to test before and after the journey since we were still in the grips of COVID, and we recorded these new carols. The broadcast was a hit, and the reviews were glowing. A year later, the Decca Classics record label (Bing Crosby, Ella Fitzgerald, Pavarotti, to name a few of their artists) wanted to create a Christmas album, and five of the six carols, plus my Magnificat (previously recorded by VOCES8), would be the main tracks. The album was released November 3, 2023, and just recently received five stars from BBC Music Magazine. This is, without question, a high-water mark of my career.”

There is no cost for this event. For more information on this and other St. Andrew Christmas events, concerts, and worship, visit standrewmethodist.org/Christmas

“The music for this year’s festival captures the essence of Christmas and is designed to fill our souls with joy in celebration of the birth of our Savior,” said Davis. “This annual event is a glorious opportunity to come together, warm our hearts and give us each a beautiful time to reflect on the true meaning of the season. We hope you will ‘Carry the Light’ by bringing others to share in this uplifting and glorious morning.”

# # #

St. Andrew Methodist Church, founded in 1986, is located on 21.2 acres in Plano, Texas, and has more than 7,000 members. The church hosts over 2,000 people each weekend for worship services in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. St. Andrew extends an open invitation for all to be a part of a community ready to embrace faith in Christ that is real, practical, and life changing.  Many opportunities are provided to gather on campus and serve locally, regionally, and globally. Through Invite Ministries, St. Andrew’s publishing house, and Beacon of Light, a mental health ministry, St. Andrew offers innovative ways to reach Christians within its congregation and out in the community. The new 300-seat Hasley Chapel provides worship and other gathering opportunities in a scenic and more intimate setting. In 2022 St. Andrew became an independent Methodist Church seeking to live more like Jesus every day and to learn in deeper ways what it means to follow His teachings, live in community, and serve the world. 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call (972)380-8001.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Stations of the Nativity at St. Andrew The 35-minute audio tour (accessed with a QR code) begins at the Hasley Chapel and takes you through the meditation garden, down the hill, and to the cross at the pond in the northern portion of St. Andrew’s beautiful campus, located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway. There is nothing like this in North Texas! Come anytime Dec. 3-31, from dawn to dusk, and experience the Christmas story in a whole new way.

Come any time daily from dawn to dusk, Dec. 3-31, access the ten stations via a QR code, and walk alongside Mary and Joseph on their journey to Bethlehem

St. Andrew Methodist Church invites the community to go on a transformative journey through “Stations of the Nativity,” a new, outdoor, self-guided, 35-minute audio tour (accessed via a QR code) through ten stations featuring the story of Jesus’ birth with scriptural meditations and music. There is no cost for the experience, which is open Dec. 3 – 31, from dawn to dusk. The tour begins at the Hasley Chapel and continues through the meditation garden, down the hill, and to the cross at the pond in the northern portion of St. Andrew’s campus, located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway.

“This is a magical experience like no other in North Texas that puts you in the Bible story alongside the original witnesses for Jesus’ birth,” said Rev. Arthur Jones, St. Andrew Methodist Church. “Bring your family and friends and walk alongside Mary and Joseph on their way to Bethlehem. Listen to eyewitnesses of those who have seen the birth of the Christ child, the light of the world. Without question, this experience will send you forth in awe of the reality of the age-old story of Christmas and the greatest promise ever made.”

Rev. Lauren Gerlach, assoc. pastor and director of education and teaching ministries at St. Andrew, researched Stations of the Nativity, an old but rare tradition, to ensure that St. Andrew’s experience would be authentic and educational. Utilizing scripture, prayer, and music, as well as teaching moments, each station presents the Christmas story in a unique and inspiring way.

“The Christian idea of ‘stations’ relates to following along on a journey,” said Rev. Gerlach. “It makes the story real to us. Last spring, St. Andrew offered a similar experience with Stations of the Cross for Lent, and many shared that walking the stations was such a powerful experience! Having this experience outside takes participants into the beautiful and peaceful surroundings of nature and makes it accessible to anyone any day of the week. It is our hope that through this inviting experience, participants will ultimately see themselves in the story. No matter where you are in your spiritual life, this educational retelling of the Christmas story will take you on a journey like no other.”

