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Beacon of Light Doug Reed, Executive Director, Beacon of Light

Beacon of Light invites the community to a free Mental Health Awareness Month Event “Thriving in Transition: How Healthy Families Navigate Life’s Next Season”  on May 10  

After two losses of life within the St. Andrew Methodist Church community just prior to the 2020 pandemic, church pastors and staff knew that a proactive stance regarding mental health was needed and launched Beacon of Light, a new mental health ministry, to serve not only the church community, but also North Texas residents and other churches and centers of faith. The program, launched in 2021, has provided services to 170 families struggling with a variety of mental health issues.

Beacon of Light  provides awareness for mental health, counseling services, and a variety of educational resources to support individuals including newsletters, special events, and a podcast launching in May – all of which can be found on its website.  The counseling services are provided with licensed, professional therapists on a wide variety of the most common mental health concerns and disorders. All counseling services, delivered in partnership with The Center for Integrative Counseling, are provided confidentially at Beacon of Light’s offices, located at 5700 W. Plano Parkway, Suite 1600, in Plano, directly across the street from St. Andrew Methodist. Tele-health services are also available.

“Our pilot program proved that if a church offers a mental health program, people will use it,” said Doug Reed, executive director, Beacon of Light. “On average, someone struggling with mental health issues waits 11 years to seek help. We must remove barriers to treatment, and the church – often one of the first places people turn to when in crisis – is one of the easiest places to seek help. We encourage anyone in the community struggling with mental health issues to reach out to us. Each of us deserves joy in our lives, and if your mental health makes joy seem impossible, we can help.”

Reed, a long-time St. Andrew member who has managed several behavioral health care organizations, both for-profit and nonprofit, was asked to lead this new endeavor. His daughter, Natalie, then 29, died by suicide in January 2020 shortly before the pandemic.

“There are few families left untouched by mental health challenges,” said Reed.  “In our case the impact was immediate and devastating.  We thought that death by suicide happened to others, not our family.  Our vision for Beacon of Light, quite simply, is to combine the power of faith with expert clinical services to help save lives.”

During Mental Health Awareness Month, Beacon of Light invites the community to its first special event, a panel discussion, “Thriving in Transition: How Healthy Families Navigate Life’s Next Season,” on May 10, from 6:30-8 p.m., in Piro Hall, St. Andrew Methodist, 5801 W. Plano Parkway. The event, free and open to all, will feature guest speaker, Dr. Elizabeth Zak, a licensed clinical psychologist with over 25 years’ experience working with children and adults across the lifespan, as well as a panel discussion with Hannah Wilkins (college freshman); Julee Williams (parent of 4 children, ages 19 to 25); Rev. Kim Meyers, St. Andrew; and Tyler Woodall, LPC, Beacon of Light counselor. The panel will be moderated by Carrie Cravens, LCSW, clinical program manager, Beacon of Light. The discussion will focus on struggles with transition and their impact on mental health; ways to keep connection with family and friends and take care of your mental wellbeing through transition; and the role that faith can play.

“For many families, May represents a challenging time of transition – promotion from one grade to the next; transitions to new schools; and graduations from high school to college mean big changes for families,” added Reed. “Through Beacon of Light, we’ve seen the impact of these transition periods, and it is always our goal to be proactive and provide important resources so that individuals and families have the tactics and tools to manage changing and challenging times.”

Beacon of Light is also working on the development of a comprehensive mental health framework and training program for churches to become mental health informed so they may deliver effective mental health programming within their membership and communities.

“We know that churches are on the front line of the mental health crisis,” said Reed. “There are more than 380,000 churches imbedded in communities throughout the country, but most lack the knowledge, resources, and partners to address even the most basic mental health needs. What if pastoral staff and lay leaders knew how to identify and triage various mental health conditions and illnesses?  How many lives could be changed or saved? Multiple churches have already reached out to us, and our vision is to provide them with programming, training, and resources in the near future.”  

“It’s important for everyone to keep in mind that we have all faced circumstances that left us feeling paralyzed, alone, and free-falling,” added Reed. “In these times, Beacon of Light can provide guidance and help you navigate the complexities of mental health. Join us on May 10, learn more about how Beacon of Light might be able to help you and your family, and take home some helpful information to help you navigate life’s next season. At Beacon of Light it is our hope to further your mental and spiritual health to prevent mental health issues in the future.”

