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POD Strangely Warmed Ep 26: "Agents for Jesus Christ" with Isaac Saenz
9/19/2023
Isaac Saenz is the host of a very popular football podcast, @profootballchase, and the favorite son of our Bishop. Rev. Daniel Hawkins sits down with Isaac to talk about his start in the digital medium and how churches can utilize the ever evolving social media for the Future of the Church.
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 25: "We're in this Together" with Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr.
9/12/2023
This week Rev. Daniel Hawkins catches up with Bishop Ruben Saenz about what he he's been up to this summer and what we can expect for the future from the conference. Bishop gives us some insight about the upcoming District Meetings where he will talk about the Vision of the Conferences and a he ...
Notes for a New Day Devotional Launches
9/8/2023
On Sept. 11, 2023, the Central and North Texas Conferences launched a new daily devotional email produced for and by both conferences. The emails will be delivered every Monday through Friday. So, please go to notesforanewday.com for more information and to subscribe to receive this wonderful new ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 24: "Football and the Church" with Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr and Isaac Saenz
9/5/2023
With the start of NFL season on our heels Rev. Daniel Hawkins huddles up with Coach Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. and Bishops Favorite son Isaac Saenz to talk about Bishops days playing football, Isaacs favorite teams and how the Church and Football are more similar than we might think. Isaac hosts the ...
2023 Cabinet Retreat - Tuesday Update
8/30/2023
The Cabinets of the Central, North and Northwest Texas Conferences continue their meetings by working on a vision statement for the conferences as well as priorities for the future with a focus on supporting our children and offering hope in a hurting world. To find out more, join us at your ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 23: "The Future of CTC Student Ministries" with Christine Peirce
8/29/2023
The Central Texas Conference's new Student Ministries Coordinator, Christine Peirce, joins Rev. Daniel Hawkins this week on POD Strangely Warmed to talk about the Future of Student Ministries in the CTC. Join in the conversations as she's planning out how to connect our students with each other ...
2023 Cabinet Retreat Monday Night Update
8/29/2023
The Cabinets of the Central, North and Northwest Texas Conferences continued their intensive three day planning retreat by taking a deep dive into using a "future back" mindset - envisioning a world 10 years ahead to develop a vision and strategies to best meet the needs of our communities and world...
2023 Cabinet Retreat Sunday Night Update
8/28/2023
The Central Texas, North Texas and North West Texas conference Cabinets are on a retreat this week to brainstorm, plan, and most importantly pray for the future of our church. Bishop gives us an update after their Sunday planning sessions and Vesper Service. Stay tuned this week for more updates.
China Spring Cookie Ministry
8/23/2023
The start of the school year is typically all about the “new,” - new possibilities, adventures, friends… However, for the folks at China Springs UMC, it signals the annual return of a decades old tradition centered in homemade cookies, community involvement and care and good old-fashioned Christian ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 22: "Authentic Youth Ministry" with Rev. Chelsea Peddecord and Loni Fancher
8/22/2023
POD Strangely Warmed continues its focus on the up-and-coming generation of Christian leaders by peeling back the curtain on successful youth ministry in 2023 and beyond. Rev. Daniel Hawkins welcomes Loni Fancher, Director of Youth Formation at First United Methodist Church Arlington, and Rev. ...
Bishop Saenz Offers Hope, Encouragment and Fun for Back to School 2023
8/21/2023
With schools all across the Central and North Texas Conferences back in session, Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. shares a message of hope, resilience, compassion and excitement for and to all students, teachers, administration, staff, parents and guardians and reminds them that whether you're a student, ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 21: "Youth 23" with Loni Fancher and Kylie Campbell
8/15/2023
As we start the school year Rev. Daniel Hawkins takes a look back with Director of Youth Formation, Loni Fancher, from FUMC Arlington and Director of Youth Ministry, Kylie Campbell, from FUMC Burleson about their summer as CHAOS coordinators. We hear about how they recruit volunteers at their churches and all about their recent adventure to "Youth 23" at Daytona Beach.
