The Electronic Newsletter of MCC Austin at Freedom Oaks 
| February 23, 2011
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From Your Pastor
 Marie has been my mom's best friend for 40 years. From the beginning, their deep friendship surprised and delighted them both. Marie was short, smoked like it was a sport, and swore more naturally and with more glee than anyone I knew as a kid. My mom is tall, tried smoking but never took it too seriously, and never swore much at all-except sometimes in German.
Even though Marie is my mom's best friend, she belongs to all the members of our family in different ways. For me, Marie was the scout leader who taught me to make candle holders out of plant pots and bird feeders out of coffee cans. As the four of us kids (hers and my mom's) gorged ourselves on cheese dip and Doritos, it was Marie that teased us about the beer that we couldn't have, that of course none of us wanted anyway. When I needed to tell someone that I was gay, I told Marie first. I believed her totally when she said, "I love you still, and your mama will too." I had to.
Yesterday, I saw Marie for the first time since my ordination. Yesterday, she and I did something together that we've never done-we prayed.
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What's Happening at MCC Austin
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February is Black History Month This month we will join the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC) as they "...present a month long series of Black History profiles focusing upon highly accomplished Black lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender men and women both past and present."
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Sunday Morning Worship on February 27
9 & 11 a.m.
"Prayer, Then What?"
Rev. Karen Thompson
Mark 11:22-25
Jesus answered them, "Have faith in God. Truly I tell you, if you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' and if you do not doubt in your heart, but believe that what you say will come to pass, it will be done for you. So I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.
"Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; so that God in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses."
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ASL interpretation for the 11 a.m. worship service is available upon request. For more information, please email Courtney Webster.
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 Fat Sunday Worship Service
Sunday, March 6 at 9 & 11 a.m.
At MCC Austin, we're not ones to pass up a chance to celebrate. That's why we've begun celebrating Mardi Gras in our own MCC Austin way with Fat Sunday.
Mardi Gras, French for "Fat Tuesday," refers to the tradition of feasting on rich, fatty foods on the Tuesday prior to Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. Because our congregation is not all together on Fat Tuesday, we celebrate Fat Sunday on the final Sunday before Lent with special music, lively worship, and yes, even Mardi Gras beads!
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 Ash Wednesday Service
Wednesday, March 9 at 7 p.m.
"I Wonder as I Wander"
If you were raised in an evangelical religious environment or no church at all, talk about Lent and Ash Wednesday may be new to you. For others who grew up with this service, you still may have questions.
Ash Wednesday marks the first day of Lent. This observance dates back to the 900's A.D., and it is based on a practice that began in Biblical times, in which a mark placed on a person's forehead symbolized that the person belonged to a particular master. By having our foreheads marked with the sign of a cross, we symbolize that we belong to Jesus Christ. Ashes are used because they are a symbol of repentance and mortality. Ash Wednesday begins our Lenten season in an attitude of prayer, repentance, and humility.
Ash Wednesday invites us to look at our lives and focus once again on developing, and keeping primary, our relationship with God. The ritual of the ashes helps us be honest in our self- evaluation. Please journey with us this Lent, beginning with Ash Wednesday, as we explore the great questions of Christian faith and "wonder as we wander."
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Black History Month Jewel of the Week:
Mandy Carter
Born in New York, Citizen of the World
As we close out Black History Month, we celebrate the contributions of a well-respected colleague, activist, friend, and mentor-Mandy Carter. She is a legend in the LGBT community, the Black community, and to all of us concerned about peace. Carter has sought to bring to the national LGBT rights movement the lessons she's learned in her 42 years of building the multi-issue, multi-racial progressive coalition.
"I've been a bridge-builder all of my movement years," she tells us. "A bridge-builder between white LGBT, Black, and people of color LGBT movements. A bridge-builder between our Black LGBT community and Black non-LGBT community. I've always been willing to be 'the only one' of color in the predominantly white women's peace and social justice movements because the work was too important not to be." Read more...
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 PRIDE 2011 Planning Committee
Once again it's time to represent our church in the larger community! Calling all individuals who would like to participate in the planning, presentation and representation of MCC Austin at this year's Annual PRIDE Parade and Festival. You won't want to miss being a part of this! For more information or to sign up, please contact Courtney Webster by email or in the church office.
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 Holy Conversations
An Invitation to Faithful Dialogue
Topic "Holy Communion"
Wednesday, March 2 at 7 p.m.
In our ongoing attempt to provide you with more opportunities for spiritual growth and personal connection, we are offering Holy Conversations, a series of theological discussion guides prepared by the MCC Theologies Team. The topic for the upcoming discussion is Holy Communion.
Holy Conversations is open to everyone who is still seeking and who enjoys seeking in the company of others. You do not need to be a member of MCC to attend, and you do not need to attend every gathering. You are welcome to join us whenever a topic strikes your interest or whenever you want to spend time with other people in a safe, positive, meaningful way. You are encouraged to bring friends.
Holy Conversations takes place in an off-site location, for location and directions please send an email to Courtney Webster. |
Soul Connections Group Event
Join members of Soul Connection for an evening at the theater.