The grand opening of the Stations of the Nativity on Dec. 3 is also the night of St. Andrew’s Advent Celebration, a fun-filled evening across the campus for the entire family from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. On this evening, the Stations of the Nativity will be lighted for evening tours, and the community may also enjoy a trackless Christmas train ride, a winter wonderland with an 8-ft. snow tubing luge along with a snowy play area, and photos with Santa. Young children are invited to participate in “A Night in Bethlehem,” which includes indoor, themed stations leading to a Nativity display. The St. Andrew children’s choir will perform holiday favorites at 5:40 p.m., complete with sing-along caroling, and all ages will enjoy the big band sound of Imperial Brass performing a concert of holiday favorites. A pasta dinner is available for purchase and hot cocoa will be available at no cost throughout the evening.

For more information and additional holiday events, concerts, worship and activities, visit standrewmethodist.org/Christmas

# # #

St. Andrew Methodist Church, founded in 1986, is located on 21.2 acres in Plano, Texas, and has more than 7,000 members. The church hosts over 2,000 people each weekend for worship services in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. St. Andrew extends an open invitation for all to be a part of a community ready to embrace faith in Christ that is real, practical, and life changing.  Many opportunities are provided to gather on campus and serve locally, regionally, and globally. Through Invite Ministries, St. Andrew’s publishing house, and Beacon of Light, a mental health ministry, St. Andrew offers innovative ways to reach Christians within its congregation and out in the community. The new 300-seat Hasley Chapel provides worship and other gathering opportunities in a scenic and more intimate setting. In 2022 St. Andrew became an independent Methodist Church seeking to live more like Jesus every day and to learn in deeper ways what it means to follow His teachings, live in community, and serve the world. 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call (972)380-8001.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Trunk or Treat at St. Andrew Methodist Church

St. Andrew Methodist Church invites the community to its annual Trunk or Treat event Sunday, October 29, 4:30 – 6 p.m., at 5801 W. Plano Parkway. All children are invited to come in costume and enjoy trick or treating from creatively decorated car trunks as well as bounce houses and more. There is no cost.

“It’s wonderful to see families coming together each year for this fun, annual event,” said Rachel Kortum, director of children’s ministry, St. Andrew. “Our staff and volunteers do an incredible job decorating their trunks and providing a fun atmosphere for all. Join us!”

For more information, call 972-380-8001 or visit www.standrewmethodist.org. The event will take place in the west parking lot in front of the sanctuary facing Plano Parkway. In case of rain, the event will be moved inside.

St. Andrew Methodist Church, founded in 1986, is located on 21.2 acres in Plano, Texas, and has more than 7,000 members. The church hosts over 2,000 people each weekend for worship services in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. St. Andrew extends an open invitation for all to be a part of a community ready to embrace faith in Christ that is real, practical, and life changing.  Many opportunities are provided to gather on campus and serve locally, regionally, and globally. Through Invite Ministries, St. Andrew’s publishing house, and Beacon of Light, a mental health ministry, St. Andrew offers innovative ways to reach Christians within its congregation and out in the community. The new 300-seat Hasley Chapel provides worship and other gathering opportunities in a scenic and more intimate setting. In 2022 St. Andrew became an independent Methodist Church seeking to live more like Jesus every day and to learn in deeper ways what it means to follow His teachings, live in community, and serve the world. 5801 West Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call (972)380-8001.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
7th Annual St. Andrew Cars for Community Car Show benefiting The Storehouse of Collin County

The 7th Annual St. Andrew Cars for Community Car Show, hosted by the St. Andrew Methodist Men, is scheduled for Saturday, October 21, at St. Andrew Methodist Church, 5801 W. Plano Parkway, from 11 – 3 p.m. (Awards presented at 2 p.m.) Open to the public with no admission fee, the event invites car and motorcycle enthusiasts to show off their vehicles while benefiting The Storehouse of Collin County, a nonprofit which provides short-term assistance and long-term transformation to residents of Collin, Dallas, and Denton Counties in need.