An RSVP is encouraged for the panel discussion but not required. Visitwww.beaconoflightmh.org for a link to RSVP. 

 

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Beacon of Light launched in 2021 as a ministry of St. Andrew Methodist Church in Plano to create a Christ-centered mental health initiative to support the St. Andrew community, those who live in North Texas and other churches and centers of faith. Born out of St. Andrew’s challenge of reacting to mental health crises among its members, Beacon of Light equips individuals and churches with valuable tools and resources to address the continuum of mental health challenges. This means increasing awareness for mental health in general; developing resources to help those in need better understand mental health conditions, treatment options and aftercare considerations; training church and lay leaders to be more informed regarding mental health issues; and providing expert clinical treatment with experienced mental health providers. Key goals include encouraging engagement, reducing the stigma around mental health while removing barriers, and creating awareness of treatment and support services. Visit https://www.beaconoflightmh.org/ , email contact@beaconoflightmh.org, or call 469-385-1828. Beacon of Light is located at 5700 W. Plano Parkway, Suite 1600, Plano, TX 75093.

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.

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Steven Small, Ph.D., M.D.

Presented by The Second Act at St. Andrew, this free seminar will provide helpful information for those assisting aging parents as well as healthy-living tips for the brain and body

The Second Act of St. Andrew Methodist Church, a retirement ministry for those nearly, newly, and already retired in our community, invites the community to a Brain Health Seminar, featuring some of North Texas’ leading experts on the topic of brain health and aging. The seminar will take place on Saturday, March 25, 9 a.m. to noon, in Smith Worship Center, St. Andrew Methodist, 5801 W. Plano Parkway. There is no cost for the seminar, but registration is required.

Speakers are Steven Small, Ph.D., M.D., dean of the School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences at University of Texas at Dallas and professor at UT Southwestern Medical School in Dallas; Kathy Shockley, M.A., L.N.H.A., program director, Alzheimer’s Association, Dallas and Northeast Texas; Anna Tseng, M.D., president of Neurology Consultants of Dallas; Mary Norman, M.D., geriatrician; and Alice Wong, community educator, Alzheimer’s Association. Topics include “Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia,” “Ten Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s,” “Inside the Black Box; The Neuroscience of Brain Health,” and “Healthy Living for Your Brain and Body.” Additionally, mini classes focusing on body health will include a balance training class by Kathy Chamberlain, founder, Chamberlain School of Ballet, and a  Tai Chi session by Michael Braitsch, P.T., D.P.T., owner and lead therapist, Tribe Wellness.

The day will begin with a light breakfast, and there will be four breakout rooms available for personal balance and memory screenings by trained professionals.

“What an incredible seminar our Second Act leaders have put together for the benefit of the community,” said Rev. Arthur Jones, Sr. Pastor, St. Andrew Methodist. “I am so proud of our founding pastor, the late Robert Hasley, who had the vision for this new ministry. A task force worked for nine months visiting with organizations throughout North Texas, and a blueprint was put forth as the vision for this new ministry. Church members with experience in management, finance, accounting, nonprofits, law, and community volunteers lead this new ministry, and this is just one of many things the group has been doing. We are thrilled to have a community-wide event with such renowned experts in a field that is going to impact us all.  Please mark your calendar and join us on March 25.”

To register, visit https://www.standrewmethodist.org/thesecondact, and click on Brain Health Seminar.

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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.

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St. Andrew Prom Closet Register online!

St. Andrew Methodist Church announces online registration is now open for Prom Closet 2023, which is scheduled for a two-week period: Feb. 7-9, 11 and 13-18 in Smith Worship Center, at St. Andrew Methodist Church in Plano, on the east side of the church at 1401 Mira Vista Blvd. Girls from ANYWHERE in need of a prom dress are invited to come select a dress and accessories - all at no cost. Appointments are required to improve the overall shopping experience and minimize wait times for the shoppers. Each shopper must be present to select her own dress and accessories and may have one guest, age 16 or older. A personal shopper volunteer will assist each shopper throughout the process. There will be 35 shopping slots per each 1.5-hour time frame.

