2013-14 Life@Kinsmen - Kinsmen Lutheran Church

THE
in this issue
@Kinsmen
ROOTED IN FAITH… RELEVANT TO LIFE
1

2013—2014 @Kinsmen
August 2013 September 2013
October 2013 November 2013
11
16
24
25
28
Noisy Offering—Seminary/
Camp Scholarships
SWAT Lock In
What’s Up, Zak musical
Blessing of the Backpacks
9th Grade Milestone
Youth Ringers resumes
Wednesday Night Suppers
resume
Alleluia Choir resumes
SWAT Resumes
3
8
15
22
28
29
Adult Bell Choirs resume
“God’s Work, Our Hands”
Sunday
Noisy Offering—IHN
3 Yr. Old Milestone
3rd Grade Milestone
6th Grade Milestone
Children’s Choirs resume
Fall Churchwide Study begins
Sunday School resumes
IHN Week
3rd Grade Milestone
LEAD Workshop
10th Grade Milestone
6
11-13
13
26
27
Blessing of the Animals
Communion Retreat
Noisy Offering—Lutheran
Campus Ministry
Fall Festival
First Communion Milestone
2
3
10
17
22-24
24
28
Grief & Healing Milestone
All Saints
1st Grade Milestone Celebration
2nd Grade Milestone
Noisy Offering—Global Mission
2nd Grade Milestone
Beer & Brats
Annual Meeting
Consecration Sunday
Jr. High Retreat at Lutherhill
IHN Week
Run for Your Turkey
Community Thanksgiving Feast
December 2013 January 2014
February 2014 March 2014
4
6‐7
8
11
18
24
31
Midweek Advent Service
Advent Retreat at Lutherhill
Noisy Offering—ELCA Good
Gis
Midweek Advent Service
Child‐Led Christmas Service
Christmas Eve
Family New Year’s
Celebraon
5
12
24‐26
26
31‐2
Kindergarten Milestone
Noisy Offering—Lutherhill
Kindergarten Milestone
Mother/Daughter Retreat at
Lutherhill
Kindermass
Father/Son Retreat at
Lutherhill
2
8
9
21‐23
23
7th Grade Milestone
7th Grade Milestone
Marriage Milestone
Noisy Offering—ELCA World
Hunger
Sr. High Lutherhill Retreat
4 Year‐Old Milestone
2
5
7‐9
9
21‐23
4 Year‐Old Milestone
Ash Wednesday
Lutherhill Women’s Retreat
Noisy Offering—Habitat for
Humanity
Elementary Spring Retreat
April 2014 May 2014
June 2014 July 2014
6
13
17
18
19
20
25‐27
27
Noisy Offering—ELCA
Disaster Relief
Palm Sunday
Maundy Thursday
Good Friday
Easter Egg Hunt
Easter
Spring Family Retreat at
Lutherhill
Confirmaon Banquet
4
11
17‐18
18
Confirmaon
Noisy Offering—NAM
Music Ministry Weekend
5th Grade Milestone
Last day of Sunday School
8
11
15
18
25
Graduaon Milestone
Kinsmen Summer University
Noisy Offering—Reach
Unlimited
Kinsmen Summer University
Kinsmen Summer University
13 Noisy Offering—Krause
Center for Children
Dates are subject to change.
2
For a complete listing of
Milestone Classes,
see page 8.

egin
contents
2013—2014 calendar: 2
begin: 3
our mission and beliefs: 4
staff: 5
find us: 6
life milestones/membership: 7
church year and milestones: 8
kinsmen children’s academy: 9
sanctuary preparation: 10
hospitality: 11
music: 12
liturgical support: 13
youth: 14
children’s ministries: 15
education—bible studies &
small groups: 16
generosity & care: 17
service: 18
evangelism & outreach: 19
council directory: back
cover
@ Kinsmen
T
his is the fourth annual life@kinsmen book. Inside
life@kinsmen are tangible ways we live out our mission, strategy,
values and mission measures. At Kinsmen, we believe our mission
is to inspire every generation to experience and share God’s
grace in Jesus Christ. We believe we do this best when we are involved
in weekly worship, Christ-centered relationships and ministries
that help us share God’s grace with others.
It is our hope that every disciple of Kinsmen will participate fully in
weekly worship. In worship, the unchanging message of Jesus Christ
meets our ever-changing lives through hearing God’s Word and sharing
in the Sacraments. If you are not gathering weekly for worship,
your next step is to make a commitment to increase your worship participation
in this congregation.
Our expectation is that every disciple of Kinsmen is connected to a
Bible Study, Small Group or Ministry Task Group. We want every disciple
at Kinsmen to be in relationships where they can speak the truth
in love, bear one another’s burdens, and share their joys and struggles.
In a congregation of our size, authentic relationships are best
formed and nurtured in a small group setting. If you are not a regular
part of a Small Group, Bible Study or Ministry Task Group, your next
step is to join a group where you can form authentic Christ-centered
relationships.
It is our hope that every disciple of Kinsmen is inspired to share grace
in, through or beyond this congregation. We give with gracious hearts
because our God is generous. We want every disciple of Kinsmen to
be involved in a ministry where they have the opportunity to share of
their selves, their time and their possessions — signs of God’s grace.
If you are not part of a ministry where you share God’s grace, your
next step is to become involved in one that helps you give yourself
away.
At Kinsmen Lutheran Church, we believe that we are best equipped to
form P.R.A.I.S.E. disciples. We want to nurture and grow disciples
whose lives are marked by passionate worship, radical hospitality, adventurous
service, intentional faith formation, sensitive evangelism and
extraordinary generosity. It is our goal that you will grow as a
P.R.A.I.S.E disciple through participation in weekly worship, faithful
friendships, and ministries that help you share grace.
Whether you are a long time member or first time guest, we hope you
will find something in life@kinsmen that will align with your gifts, talents
and passions. We believe community is best experienced in ministry
and service to others!
welcome!
3