“The car show is not only great fun, but it supports The Storehouse, which is doing incredible work helping so many in need in our community,” said Ron Weaver, organizer.  “All proceeds go toward supporting its mission to feed, clothe, and care as neighbors in one community. Last year we were delighted to present The Storehouse with a check for $7,400 to help provide nutritious meals, essential clothing items, life-changing resources, and educational opportunities.”

The event features raffle prizes and food vendors as well as goody bags for the first 100 entrants.

Over 20 classes will be judged including “Best of Show,” “Motorcycle Class,” and “Best Paint and Interior.” Onsite registration on the day of the event takes place from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. and is $25. Online pre-registration is $20. Go to https://give.thestorehousecc.org/carshow2023.

“We are so grateful to the men of St. Andrew for organizing this annual fundraiser benefiting our neighbors at The Storehouse,” said Candace Winslow, CEO, The Storehouse of Collin County. “In our food pantry alone, we are serving more than 5,000 families each month. Without question, the need is great, and each donation we receive enables us to serve our neighbors holistically, not only meeting their needs of food and clothing but also helping them advance on their paths toward transformation.”

# # #

St. Andrew Methodist Church began in 1986 in the spirit of its namesake, a disciple of Jesus. The life of the Apostle Andrew embodies the church's mission, which is to invite the Christian-ish and the unchurched to become passionate servants of Christ. The congregation of St. Andrew follows Jesus, lives in relationship, serves others, and takes risks in faith. Worship includes four services each weekend on a 21.2-acre campus at the corner of Plano Parkway and Mira Vista in Plano, Texas, where more than 2,000 people worship each weekend. The Sanctuary hosts worship in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. Small groups and Bible studies gather on campus and throughout the region every day of the week. Mission opportunities serve our local area, neighboring regions, and global communities. The church has been repeatedly selected as a "Best Place to Worship in Plano” by the readers of the Plano Star Courier. St. Andrew Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call 972-380-8001.

The Storehouse of Collin County, a nonprofit founded in 2009, provides short-term assistance and long-term transformation to residents of Collin, Dallas, and Denton Counties through four programs. Seven Loaves Food Pantry serves over 5,000 families each month; Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet provides clothing at no cost; Project Hope Neighbor Care offers case management and resource referral; and The Academy Education Program provides free and reduced-cost classes to assist with language, job, or life skills development. During its previous fiscal year, The Storehouse served 146,922 unduplicated neighbors with the support of more than 2,000 volunteers. In August 2023, the North Texas Food Bank honored The Storehouse with the Hope for Tomorrow Award. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
The Dover String Quartet - Oct. 8 “Masterly Nuanced…Gutsy and earthy sound.” -The New York Times

The Arts Foundation of St. Andrew Methodist Church launches a fall music series, bringing in national and international musicians in addition to local talent, including five area high school choirs. The performances will take place in both the new Hasley Chapel and the sanctuary, located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway in Plano. There is no cost for the series except for the opening event on Oct. 8. Registration is requested for all events.

“At St. Andrew we believe that art and music serve as a powerful connector, bringing the community together in a shared experience,” said Taylor Davis, creative director of traditional music and worship, St. Andrew Methodist Church. “We are delighted to bring world class art to our community and hope you will plan to join us for one or more of these phenomenal performances in our fall concert series.”

On Oct. 8 at 5 p.m., The Dover String Quartet, named one of the greatest string quartets of the last 100 years by the BBC Music Magazine, will perform in the Hasley Chapel. The GRAMMY® nominated Dover Quartet has followed a “practically meteoric” (Strings) trajectory to become one of the most in-demand chamber ensembles in the world. This is the first concert in St. Andrew’s newly constructed Hasley Chapel and is a ticketed event, $15 - $50, with limited seating available.

