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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.

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Eric Hutto, the new CEO of Diversified and former COO of Unisys

Corporate and nonprofit leaders share experiences and practical advice, including how to lead with authenticity and compassion; the importance of communication, doing the right thing, and teamwork

St. Andrew United Methodist Church launches “Leading People,” a podcast featuring conversations with church members and non-members; males and females; and big and small companies both public and private – all sharing personal leadership experiences, perspective, and wisdom, appropriate for any level of leader. St. Andrew’s Senior Pastor Rev. Jones and co-host Julie Chisum engage with these leaders in real and transparent conversations covering a wide range of topics, from things they wished they had known at the beginning of their careers to how to lead with authenticity and compassion, and the importance of communication, doing the right thing, teamwork, prayer, and more.

“When I stepped into my new role as senior pastor a year ago, I knew I was blessed to be surrounded by so many incredible leaders within our church,” said Rev. Arthur Jones, senior pastor, St. Andrew. “I reached out to them, and we met one on one, and I asked them for their advice in my new role. I received incredible counsel that I immediately knew would also be helpful to others leading people in today’s world. Whether we are leading within our family, work or faith, everyone wants to be their best selves. We want to lead with compassion, honesty and authenticity, and with faith, not fear. How incredible it is to be able to tap into the experiences of others and share that wisdom with the community?”

“Leading People,” a free podcast that launched June 1, will continue with a new episode each week throughout the summer. June guests feature:

June 1:  Eric Hutto, the new CEO of Diversified and former COO of Unisys; Candace Winslow, executive director of The Storehouse of Collin County; and Natalie Mills, a global ladies fashion, jewelry, and accessory brand with an in-house initiative focused on giving back to others.

June 8: Robert Taylor, executive vice president, senior advisor, United Supermarkets, LLC (Market Street); retired as CEO, 2021

June 15: Dean Clubb, retired 1998, executive vice president over defense systems and electronics, Texas Instruments (TI). Clubb worked at TI for 30 years.

Upcoming speakers in July include Brent Garrett, business owner; Jenny McGhee, senior sports executive; Scott Rowe, former CIO; David Ridley, retired Southwest Airlines executive; Carolyn Getridge, former school superintendent, and more.

 

“I believe each podcast has something you can take and incorporate into your life,” added Rev. Jones. “Choose the right way versus the easy way, treat people equally, and be willing to learn, unlearn and relearn, are just a few valuable takeaways from some of the featured June interviews. Thirty or 40 years ago, there were shared expectations about values and culture and what unites us together that have been lost over the last few decades. It is our hope that these conversations will provide valuable and thoughtful advice to help us share our values with others in today’s world and go forward as our best selves.”

Visit leadingpeople.org to subscribe.  Subscribe to Leading People

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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St. Andrew UMC Mission Trip 2022 Deadline to register is June 6

Annual trip gives students an opportunity to make a difference for others in need, make new friends while working together, and strengthen their faith 

St. Andrew United Methodist Church invites students, Grades 6 to 12 and recent high school graduates to sign up for the annual mission trip, Sunday, June 12 to Friday, June 17. More than 100 students and 20 adults will head to Oklahoma City to fix up houses for those in need and partner with multiple local organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and Mission OKC to serve the community. The week-long trip includes a variety of work projects, fellowship, worship, and fun social activities. The final day of registration is Monday, June 6.

“We are excited to be headed off campus this year as this will be our first out-of-town mission work since the pandemic,” said Michael Agnew, director of student ministry, St. Andrew UMC. “There is nothing like spending days and evenings together and seeing the impact that one week has on the students.  To meet the families that we are helping and see firsthand the joy and emotion in their eyes when our students complete a project at their homes is so rewarding. To see the students make new friends while working hard together at 10 worksites, caring for others, and worshipping together is powerful. This trip is life-changing for our students as much as it is for those we serve.”

This year, the construction projects through Habitat for Humanity will include painting, roof repair, flooring installation, landscaping, demolition, and more. Students will also enjoy working with children in an afternoon Vacation Bible School program with Mission OKC.

Buses will caravan from St. Andrew United Methodist Church, 5801 W. Plano Parkway, to Oklahoma City at noon on Sunday, June 17, and will return to Plano by 5 p.m. on Friday, June 17. The cost for students is $550 for students and $350 for adults and college student helpers. The deadline to register is June 6. Register at https://standrewumc.org/students.