our mission
@Kinsmen
OUR MISSION
Inspiring every generation to
experience and share God’s grace in
Jesus Christ.
OUR STRATEGY
Inspiring Worship
Experiencing Family
Sharing Grace
OUR VALUES
1. SPIRITUAL DEPTH
We are spiritual beings
transformed by God.
Demonstrated by an intentional
journey of faith that celebrates
our life in Christ.
Acts 2:42,46; Romans 12:2-5;
James 1:2-4
2. AUTHENTIC RELATIONSHIPS
We engage in Christ-centered
relationships because we were
not created to be alone.
Demonstrated by speaking the
truth in love, bearing one
another’s burdens, and sharing
our joys as a family of faith.
Matthew 18:15-17; Galatians 6:2;
Ephesians 4:31-32
3. ROOTED RELEVANCE
We communicate an unchanging
message of Christ in an everchanging
community.
Demonstrated by faithfulness to
Scripture and tradition; and
relevance to current context.
Ephesians 2:8-10; 1 Corinthians
9:22-23; Matthew 28:19-20
4. GRACIOUS GENEROSITY
We give with gracious hearts
because God is generous.
Demonstrated by the sharing of
our selves, our time, and our
possessions --- signs of God’s
grace.
1 Corinthians 12:4-7; 2
Corinthians 9:6-8; Malachi 3:10
OUR MISSION MEASURES:
our beliefs
@Kinsmen
we believe...
...in the Triune God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
...in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and the Gospel as the power of God
for the salvation of all who believe.
...Jesus Christ is the Word of God incarnate, through whom everything was
made and through whose life, death, and resurrection God fashions a new
creation.
...The proclamation of God's message to us as both Law and Gospel is the
Word of God, revealing judgment and mercy through word and deed,
beginning with the Word in creation, continuing in the history of Israel, and
centering in all its fullness in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
...The canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the written
Word of God. Inspired by God's Spirit speaking through their authors, they
record and announce God's revelation centering in Jesus Christ. Through
them God's Spirit speaks to us to create and sustain Christian faith and
fellowship for service in the world.
...in the canonical Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments as the inspired
Word of God and the authoritative source and norm of its proclamation,
faith, and life.
...in the Apostles', Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds as true declarations of
the faith of this church.
...in the Unaltered Augsburg Confession as a true witness to the Gospel.
...in the Gospel, recorded in the Holy Scriptures and confessed in the
ecumenical creeds and Lutheran confessional writings, as the power of God
to create and sustain the Church for God's mission in the world.
4

staff @Kinsmen
Reach a Staff Member directly by dialing 281-444-3127, plus their extension
OFFICE HOURS Monday - Friday, 9 AM - 5 PM
Rev. Dr. Beth Marie Halvorsen
Interim Senior Pastor
Ext. 18
bhalvorsen@kinsmenlutheran.org
Rev. F. Mark England
Youth & Family Ministry
Ext. 24
mengland@kinsmenlutheran.org
Ruben Aranda
Custodian
Irene Baasen
Accounting & Financial Reports
Ext. 14
ibaasen@kinsmenlutheran.org
Stevie Berryman
Director of Adult Handbells
Ext. 21
sberryman@kinsmenlutheran.org
Tim Browning
Praise & Worship
Co-coordinator
chosentenor@gmail.com
Kinsey Cook
Media Team Assistant Coordinator
kcook@kinsmenlutheran.org
Julie Hughes
Office Manager
Ext. 10
jhughes@kinsmenlutheran.org
Jane Jacobi
Payroll Clerk
Ext. 15
Robyn Johnson
Media & Communications
Coordinator—Ext. 21
rjohnson@kinsmenlutheran.org
Elizabeth Marks
Traditional Worship Coordinator
Ext. 22
emarks.klc@gmail.com
Matt McGee
Media Team Leader
mmcgee@kinsmenlutheran.org
Trey Miller
Assistant Director Before
& After Care—Ext. 36
tmiller@kinsmenlutheran.org
Gonzalo Montes
Custodian
Sara Ray
Director of Children’s Ministry &
Outreach—Ext. 17
sray@kinsmenlutheran.org
Lynnae Schatz
Director of Congregational Life
Ext. 43
lschatz@kinsmenlutheran.org
Kristen Schulze
Praise & Worship Co-coordinator
kschulze@kinsmenlutheran.org
Lisa Yeager
Kinsmen Children’s Academy
Assistant Director—Ext. 23
lyeager@kinsmenlutheran.org
5

find us @Kinsmen
map & directions
From I-45 N: Turn west on
FM 1960 to Champion Forest
Dr. (About 6.5 miles.) Turn
left on Champion Forest Dr.
Proceed through three stop
signs (in the Greenwood
Forest neighborhood).
Kinsmen is on the southeast
corner of the intersection.
Proceed through the stop
sign; about a half block.
There is a crossover in the
esplanade that allows access
to our south parking lot.
From Beltway 8: Take the
Bammel-N. Houston exit. Go
north on Bammel-N. Houston
(Three stop lights; there is a
Chevron station on the
corner) to Champion Forest
Dr. Turn left. Go north on
Champion Forest Dr. There is
one stop sign. Proceed past
the stop sign a couple of
blocks. Kinsmen is on the
right.
contact information
Mailing / Physical Address Office Hours
12100 Champion Forest Dr. 9 AM - 5 PM
Houston, TX 77066
Monday - Friday
Office Phone Number Fax Number
281-444-3126 281-444-1733
Staff Extension Phone Number
281-444-3127 plus staff extension number (page 5)
E-mail Address
kinsmen@kinsmenlutheran.org
or a specific staff e-mail address (page 5)
worship service times
5:30 PM Saturday: Informal Worship with Communion
8:15 AM Sunday: Traditional Worship with Communion
celebrated on the first, third, and fifth Sunday of the
month
9:30 AM Sunday: Contemporary Worship with
Communion
11 AM Sunday: Traditional Worship with Communion
celebrated on the first, third, and fifth Sunday of the
month
6