On Oct. 15, 2 p.m., The Crimson Duo, featuring harpist Dr. Jaymee Haefner and violinist Matthew Milewski will perform in the Hasley Chapel. In their ten years of performing together, they have been featured in recitals in Hong Kong, New York City, New Orleans, and Atlanta. There is no cost for this event; however, due to limited seating, registration is required.

On Oct. 22, 4 p.m., Apollo5, out of London, and five area high school choirs will take center stage in the sanctuary at St. Andrew.  Praised for their powerful singing and distinctive sound, the award-winning British vocal ensemble Apollo5 proves how dynamic only five voices can be. With such small forces, they are able to showcase each individual voice while still achieving their critically acclaimed blend. High school choirs from Hebron, McKinney Boyd, Plano Senior, Plano West, and R.L. Turner, who have been training with Apollo5 scholars through the Voces8 Foundation, will perform separately and with Apollo5. There is no cost for this event, but registration is requested.

On Nov. 5, 4 p.m., Peter Holder, the sub-organist for Westminster Abbey since 2017, will perform in the sanctuary. Recently, Holder served as the organist for both Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral service and King Charles III’s coronation service. In his role as sub-organist, Holder is the chief musical assistant to the organist and master of the choristers, playing the organ for the Abbey’s daily services and accompanying the Abbey Choir in recordings and concerts. He is the principal deputy conductor of the choir and assists in training the choristers. Having served for two years as Organ Scholar of Westminster Abbey, he was sub-organist of St Paul’s Cathedral between 2014 and 2017. As a recitalist, Holder performs in cathedrals and concert halls across the world. There is no cost for this event, but registration is requested.

To purchase tickets for The Dover String Quartet and to register your attendance for events, visit www.standrewmethodist.org/worship/music-and-arts

“This group of performers represents some of the best in the world, and they are coming to St. Andrew to share their gifts with the community,” added Davis. “Music stirs the soul, uplifts our spirits, and strengthens our faith. We hope you can join us for these beautiful and inspirational performances.”

# # #

St. Andrew Methodist Church began in 1986 in the spirit of its namesake, a disciple of Jesus. The life of the Apostle Andrew embodies the church's mission, which is to invite the Christian-ish and the unchurched to become passionate servants of Christ. The congregation of St. Andrew follows Jesus, lives in relationship, serves others, and takes risks in faith. Worship includes four services each weekend on a 21.2-acre campus at the corner of Plano Parkway and Mira Vista in Plano, Texas, where more than 2,000 people worship each weekend. The Sanctuary hosts worship in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. Small groups and Bible studies gather on campus and throughout the region every day of the week. Mission opportunities serve our local area, neighboring regions, and global communities. The church has been repeatedly selected as a "Best Place to Worship in Plano” by the readers of the Plano Star Courier. St. Andrew Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call 972-380-8001.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
20th Anniversary of the Letourneau Pipe Organ Enjoy an evening of music at the 20th Anniversary Organ Recital celebration, featuring Principal Organist Dr. Jonathan Gregoire along with some of DFW’s finest instrumentalists and the St. Andrew Chancel Choir

St. Andrew Methodist Church invites the community to enjoy an evening of music at the 20th Anniversary Organ Recital celebration of its Letourneau pipe organ, on Friday, Sept. 8, from 7 to 8 p.m., in the sanctuary, 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano. Free and open to the public, the event will feature Principal Organist Dr. Jonathan Gregoire along with some of DFW’s finest instrumentalists and the St. Andrew Chancel Choir.

St. Andrew’s Letourneau pipe organ, installed in 2003, was handcrafted by the Canadian firm Orgues Letourneau Limitee.  It contains 4,335 pipes made from tin, zinc, and wood, and is one of the largest in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. Fr

“For 20 years this magnificent pipe organ has not only supported the singing of our choirs, guest performers, congregation, it has musically narrated weddings, baptisms, memorial services, and every season of life in between,” said Taylor Davis, creative director of traditional music and worship. “During this musical celebration, you will experience all that this grand instrument can do at the masterful hands of Jonathan Gregoire, accompanied by outstanding musicians, each of whom feel like family.  Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy what will be a delightful evening of music as we look back at the first twenty years and anticipate the next twenty.”