“Seeing God working through people in their darkest times is what impacts me the most on the multiple mission trips I have been on,” said Bryce Farnham, 21. “We always need to act and stand up for the faith we believe in. On mission trips you not only learn more about God in your small groups, you also get to know new people as you work together. Mission trips have allowed me to have amazing friendships with five guys who have shaped me into the person I am today.”

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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The 3rd Annual St. Andrew Open Golf Tournament

Hole-in-One Prize: Trip for Two to the 2023 Masters

St. Andrew United Methodist Church invites the community to support promising high school seniors with dreams of higher education as well as aspiring seminary students by sponsoring or playing in the third annual St. Andrew Open Golf Tournament, Monday, May 9, with shot gun starts at 8 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., at The Clubs of Prestonwood, Creek Course, 15909 Preston Road, Dallas. Proceeds from The St. Andrew Open support both St. Andrew scholarship programs. This year’s tournament will feature a Trip for Two to the 2023 Masters as a hole-in-one prize.

“Last year’s tournament raised a net total of almost $50,000, benefiting the Messenger of Hope Scholarship Fund for high school seniors and the Charles Stokes Seminary Education Fund for students interested in pursuing a life in ministry,” said Jimmy Decker, associate pastor, connectional ministries, St. Andrew UMC. “Since 2000, we have raised and distributed over $1 million to students through these two scholarships.”

The Messenger of Hope Scholarship Fund, presented by The United Methodist Men of St. Andrew, provides funding and mentorship programming for dozens of deserving students each year. Last year, this fund, which receives annual funding from the tournament and additional resources, provided a total of $70,800 in scholarships to 33 high school seniors, representing ten different area high schools: Arlington Bowie, Frisco, J.J. Pearce, Lake Highlands, Plano East, Plano Senior, Plano West, Richardson, R.L. Turner, and Woodrow Wilson. Scholarship recipients attended 19 different colleges including Baylor University, Brookhaven College, Louisiana State University, Midwestern State, Oklahoma State, Richland Community College, Sam Houston State, Tarleton State University, Texas Technical University, Texas A&M, Texas Woman’s University, University of Arkansas, University of Mississippi, University of North Texas, University of Texas, University of Texas at Arlington, University of Texas at Dallas, University of Texas at Tyler, and Wake Forest.

“The average tuition cost of each class at area community colleges is $500 so it’s easy to understand how this tournament can make an impact,” said Ray Adams, Messenger of Hope Scholarship Founder. “Too often, students earn good grades and have a true desire for a higher education, but family disruption, health issues or situations beyond their control, such as the effects of the pandemic, make college a financial impossibility."

Each year, through a partnership with the Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University, the Charles Stokes Seminary Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to qualified applicants who show gifts for a promising future in church leadership. In 2021, the fund was able to offer $15,000 scholarships to three seminary students. This scholarship fund was established by the late St. Andrew Pastor Charles Stokes and his wife Louise. The couple saw the tremendous need for new pastors, and this scholarship enables those with a drive and passion to serve in ministry to attend seminary. Coupled with this scholarship, St. Andrew staff members mentor these students over three years to help develop them into future leaders of the United Methodist Church. 

“It is our belief that by affirming these men and women and supporting them both spiritually and financially, we can continue the mission of the church by ensuring strong leadership for the future,” said David Keene, Charles Stokes Seminary Education Scholarship Founder. “In the last nine years, we have provided well over $100,000 in scholarship funds for seminary students, including some of the current pastors at St. Andrew, including Jimmy Decker, who helps lead this important fundraising effort. Please join us on May 9, and together, let’s make the dreams of many area students come true.”

Additionally, on May 1, St. Andrew is hosting a Family Fun Day called the St. Andrew Cup on its campus, 5801 W. Plano Parkway, at 10:40 a.m., giving all ages a fun chance to come together and support this cause. Events include a putt-putt course, a chipping contest, food and more.

To sponsor or play in The Open and to learn more about the St. Andrew Cup Family Fun Day, visit https://www.standrewumc.org/standrewopen.

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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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Youth Leadership Council 2021-2022 “Student volunteers have been a big part of The Storehouse’s volunteer base since we were founded in 2009, and our staff remains passionate about developing our next generation of leaders by providing them with important skills to address challenges in our community,” said Candace Winslow, executive director, The Storehouse of Collin County.