life milestones
baptisms
@Kinsmen
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the
name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit… —Matthew
28:19
Jesus commands his followers to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the
name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit," Baptism is one of two sacraments
for Lutherans, the other being Holy Communion. In Baptism, by water and God’s Word, we are
saved from sin and death by being joined to the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus
Christ. In Baptism we are adopted as God’s children and made members of the body of Christ.
Because we believe that God’s grace is for all regardless of age, we baptize infants, children, youth, and adults. As
baptized children grow in years, we will provide ministries to help each child learn what it means to follow Jesus. These
ministries include the giving of the first Bible, preparation for First Communion, and a focused time of learning and
discipleship called Confirmation. If you have questions about what we believe about Baptism or would like to find out
more about being baptized at Kinsmen Lutheran, please contact Sara Ray.
Love each other because love comes from God. —1 John 4:7
weddings
Congratulations and best wishes on your upcoming nuptials!
Kinsmen is a beautiful and convenient location for couples to come before God and their
family and friends in Christian marriage. We look forward to being able to offer both our
facilities and our assistance at this special time in your life. Please contact the church for a
wedding at Kinsmen.
funerals
... Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of
death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your
staff, they comfort me ... —Psalm 23:4
The loss of a loved one is a difficult time that brings with it many questions,
decisions that must be made and arrangements that must be completed all while
grieving personally for the loss of someone important. It is a time that your friends
gather around you to comfort, support and care for you as you grieve, and it is also
a time that the church is there to minister to you and give you hope through the
faith we hold in Christ's victory over death. Please call the church so we can comfort you in your time of need.
membership
@Kinsmen
Becoming A Disciple At Kinsmen
At Kinsmen, we are not about making “members,” but rather “disciples.” We want
everyone to grow in their faith journey through Inspiring Worship, Experiencing Family in
a small group, and by Sharing Grace in word and deed.
If you are interested in joining Kinsmen, or simply would like to know more about our
ministries, please contact the church office.
7

2013
Oct 28
Reformation Sunday
We honor our Lutheran heritage and remember
the contributions of Martin Luther.
Nov 4
Nov 25
8
church year
@Kinsmen
All Saints Sunday
Christ the King
Dec 1—23
Advent
Advent is filled with our anticipation of the
coming of Christ, both as a tiny child and on the
last day. Join us for inspiring Wednesday night
Advent worship services at 7 PM.
Dec 24
Christmas Eve
We remember the Babe of Bethlehem as
Kinsmen celebrates the Nativity of Jesus Christ.
Join us for our children's service at 4 PM,
contemporary service at 6 PM, and/or our
traditional services at 8 and 10 PM.
2014
Jan 12
Jan 12—March 2
Mar 2
Baptism of Our Lord
Epiphany
Transfiguration of Our Lord
Mar 5
Ash Wednesday
Join us for worship at 12 and 7 PM.
Mar 5—Apr 6
Lent
The season of Lent starts with Ash Wednesday
as we begin the journey to Easter. We remember
Jesus’ time in the wilderness through
contemplation and prayer. Lenten services are
held on Wednesday nights at 7 PM throughout
Lent.
Apr 13— 20
Holy Week
Beginning on Palm Sunday, we remember the
events leading to Jesus’ death on the cross. Join
us at 7 PM for our Maundy Thursday worship
service and for Good Friday worship at 12 and 7
PM.
Apr 20
Easter
With triumphant shouts of “Alleluia,” Kinsmen
Milestone Ministry – Passing on faith….
milestone by milestone.
A faith milestone is a marker along life's
journey that says, "This is something important
and God is here, too!" It's time to pause, to
share the joys and sorrows, to give and
receive support. Milestones are a time of fun,
learning and celebrating as we encounter the
important Milestones in one’s faith life.
3‐Year‐Olds Beginning Sunday School Sept. 15, 2013
Prekindergarten
Prayer Feb. 23 & March 2, 2014
Kindergarten Worship & The Church Year Jan. 5 & 12, 2014
1 st Grade Missions & Service Nov. 3 & 10, 2013
2nd Grade Stewardship Nov 10 & 17, 2013
3rd Grade God’s Word Sept. 15 & 22, 2013
4th Grade First Communion Oct. 11—13 & 27, 2013
5th Grade Endings May 18, 2014
6th Grade Beginnings Sept. 15, 2013
7th Grade Relaonships Feb. 2 & 8, 2014
8th Grade Rite of Confirmaon May 4, 2014
9th Grade Beginnings Aug. 25, 2013
10th Grade Driver’s License Sept. 22 & 29, 2013
12th Grade Graduaon June 8, 2014
All Ages Grief & Healing Nov. 2, 2013
All Ages Marriage Feb. 8, 2014
celebrates the resurrection of Jesus and the promise of life eternal
through Christ. This festival day of worship is a pinnacle event in the life
of the church, and a day of joy and gladness for all of God’s people.
Join us for worship at 6:15, 8, 9:30, and 11 AM
June 8
Pentecost
We celebrate the arrival of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the church on
Pentecost, which takes place 50 days after Easter Sunday.
June 15
Trinity Sunday

children’s academy
@Kinsmen
Lisa Yeager
Assistant Director
Early Learning
Kinsmen Early Learning is dedicated to building children’s
self esteem, promoting self reliance, providing Christian
nurturing and enriching your child’s experiences in an
educational environment.
Our program uses Wee
Learn Curriculum. Wee
Learn is a Christian centersbased,
hands-on curriculum.
Children have opportunities
to experience learning
centers, language
development and
stimulation, science, arts
and crafts, music and movement and the study of God’s word. Manipulative play, a
fenced playground, infant playground, indoor gym, dramatic play, sand and water play
and sharing time, as well as Chapel time and field trips are offered for preschoolers. In
addition, weekly sign language classes are offered for 1 & 2 year olds and music/hand
bells classes for the 3 & 4 year old classes.
Before/After School Care
This special program is designed to provide a safe, fun and enriching environment
for children to spend their before and after school hours. We promote the
development of positive self image and emphasize life skills including Christian
beliefs, making positive choices, getting along with others and caring for oneself.
Trey Miller
Assistant Director
Before & After Care
Enrichment Opportunities
Dance Classes
Piano lessons
Homework room with adult supervision
9