For event information, visit www.standrewmethodist.org or call 972-380-8001.

St. Andrew Methodist Church began in 1986 in the spirit of its namesake, a disciple of Jesus. The life of the Apostle Andrew embodies the church's mission, which is to invite the Christian-ish and the unchurched to become passionate servants of Christ. The congregation of St. Andrew follows Jesus, lives in relationship, serves others, and takes risks in faith. Worship includes four services each weekend on a 21.2-acre campus at the corner of Plano Parkway and Mira Vista in Plano, Texas, where more than 2,000 people worship each weekend. The Sanctuary hosts worship in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. Small groups and Bible studies gather on campus and throughout the region every day of the week. Mission opportunities serve our local area, neighboring regions, and global communities. The church has been repeatedly selected as a "Best Place to Worship in Plano” by the readers of the Plano Star Courier. St. Andrew Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call 972-380-8001.

Gravatar

ST. ANDREW METHODIST CHURCH INVITES COMMUNITY TO AN ORGAN RECITAL CONCERT IN CELEBRATION OF THE 20th ANNIVERSARY OF ITS LETOURNEAU PIPE ORGAN

 

Plano, Texas – July 31, 2023 – St. Andrew Methodist Church invites the community to enjoy an evening of music at the 20th Anniversary Organ Recital celebration of its Letourneau pipe organ, on Friday, Sept. 8, from 7 to 8 p.m., in the sanctuary, 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano. Free and open to the public, the event will feature Principal Organist Dr. Jonathan Gregoire along with some of DFW’s finest instrumentalists and the St. Andrew Chancel Choir.

 

St. Andrew’s Letourneau pipe organ, installed in 2003, was handcrafted by the Canadian firm Orgues Letourneau Limitee.  It contains 4,335 pipes made from tin, zinc, and wood, and is one of the largest in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

 

“For 20 years this magnificent pipe organ has not only supported the singing of our choirs, guest performers, congregation, it has musically narrated weddings, baptisms, memorial services, and every season of life in between,” said Taylor Davis, creative director of traditional music and worship. “During this musical celebration, you will experience all that this grand instrument can do at the masterful hands of Jonathan Gregoire, accompanied by outstanding musicians, each of whom feel like family.  Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy what will be a delightful evening of music as we look back at the first twenty years and anticipate the next twenty.”

 

For event information, visit www.standrewmethodist.org or call 972-380-8001.

 

# # #

 

St. Andrew Methodist Church began in 1986 in the spirit of its namesake, a disciple of Jesus. The life of the Apostle Andrew embodies the church's mission, which is to invite the Christian-ish and the unchurched to become passionate servants of Christ. The congregation of St. Andrew follows Jesus, lives in relationship, serves others, and takes risks in faith. Worship includes four services each weekend on a 21.2-acre campus at the corner of Plano Parkway and Mira Vista in Plano, Texas, where more than 2,000 people worship each weekend. The Sanctuary hosts worship in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. Small groups and Bible studies gather on campus and throughout the region every day of the week. Mission opportunities serve our local area, neighboring regions, and global communities. The church has been repeatedly selected as a "Best Place to Worship in Plano” by the readers of the Plano Star Courier. St. Andrew Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call 972-380-8001.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Ribbon Cutting Celebration - The Hasley Chapel St. Andrew Capital Campaign Co-Chairs Debbie and Dave Rader and Laura and Tom Morris join Sharon Hasley and Nancy and Tom Juhn, chair of St. Andrew’s building committee, as well as Rev. Arthur Jones, senior pastor, for the ribbon cutting.