THE STOREHOUSE OF COLLIN COUNTY’S INAUGURAL YOUTH LEADERSHIP COUNCIL (YLC) GAINED VALUABLE AND UNEXPECTED LEADERSHIP SKILLS  AS GROUP ADJUSTED TO MEET GROWING COMMUNITY NEEDS

The Storehouse is now accepting applications for YLC Class of ’23 through April 22

The Storehouse of Collin County recruited 36 student leaders, 9th – 12th grades from ten different high schools across Plano and North Dallas, for its inaugural Youth Leadership Council (YLC), launched in 2021. The group began meeting monthly in September with a final meeting on March 26, 2022. Each YLC service day, 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., begins with volunteering at The Storehouse’s Seven Loaves Food Pantry and concludes with a council meeting to discuss their experiences serving the neighbors. During this group’s one year of service, the number served at The Storehouse’s Seven Loaves Food Pantry doubled, providing the group with valuable and unexpected skills, enhancing their overall experience.

“Student volunteers have been a big part of The Storehouse’s volunteer base since we were founded in 2009, and our staff remains passionate about developing our next generation of leaders by providing them with important skills to address challenges in our community,” said Candace Winslow, executive director, The Storehouse of Collin County. “By formally establishing the YLC, we knew The Storehouse would be better positioned to provide high school students with leadership experience while fulfilling our mission to feed, clothe, and care as neighbors in one community. Little did we know the breadth of skills this group would learn during their year of service.”

When the YLC members began serving in August 2021, The Storehouse’s food pantry was serving, on average, 250 to 300 neighbors at each 2.5-hour food distribution. Since August, the food pantry numbers have been climbing steadily with the most recent distributions peaking at 550-650 neighbors served.

“The YLC Members have not only responded to the rising needs by serving as volunteers, but they have also learned valuable lessons on operational design and scaling processes to meet increased demand,” added Winslow. “These types of firsthand learning experiences requiring flexibility, adjustments, and problem-solving are ones they will carry with them throughout their careers.”

"One of the most important things I have learned is when you are serving this many neighbors in the same amount of time, every person in the system has to do their job with excellence,” stated YLC Member Noah Ziegelbein. “One mistake or accident, which may not seem like anything big, can influence the entire process. For example, if a bottle of juice falls off the cart and a new one must be retrieved, this creates a chain reaction which includes a backup and disruption for multiple people, affecting efficiency and altering the time it takes to complete service to neighbors.”

In addition to monthly volunteer sessions and council meetings, the YLC members also had the opportunity to flex their problem-solving skills by addressing a specific need for neighbors who visit The Storehouse’s Seven Loaves Food Pantry. The problem-solving project started with a month-long neighbor assessment surveying the most needed toiletries. Once the results were tallied, the YLC members worked on sourcing and distributing toilet paper to pantry visitors in January and February. In total, 4,846 rolls of toilet paper were distributed across four food pantry distribution sessions.

“I enjoyed being assigned a problem to solve, knowing that I am contributing, and being a part of a solution that helps our neighbors,” said YLC Member Nora Dufresne.

Groundwork for the YLC was laid by Plano West student Emmalee Mohler as part of her Girl Scouts Gold Award Project. From 2020 through 2021, during the midst of the pandemic, Mohler and her classmate David Huerta, worked on establishing YLC bylaws and expectations with support from The Storehouse’s Executive Director, Candace Winslow.

All 36 membership spots for the inaugural class were filled within two weeks. Student members were eligible to receive five service hours to accredit to other high school organizational requirements as needed for each completed session for a total of 35 service hours. The students were asked to complete seven monthly service days from September through March with all council meetings held on The Storehouse campus.

“After a year of classes on Zoom, it was great to get together with my peers and to also meet students from other schools,” said YLC Member Blanton Priebe.

Following each volunteer session, students had the opportunity to encourage their peers by nominating them with a note in the Hustle Bucket. Three notes are pulled from the Hustle Bucket, and the specific positive feedback and nominee is recognized.

“Encouragement is one of the core values of our organization,” added Winslow. “The Storehouse team was recognized as one of the top 100 Best Places to Work by the Dallas Business Journal last year, and we were very intentional about transmitting our work culture and values to these student leaders.”

The theme of “wanting to contribute” was a repeated theme in the feedback from members.

