Chandler F.U.M.C.
by Linda G. Keeling

Service May 11th - "Ideal vs. Real." Scripture: Proverbs 31:10-31

"Entreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee; for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge; thy people shall be my people and thy God my God." Ruth 2:16

Sometimes we, as a congregation, take for granted one of the most significant values of our church. Follow our pastor's wife around for a while and appreciate just how much she contributes to our church ministries and missions. None of us would ever consider a full-time job without pay and little recognition. Well maybe so, for that could be a description of motherhood, and maybe that is as well, a good description of Carol. She has, for twentythree years taught in the first grade, raised two children, and gives her all, in support of her husband. She teaches a Bible study for women, supports the praise service while Pastor Russ is in the traditional service, helps set up the refreshment tables, operates the audio-visual system, and ensures that things run smoothly. She attends all the multitude of church functions occurring several nights each week. Her "Children's Church" lessons are enjoyed by everyone in the praise service and sincerely missed in the traditional service. She is a gracious hostess, always is smiling and encouraging to all she greets. In reality she is the typical example of motherhood; overworked, unappreciated, taken for granted, but very much loved. "The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are open to their prayers." I Peter 3:12

Last Sunday was the recognition of the graduating seniors. The service consisted of challenges made to the seniors, to the youth and to the congregation in general to continue growth in our faith and to speak out as Christians. We are extremely proud of this class of young adults as most we have watched grow into adults within our church family. May God continue to bless your lives and protect you in your future endeavors: Bryan Cramer, Paul Deal, Ryan Epperson, Chris Ibarra, Andrew Pollard, Marla Pollard, Preston Reid, Brooke Romo, Julie Travis, Collin Wilson, and Danae Luckert.

Remember, next Sunday is Mother's Day, so treat your's to a pancake breakfast sponsored by the Methodist Women, to raise funds for the mission trip to Kenya. The breakfast will start at 8:00 a.m. till 10 a.m. in Fellowship Hall.

Wednesday at Family Night Covered Dish both the senior class and the Cross Training program were recognized. This Wednesday, May 14th will be Triple L starting at 10 a.m., so bring your favorite dish and join the fellowship.

Have you had "Coffee with Herb" lately? Remember his class is held in Heritage Hall at 9:30 a.m. right before the praise service at 11:30 a.m.

Kasey Oliver is getting organized for the Vacation Bible School this August and really needs volunteers for numerous tasks, so please give her a call if you can help in any way. Her number is 903-849- 6373 or call the church office.

The Terrific Tuesday Kid's summer activities will begin in June. Call Ken Reid if you are interested in enrolling your child. This is a non-denominational activity, so invite your friends. Really fun activities are being planned this summer.

Happy Anniversary to: Tony and Susanne Hays and Steve and Lynne Staines.

Happy Birthday to: Helga Shaffer, Robert York, Nicole Gregory, Robert Montgomery, Joe Hendrix, Debbie Taylor, Austin Cade, Brooke Romo, Jenny Burch, and Hannah Stokke.

Thought for the Week: "There is a wealth of unexpressed love in the world. It is one of the chief causes of sorrow evoked by death; what might have been said or might have been done that never can be said or done." -Arthur Hopkins