Prom Closet, a service of the St. Andrew Women in Faith, provides prom attire to approximately 1,000 high school girls each year. When it first began in 2009, 35 girls from local high schools received dresses and accessories. Over the years, Prom Closet has welcomed girls from across Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma as well as exchange students from Germany, Poland, Switzerland, and Thailand. Approximately 500 volunteers come together each year to help make prom dreams come true.

“It’s no secret that attending prom can be very expensive,” said Devra Helffrich, a founder of Prom Closet, which was created to provide a unique shopping experience for young ladies who because of finances would be unable to attend prom. “Not only is the need great, but the impact the dress makes on the girl and her family is immeasurable. Each volunteer strives to provide an uplifting experience for the young ladies letting them know they are loved, and they are beautiful. There are countless beautiful and emotional stories of girls and their families who have received prom dresses and accessories.”

This past summer St. Andrew received a wonderful letter from the mom of a girl who was a past recipient of Prom Closet. She shared that because of Prom Closet her daughter was able to attend her Homeschool Prom twice during some of the hardest financial and personal years for the family. Her daughter then returned her dresses to St. Andrew along with a few more and shared how much joy it gave her to know that other girls can benefit, and they will also have amazing memories from their proms.

“Our family was struggling with money and the death of my father,” said Lauren Crowder. “I didn’t want to go out shopping and see dresses I couldn’t afford, but when I came to Prom Closet, everyone was so welcoming and wanted me to be filled with joy. They provided everything I needed including shoes and jewelry. I learned that there are people out there who watch out for others facing difficult times. It’s important for us all to give back when we can do so.”

The Prom Closet is accepting donations of dresses (sizes 0-30), jewelry, shoes, handbags, and wraps. All donations may be dropped off at St. Andrew, 1401 Mira Vista Blvd., Jan. 3 – Feb. 16, just inside the church’s north entry doors on a designated dress rack, Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m.- 8:30 p.m.; Friday 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.; Saturday 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.; and Sunday 9 a.m. - noon. For the north entrance, look for the covered walkway and sign on the building.  A link on Amazon is available for anyone that would like to help by purchasing items, which will be shipped directly to the church. To review items available for purchase, go to this link: Prom Closet Wish List

“We are so grateful for the support and donations from the community as well as our wonderful volunteers – all of whom make Prom Closet possible,” added Helffrich. “We collect dresses, shoes, jewelry, wraps, handbags, and other accessories year ‘round and encourage the community to bring in items to support this important effort. This will be the 14th year we have held Prom Closet, which has grown to be an extraordinary outreach to girls throughout the metroplex and beyond.”

To register for a 1.5-hour time slot and to volunteer, visit www.standrewmethodist.org/news/promcloset.

For questions and more information email promcloset@standrewmethodist.org, or call 469-385-1810 for more information.

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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.

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Christmas Festival - Dec. 11; 9:30 and 11 a.m. A beautiful celebration of music featuring favorite carols, full orchestra, choirs, and sing-a-longs.

Celebrate a premier Christmas with music and worship as well as fun holiday activities at St. Andrew United Methodist Church in Plano, 5801 W. Plano Parkway. From Christmas concerts and candlelight services to photos with Santa and ice-skating in the courtyard, there are many opportunities throughout Advent to celebrate and reflect on the true meaning of season.

On December 8, at 7 p.m. in the sanctuary, St. Andrew will host “Behold the Lamb of God: The True Tale of the Coming of Christ” Advent song concert - the only Dallas-Fort Worth stop on the national tour - featuring Nashville singer-songwriter and author Andrew Peterson with guest artists The Arcadian Wild, Jess Ray, Jill Phillips, Andy Gullahorn, and Skye Peterson. The two-part concert brings artists together for a “songwriters in the round” in the first half and a performance of the “Behold the Lamb of God” album performed in full in the second half. For a limited time, receive 20 percent off all tickets at https://events.platformtickets.com/csc?4874#/

On December 11, at both the 9:30 and 11 a.m. worship services in the sanctuary, enjoy a Sunday morning Festival of Music with favorite carols, choirs, full orchestra, and sing-a-longs. Before or after the festival, stop by to see Santa and his reindeer out front for a photo opportunity in his sleigh - complete with falling snow. Come celebrate the birth of our Savior through beautiful music and fill your hearts with Christmas joy.

