First Rowlett High Five 4-15-2018

The SPRC in conjunction with the North Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church is happy to welcome Rev. Jack Soper, a recently retired Elder in the North Texas Conference, as the Interim Pastor for First Rowlett. He served as the Senior Pastor of Arapaho United Methodist Church in Richardson, for 24 years. He was alsothe organizing pastor of Holy Covenant UMC in Carrollton, where he served for 18 years. Jack holds degrees in psychology, philosophy, and a Masters of Theology in Biblical Research from Boston University School of Theology. He has been involved in issues of social justice for his entire ministry with emphasis on refugee immigration, the death penalty, racial justice, and interfaith dialogue.Team. For eight years Jack served as the chairperson of the Commission of Church and Society for the Texas Conference of Churches, the state’s ecumenical organization. Jack is an instructor in the Course of Study Program for the North Texas Conference where for 18 years he has taught courses in Christian Ethics, the Hebrew Bible, the New Testament, and Theology for the Contemporary Church. He is married to Rev. Marti Soper, also an ordained United Methodist minister and Director for the North Texas Conference Center for Leadership Development. They have four adult children and five amazing grandchildren. Jack and Marti live in Richardson. First Rowlett will be blessed by Rev. Jack Soper's presence and expertise!

First Rowlett UMC values developing disciples among people of all ages and stages of life. Under the leadership of Pastor David Turner and the Staff Parish Relations Committee, First Rowlett not only affirms lifelong discipleship development, but is also introducing a new staff position that will strengthen our ability to fulfill the mission of the United Methodist Church to make disciples for the transformation of the world. The Director of Family Ministries is a new position dedicated to using an intergenerational approach that will include activities and education by working with children, youth, and adults of all ages, building connections, fostering relationships and encouraging the church as a "family." Another important function is to provide parents with the tools and resources they need to fulfill their role as their child's primary spiritual leader. Tanya Allen joins us as the Director of Family Ministries. Tanya, who has great experience in church ministry, as well as in public education, joins the staff and the congregation in our desire to strengthen our discipleship development. She is the proud mom of 2 grown children and has 3 granddaughters. In June, her first grandson will be born. We are happy to welcome Tanya Allen to First Rowlett!

Very first Vacation Bible School planning meeting for summer 2018! 21 servants of God getting ready to teach kids about Jesus!

Enjoying the Stockholders’ Dinner for those who bought stock in the youth mission trip to Mexico where they built two homes for families who needed a home. Blessed!

First Rowlett High Five 4-8-2018

Important announcement from First Rowlett United Methodist Church: Dear Members and Friends, Over the last few months, I have had a lot of personal family concerns, coupled with feeling fatigued and tired. Due to this, I am choosing to be in a retired relationship with the North Texas Annual Conference. As of today, I am taking Renewal Leave and will be back for the last Sunday in June to preach my final sermon at First Rowlett. First Rowlett has been a wonderful place to serve and I love all of you very much. Sincerely, David J. Turner Rev. David shared this information with the staff at our meeting this morning. He also stated: - he is not ill - his son's health seems to be improving and David is excited about being able to spend time with him in Ohio, and to be present when their 10th grandchild is born - he and Joy currently plan to continue living in Rowlett - he and Joy are looking forward to much needed rest and a time of renewal David has full confidence in our staff and our congregation to handle the work of the church until a new pastor is seated. The SPRC and the North Texas Conference are working together to appoint a new pastor very soon. I know you will join the SPRC, the staff and me in praying for David, his family and our church in this time of transition. Love one another, Dretha Burris Associate Pastor First Rowlett UMC 4405 Main Street Rowlett, TX 75088 972-475-3667

Easter Eggstravaganza! What fun! We are thankful for Jesus’ love and life we celebrate on Easter! Thank you to all the children who brought their parents to the celebration!

First Rowlett High Five 4-1-2018

Easter Eggstravaganza is the place to be on Saturday, March 31 from 10-11:30am at First Rowlett UMC! Petting zoo, face painting, games and more. The Easter egg hunt will be at 11:00. This year is a bit different. The kids will hunt for eggs and bring them to turn back to the church. They will exchange the eggs for candy! This will keep the ants away from the candy!

First Rowlett High Five 3-25-2018