2023 Project Transformation Interns Share Insights from the Summer
8/10/2023
Before leaving back to the "real world," the 2023 Project Transformation Central Texas interns sat down and shared a bit about their experience working with elementary school children through the program and how it impacted their lives. Please enjoy the short video below and hear some of the reasons...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 20: "UTA & UT Wesleys" w/ Revs. Marcus Jones & David McMinn
8/8/2023
Back to School again on the Podcast, this week Rev. Daniel Hawkins visits with Rev. Marcus Jones from UTA and Rev. David McMinn from UT about their college ministries and how churches can best re-accept their college students back into their congregations. To learn more about our College ministries ...
Project Transformation Central Texas Wraps Up Another Successful Summer With Family Fun Night 2023
8/4/2023
Project Transformation Central Texas (PT) recently wrapped up another successful summer season of learning, community involvement and growth for the children who participated in the program, the volunteers who engaged with them and the summer staff interns who put in so much work and love into ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 19: "Tarleton & Belton Wesleys" w/ Revs. Corey Moses and Katie Lamoureux
8/1/2023
We're going back to campus again for our 19th episode of the POD Strangely Warmed and continue our discussions on what makes our campus mistries and ministers such a special place for students. Our host Rev. Daniel Hawkins is joined by veteran Tarlton Wesley leader Rev. Corey Moses and a campus ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 18: "UNT & TCU Wesley" w/ Revs. Eddie Kahler and Marianne Brown-Trigg
7/25/2023
This week the podcast kicks off a new series getting ready to go Back To School. Our Host Daniel Hawkins sits down with two of our Wesley association leaders Revs. Eddie Kahler and Marianne Brown-Trigg to discuss the ins and outs of College ministries and some new ways of ministering to the young ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 17: "Project Transformation" with Lynne Rhodes and Rosslyn Carroll
7/18/2023
Summer Vacation is over and it is Back to School for POD Strangely Warmed - the Central Texas Conference podcast where we discuss all things United Methodist as well as highlight some of the exciting ministries underway in and around the CTC. .Please visit our POD Strangely Warmed page at ...
Unification Consultation Process Update from Bishop Saenz
7/10/2023
As Bishop Saenz outlined in his 2023 Episcopal Address, a consultation process is underway to work toward unifying the Central, North and Northwest Texas Conferences so that we are prepared and well-positioned to move forward in our disciple-making mission as a unified conference following the ...
A Special Place Where God Catches People & Changes Lives
6/27/2023
The 2023 Summer schedule for Glen Lake Camp is in full swing, but there's still more room for campers! Visit https://www.glenlake.org/summer for more info. And even if you are already booked for camp or can’t squeeze it into the schedule this summer, you can still support YOUR CAMP with your prayers...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 16: "Ministry Incubators" With Rev. Trey Wince and Dr. Aqueelah Ligonde
6/27/2023
The 2023 Central Texas Annual Conference was blessed with Dr. Aqueelah Ligonde and Rev. Trey Wince from Ministry Incubators as the Conference Teachers. Ministry Incubators is an organization dedicated to transforming innovative and even some “way out there” ideas into actionable and sustainable ...
2023 Morris Delaney Walker Winner - Fannette Welton
6/22/2023
The Morris DeLaney Walker Award was established in 1973 to recognize laypersons who exemplify the distinguished and exemplary service demonstrated by the award's namesake. The 2023 Walker Award was presented to Fannette Welton. As has been the custom in recent years, the award was initially ...
2023 Episcopal Address by Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr.
6/16/2023
Following the required business of organizing the 2023 Central Texas Annual Conference, Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. opened the conference by delivering a powerful and hope-filled Episcopal Address. In his address, Bishop Saenz acknowledged the challenges faced by the people and churches of the conference...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 15: "Spiritual Practices for Pentecost BONUS EPISODE" with Revs. Melissa Turkett & Kristin Warthen
5/31/2023
Bonus Episode! As you know, we've been on this journey with spiritual practices and seeing how they shape and form our lives. Today on POD Strangely Warmed we're going to have this bonus conversation with our amazing co-host for this season, Rev. Melissa Turkett and Rev. Kristen Warthen, about how ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 14: "Spiritual Practices: Prayer of Examen" with Rev. Melissa Turkett & Rev. Kristin Warthen
5/23/2023
In this episode, we wrap up a series to help individuals and churches prepare for and live into the season of Pentecost. With Pentecost just around the corner, the new series focuses on Spiritual Practices that can help form us in the faith. These conversations are designed to be used for your ...