Nestled in the northwest corner of St. Andrew Methodist Church’s 21-acre campus in Plano is a new chapel – The Hasley Chapel – overlooking a pond and a lush, wooded area. This “chapel in the woods,” reminiscent of the chapels from the Arkansas home of St. Andrew’s beloved founding pastor, the late Rev. Robert Hasley, was built to honor his 35-years of ministry at St. Andrew. A stand-alone chapel was a dream of Rev. Hasley’s during the development of the church’s 30-year master plan in 2015, and it was hoped the church could build it a few years later. That dream is now a reality.

On August 13, hundreds of St. Andrew church members gathered at The Hasley Chapel to honor Rev. Hasley at a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony, led by Rev. Arthur Jones; Sharon Hasley, wife of Robert Hasley; St. Andrew Capital Campaign Co-Chairs Laura and Tom Morris and Debbie and Dave Rader, who provided wisdom and support propelling plans and fundraising efforts; and Nancy and Tom Juhn, chair of St. Andrew’s building committee. As Sharon Hasley cut the ribbon, loud cheers erupted from a standing-room-only crowd of church members who filled the chapel for the celebration.

“This is not only an exciting and historical day at St. Andrew – it is also a very emotional one,” said Rev. Arthur Jones, Sr. Pastor, St. Andrew Methodist Church. “We know that Robert is here with us in spirit as we dedicate his chapel in the woods, a beautiful space where people can encounter Christ and feel the love of God while leading others to do the same. Robert was St. Andrew’s first shepherd who pointed us to Jesus every day.”

Plans for building the chapel were revisited in 2021 immediately after Rev. Hasley passed the baton to now Senior Pastor Rev. Arthur Jones, and his title changed to founding pastor. The congregation wanted a special way to honor his legacy and ministry. A few weeks later when Rev. Hasley was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer, it was determined that the chapel with Hasley as its namesake would be the perfect way to honor him. The building committee met, leadership was organized, and money was raised to begin construction of the $10 million, 10,000 sq. ft., 300-seat chapel.

On Nov. 7, 2021, hundreds gathered for the chapel groundbreaking during which Plano Mayor John Muns read a surprise proclamation declaring Nov. 7 “Robert Hasley Day” in Plano. As Mayor Muns concluded the proclamation, he encouraged all citizens to join him and the Plano City Council in honoring Rev. Hasley for “faithfully fulfilling his divine call to servant leadership where he has made a positive impact in countless lives.”

Now completed, The Hasley Chapel has an A-frame roof supported by wood trusses and roof deck and is composed of natural materials such as wood and stone on the interior and exterior with scenic views of the creek from the worship space. Support areas such as restrooms, a parlor, sacristy, and vestry are organized on the west side of the building. The chapel also features a balcony for an organ, choir loft, and additional seating. The chapel will serve as a home for more intimate weddings, funerals, worship services, and small conference events.

“As you walk into the chapel, you can feel Robert’s warmth and hints of his Arkansas home with the wood, stone, and glass,” added Rev. Jones. “As you look to the left, there is a painting commissioned to evoke the feelings of Psalm 23 and Matthew 18. These two scripture passages highlight what it means to be a good shepherd and remind me of Robert’s confidence through his cancer diagnosis, which showed us all how to live each day to the fullest. In the 12 years that I knew him, he demonstrated his knowledge of the simple and profound promise of God every day by the love he showed to all who knew him.”

Rev. Hasley passed away on July 21, 2022, just three months after construction began, but his memory and legacy live on throughout the campus of St. Andrew and in his beautiful “chapel in the woods.”

For more information on the Hasley Chapel and St. Andrew, visit www.standrewmethodist.org or call 972-380-8001.