On December 17, bring your family for a special Children’s Nativity Service at 5:30 p.m. followed by ice skating in the courtyard– holiday fun for the whole family! Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and a holiday movie on the pop-up screen. Come and be filled with the holiday spirit as you glide around the ice. Skates will be provided, and all are welcome to participate.

On December 18, St. Andrew will hold a Service of Comfort and Hope, designed for those experiencing grief and loss, at 3 p.m. in the sanctuary. The service will feature musical presentations as well as inspirational words to provide hope and healing.

At 5 p.m. on December 18, celebrate the season at Christmas Carols and Candy Canes with the international award-winning British vocal ensemble Apollo5, accompanied on the piano by Taylor Davis, creative director of traditional music and worship, St. Andrew. This festive light-hearted evening features favorite Christmas carols and fun for the whole family.

On December 23-24, come celebrate the birth of Christ with beautiful worship and beloved carols at one of the Christmas Candlelight Services. Services will conclude with the traditional lighting of the candles and singing “Silent Night” together.

  • Traditional: Friday 12/23 at 7 p.m.
  • Contemporary: Sat 12/24 at 2 and 4 p.m.
  • Traditional: Sat 12/24 at 6, 8, and 11 p.m.

On Christmas morning, December 25, at 10 a.m., join us for a special blessing of the toys! Each child may bring his or her new favorite toy for a special blessing and a short message. Kids are invited to come in their PJs and hot cocoa (and coffee!) will be provided in the Narthex.

“As we prepare our hearts for Advent, we hope you will join us throughout the month of December and make your holidays holy days,” said Rev. Arthur Jones, senior pastor, St. Andrew. “Whether through music, worship, or fun activities, take time to reflect on the true meaning of the season, the birth of our Savior, and turn this season into one that is full of peace, joy, and happiness.”

Visit standrewumc.org/Christmas for information about all events.

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St. Andrew United 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 gather each weekend. Recent renovation allows the Sanctuary to host worship in both Traditional style, with the classic pipe organ, and Contemporary style, with a new 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 United Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewumc.org; call 972-380-8001.

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VOCES8

St. Andrew United Methodist Church invites the community for a beautiful evening of music performed by the world-renowned British Vocal Ensemble VOCES8 on Sunday, October 30, at 6 p.m., in the sanctuary at 5801 W. Plano Parkway. There is no admission fee.

Touring globally, VOCES8 performs an extensive repertory – from Renaissance to Nat King Cole – both in its a cappella concerts and in collaborations with leading musicians, orchestras, composers, and soloists around the world. The group has performed at many notable venues since its inception in 2005 including Wigmore Hall, Elbphilharmonie Hamburg, Cité de la Musique Paris, Vienna Konzerthaus, Tokyo Opera City, NCPA Beijing, Sydney Opera House, Mariinsky Theatre Concert Hall, Victoria Concert Hall Singapore, Palacio de Bellas Artes Mexico City among many others. This season they are performing over 100 concerts in the UK and across Europe, in Israel and the United States.

“It is always a privilege to welcome our friends from VOCES8 to St. Andrew,” said Taylor Davis, creative director of traditional music and worship. “Their stunning performances are an inspiration, providing impeccable harmony that sets the tone for an engaging and beautiful evening. To see this talented group perform live is an opportunity that should not be missed. We hope you can join us!”

For more information about this event and VOCES8 visit www.standrewumc.org or www.voces8.com.

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St. Andrew United 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 gather each weekend. Recent renovation allows the Sanctuary to host worship in both Traditional style, with the classic pipe organ, and Contemporary style, with a new 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 United Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewumc.org; call 972-380-8001.

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Trunk or Treat at St. Andrew

St. Andrew United Methodist Church invites the community to its annual Trunk or Treat event Sunday, October 30, 5 – 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.

This year’s event will also feature a Bubble bus and bounce houses. Concessions are available for purchase with proceeds benefiting the youth ministry’s annual ski trip.

 

“It’s wonderful to see families from the community 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.standrewumc.org.

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St. Andrew United 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 gather each weekend. Recent renovation allows the Sanctuary to host worship in both Traditional style, with the classic pipe organ, and Contemporary style, with a new 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 United Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewumc.org; call 972-380-8001.