Bishop Saenz Previews AC23
5/22/2023
The 2023 Central Texas Annual Conference meeting is just two weeks away! In the following video, Bishop Saenz offers a preview of this year's event and reminds all clergy and lay members who haven't yet registered to please do so as soon as possible. For more on the 2023 Central Texas Annual ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 13: Spiritual Practices for Pentecost: Silence and Stillness with Revs Melissa Turkett and Kristin Warthen
5/16/2023
Our 13th episode of POD Strangely Warmed, we continue a series to help individuals and churches prepare for and live into the season of Pentecost. With Pentecost just around the corner, the new series focuses on Spiritual Practices that can help form us in the faith. These conversations are designed...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 12: "Work as a Spiritual Practice" with Rev. Melissa Turkett and Rev. Kristin Warthen
5/9/2023
Our 12th episode of POD Strangely Warmed, we continue a series to help individuals and churches prepare for and live into the season of Pentecost. With Pentecost just around the corner, the new series focuses on Spiritual Practices that can help form us in the faith. These conversations are designed...
Meet Rev. Derek Jacobs, AC23 Guest Preacher
5/3/2023
Bishop Ruben Saenz, Jr. has announced Rev. Derek Jacobs to be the Guest Preacher for the 2023 Central Texas Annual Conference. “Rev. Jacobs is a dynamic preacher who will set an excited, forward looking and hope-filled tone for our Annual Conference gathering,” stated Bishop Saenz. “Derek’s ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 11: “Spiritual Practices for Pentecost - Lectio Divina” with Revs. Melissa Turkett & Kristin Warthen
5/2/2023
In this, our 11th episode of POD Strangely Warmed, we continue a new series to help individuals and churches prepare for and live into the season of Pentecost. With Pentecost just around the corner, the new series focuses on Spiritual Practices that can help form us in the faith. These conversations...
CTC/NTC Campus Ministry Spring Connectional Gathering
4/25/2023
Central and North Texas Conference Campus ministry leaders recently came together at the University of Texas at Arlington Wesley Foundation for a day of worship, idea sharing, food, fellowship and connection. Among the day’s highlights was Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. dropping by to share some of his call...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 10: “Spiritual Practices for Pentecost - Prayer” with Revs. Melissa Turkett & Kristin Warthen
4/25/2023
In the10th episode of POD Strangely Warmed, we start a new series to help individuals and churches prepare for and live into the season of Pentecost. With Pentecost just around the corner, the new series focuses on Spiritual Practices that can help form us in the faith. These conversations are ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 9: "Giants of the Faith" with Revs. Beverly Connelly, Luther Henry and Phil Shuler
4/18/2023
In a special edition of the Pod Strangely Warmed podcast, host Rev. Daniel Hawkins eagerly welcomes Rev. Beverly Connelly, District Superintendent of the Central and South District of the Central Texas Conference UMC to the host chair to lead the discussion with two gentlemen that she likes to call ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 8: "Revive! A Church Resurrection Story" with Revs. Jenn & Todd Pick
4/8/2023
Following the difficult separation from their home churches due to disaffiliation, several families from the Azle/Weatherford area who wanted to remain United Methodist needed to find a new church home. Thanks to some help from social media, several conversations with Revs. Jenn and Todd Pick, and ...
BELIEVE: A Lenten Study with Bishop Saenz - EASTER SUNDAY from John 20:18 "Mary's Stunning Announcement"
4/7/2023
Bishop Saenz concludes his 2023 Lenten series based in the gospel of John with a message for Easter focusing on the world changing proclamation from Mary Magdalene on that first Easter morning, "I have seen the Lord." Mary Magdalene’s identity has been historically blurred, all four gospels tell ...