sanctuary preparation
@Kinsmen
Altar Guild
Contact: Karen Crisler
The Altar Guild ministry is composed of members who care
and prepare our Sanctuary for worship on Saturday,
Sunday, and all other special worship services. Members
sign up to serve for one month (or more) during the year.
The worship space is cared for and Communion is
prepared on Saturdays. This usually takes one hour. After
each worship service, volunteers help clean up and store
the vessels and linens used for Communion. In addition,
Altar Guild members help with Greening the Sanctuary for
Christmas and to prepare for Holy Baptisms and weddings
when scheduled.
Liturgical Arts
Contact: Lynnae Schatz
The Kinsmen sanctuary is a beautiful setting for inspiring
worship and to honor our Lord. Each liturgical season is
celebrated through the use of verse, color and design in a
unique set of banners. Please join the Liturgical Arts Team
in creating beautiful banners for the sanctuary and narthex.
You can help if you own a pair of scissors.
Flower
Ministry
Contact: Diane
Smith
Come join the
Flower
Committee and
smell the fresh
flowers. This
ministry designs floral pieces on Friday or Saturday for
Kinsmen’s weekend worship services. Training is
provided! Volunteers would also be appreciated to remove
the flowers from the altar and narthex following the weekly
11 AM worship service. The altar flower arrangements are
placed in the cooler in the Flower Room for re-arranging.
On Mondays, a team dismantles the arrangements so
smaller ones can be made and delivered to church
members and those in need to enjoy.
Another way to help the Flower Ministry is by donating
flowers in honor or memory of a loved one or in celebration
of a family milestone. The cost for the donation is $25.
Sign up to donate flowers on the chart in the lobby or via
kinsmenlutheran.org.
Worship Bag Caretaker
Contact: Sara Ray
Kinsmen welcomes children of all
ages to worship. Realizing that our
younger ones sometimes become
restless during worship, we have
worship bags available for all children
to use during worship. These brightly
colored bags can be found in the
narthex and they include activities for
the busy little hands. Occasionally the
items in the worship bag need to be
replaced or updated. If you would be
willing to serve as a Worship Bag
Caretaker, your assistance would be
greatly appreciated.
10

hospitality
@Kinsmen
Contact: Sue Dunens, Lynnae Schatz, Cathy Elijah
Greeters
This is it … a visitor walks into Kinsmen. The visitor has taken the first
step – a giant step. Greeters have the opportunity to make the first
impression that will forever color this visitor’s opinion of Kinsmen. Be
the reason that this visitor returns to Kinsmen.
For 15-20 minutes before the services, Greeters receive everyone who
comes to worship. If you are passionate about making people feel
welcome and valued and have the ability to connect with people,
please serve as a Greeter.
Contact: Lynnae Schatz, Sue Dunens, Cathy Elijah
Ushers
Volunteering as an Usher is an opportunity to serve the church in a
rather unique way. Their activities include distributing the worship
guides, welcoming visitors, counting attendance, collecting
contributions and tithes, answering worshipper’s questions and
assisting with Communion. This ministry provides a positive first
impression of Kinsmen to guests — which could become new Kinsmen
members! Join the Ushers at any service to serve Kinsmen.
Contact: Lynnae Schatz, Cathy Elijah
Welcome Center
The Welcome Center is located in the Narthex and serves as an
information center for guests and members. This ministry answers
questions, gives directions, and is a source regarding church life.
Weekly handouts, monthly newsletters, and quarterly devotionals are
available at the center, as well as membership information and
contribution forms.
It is ideal that the Welcome Center Host is hospitable and observant.
Members should be friendly and be able to notice those guests who
look "lost" or have a question.
Volunteers staff the center 15 minutes before and 15 minutes after
each worship service and are asked to host for one service once every
two months. E-mails update the team on Welcome Center changes
and trends, if any, prior to serving.
Become a Welcome Center Host. It’s not only a way to meet fellow
worshippers, but to know all the church happenings.
11

music
@Kinsmen
about the Contemporary Praise Team
is welcome at a Thursday rehearsal.
Alleluia Choir
Contact: Elizabeth Marks
Glorify God in song! The Alleluia
Choir leads worship at the 8:15 and
11:00 AM traditional services and
participates in Abendmusik events
throughout the year, such as the
Christmas concert and the Kinsmen
Cabaret. Rehearsals are held
Wednesday evenings from 7—8:30
PM in the Choir Room, and all are
welcome. Remember…it’s ALWAYS a
good time to join the choir.
Children's Choirs
Contact: Lynnae Schatz
Sunshine Singers: 4-years-old through
1st grade, rehearse Sundays 4—4:45
PM
Morning Glory Choir: 2nd grade
through 5th grade, rehearse Sundays
5—6 PM
Glory to God! There’s nothing like
hearing children sing their praises to
God. Kinsmen’s two children’s choirs
sing to the Glory of God at various
worship services and concerts
throughout the school year. Worship
Leaders are developed through choir
participation.
Kinsmen Ringers & Jubilee
Ringers
Contact: Stevie Berryman
Music is such an important part of the
Lutheran tradition and the hand bell
choirs take their role seriously in the
uplifting of God’s spirit during worship.
These two groups are a Christian
family that ring together and laugh
together, and they are very happy to
welcome anyone who wishes to join
them in the celebration with music.
Jubilee Ringers rehearse on Tuesdays
at 11:30 AM and Kinsmen Ringers
rehearse Tuesday at 7 PM.
Contemporary Praise Team
Contacts: Kristen Schulze, Timothy
Browning
The Contemporary Praise Team is the
worship leadership ministry for the
9:30 AM worship service. This ministry
is comprised of instrumentalists and
vocalists whose desire it is to worship
God and to inspire others to do the
same. The Contemporary Praise
Team rehearses on Thursday
evenings from 7—9 PM in the
Sanctuary. Members also meet at 8:30
AM on Sunday mornings in the Choir
Room to prepare and warm-up.
Anyone interested in learning more
12
Kinsmen Brass
Contact: Steve Matchett
Praise the Lord with the sound of
trumpet (Psalm 150)! Do you play a
brass instrument This group of
musicians rehearses on Sunday
evenings and presents their musical
offerings on Reformation Sunday, at
the Christmas concert, Palm Sunday
and Music Ministry Sunday.
Youth Ringers
Contact: Lynnae Schatz
Youth Ringers is available for all sixth
through twelfth grade students with a
love of music and fellowship. This fine
group of musicians practices weekly
and provides music for worship
services throughout the school year.
The only prerequisite is the ability to
count to four. No music reading
experience necessary.