 

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6th Annual Cars for Community Car Show Benefiting The Storehouse of Collin County- FREE ADMISSION

6th Annual St. Andrew Cars for Community Car Show to benefit The Storehouse of Collin County

Annual fundraiser supports The Storehouse’s mission to feed, clothe, and care as neighbors in one community

The 6th Annual St. Andrew Cars for Community Car Show, hosted by St. Andrew’s United Methodist Men’s Ministry, is scheduled for Saturday, October 22, at St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 5801 W. Plano Parkway, from 12 – 3 p.m. (Awards presented at 3 p.m.) Open to the general public with no admission fee, the event invites car enthusiasts to show off cars while benefiting The Storehouse of Collin County, a nonprofit which provides short-term assistance and long-term transformation to residents of Collin County in need.

“We are excited to be back in full force,” said Ron Weaver, organizer. “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. All proceeds go toward supporting its mission to feed, clothe, and care as neighbors in one community. Your donations 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. Onsite registration on the day of the event takes place from 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. and is $25. Online pre-registration is $25. Go to https://give.thestorehousecc.org/event/cars-for-community-car-show/e405948

“We are so grateful to the men of St. Andrew for organizing this annual fundraiser benefiting our neighbors at The Storehouse, said Candace Winslow, executive director, The Storehouse of Collin County. “Both the pandemic and inflation have dramatically increased food insecurity within our community, and we are now serving more than 3,000 families each month – a number that has tripled since March 2020 before the Covid pandemic. Each donation we receive enables us to serve our neighbors holistically, not only meeting their food and clothing needs, but also serving as a ‘conduit of care’ to help with other aspects of their lives.”

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St. Andrew United 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 gather each weekend. Recent renovation allows the Sanctuary to host worship in both Traditional style, with the classic pipe organ, and Contemporary style, with a new 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 United Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewumc.org; call 972-380-8001.

The Storehouse of Collin County provides short-term assistance and long-term transformation to residents of Collin County in need through the Seven Loaves Food Pantry, Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet, Project Hope Neighbor Care, and The Academy Education Program. The nonprofit was founded in 2009 under the name of Seven Loaves Community, which provided food pantry staples and grew over the years to meet a variety of needs. Over 3,000 families on average access Seven Loaves each month. The Storehouse provides clothing at no cost through Joseph’s Coat as well as counseling and case management through Project Hope. The Academy provides free and reduced-cost classes to assist with language, job, or life skills development. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333

 

 

 

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Rev. Robert Hasley, January 2,1952 - July 21, 2022 Rev. Robert Hasley was the founding pastor of St. Andrew United Methodist church, where he served for 36 years.

A devoted and passionate servant of Christ, Rev. Hasley touched many lives within St. Andrew as well as in the community, inspiring others to serve in His name

After more than 15 months of thriving with cancer, St. Andrew United Methodist Church’s founding pastor, Rev. Robert Hasley, age 70, died the way that he lived – with hope and confidence. It was May 1, 1986, when Hasley, a young associate pastor at Highland Park United Methodist Church, was appointed by the Bishop of the North Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church to organize a new church in a growing area of Plano. He did not know what the future held, but with the gift of God’s grace through Jesus Christ, he was confident – as he often said – that everything was going to be all right. He always believed that God places the right people at the right time at the right place, that needs are met, and prayers are answered.

For the past 36 years, he devoted his life to serving Christ full time as a pastor at St. Andrew, not only shepherding his congregants but also reaching out and inspiring others to be the hands and feet of Jesus to help those in need. Even before St. Andrew had its own building, Rev. Hasley began mission work with an apartment ministry in East Plano for latchkey children; giving them a safe place under the influence of the church to come after school. In 2009, Hasley and his wife Sharon had the vision for The Storehouse of Collin County, which began as a food pantry feeding one family of four on its first day. Today the Storehouse feeds more than 600 families on a single day and provides clothing and care as well as a new educational program promoting skill development. Additional projects led by Hasley include launching Helping Hands, a ministry which provided meals to first responders and hospital workers during the pandemic; assisting those affected by natural disaster; providing funding and volunteers to build over 20 Habitat for Humanity homes; and establishing St. Andrew’s 4 Corners Global ministry serving the Cabécar people in the remote southern mountains of Costa Rica by providing them with a medical clinic, care, and most recently, cook stoves.