"Making & Taking Opportunities for Conversation" with Rev. Debra Crumpton
4/5/2023
As an 18-year old student at the University of Alabama, Debra Crumpton visited a Methodist Church near campus “not because [she] was seeking the gospel, but to challenge the church after hearing that white churches were not welcoming African-American students.” What she found was a church that not ...
BELIEVE: A Lenten Study with Bishop Saenz - Sixth Sunday in Lent from John 14:1-4 "Don't Let Your Hearts Be Troubled"
4/1/2023
Bishop Saenz focuses his sixth Sunday in Lent BELIEVE reflection on how Jesus calms the troubled hearts of his disciples during the Passover meal that is now commonly known as the Last Supper. As Jesus' hour of betrayal, suffering, and death on the cross was at hand, he gets his affairs in order ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 7: "Laity and Clergy Altogether Beautiful" with Rev. Joy Dister-Dominguez
3/28/2023
The POD Strangely Warmed podcast takes one final (for now) dip into the ancestral waters of the UMC by reflecting on what type of church we were handed and how can we actively build a church of today and tomorrow that uplifts the heart of Christ in our communities and world. This week, host Rev. ...
"We Are Here. We Are UMC!" Revive - A New UMC in Azle - Springs Forth from Disaffiliation
3/27/2023
Following the difficult separation from their home churches due to disaffiliation, folks from the Azle/Weatherford area who wanted to #BeUMC needed to find a new church home. Thanks to some help from social media and the nudging of the Holy Spirit, a grass-roots coalition of laity got together and ...
BELIEVE: A Lenten Study with Bishop Saenz - Fifth Sunday in Lent from John 12:1-2; 9-11 "There is Life in Christ After Trauma"
3/26/2023
On this fifth Sunday of Lent, Bishop Saenz takes a unique slant on the story and tradition of Lazarus, the one whom Jesus raised from the dead, focusing on the hours and then decades after being called out of the tomb by Jesus.The resurrection of Lazarus terribly disrupted and traumatized his life. ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 6: "Ancient Truths for Tomorrow's Church" with Rev. Jason Valendy
3/21/2023
In this sixth episode of the Central Texas Conference's POD Strangely Warmed podcast, we continue our series focused on how the people and churches of the CTC can actively work towards laying the foundation of a vibrant and fruitful church of 2050 and beyond. This week, Rev. Daniel Hawkins and Rev. ...
BELIEVE: A Lenten Study with Bishop Saenz - Fourth Sunday in Lent from John 9:34-38 "Who Is Jesus to You?"
3/19/2023
In his reflection for the fourth Sunday in Lent, Bishop Saenz focuses on John 9:34-38 and the gospel writers account of Jesus healing a blind man with mud from the ground. As you reflect on how belief is formed in a man born blind through what he hears during his encounter with Jesus this week,...
Mentoring a Call to Ministry with Praxis Intern Cara Kusenberger
3/16/2023
The Praxis Internship in Pastoral Leadership is designed for college students who are wondering if God may be calling them into ordained ministry. This video features Cara Kusenberger's experience in the Praxis Program during the summer of 2022. To learn more about this exciting program of the ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 5 "Be The Church Where The Church Couldn't Be" featuring Rev. Brenda Wier
3/14/2023
In episode 5 of the POD Strangely Warmed Podcast, Rev. Brenda Wier, retired deacon, and host Rev. Daniel Hawkins continues our focus on Being Good Ancestors for those who will lead and make up the UMC of 2050 and Rev. Wiers experiences growing up and becoming a deacon in the United Methodist Church....
BELIEVE: A Lenten Study with Bishop Saenz - Third Sunday in Lent from John 4:39-42 "The Savior of the World"
3/9/2023
For his third Sunday of Lent reflection, Bishop Saenz focuses on how belief is born in a Samaritan woman through what she hears during her encounter with him and how her willingness to share what she heard led many from her community to belief in Jesus as the Messiah - the Savior of the World.