Acolytes
Contact: Gretta Karker
Acolytes plan
an important
role in
worship. The
word acolyte
means "one
who helps"
and Kinsmen
Acolytes do
just that!
These volunteers light and
extinguish candles, collect
the offering, and assist with
Communion and Baptisms.
Students in fourth through
eighth grade are
encouraged to participate.
Training is provided.
Drama Ministry
Contact: Mike Velotas
This ministry team writes, stages,
and performs the short dramas
that add so much to our
Advent and Lenten worship services
and at special times
throughout the year. Actors are
needed, as well as writers, costumers,
prop masters, and set
and lighting designers.
liturgical support
@Kinsmen
Communion Assistants
Contacts: Sue Dunens, Lynnae
Schatz, Cathy Elijah
This ministry helps distribute
Communion during worship services.
Confirmed and Baptized volunteers
serve as scheduled. Training is
provided.
Lectors
Contacts: Lynnae Schatz, Cathy Elijah
Love public speaking Take this
opportunity to read God’s word. Lectors
read the appointed scripture lesson at
worship services. The reading is sent
via e-mail the preceding week. Readers
are encouraged to practice reading at
the Ambo to get comfortable with the
microphone. Training and stepstools
are provided as necessary. Open to
anyone who enjoys sharing God’s word.
Communion Bread Bakers
Contact: Anna Meyer
During the celebration of Holy Communion
at the 8:15 and 11 AM services,
Kinsmen offers baked bread
that has been prepared by a church
member. Baking Communion bread
is a wonderful activity for youth and
parents, for a young couple, or for
any member of the church.
Media Ministry
Contact: Matt McGee
The Media Ministry exists to lead
people into a growing relationship
with Jesus Christ by creating a
dynamic environment for authentic
worship. We do this by creatively
utilizing the technology that God
has given us to more effectively
reach out to the church and the community with the good news of
Jesus Christ. There are two main areas in the Media Ministry; audio
and video.
The audio ministry utilizes some of the latest technology to enhance
and reinforce sound during our weekend services.
The video ministry has two aspects. We record and produce DVDs and
CDs of the services for distribution to those who request copies. Our
services are also uploaded each week online and can be viewed on the
church website. The second aspect allows us to utilize videos,
graphics, and text to creatively illustrate our services.
If you would like to use your talents and serve on the Media Team, no
experience required; training is provided. If interested in learning what
the Media Team is all about, stop by the media booth before or after
any service.
Assisting Minister
Contact: Barb Velotas
Volunteers assist the presiding Pastor by
leading portions of the worship service, which
includes singing (opt) and reading scripted
liturgy portions. The volunteer helps plan
Communion Assistants' roles as part of a preworship
meeting & prayer in the Bride's
Room. Assisting Ministers are high school
age and older, and typically serve at one
service per month as scheduled. Training is
provided as needed and rehearsals for the
sung liturgy can be scheduled.
13

1
youth
@Kinsmen
Contact: Kristen Schulze, Pastor Mark England
S.W.A.T. is an acronym for Students with a Testimony. The
name is significant because through telling how God is working
in our lives we are able to share the Good News with others.
S.W.A.T. is a student-led, adult mentored ministry for high
school students in grades 9-12. Through SWAT, students will
have opportunities to experience friendship, grow as disciples,
and be mentored in leadership. S.W.A.T. meets on
Wednesdays in Great Room 1 at 7 PM, and on Sunday
mornings at 9:30 AM in Great Room 3.
Friends love through all kinds of weather, and families stick
together in all kinds of trouble—Proverbs 17:17 (The Message)
Contact: Pastor Mark England
During this three-year ministry, youth explore the stories of the Old and
New Testaments and learn the basics of our faith: the Ten
Commandments, the Lord's Prayer, the Apostle's Creed, and the
Sacraments. We want the youth to not only learn more about their
faith, but also form friendships within the faith. We strive for each
Confirmation Small Group to be a place where youth can share their
struggles, laugh, play, and pray for one another as their faith seeks
understanding. Opportunities for retreats, fellowship, and service are
also a part of this ministry.
Confirmation Small Groups meet on Sunday mornings.
Contact: Pastor Mark England, Sara Ray
Camp Hope is a three week day camp that grows Biblically literate
children and youth. Activities for children include worship, Bible study,
crafts, drama, snacks, and games. Camp Hope is unique because of
its leadership. Camp Hope is staffed by Junior High, Senior High, and
College age youth who want to do something that matters with their
summer, be part of a community, and learn to be servant leaders.
These youth are interviewed, trained, and empowered to be Christian
leaders through this camp. Children may begin as young campers but
as they grow in years they are mentored to become Support Staff,
Small Group Leaders, Directors, and Camp Managers. Through Camp
Hope we are intentional about raising up faithful leaders who serve not
only in this congregation but also in the world.
14