When: Thursday, March 3, 2011 at 7:45 p.m.
Where: Zach Scott Theater
What: Red Hot Patriot: The wit of Molly Ivins starring Barbara Chisholm
Cost: $37.00
For reservations email Toni Lucus on or before Friday, February 18.
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 Positive Perspectives
HIV/AIDS Support Group
Tuesday, March 15 at 7 p.m.
This Group Meets at a confidential location
Positive Perspectives is a monthly support group with an emphasis on the spiritual aspects of life with HIV/AIDS. Positive Perspectives meets on the third Tuesday usually in members' homes and sometimes at MCC Austin.They focus on information sharing in a confidential setting for those affected by HIV & AIDS, while providing support for one another by letting each individual discuss what is on his/her mind. With members at various stages of the disease, this group offers a tremendous amount of first-hand knowledge, experience, and support of life for those infected & affected by HIV/AIDS. Please email Courtney Webster of call the church office for directions and information about the meeting location (291-8601). |
 LGBT Parenting: "Out" Parenting in a Straight World
Saturday, March 19 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Lunch and childcare provided
Do you have questions about:
- Making the decisions about how to create your family?
- Talking to children about our nontraditional families?
- Interfacing with grandparents, schools, workplaces, etc. as nontraditional parents?
- Conflict resolution and collaboration in families with more than two parents or with parents who are not also romantic partners?
- Keeping the romance alive with children in the picture?
- When to seek help?
Or would you just like to hear some encouraging words and share some stories about what you've done that's working? This workshop will explore these issues and more! To register, please contact Courtney Webster in the church office (512.291.8601) or by email. |
Come spend a Saturday morning helping the Capital Area Food Bank, a nonprofit that provides food for food pantries throughout Central Texas. MCC Austin is looking for 20 volunteers to help sort donations at CAFB on Saturday, March 19 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Children 8 years and older may participate as long as they have an adult with them. For more information about safety rules and volunteer guidelines at the Food Bank, click here. Terry Goin has organized this service opportunity and you may email him with questions. Please sign up to volunteer by emailing Courtney Webster in the church office.
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 New Member Class
Wednesday, March 23 at 7 p.m.
Come learn about the history of MCC Austin, what our current ministries are, and where God is calling us as a church for our future. You will also find out how to get involved in ways that are meaningful to you. If you're interested in attending the class, please register to Courtney Webster, by email or by calling the church [291-8601]. Please include your first and last name, email, and the best contact number for you. |
Boundaries Workshop Part 1
Saturday, March 26 from 9 a.m.- 12 p.m.
Ever have trouble saying no to people who take advantage of you? Every have trouble saying yes to people who sincerely want to help you? Every found yourself unable to set limits on the time, energy, or resources you spend on others? Ever accept unfair or even abusive behavior because you'd rather do that than show your anger or risk a confrontation?
If you've ever felt any of these things--especially if you've felt them because they cause conflict with what you believe is the "Christian" thing to do, this workshop is for you.
Rev. Karen and Rev. Alycia will lead this two part workshop. Look for more information coming in the next weeks.
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 Spiritual Pride Project 2011
April 1-3, 2011
The Spiritual Pride Project is offering a weekend camp retreat as a safe, accepting and loving community where GLBTQIA (Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Question Intersex and Allies) youth can discuss how their sexuality and spirituality are beautiful gifts from God. We will accompany each other on the faith journey as we celebrate and struggle with our faith, family, friends, school, relationships, and everything in between. This is still camp after all, so we will enjoy God's creation and have a blast sharing our creative talents, playing games, and challenging each other. All People of all belief backgrounds are welcome! Our very own Pastor Alycia will be participating as staff at this retreat.
When: April 1-3, 2011
Cost: $90 General Registration (ends March, 1 2011) Registration includes all housing, meals, and programming [MCC Austin has scholarships available. Please contact Pastor Alycia in the office (512) 291-8601 or by email for details.]
Where: The camp is located at Lutherhill in LaGrange, TX
Who can attend: There are three tracks this year:
- GLBTQI Youth, grades 6-12
- Young Adults ages 18-25 who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, questioning, or intersex and straight allies,
- Youth who identify as Allies, grades 6-12 who would like to learn from and support GLBTQI youth.
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 People of African Descent Conference
2011 MCC Conference for:
People of African Descent, Our Friends and Allies
Loving Ourselves into Liberation
19-21 May 2011
The Fairmont in Washington, DC
Since 1998, the MCC Conference for People of African Descent, Our Friends and Allies has been a landmark MCC event. While being firmly rooted in the African-American cultural experience, the MCC PAD Conference is for everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, or nationality.
The 2011 PAD Conference theme LOVING OURSELVES INTO LIBERATION reflects our commitment to continue our rise from victimhood to victory and to lift others as we climb. To inform and empower us to reach higher heights, workshops and keynote speakers will focus on physical, political, and spiritual health and wholeness. Worship will inspire us to celebrate the fullness of who we are and to embrace the fullness of who God has liberated us to be.