A Methodist Family’s Foundation and Future Part 3 featuring Mrs. Anne Dobbins
3/8/2023
A rich family history rooted in the Methodist tradition is important and foundational to Annie Dobbins. However, if you think for a second that this powerhouse child of God is living in the past and longing for how church used to be, then you’ve not spent much time with Miss Annie. In the final ...
Change is Possible. Hope Is Power! - POD Strangely Warmed Episode 4 Featuring Rev. Beth Evers
3/7/2023
United Methodist churches are vital and active members of the community they serve, not just a place to worship on Sundays. So when the community surrounding University UMC in Fort Worth was rocked by a deadly shooting of local high school students at a restaurant right across the street from the ...
BELIEVE: A Lenten Study with Bishop Saenz - Second Sunday in Lent from John 3:1-18 "Nicodemus and Jesus: A Model of Transitioning Discipleship"
3/3/2023
To believe in Jesus is of great importance to John. He uses the verb “believe” 84 times in his gospel, which is 50 more times than the other three gospels combined (Matthew-9, Mark-15, Luke-10). John claims that believing Christ begins not by seeing miracles but by taking Jesus at his word. ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 3 Featuring Dr. Luther Henry (Part 2)
2/28/2023
Episode 3 of the POD Strangely Warmed podcast continues our focus on Being Good Ancestors for those who will lead and make up the United Methodist Church of 2050 and beyond with Part 2 of our discussion with Dr. Luther Henry. In Part 1, host Rev. Daniel Hawkins and Dr. Henry explored how the Civil ...
A Methodist Family’s Foundation and Future Part 2 featuring Rev. Kyland Dobbins
2/27/2023
The Wesleyan faith tradition called Methodist has been an important spiritual foundation of families in the Central Texas Conference for generations. The Dobbins family can trace their Methodist family tree back to the abolitionist movement of the 1800s but is still hard at work laying the ...
BELIEVE: A Lenten Study with Bishop Saenz - First Sunday in Lent from John 2:1-11 "The Wedding at Cana"
2/26/2023
On this first Sunday of Lent, Bishop Saenz continues our BELIEVE Lenten journey by meditating on how belief is born in Jesus' disciples at the wedding of Cana. This passage from John 2:1-11 also offers us a unique glimpse into the collectivist societal norms of Jesus' day.
BELIEVE: A Lenten Study with Bishop Saenz - Ash Wednesday from John 1:35-39 "God's Passover Lamb"
2/22/2023
This Lent,Bishop Saenz invites all to join him on a Lenten journey to work through what it means to “BELIEVE” as understood by John the evangelist through his gospel. "I pray that you join me on this BELIEVE Lenten spiritual pilgrimage and that it blesses, strengthens and grows your faith and ...
POD Strangely Warmed Episode 2 Featuring Dr. Luther Henry
2/21/2023
In the second installment of the POD Strangely Warmed podcast, we continue our series on Being Good Ancestors for the clergy and lay leadership of the church of tomorrow by mining the vast wealth of knowledge and experience that is the CTC's own Dr. Luther Henry. As podcast host Rev. Daniel Hawkins ...
A Methodist Family’s Foundation and Future Part 1 featuring Clifton “CD” Dobbins
2/17/2023
The Wesleyan faith tradition called Methodist has been an important spiritual foundation of families in the Central Texas Conference for generations. The Dobbins family can trace their Methodist family tree back to the abolitionist movement of the 1800s but is still hard at work laying the ...
POD Strangely Warmed Podcast Debuts with Special Guest Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr.
2/13/2023
In the inaugural episode of the POD Strangely Warmed podcast, host Rev. Daniel Hawkins engages in a lively, informative and energizing conversation on the importance of being good ancestors to the church of tomorrow with Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. Click on the video player below to hear Bishop Saenz ...