children’s ministry
@Kinsmen
Contact: Sara Ray
When the church is notified that a congregation member has had a baby, the child is added to
the Cradle Ministry. Flowers are placed on the baptismal font and the baby's name is
Cradle announced in the weekly bulletin. At baptism, each child receives a age appropriate bible,
candle, handkerchief, multiple books (including "Living the Promises of Baptism, 101 ideas for
Ministry
parents"), baptismal certificate, and a handmade blanket made by the Prayer Shawl Ministry.
Baptism is the first milestone in a child's life, and all of these gifts fit in the faith chest that is
given to the child to keep all of their gifts from milestones as they grow. The family also
receives a series of monthly newsletters with important information about the physical ad
spiritual growth of children. To learn more or to help with Cradle Ministry, please contact Sara Ray.
Contacts: Sara Ray, Pastor Mark England, Lynnae Schatz
Passing on faith … milestone by milestone. A faith milestone is a marker along life's journey that
says, "This is something important and God is here, too!" It's time to pause, to share joys and
sorrows and to give and receive support. Milestones are a time of fun, learning and celebrating
as we recognize the important milestones in one’s faith life. See page 8 for a milestone calendar.
Milestone
Ministry
Contacts: Sara Ray, Pastor Mark England,
Lynnae Schatz
Sunday Come and join us as we sail through a year
full of Bible-centered learning. Kinsmen has
School classes for all ages. The three-year-old
through junior high classes meet from 9:30-
10:30 AM. Adult small groups are available
during the 9:30 a.m. hour. Bring friends and
explore the Bible through music, activities and
age-appropriate teaching. Kinsmen‘s Sunday school is eagerly
awaiting you.
Contact: Sara Ray
Kinsmen has many wonderful opportunities for children to attend church that go beyond just
attending Sunday school. The Elementary Ministry for kids three years through fifth grade holds
yearly activities that are enjoyable and leave children wanting to attend the next year. Some of
the events are: Fall Festival, Advent Retreat, Children's Christmas Program, Parent’s Night
Out, Family Retreats at Camp Lutherhill, Easter Egg Hunt, Spring Retreat, Camp Hope, and
yearly Milestones (see page 8).
Elementary
Ministry
Jesus said to the disciples, "“Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is
to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. 15 Truly I tell you, whoever does not
receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.” 16 And he took them up
in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them. - Matthew 10:14—16
15

16
education
Small Groups
Adult Small Group
Ministry
Contact: Lynnae
Schatz
Small Group Ministry is
crucial to the spiritual
health and life of our
church because it
allows us to deepen
our understanding of
God’s word, strengthen our relationships with one
another, deepen our prayer life and conversations with
God, and provide an entry point for people who may not
“do church.” Adult Small Groups meet at homes and at
church at various times during the week. A Small Group is
a community of people who spend time together in study,
prayer and fellowship.
20/30 Ministry Group
Contact: Ellen Pritchett & Sara Ray
Bible Study and fellowship activities are available at least
once a month for all 20/30 somethings. Watch the bulletin
and newsletter for more information.
Men's Breakfast Bible
Study
Contact: Church Office
This ministry offers an
opportunity for the men of
Kinsmen to gather for study,
fellowship and camaraderie.
The group meets in the
Conference Room every
Wednesday morning at 8
AM.
Senior Adults
Ministry
Contact: Larry
& Betty
Liveringhouse
This ministry
offers senior
members (50
years and older) of our congregation and community an
opportunity to gather in a social venue. Members
participate in activities that foster spiritual growth, health,
and wholesome fellowship events. Recent outings have
included trips to the South Texas Nuclear Power Plant, an
old fashion steam train ride through the Piney Woods of
Texas, plus tours of Jones Hall & Wortham Center. Buses
from Harris County Precinct 4 Senior Adult program
usually provide transportation for these events.
@Kinsmen
Bible Studies
Men's Bible Study
Contact: Bruce Elijah
This small group is open to
all male members of
Kinsmen, their sons, and
the community. We meet
Mondays, 7—8:30 PM in
the Community Room.
Each class has a reading
schedule and participants
are challenged to keep up
with the materials as the
courses progress. The Bible
is used to expand the study
materials for a Biblical
perspective; this knowledge
will enable men to mentor
their sons in the use of
God’s word.
Once-A-Month
Women's Bible Studies
Contacts: Darlene Boggs,
Naomi Circle; Michele
Mulkey, Lydia Circle
The Naomi and Lydia
Circles meet the first
Tuesday each month,
September through May.
The Naomi Circle meets at
9:30 AM in the Community
Room; and the Lydia Circle
meets at 7 PM in the
Conference Room. In Lydia
Circle, women take turns
leading and choose
different small group studies
throughout the year. It
usually takes a year to
complete a study, since we
only do one lesson a month.
In Naomi Circle, the study is
from the ELCA publication
Gathering. Women take
turns leading the study. In
both groups, visiting and
relationship building occur
before and after the Bible
study. Members take turns
providing light refreshments
as hostess/co-hostess.
Collected donations are
given to identified charities
throughout the year. These
groups welcome new faces
and would be delighted to
have yours join them.
Women's Thursday
Bible Studies
Contacts: Shella Smith,
Colette Edwards
All are welcome and
encouraged to attend a
Ladies’ Thursday Bible
Study. The morning Bible
study meets most
Thursdays from 10 AM—12
PM. The evening Bible
study meets from 7—8:30
PM. Both groups meet in
the Community Room.
Member participation is
encouraged but is not
mandatory with emphasis
being placed on being one
in Christ. We have various
studies following a video or
live lecture with small group
time and prayer. Bible study
is a safe place for all
women to be able to share
and be healed.
Mom’s Bible Study
Contacts: Sheri Erickson
Are you a mom looking for
that midweek Bible Study
Are you a mom looking for a
Bible study with childcare
Then join in the learning
with other moms in the
Conference Room on
Wednesdays at 10 AM.
Free childcare is available.

