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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.

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Scarves for Christmas Organizers Elizabeth Thomas and Patti Hoff, members of St. Andrew United Methodist Church

A year-long labor of love, providing warmth and comfort to those coming for assistance at The Storehouse of Collin County 

In January, a group of ladies who enjoy knitting and crocheting joined together to form a group called “Scarves for Christmas” to benefit neighbors of The Storehouse of Collin County during the holiday season. Organizers Elizabeth Thomas and Patti Hoff, who are members of St. Andrew United Methodist Church, recruited a group of 40 women from all over DFW including some who were outside of Texas. Because of the pandemic, the group connected over Zoom for the first half of the year to share crocheting and knitting techniques while working on the scarves. They knitted and crocheted a grand total of 621 scarves – each taking about 4-6 hours to craft.

Once all were completed, the scarves were sorted, individually wrapped, and tied with a bow. Each packaged scarf also included a Christmas card with a prayer of encouragement in English and Spanish. On November 10, the group came together for a special blessing of the scarves, led by St. Andrew Pastor Jennifer Arnold.

During The Storehouse of Collin County’s food distribution on Dec. 2 and 4, the ladies placed one scarf on each food cart to give to each family. St. Andrew’s music department provided Christmas carolers, adding to the merriment of the event.

The volunteers who took the food carts out to the neighbors’ cars returned with many stories of gratitude and joy. Many neighbors became very emotional as they received their special hand-crafted gift. According to organizers, one woman teared up and said that wrapping up in the scarf would bring her much comfort and warmth. A man who received a red and green Christmas scarf immediately opened it, put it on and expressed so much joy in this gift that it was infectious to all around him! 

These 40 ladies gave the gift of hope, love, warmth, and joy. Organizers Patti Hoff and Elizabeth Thomas cannot express into words how wonderful this experience was, nor can they adequately express their gratitude to all who spent many hours crafting the scarves. The group plans to organize another Scarves for Christmas project for distribution in 2023!

 

Blessing of the Prayer Scarves

We remember all those who will receive these scarves:

Those who are lonely and need to know they are loved

Those who are ill and yearn for healing of body, mind and spirit,

Those who face challenging decisions and search for guidance,

Those who are grieving and welcome comforting words and actions,

Those who are celebrating newness of life and rejoice in the warmth and richness surrounding them.

May they find comfort

from all that appears too much to bear at this moment

from all that feels as if it might be the breaking point

from all that seems to threaten their peace of heart.

May this prayer scarf be

A shelter for time of overwhelming grief

A shade in times of sorrow too deep for words

A shield from times of unimaginable loss

May they be sustained

By the presence of those who love and support them

By faith in the eternal Loving One

By the memories of what they hold most dear.

Prayer of Blessing:

May God’s grace be upon this scarf,

Warming, comforting, enfolding and embracing.

May it be a safe haven…a sacred place of security and well-being

Sustaining and embracing in good times as well as difficult ones.

May the one who received this scarf be cradled in hope.

Kept in joy, graced with peace, and wrapped in love.

 

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 2,000 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. 

 

ALL PHOTOS BY BEN SKYE

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Christmas Festival of Music Two Performances: featuring choirs, symphony brass, and organ - no cost

Celebrate the joy of the Christmas season with music and worship at St. Andrew United Methodist Church in Plano, 5801 W. Plano Parkway. Enjoy a Sunday morning Christmas Festival of Music on December 12 with favorite carols, choirs, symphony brass, sing-a-longs; three distinctive evenings of Christmas Concerts by the Pond, December 18-20; and multiple Christmas Candlelight Services, December 23-24.

On Sunday, December 12, St. Andrew will present a Christmas Festival of Music, during the 9:30 and 11 a.m. worship services in the sanctuary, open to all at no cost. Enjoy favorite carols through stunning arrangements for all choirs (children, youth, and chancel) and congregational singing accompanied by symphony brass and organ.

From Saturday, December 18 to Monday, December 20, St. Andrew presents three distinctive evenings of music at Christmas Concerts by the Pond, each beginning at 7 p.m. Five food trucks will be on site each evening. In case of inclement weather, concerts will move into St. Andrew’s sanctuary. Admission for each outdoor concert is $5, benefiting Beacon of Light, St. Andrew’s community mental health ministry.

On December 18, the St. Andrew Band, featuring Josh and Krista Miller, presents “A Rockin’ Christmas,” a night of Christmas classics, complete with special guests.

On December 19, St. Andrew partners with Dallas Theater Center to present, “A Rhythm and Blues Christmas,” featuring Liz Mikel and Alex Organ, both members of the Dee and Hal Brierley Resident Acting Company of the Tony Award winning Dallas Theater Center. Mikel, a Broadway and film/TV star, is widely known for her portrayal of Corinna "Mama" Williams, mother of star running back Brian "Smash" Williams, on the NBC television series Friday Night Lights. Organ, artistic director of Second Thought Theatre, has many local and regional theater credits with film/TV experience including Law & Order: SVU. The duo will present an entertaining evening of Christmas music with a Motown flair.