Bishop Encourages UMs to Walk On Together, United in Christ
2/1/2023
“Let us pick up our mats and walk. Walk on Oh People of God. Let Walk On. Together. Forward. United in Christ. Walk on Oh People of God.” In his episcopal address to the 450+ present at the 2023 Joint Central & North Texas Conference Clergy Gathering, Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. inspirationally ...
Bishop Saenz Opens Joint Clergy Gathering with a Message of Welcome, Thanks and Hope for the Future
1/31/2023
Bishop Saenz opened the 2023 Joint Central & North Texas Conference Clergy Gathering (Jan. 26) with a message of welcome, thanks, excitement and hope for all those gathered. He also shared a vision for the future of The UMC that begins now – a church that many today may never see, but one on which ...
University UMC Responds to Neighborhood Shooting with Prayer Vigil, Hope and Care
1/25/2023
One of the methods the people of University United Methodist Church in Fort Worth use to help keep their focus on God and how The Spirit is leading the church is something they call Star Words – Listen, Seek and Respond. So, when two Fort Worth ISD teenagers from Paschal High were shot Friday, Jan. ...
Bishop Saenz Invites All to Put Words Into Action to Honor MLK
1/16/2023
In his 2023 MLK Day address, Bishop Saenz celebrates and honors the life and social impact Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by reflecting on the significance of and continued relevance of Dr. King’s message of acceptance, equality, unity, and justice – particularly in the wake of the divisions that ...
A Message of Excitement and Promise for 2023
12/30/2022
Bishop Saenz offers a New Year’s message full of excitement and promise for all that the Lord God has in store for United Methodists, the Central Texas Conference and the body of Christ in the video below. According to Bishop Saenz, his excitement has little to do with the changing of the ...
Bishop Saenz Offers Greetings for Christmas 2022
12/22/2022
In his 2022 Christmas message to the Conference, Bishop Saenz shares his and Maye's greetings for Christmas and shares his thoughts on the long-standing tradition of gift giving in celebration of the birth of Jesus - particularly the kind of gifts that honor God and bless our neighbors. In these ...
New Riverside UMC Shares Our Story of Peace and the Tradition of Los Posadas
12/21/2022
During Advent, the Central Texas Conference Umbrella Team’s Advent Series “Our Shared Story” wraps up this week with a narrative of Peace and knowing that God is always with us from the good folks at New Riverside UMC. Rev. Armando Alvarado and church members Andra Villegas, Isabel Roberson and ...
A shared story of "Joy" from Ferris Heights UMC
12/14/2022
During Advent, the Central Texas Conference Umbrella team has asked churches to share stories of hope in action from their communities and congregations. We continue the “Our Shared Story” series with a narrative of "Joy" from Ferris Heights United Methodist Church. Rev. Jon Hann shares his ...
Glen Lake Staff are Looking to “Takeover” Your Church (for an evening)
12/12/2022
The staff of Glen Lake Camp have been popping up at churches around the conference as of late and staging a (very non hostile and quite love-filled) “Takeover.” Please check out the video below to learn more about these events that offer a taste of the unique, communal, Christ-led, United Methodist ...
Our Shared Story Advent Series Continues with LOVE from FUMC Clifton & Walnut Springs Memorial UMC
12/7/2022
We continue Our Shared Story Advent series with a narrative of "Love" from First UMC of Clifton and Walnut Springs Memorial UMC. Rev. Don Moore, Phyllis Gamble, and Alex Balch share how the church can be a place of hurt and harm, but because of the Love of Christ, is also a place of love and ...
W.C. Martin Opens the Our Shared Story Advent Series
11/30/2022
During this season of Advent, the Central Texas Conference Umbrella team has asked churches across the conference to share and celebrate some stories of hope in action in their communities and congregations. The first in the “Our Shared Story” series comes from W.C. Martin UMC in Bedford.
Revs. Beth Evers & Daniel Hawkins Shine on the "SPACE at the TABLE" Young Clergy Panel
11/28/2022
One of the more interesting and energizing segments of the 2022 SPACE at the TABLE: Conversations of Hope for the UMC Future event hosted by Lovers Lane UMC in Dallas was the Young Clergy Panel - a panel that featured the CTC's Revs. Beth Evers and Daniel Hawkins. A replay of that panel is available...