Noisy Offering Calendar 2013-2014
August 2013
Seminary/Camp Scholarships
generosity
@Kinsmen
Tellers
Contact: Don Rosseisen
Have an interest in serving a very important service
that's behind the scenes If so, the Teller Ministry is for
you. There are currently four teams consisting of four
members each. Each group works for two weeks and
then is off for six weeks. Barring a conflict with
holidays, volunteer work is done on Monday mornings,
and typically takes one-and-a-half hours. Training is
provided. As mentioned, this is a very important
service. With a budget of over one million dollars,
timeliness and accuracy are critical. This is a group that
develops very close friendships.
Stewardship Committee
Contact: Gary Simpson
The mission of this group is to work to raise faith in
Christ within the Kinsmen community, and in so doing,
raise the level of time, talent and treasure contributed
by the congregation. Stewardship Committee generally
meets once a month to discuss how they can advance
their mission. Fellowship is an important component of
each meeting and it often leads to activities that help
build faith. Each year, Stewardship coordinates with
staff to promote an annual campaign to meet the
financial needs of the church. We also Share Grace by
coordinating all Noisy Offerings, generally taken the
second Sunday of the month.
Abendmusik Donor
Contact: Elizabeth Marks
Kinsmen would not be able to present our Abendmusik
concert series, without the continued support of our
many generous friends. We hope you’ll consider
offering your support as we continue to strive towards
experiencing excellence in the performing arts.
Community Thanksgiving Feast
Contact: Lynnae Schatz
All are welcome to share Thanksgiving with their family,
friends, and community at Kinsmen’s Annual
Community Thanksgiving Feast. The meal is free, but
the fellowship is priceless. We need many volunteers to
support this ministry...cooks, bakers, hosts, servers,
and more.
September 2013
October 2013
November 2013
December 2013
January 2014
February 2014
March 2014
April 2014
May 2014
June 2014
care
July 2014
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Contact: Lynnae Schatz
Volunteers create shawls
for those who are suffering
from illness or grief to
provide a sense of comfort
knowing Kinsmen cares
about them while they are
experiencing their difficult
times. Volunteers also
create baptismal blankets
for infants and small shawls
for children or adults who
are baptized as a physical
presence of the warmth of
fellowship in the community
of faith.
Nursery
Contact: Lynnae Schatz
The nursery is a safe and
joyful place for the youngest
children at Kinsmen. Infants
through age five are
welcomed to enjoy the
nursery which is staffed by
caregivers. Screening,
training, and orientation is
provided for the caregivers.
Interfaith Hospitality Network
Lutheran Campus Ministry (Rice/U
of H) & (A&M/Blinn)
Global Mission
ELCA Good Gifts
Lutherhill
ELCA World Hunger
Habitat for Humanity
ELCA Disaster Relief
Northwest Assistance Ministries
Reach Unlimited
@Kinsmen
Krause Center For Children
Flower Delivery
Contact: Lynnae
Schatz
Tuesdays - the rearranged
bouquets from the
weekend altar flowers are
delivered on Tuesday.
Deliveries are made to
hospitals, rehab centers,
homes, local schools and
local businesses. An
average of 6 – 7 bouquets
are delivered every week
and sometimes as many as
15 are delivered. A GPS
system is helpful but not
required.
Funeral Reception
Volunteer
Contact: Lynnae Schatz
This ministry helps our
families “celebrate the life”
of their loved one at a
reception following a
funeral. Receptions provide
a place of hospitality for
families and friends to
gather for fellowship; to
share, reminisce and
remember the life of their
loved one and their happy
times together.
17

Prayer Team
Contact: Mary Collins, Grace Mielke
The prayer team meets on Mondays at
5:30 PM in the Conference Room to pray
for the needs of Kinsmen. All prayer
requests from the worship services are
prayed over. In addition, the prayer team lifts up the
internet prayer requests and all other prayer requests
received during the week that are not designated for
pastors only. The prayer requests are confidential. All
members of Kinsmen are invited to join this group.
If you would like personal prayer please come to prayer
time or submit your prayer request in the offering plate or
online and someone from the Prayer Team will be glad to
meet with you at a convenient time.
service
Church Council
Contact: Patrick Beecher, Myron
Menk
Council is an elected body made up of
nine council members and pastors.
Council tends to the mission of the
congregation and works to move the
church in a forward direction. Part of
Church Council ministry is to be a
visionary body for the congregation in
our community.
Library Team
Contact: Vicki Aubrey
Around 1981, Marian Bussman began
the Kinsmen Library with 4 to 5 books
on a shelf in the original conference
room, and our collection was moved to
its present location when the CLC
opened. Over the years, through the
work of many volunteers, the library
has grown to over 1,000 titles today.
We have been so fortunate to have
had our congregation donate a wide
variety of books as well as audio
visuals and Bibles.
Transportation Volunteers
Contact: Julie Hughes
This ministry, which began in 2004, is
used on a daily basis during the
school year to transport before and
after school students to and from
seven local schools, on Sunday
mornings to bring Retirement
Community residents to worship and
for other events of Kinsmen.
Transportation currently has three
buses, with a total capacity of 84
passengers.
@Kinsmen
Office Volunteers
Contact: Julie Hughes
Office volunteers are an integral part
of the church office. They answer the
telephone, assist with attendance
tracking, data entry, mailings, light
computer work and special projects. If
you are good at detail, are organized
and like administrative, clerical work,
you'll enjoy being an office volunteer at
Kinsmen. Volunteers can serve as
much as once a week or as little as a
day and help fill in for staff vacations.
If interested in becoming an office
volunteer, call the church office.
Mutual Ministry Team
Contact: Linda Martens
Mutual Ministry is a mission-oriented
enterprise that is characterized by a
broad vision of ministry and a healthy
practice of mutuality. Kinsmen has
embraced mutual ministry and has
Mutual Ministry Teams in place for
each Pastor. Each Mutual Ministry
Team supports their Pastor by serving
as advocates, mentors, listeners,
coaches, encouragers, and confidants.
Its primary purpose is the well being of
their Pastor, with a secondary concern
being the health of the ministry of the
congregation. Teams are accountable
to one another and report regularly to
the Church Council. Mutual Ministry
Teams fill three roles: 1) listening and
clarifying; 2) sharing and
communicating; and, 3) reviewing and
revising. Teams build on a broad
vision of ministry, a healthy practice of
mutuality and use a small group
approach to develop mutuality.
Visiting Communion Ministers
Contact: Grace Mielke
Volunteers take Communion to hospitalized, shut-in
members or recovering members unable to attend Kinsmen
worship services. Training is provided.
New Member Sponsor
Contact: Lynnae Schatz
Kinsmen receives new members at least three times a
year. It is our desire to help the newest members of
Kinsmen experience family by having a sponsor for every
new member family. New Member Sponsors present the
new members during the worship service and are
encouraged to introduce the newest members of Kinsmen
to others.
Wednesday Night Supper
Contact: Mark Schiller, Lynnae
Schatz
Kinsmen has Wednesday Night
Suppers available during the school
year. A great menu is served each
week, with a chef preparing the meals.
Assistance is needed with the set up,
serving, and salad and dessert
preparation.
Sunday Breakfast Cooking Team
Contact: Jim Nolan, Mike Carrier
Kinsmen offers a delicious hot
breakfast every Sunday from 9-11 AM.
The menu includes eggs, sausage,
bacon, biscuits and gravy, pancakes,
an assortment of fruit, juice, coffee,
and donuts. The ministry has
volunteer teams of three or four
people who serve once every six to
eight weeks.
Photography Volunteers
Contact: Lynnae Schatz
Interested in capturing moments of
Sunday school, milestones,
congregational events, or working on
the pictorial directory Then become a
Photography Volunteer. This important
ministry shows the life of the church —
one picture at a time.
Abendmusik Publicity
Contact: Elizabeth Marks
The Abendmusik concerts are a great
way to reach the community.
Assistance is needed in delivering
posters and/or flyers to local churches,
18