 

St. Andrew Methodist Church began in 1986 in the spirit of its namesake, a disciple of Jesus. The life of the Apostle Andrew embodies the church's mission, which is to invite the Christian-ish and the unchurched to become passionate servants of Christ. The congregation of St. Andrew follows Jesus, lives in relationship, serves others, and takes risks in faith. Worship includes four services each weekend on a 21.2-acre campus at the corner of Plano Parkway and Mira Vista in Plano, Texas, where more than 2,000 people worship each weekend. The Sanctuary hosts worship in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. Small groups and Bible studies gather on campus and throughout the region every day of the week. Mission opportunities serve our local area, neighboring regions, and global communities. The church has been repeatedly selected as a "Best Place to Worship in Plano” by the readers of the Plano Star Courier. St. Andrew Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call 972-380-8001.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Culture of Cleanliness New Orleans

St. Andrew Methodist students, both high school and middle school, spent a memorable, inspirational, and impactful week, June 6-10, serving others locally in Dallas as well as in New Orleans. Sixty-five high school students, accompanied by 10 adults, traveled to New Orleans, where they worked through Rebuilding Hope in New Orleans (RHINO) to serve four organizations:  Okra Abbey, a community garden and food pantry; Mission New Orleans, a homeless shelter and ministry; Rebuilding Together, a national nonprofit for providing safe and healthy housing; and Culture of Cleanliness, an organization focused on beautification of the city. In Dallas and Plano, 35 middle schoolers, accompanied by eight adult leaders and one college student, served at St. Philip’s School and Community Center and at The Storehouse of Collin County.

“What impressed me about all of our students was how eagerly they jumped in and began serving no matter what the task,” said Brian Colligan, St. Andrew’s new director of student ministry. “In fact, they wanted to do even more!”

In New Orleans each day began at 7 a.m. with breakfast and a devotional. The students then traveled to their job sites, where they worked from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Students painted homes through Rebuilding Together, and they planted, harvested, and served produce and other food donations to the neighbors at Okra Abbey. Okra Abbey also has a program with outside refrigerators, covered, powered, and stocked by the neighborhood. People who are hungry can come to those and get food.

“One day we had extra lunches, and we put them in the refrigerators and watched as neighbors came for food,” added Colligan. “It was an interesting concept and one that we learned other groups have implemented throughout the city.”

At Mission New Orleans the students painted, cleaned, and washed rooms. One day they took hot breakfast meals out to the homeless. Another day they distributed non-perishable bags of food and visited and prayed with them. Additionally, the students spent time with those staying in the shelter by participating in some of the Bible classes. Through Culture of Cleanliness the students participated in trash audits, picking up trash and logging what they picked up. The organization works with companies that cover the cost of recycling the items. In the evenings the group, staying on the campus of Loyola, would enjoy free time followed by worship and teachings of stories of Jesus serving others.

“I have been on six mission trips over the years, and this was one of my favorites,” said Brody Lofgren, 18. “I felt more connected and fulfilled, and I really wanted to be a light for those we served. I spent some time with one of the homeless men we were serving, and he was a good guy. I had heard before that often homeless are very depressed and just want their life to be over, so I stopped and prayed with this man. All the men were very respectful of prayer and longed for that human connection.”

The middle schoolers cleaned, painted, and organized items at St. Philip’s School and Community Center. Some worked in the onsite food pantry while others picked up trash and pulled weeds on the grounds of St. Philip’s as well as in the surrounding neighborhood. The students also assisted with preparations for an upcoming camp for kids to be held at St. Philip’s in partnership with the Boys and Girls Club. Additionally, they assembled 750 kids’ snack bags for children who visit the food pantry at The Storehouse of Collin County. Each child who comes to the pantry receives a snack bag to remind them they are always welcome there, and The Storehouse is a safe place to ask for help. Lastly, the middle schoolers participated in a poverty simulation, organized by Unite, where they learned what it was like for a homeless person trying to escape poverty.

“This was my second mission trip, and it was a lot of fun,” said Addison Eagle, 12. “We stayed at St. Andrew and went to St. Philip’s during the day. We helped clean up the playground, organize school supplies, work in the office, set up a classroom for summer camp, and basically helped with whatever they needed. “I think one of my favorite parts of the week was the poverty simulation. We pretended to be a homeless family, learning to navigate social service organizations, shelters, and trying to get a job to get money. It was very eye-opening to see what it is really like for them.”