Hasley often stated, “Jesus teaches us that each time we help the hungry and reach out to the sick, helping someone in need, we are serving Christ. We thank God for reminding us of who we are and giving us hope for the future. If by His grace, we move forward, there are many miracles to be performed. We must continue to serve in His name.”

Rev. Hasley served on various boards such as the Methodist Hospital System, Perkins School of Theology at SMU, various committees with the North Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church, and with Plano Independent School District related to strategic vision planning and diversity.

With vision and faith, Hasley was instrumental in the church’s growth. Up until his final days on this earth, Rev. Hasley was busy with the launch of a new ministry for those newly, nearing or already retired called The Second Act. In 2012, St. Andrew launched a contemporary service to reach and engage a younger generation as the church continued toward the next 25 years. This was the beginning of his friendship with Rev. Arthur Jones, who came to St. Andrew to lead this service. Just a few weeks prior to his cancer diagnosis in 2021, Rev. Hasley passed the baton of senior pastor to Rev. Jones, who became only the second senior pastor in the history of St. Andrew.

“Robert was the shepherd of the St. Andrew community for 36 years and showed each person he knew how to live with grace, kindness, and love,” said Rev. Jones, Sr. Pastor, St. Andrew. “Robert lived each day knowing that death is not the end but the beginning of life eternal and his voice and legacy will forever echo in the walls of St. Andrew and in our hearts. As a dear friend to so many, we will miss him deeply; but in the words of Robert Hasley, ‘we have faith that everything is gonna be all right’ as we celebrate his life and vow to continue the mission.”

A memorial service for Rev. Robert Hasley will be held Tuesday, July 26, at 3 p.m. in the sanctuary of St. Andrew, 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas. The St. Andrew family has chosen to celebrate the life and legacy of Robert Hasley with the building of the Hasley Chapel, to be completed in early summer 2023.

St. Andrew United 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 gather each weekend. Recent renovation allows the Sanctuary to host worship in both Traditional style, with the classic pipe organ, and Contemporary style, with a new 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 United Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewumc.org; call 972-380-8001.

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Joseph's Coat Clothing Closet needs boys and girls summer clothing, sizes 4-16, as well as athletic shoes

Joseph's Coat, a program of The Storehouse of Collin County, distributes gently used and new clothing to families at no cost. With summer in full swing, there is a tremendous need for boys and girls summer clothing, sizes 4-16, as well as athletic shoes.

“This is such a generous community, and we receive wonderful donations throughout the year, but we receive limited children’s clothing," said Christi Ferrell, director, Joseph’s Coat. "Each summer the need for children's clothing as well as athletic shoes dramatically increases. We can never get enough donations of kids' athletic shoes as they are also needed for the school year! We are so grateful for the community's donations which enable our team to serve so many in need."

In 2021, Joseph’s Coat distributed 43,804 articles of clothing at no cost to 1,322 households. Please visit Joseph’s Coat’s outside donation shed, located in the north parking lot at 1401 Mira Vista Drive in Plano, to drop off these needed items. For more details, visit www.thestorehousecc.org/in-kind-donations

The Storehouse of Collin County provides short-term assistance and long-term transformation to residents of Collin County in need through the Seven Loaves Food Pantry, Joseph’s Coat Clothing Closet, and Project Hope. The nonprofit was founded in 2009 under the name of Seven Loaves Community which provided only food pantry staples and grew over the years to meet a variety of needs. Over 3,000 families on average access the Seven Loaves Food Pantry each month. The Storehouse also provides an opportunity to receive clothing at no cost through Joseph’s Coat as well as holistic assessment, counseling, goal setting, and referrals to community resources through the Project Hope relational program. Visit www.thestorehousecc.org. The Storehouse EIN: 27-1883333

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St. Andrew UMC Mission Trip Students work at Mission OKC

Twelve vans of 65 high school students, 33 middle school students, and 30 adult volunteers and staff headed to Oklahoma City on June 12 for a week of serving others as participants in St. Andrew United Methodist Church’s 2022 Mission Trip. Students were divided into groups that served through three organizations: Mission OKC, Reaching Our City (ROC), and Habitat for Humanity.