“Our students are hard workers and committed to serving with excellence at each volunteer shift,” said Sandy Weissinger, adult advisor for The Storehouse YLC. “During our meetings and discussions, they are insightful, curious and eager to contribute.”

Sign-ups for the YLC Class of ’23 are open now through Friday, April 22 or until all 40 spots are filled. Interested students may apply by completing the form on this page: www.thestorehousecc.org/ylc There is a $25 membership fee to cover Council t-shirt, nametag, and miscellaneous expenses during the year.  Membership fees can be waived if needed.  Student and parent signatures will be required on the application.

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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 1,600 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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United with Ukraine: A Benefit Concert Emcee Lauren Przybyl of Fox4 "Good Day" with St. Andrew Sr. Pastor Arthur Jones

Benefiting the United Methodist Committee on Relief, the concert featured songs of solidarity from some of the finest orchestral musicians across the area as well as St. Andrew’s Chancel Choir

The stormy North Texas weather of March 21 did not deter the support and fundraising success of St. Andrew United Methodist Church’s “United with Ukraine: A Benefit Concert,” at 7 p.m. that evening in the sanctuary. St. Andrew United Methodist Church announces that it raised a total of $57,137 with 100 percent going to UMCOR, the United Methodist Committee on Relief, which is actively serving internally displaced people and refugees within and from Ukraine with food, water, shelter, and other needs.

“It has been said ‘when words fail, music speaks,’ and this conflict in Ukraine has us all speechless,” said Taylor Davis, Director of Music and Worship Arts, St. Andrew UMC. “My involuntary response, as director of music, is to gather musician friends and create unity and peace through art. Individually, we can’t change the world, but music can help change the molecules in the room, which can change hearts and minds across lines of division.”

Davis began making calls to his musician contacts to see if any benefit of this nature had been planned, and upon learning that it had not, he immediately began to move forward, orchestrating this event in a brief two-week period. The concert featured songs of solidarity from some of the finest orchestral musicians across Dallas and Fort Worth, including members of the Dallas and Fort Worth Symphony Orchestras, as well as St. Andrew’s Chancel Choir. 

“The musicians, passionate about the cause, were excited to be a part of this program, expressing that they felt this was important and exactly what the church should be doing during this time,” added Davis. “One of our musicians, Ordabek Duissen, concertmaster, violin I, of the Fort Worth Symphony, had a personal connection to the war, expressing that he was concerned for his family living in Kazakhstan because he felt if the invasion progresses, his country would be the type of country that would be pursued. It was powerful to see the event come together so quickly with each talented musician and our choir uniting to share their gifts to make an impact.”

Fox 4’s “Good Day” Host Lauren Przybyl served as emcee for the evening, encouraging additional fundraising throughout the evening and providing updates during the concert.

“I am honored to be your host this evening as we create beauty in the shadows of war and raise funds for those who need it most,” said Przybyl. “This community is generous beyond measure when it rallies around a cause, and I know tonight will be no exception.”

Opening with an orchestral performance of “The Great Gate of Kiev,” the concert included music selections from Dmitri Shostakovich, Myroslav Skoryk, John Williams, John Rutter, and more. In between pieces were meaningful readings and poetry. St. Andrew’s Rev. Kim Meyers provided a prayer for the many children affected by this conflict followed by “Hush,” sung by choir member Megan Gackle. This was followed by “What a Wonderful World” and a powerful performance by choir member Jimmy Robertson and the choir ensemble. The event concluded with “Let There Be Peace on Earth,” sung by choir member Sarah Brammer.

“We are so happy that we were able to host this event for the community and thank our supporters for their incredible generosity,” said Sr. Pastor Arthur Jones, St. Andrew United Methodist Church. “In the United Methodist Church, one of the things we do best is care for people – whether locally or globally – we care deeply about loving our neighbor. We have churches everywhere including in Ukraine and its border countries, and 100 percent of this money will go to relief efforts through the United Methodist Committee on Relief, which is actively working with churches and pastors in Ukraine, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Moldova.”

“Additionally, St. Andrew would also like to thank the concert sponsors who were touched by this cause and helped to make this program possible: Ovation Health & Life Services, the LaBroad Family, and the Nancy Seaberry Frost Arts Endowment,” added Rev. Jones.

For anyone wishing to donate, visit https://onrealm.org/standrewumc/-/form/give/Ukraine.