“I’ve spent 15 years in student ministry prior to coming to St. Andrew, and I’ve been on a lot of mission trips,” added Colligan. “I was very impressed with all our students, who consistently served from a place of humility and love. A highlight of the trip for me happened while we were serving at Mission New Orleans. I looked over and saw one of the students, Brody Lofgren, praying with the homeless. I began noticing even more students praying with the homeless. After visiting with them, the students realized that they were not any different from them. Various life circumstances and problems had contributed to their situations. Without question, the students each brought this year’s theme, The Parable of The Good Samaritan, to life. They did not walk by those in need.  Instead, they took the time to get to know them, serving, praying, and staying on mission.”

To see Mission Trip 2023 in action, visit this video link: https://vimeo.com/836616137

 

# # #

 

St. Andrew Methodist Church began in 1986 in the spirit of its namesake, a disciple of Jesus. The life of the Apostle Andrew embodies the church's mission, which is to invite the Christian-ish and the unchurched to become passionate servants of Christ. The congregation of St. Andrew follows Jesus, lives in relationship, serves others, and takes risks in faith. Worship includes four services each weekend on a 21.2-acre campus at the corner of Plano Parkway and Mira Vista in Plano, Texas, where more than 2,000 people worship each weekend. The Sanctuary hosts worship in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. Small groups and Bible studies gather on campus and throughout the region every day of the week. Mission opportunities serve our local area, neighboring regions, and global communities. The church has been repeatedly selected as a "Best Place to Worship in Plano” by the readers of the Plano Star Courier. St. Andrew Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call 972-380-8001.

 

 

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
VBS at St. Andrew Methodist

St. Andrew Methodist Church invites elementary children to participate in STELLAR Vacation Bible School (VBS) and pre-teens to participate in Pre-Teen VBS, Monday, June 19 – Thursday, June 22, from 9 a.m. to noon, at St. Andrew Methodist Church, 5801 W. Plano Parkway in Plano.

STELLAR VBS is for children entering kindergarten, or 5 years of age by September 1, through 3rd Grade for the 2023-24 school year, and Pre-Teen VBS is for those entering 4th and 5th Grade for the 2023-24 school year. All ages will enjoy Bible activities, music, snacks, crafts, and more. This year’s theme will help children discover how they can shine Jesus’ love and hope in everyday life.

“Participants will enjoymemorable Bible-learning activities, inspirational worship, teamwork-building games, yummy treats, one-of-a-kind Bible Adventures, collecting Bible Memory Buddies to remind them of Jesus’ light, and testing out Sciency-Fun Gizmos to take home and play with all summer long,” said Rachel Kortum, director of Children’s Ministry, St. Andrew. “Plus, kids will learn to look for evidence of God all around them through something called God Sightings. Each day concludes with a Cosmic Closing that gets everyone involved in living what they’ve learned. Family members and friends are encouraged to join in daily for this special time at 11:40 a.m. each day of camp.”

The cost is $25 per child, and registration is required by June 9. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org or call 972-380-8001 to register.

“It’s never too early to start learning to live like Jesus,” added Kortum.  “Join us!”

# # #

St. Andrew Methodist Church began in 1986 in the spirit of its namesake, a disciple of Jesus. The life of the Apostle Andrew embodies the church's mission, which is to invite the Christian-ish and the unchurched to become passionate servants of Christ. The congregation of St. Andrew follows Jesus, lives in relationship, serves others, and takes risks in faith. Worship includes four services each weekend on a 21.2-acre campus at the corner of Plano Parkway and Mira Vista in Plano, Texas, where more than 2,000 people worship each weekend. The Sanctuary hosts worship in both a traditional style with the classic pipe organ and a contemporary style with an LED center screen and lighting technology. Small groups and Bible studies gather on campus and throughout the region every day of the week. Mission opportunities serve our local area, neighboring regions, and global communities. The church has been repeatedly selected as a "Best Place to Worship in Plano” by the readers of the Plano Star Courier. St. Andrew Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewmethodist.org; call 972-380-8001.