On December 20, Imperial Brass presents “A Jazzy Christmas,” featuring jazzy holiday favorites for the whole family.

 On December 23-24, join St. Andrew online or in person for beautiful worship at the Christmas Candlelight Services that will conclude with the traditional lighting of the candles and singing “Silent Night” together.

“We are so looking forward to welcoming the community during this Christmas season and are excited to announce all of the programs for this year’s Christmas at St. Andrew,” said Rev. Arthur Jones, senior pastor. “The Christmas Festival of Music will bring carols to life for all ages, and, as a follow up to our highly successful Journey of Lights program last Christmas, we are excited to offer the three evenings of unique musical experiences at the pond. Choose from one of our multiple Christmas Candlelight services, and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of our Savior. There’s so much for everyone to enjoy this season at St. Andrew.”

Visit standrewumc.org/Christmas for information about all events and to purchase tickets for the Christmas Concerts at the Pond.

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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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Groundbreaking for the Hasley Chapel at St. Andrew Plano Mayor John Muns presents a proclamation to Rev. Robert Hasley declaring November 7 as "Robert Hasley Day" in Plano.

Plano Mayor John Muns presented a proclamation to declare November 7 “Robert Hasley Day” in the City of Plano 

On Sunday, November 7, hundreds gathered at the northwest corner of the St. Andrew United Methodist Church parking lot to honor beloved Founding Pastor Rev. Robert Hasley at a ceremonial groundbreaking of the Hasley Chapel. Five years ago, when the church developed its 30-year master plan, there was discussion of the addition of a chapel, which was designed by Hasley to overlook the pond and natural beauty of the woods. The chapel, while not included in this master plan, was something the church hoped to build a few years later.

This past summer, after 35 years of leading St. Andrew, Rev. Hasley passed the baton to now Senior Pastor Rev. Arthur Jones, and Hasley’s title changed to founding pastor. Almost immediately, Rev. Jones received multiple inquiries from the congregation wanting a special way to honor Hasley for his legacy and ministry. Within just a few weeks, Rev. Hasley was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. The chapel, named in his honor, was determined to be the perfect way to honor his legacy at St. Andrew. The building committee met, leadership was organized, and to date over $9.1 million of the needed $10 million has been raised. Construction will begin in April 2022 with a targeted completion in 12 months. Drawings of the chapel may be seen here.

As a surprise for Rev. Hasley, Plano Mayor John Muns read a proclamation declaring November 7 “Robert Hasley Day” in Plano.

Rev. Hasley was born on January 2, 1952, in Hope, Arkansas, to Carlton and Jean Hasley. Upon graduating from Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas, he earned a master’s in theology followed by a doctorate in ministry from Perkins Theological Seminary.  On June 26, 1999, Rev. Hasley married Sharon, and between them they have five adult children and four grandchildren. He served as associate pastor of Highland Park United Methodist Church in Dallas prior to helping to found St. Andrew United Methodist Church of Plano in 1986 and is currently serving as founding pastor as he rounds out his 35th year with St. Andrew. Under his leadership, St. Andrew generously provided funding and volunteers to build over 20 Habitat for Humanity homes in the Douglass Community, secured housing for over 300 Hurricane Katrina victims, founded the Seven Loaves Food Pantry that provides critical resources to underserved families in our community, and members of all ages have been inspired to volunteer year-round with local non-profits, disaster relief groups, and a variety of mission endeavors locally and beyond. He has 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.

As Mayor Muns concluded the proclamation, declaring November 7, 2021, as Robert Hasley Day in Plano, Texas, he encouraged all citizens to join him and the Plano City Council in honoring Rev. Hasley for “faithfully fulfilling his divine call to servant leadership where he has made a positive impact in countless lives.”

In addition to Plano Mayor John Muns, attendees included Bishop Mike McKee, of the North Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church; Senior Pastor Arthur Jones; Chapel Fundraising Campaign Co-Chairs Debbie and Dave Rader and Laura and Tom Morris; Sally Hamilton, whose husband was the first building committee chairman of St. Andrew; Kathy King, 2022 Chair of the Executive Committee of St. Andrew and who attended the first service 35 years ago at Shepton High School as a teacher and coach; members of St. Andrew; and many of Rev. Hasley’s friends and family members.

“This was a triumphant day in the life of St. Andrew United Methodist Church,” said Sr. Pastor Rev. Arthur Jones. “Out of all the joys that came from Sunday, my favorite recollection is of Robert laughing with his family and many friends. I can still hear Robert’s contagious laugh and see his smile as he visited with so many who have been a part of St. Andrew over the last 35 years. This is a reminder that the life that we live together is intended to live on – from generation to generation until all the generations are gathered at the foot of the throne with laughter and joy.”

The Hasley Chapel will honor the legacy and ministry of Rev. Robert Hasley and will serve as the home for multiple worship services, weddings, memorial services, conference center, and additional ministry opportunities.

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.