“All of the students felt a strong connection to this year’s theme, ‘The Rebuild,’” said Michael Agnew, director of student ministry, St. Andrew UMC. “The theme was tied to the story of Nehemiah who was tasked with rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem. He gathered his people together, equipped them, and led them in rebuilding the city walls while ensuring all understood God’s Law. Our students came together in this same spirit of rebuilding not only with the physical building and tasks they completed but also with mental and spiritual rebuilding – reconnecting their lives in community while serving our neighbors in need. The pandemic impacted everyone, and after three years of not having mission trip, it felt so good to be together and watch the life-changing impact of this special week not only on those we served but also on our students.”

At Mission OKC, which provides hope to children and families living in poverty areas across Oklahoma City, students made 300 lunches a day for inner-city children and personally delivered the lunches while inviting the children to join them in the afternoon for Vacation Bible School and activities. The students returned in the afternoons to help pick up the children and take them to Mission OKC. On average, 150 children participated each day.

“We had seven groups working with Mission OKC,” added Agnew. “Our students were blown away at the thought that these children were willing to get on a bus with people they did not know because they knew it was their best option for a meal that day. It was quite a reality check for the students. As the week progressed and the students returned to the neighborhoods going door to door, the parents started coming out, hugging, and thanking the students. Our kids could not quit talking about how cool that was, and they went all in to make sure the kids had an amazing time each day. They set up the activities for the children, led them in worship, and played and connected with them.” 

“We packed tons of lunches, played basketball hoops, had a snow cone machine, and basically just spent each afternoon from 2 – 4 p.m. loving on these kids and having a blast,” said Blake Rossley, 20, a college intern on Mission Trip.

“My favorite part of the Mission Trip was making friends with two of the campers, Christian and Dimari,” said William Wonsmos, age 11. “I noticed that one of them wore the same shirt to camp every day, so on the last day, I gave him one of my St. Andrew shirts. It felt really good to help people and spread God’s love."

At Reaching Our City, a nonprofit that provides resources for impoverished and homeless communities, the students participated in landscaping, laying a gravel driveaway, painting, carpeting, repairing a fence, and laying epoxy on floor. They also worked in a local resale shop helping organize the retail space.

“On the day our students were tasked with laying a gravel driveway, ROC staff thought it would take them an entire day,” added Agnew. “They were done in a couple of hours, which amazed the organizers. These kids worked hard and made an impact everywhere they worked.”

At the two Habitat sites, the older kids worked on construction tasks, including weatherproofing, roofing, and putting up boards.

“You know when people think of mission trips, building projects like this are what they think of,” said Cody Meyers, 18. “But at night and in the mornings, when you get to sit and worship, sing songs, and hear a message, you get closer to God by serving others. There is nothing better than that.”

During mission trip, the group awakens at 6:45 a.m. and begins the day with a devotional at 7:15 a.m. and breakfast at 7:45 a.m. Everyone heads to their worksites at 8:15 a.m. and returns around 5 p.m. for dinner and worship.

“Starting and ending each day with a time of worship really helped set the tone for our group to put Jesus at the forefront of all we were doing,” said Jeff Wonsmos, who volunteered with his son William. “It was really inspiring to watch our kids step out of their comfort zones and befriend the children in the community we were serving.”

"I have always known and loved God, but by serving on the mission trip, I really felt connected to Him,” added William Wonsmos. “Since this was my first mission trip, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I had the best week and can't wait to go back next summer.”

“Making earth as it is in Heaven is what we aim to do every day,” said St. Andrew Senior Pastor Arthur Jones. “These kids got a taste of that this week. One mother of a student shared with me that her child discovered on mission trip that there is a better way to live, and they want to feel on most weeks like they did on the trip. On mission trip, the students discover that there is hope and possibility, and we can change the world.”

St. Andrew mission trip participants share their thoughts about the 2022 trip in this video link:

 

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St. Andrew United 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 gather each weekend. Recent renovation allows the Sanctuary to host worship in both Traditional style, with the classic pipe organ, and Contemporary style, with a new 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 United Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas 75093. Visit www.standrewumc.org; call 972-380-8001.