evangelism & outreach
Partners in Global Mission Team
Contact: Terry Richter
The purpose of The Partners in Global
Mission Team is to respond to God’s
call, in partnership with the Texas
Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod Global
Mission Team, and the ELCA, to love
and serve others throughout the globe
through accompaniment. We want to
make a positive difference in the lives
of others and in our own lives by
building relationships with and
supporting our brothers and sisters in
our companion synods in Central
African Republic and Peru and our
companion congregation, Talitha Cum
in Cusco, Peru. Last year, Kinsmen
raised money through the noisy
offering that helped our Synod raise
over $200,000 as part of the ELCA’s
goal of $15 million to eradicate malaria
in Africa. We also support our
missionaries and encourage
adventurous travel. This fall we are
blessed that Pastor Dana Nelson from
Talitha Cum will visit Kinsmen and the
noisy offering will be designated for
that congregation. We welcome new
Partners! Contact Terry Richter or
Judy Biffle.
Interfaith Hospitality Network
(IHN)
Contact: Linda Martens
Interfaith Hospitality Network is a
collaboration between area
congregations of faith (including
Kinsmen and 17 others) and
Northwest Assistance Ministry (NAM)
to provide shelter and meals for
temporarily homeless families.
Kinsmen hosts these families from
Sunday evening through Saturday
night four times a year. Our church
provides them with: a week’s supply of
groceries for breakfast and lunch and
lodging at the InTown Suites, which
gifts them with a “private place of their
own.” Families represent the fastest
growing segment of the homeless
population. IHN has been very
successful in empowering homeless
families to become independent. IHN
provides an opportunity to take time
out in a safe environment — time to
@Kinsmen
learn new skills, time to consider a
new approach to things, time to regain
self-confidence and time to step out
again and claim the life that is possible
with a community of support. Program
participants spend their days at NAM
focusing on developing job search
skills and addressing the issues that
lead to their becoming homeless.
Congregational Life Team
Contact: Lynnae Schatz
Fellowship and more! This team
assists with the pictorial directory,
National Night Out, Easter Egg Hunt,
Family Fall Festival, family caroling,
crawfish boil, Kinsmen Summer
University, Lutheran Day at the Astros
and more. The Congregational Life
Team is looking for volunteers to help
make these Kinsmen events
successful.
Fair Trade Fair
Contact: Lynnae Schatz
In late November or early December,
Kinsmen hosts a Fair Trade Fair to sell
handcraft items to support artisans
and farmers from around the world. In
line with Martin Luther’s teaching that
“we should fear and love God that we
may … help [our neighbor] to improve
and protect his property and
business,” it is a way of doing
business that acknowledges the worth
and basic human rights of all people.
When you buy Fair Trade items, more
of the money you spend reaches the
hands of the people who crafted them.
Assistance is needed with set up, take
down and hosting the Fair Trade Fair.
Kinsmen Children’s Academy
Tutor/Parties/Reader
Contact: Sara Ray, Lisa Yeager,
Trey Miller
Kinsmen’s Mother’s Day Out/
Preschool Program has approximately
60 children enrolled. There are
approximately 65 children enrolled in
the Before and After School program.
These children and families need
support in tutoring, helping with
classroom parties and reading in the
classroom.
Inflatable Ministry Team
Contact: Lynnae Schatz
Kinsmen has 4 inflatables that are
available to be used for Kinsmen.
Volunteers are needed to help with set
up and take down. Training is
provided.
Abendmusik Receptions
Contact: Elizabeth Marks
Following the Abendmusik programs a
reception is held. Volunteers are
needed to help with set up, serving
and clean up.
Life Center Groceries
Contact: Doug and Nadine
Wittenberg
One of Kinsmen's small groups, with
the help of the congregation, supports
The Life Center through monthly
donations for groceries and by actually
going grocery shopping with residents
and staff at their local Fiesta Store.
Each year in December, members of
Kinsmen have an opportunity to
pledge $20/month for the upcoming
year, to be used for groceries to feed
the homeless living at The Life Center.
With these funds, Kinsmen is currently
able to provide $700/month for
groceries and enjoy the fellowship with
the Life Center staff and residents
during the monthly shopping trips!
The Life Center is a Christian shelter
for the homeless located at 4516 Old
Yale St. Houston, TX 77018. They
"serve, educate and represent the
homeless" and have been for 24
years. The Life Center hopes to impart
sufficient work and basic living skills,
along with a positive and focused
mental attitude to Homeless
individuals so they can take their
proper place as productive and stable
members of today's society through
the operation of a short-stay
residential facility, and the combination
of an educational program, an inhouse
work program and group
counseling sessions based on the
Alcoholics Anonymous twelve-step
modality.
19

THE
PAS-
TORS
in this issue
President, Patrick Beecher 281-890-3345
Vice President, Myron Menk 281-537-2693
Treasurer, Jennifer Nash 281-537-7584
Secretary, Jill Henze 281-370-9923
Patti Benesh 281-288-8250
Matt Dankert 281-376-8249
Laura Lyons 281-320-8620
Scott Nott 281-379-1231
Kathy Sutter 281-370-9791