The Chair of the 2011 PAD Conference is Rev. Candy Holmes. The Planning Committee includes conference hosts representing MCC and The Fellowship congregations in the Washington, DC area and volunteers from across the United States. The Human Rights Campaign is also working with us to offer you the largest and most powerful PAD Conference experience to date.
You will not want to miss the 2011 PAD Conference.
Register now by Clicking Here!
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Our Prayers...
- For all who struggle with depression and bipolar disorder.
- For our Finance Team as they continue their work on our refinance and loan proposals.
- For the people in countries around the world who are fighting for democracy.
- For our Building Team and General Contractor as they finalize building plans for our new building.
- For our GLBT brothers and sisters around the world who live in fear of violence and discrimination because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.
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BEYOND OUR WALLS: MCC News From Around the World
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Presiding Moderator of Metropolitan Community Churches Appointed To U.S. Presidential Advisory Council
The Reverend Elder Nancy Wilson, Presiding Moderator of the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches, was today named by President Barack Obama to serve on the White House Advisory Council on Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships. Read more...
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News from our denomination.
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News from MCC churches arround the world.
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BEYOND OUR WALLS: News & Community Events
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Alzheimer's Association
Brown Bag Information Sessions:
Lots of Learning, Little Time
Are you a caregiver who is looking to expand their knowledge, but has limited time to spare? Grab your lunch and join us the 1st Friday of the month for a Brown Bag Information Session from 11:30 am - 12:30 pm. Contact (512) 241-0420 or email TXPrograms@TXAlz.org to register. All Chapter programs are free of charge. Held at 3429 Executive Center Drive, Hubbard Bldg., Suite 100, Austin, TX 78731.
March 4
Driving and Aging Issues
Presented by Jennifer Perez Del Rio, Senior Occupational Therapist
at St. David's Rehabilitation Center
April 1
Planning and Paying for Long Term Care
Presented by Kyle Barker of New York Life
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Gospel Fest at TEXAS STATE University
Featuring Twinkie Clark
Saturday, February 26 from 6-7 p.m.
Gospel Expression Association annual Gospel Fest,
featuring Twinkie Clark at 6 p.m. in the Alkek Teaching Theater.
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Equality Texas Lobby Day 2011
Monday, March 7
Effective participation is one of the many cornerstones of our democracy. Your state legislators are meeting in Austin right now determining the fate of our great state. Equality Texas invites you to participate in YOUR government and to come to Austin Monday, March 7, to meet face-to-face with those who represent YOU! This is an opportunity for YOU to ask state leaders to pass inclusive policies that protect all children, end discrimination and strengthen relationships.
Registration for EQTX Lobby Day is free, but advanced registration is required in order to prepare constituent-matched materials and make strategic lobbying team assignments. EQTX will provide free breakfast and lunch. Continue reading to find out more...
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 E-Link Submissions
If you have information to share through our E-Link, please email it to the editor no later than Monday evening of the week you would like it published.
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Quick Links
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Pastor's Message
We prayed because Marie is fighting (and I absolutely mean fighting because that's the way she is) lung cancer that hasn't been content with invading both lungs and has found its way into other organs. When I visited her at North Austin hospital yesterday, she did what she always does: kept me laughing and sent me off feeling better than I had when I walked in. But before I left, she asked me to pray with her.
Very rarely do my friendships collide in such a profound way with my spirituality. I seldom pray with my friends. I certainly pray for them, but not with them. Usually they have other people to pray with: their own pastors, deacons, even prayer partners. A lot of times we don't talk about spirituality or theology, either, because I think they think I get enough of that at work.
Having Marie sort of grab God by the hand and pull God right into the midst of our friendly conversation yesterday blessed my soul. It also caused me to remember those rare people with whom I do have the freedom (and the desire) to share the spiritual dimensions of myself.
So now, in my tradition of not trying to say what someone else has already said better, I'm going to share these words from Sr. Joan Chittister. I'm borrowing them to say thank you to those of you who bless my soul:
Ananda, the beloved disciple of the Buddha, once asked his teacher about the place of friendship in the spiritual journey. "Master, is friendship half of the spiritual life?" he asked. And the teacher
responded, "Nay, Ananda, friendship is the whole of the spiritual life."
Love is something learned only by the long, hard labor of life. It is sometimes over before we've ever known we ever had it. We sometimes destroy it before we appreciate it. We often take it for granted. Every love, whatever happens to it in the long run, teaches us more about ourselves, our needs, our limitations, and our self-centeredness than anything else we can ever experience....But sometimes, if we're lucky, we live long enough to grow into it in such a way that because of it we come to recognize the value of life.... We learn enough about love to allow things to slip away and ourselves to melt into the God whose love made all of it possible. Sometimes we even find a love deep enough, gentle enough, tender enough to detach us from the foam and frills of life, all of which hold us captive to things that cannot satisfy. Sometimes we live long enough to see the face of God in another. Then, in that case, we have loved.
Always in Hope,
Rev. Karen Thompson
Sr. Pastor
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