(Photos by Jenny Skinner)

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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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United with Ukraine - A Benefit Concert at St. Andrew United Methodist Church, March 21, 7 p.m.

Featuring songs of solidarity from some of the finest orchestral musicians across the area as well as St. Andrew’s Chancel Choir

 St. Andrew United Methodist Church invites the community to come together for “United with Ukraine: A Benefit Concert,” on Monday, March 21, 7 p.m. in the sanctuary of St. Andrew, 5801 W. Plano Parkway, in Plano. The concert will feature songs of solidarity from some of the finest orchestral musicians across Dallas and Fort Worth, including members of the Dallas and Fort Worth Symphony Orchestras, as well as St. Andrew’s Chancel Choir.  All proceeds will go to UMCOR, the United Methodist Committee on Relief, which is actively serving internally displaced people and refugees within and from Ukraine with food, water, shelter, and other needs.

Opening with an orchestral performance of The Great Gate of Kiev, the concert will include music selections from Dmitri Shostakovich, Myroslav Skoryk, John Williams, John Rutter, and more.

“It has been said ‘when words fail, music speaks,’ and this conflict in Ukraine has us all speechless,” said Taylor Davis, Director of Music and Worship Arts, St. Andrew UMC. “My involuntary response, as director of music, is to gather musician friends and create unity and peace through art. Individually, we can’t change the world, but music can help change the molecules in the room, which can change hearts and minds across lines of division.”

Tickets are $50 and $25 and may be purchased online at https://www.standrewumc.org.

“Please join us for this special evening to lift up our brothers and sisters of Ukraine,” said Rev. Arthur Jones, St. Andrew UMC. “This is a unique opportunity for us to come together and raise funds for so many in harm’s way as we hold a vigil with music of hope, peace and comfort.”

 

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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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St. Andrew's Prom Closet-registration required Over 3,000 dresses available to choose from - at no cost! Register today to secure your time slot to shop!

Donations of dresses, jewelry, shoes, handbags, and wraps are requested

St. Andrew United Methodist Church announces Prom Closet 2022 will take place over a two-week period: February 15, 16, 17 & 19 and 21 – 26 in Smith Worship Center, at St. Andrew United Methodist Church in Plano, with advance registration required. Each year, Prom Closet provides prom attire to more than 1,000 high school girls from anywhere at no cost and is a service of the St. Andrew United Methodist Women. This year advance registration is required to improve the overall shopping experience and minimize wait times for the shoppers. To register for a 1.5-hour time slot, visit www.standrewumc.org/promcloset.

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, through February 25, in Room 121, Monday – Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Friday 8:30 - 1 p.m.; Saturday 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.; and Sunday 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Use North entry door located off north parking lot, 1401 Mira Vista.

“We are overjoyed to announce we will host Prom Closet this year and are excited to try advance registration, eliminating long lines and providing plenty of space for each shopper to select her perfect dress and accessories,” said Devra Helffrich, an original organizer of prom closet. “Obviously, we could not do this without the support and donations from the community and our wonderful volunteers. We collect dresses, shoes, jewelry, wraps, handbags, and other accessories year ‘round, and we can’t thank the community enough for helping so many girls’ prom dreams come true. This will be the 13th year we have held Prom Closet, which has grown to be an extraordinary way to reach out and help the community.”

Area school counselors have been provided information about the annual Prom Closet on their campuses. 

Each shopper must be present to select her own dress and accessories and may have one guest, age 16 or older, with them. A personal shopper volunteer will assist each shopper throughout the process. There will be 20 shopping slots per each 1.5-hour time frame.

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, https://tinyurl.com/PromClosetWishList

The Prom Closet was created to provide a unique shopping experience for young ladies who because of finances would be unable to attend prom.   Prom Closet organizers and volunteers confirm that not only is the need great, but the impact the dress makes on the girl and her family is immeasurable.  Visit www.standrewumc.org/promcloset, email promcloset@standrewumc.org, or call 469-385-1810 for more information.

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St. Andrew PROM CLOSET 

Website and Registration: www.standrewumc.org/promcloset

Hotline: 469-385-1810

Email: promcloset@standrewumc.org

Facebook: Prom Closet: St. Andrew UMC

Instagram: promcloset.standrewumc

Twitter:  @StAndrewUMC

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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.