Bishop Saenz Featured on "SPACE at the TABLE" Episcopal Panel
11/23/2022
Earlier in November, Lovers Lane United Methodist Church (Dallas) hosted SPACE at the TABLE:Conversations of Hope for the UMC Future. As part of the event, Bishop Saenz was joined by Bishop Cynthia Fierro-Harvey (currently Louisiana; assigned to North Texas effective Jan. 1, 2023) and Bishop David ...
Bishop Saenz Reflections on the 2022 Perkins Distinguished Alumnus Award
11/18/2022
An exciting and whirlwind November continued for Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. on Monday, Nov. 14 as he was presented with the 2022 Perkins Distinguished Alumnus Award during ceremonies on the SMU campus. Just before heading into the banquet hall, Bishop Saenz took a few moments to reflect on the near 30 ...
Bishop Saenz Receives the 2022 Perkins Distinguished Alumnus Award
11/18/2022
On Monday, Nov. 14, Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. was officially bestowed the 2022 Perkins Distinguished Alumnus Award. (Read more here) The SMU Perkins Alumni team recorded the ceremonies and graciously shared the following video replay of Bishop Saenz's comments at the event. You may view those remarks ...
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Oasis Fellowships: A NEW Connecting Ministry Initiative!
11/17/2022
Oasis Fellowships are part of a conference-wide initiative to join large, connecting churches in the Central Texas Conference with newly created fellowships (aka house churches) in areas in the conference where there isn't a near by United Methodist Church. This is an opportunity for persons who ...
Bishop & Maye Saenz Share a Quick Greeting and Excitement Over being Assigned to the CTC
11/15/2022
While the last several days following the SCJs decision to assign Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. as the resident bishop of the Central Texas Conference have been a whirlwind schedule for he and Mrs. Saenz, their excitement over coming home to Texas (and the CTC in particular) has only grown. A few moments ...
Bishop Saenz Delivers 2022 SCJC Episcopal Address
11/5/2022
Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. delivered the 2022 South Central Jurisdictional Episcopal Address on Thursday, Nov. 3. In this address, Bishop Saenz cast a vision of the church in the future and the work that the church needs/must be doing today in order to lay a firm foundation for our children, ...
An update from Thursday of Jurisdictional Conference
11/3/2022
Following the adjournment of the South Central Jurisdictional Conference on Thursday, Nov. 3, Kim Simpson, head of the Central Texas Conference delegation and Dr. Tim Bruster, lead clergy delegate for the CTC provide an announcement about our Conference Bishop Assignment, Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr who ...
An Update from Day 1 of the South Central Jurisdictional Conference
11/2/2022
Following the adjournment of the South Central Jurisdictional Conference on Wednesday, Nov. 2, Kim Simpson, head of the Central Texas Conference delegation and Dr. Tim Bruster, lead clergy delegate for the CTC provided a quick summary of the day's exciting events and a preview in what we can expect ...
CTC Youth Initiative - October Update
10/27/2022
The Central Texas Conference Youth Task Force has identified Rev. Melissa Turkett as the chair for the task force. This task force has taken on the vision and purpose of Reimagining how we as Central Texas United Methodists engage in Youth Ministry across the Conference. Please view the short video ...
Being a Disciple over Being a Leader - Week Two of a Discipleship Series with Alex & Hannah Absalom
10/13/2022
In case you missed it here is the second of three webinars, where Alex will be joined by his wife Hannah to delve into "How to Prioritize Being a Disciple over Being a Leader." Leadership in the church can be become all consuming - especially with all the political, societal and denominational ...
Five Contexts of Discipleship - Video Replay of Discipleship Webinar with Alex Absalom
10/5/2022
Have you noticed that the size of a gathering tends to shape the type of discipleship that happens? In this webinar replay, Alex shares HOW to set the right discipleship goals for different sizes of gatherings and ministry contexts.
McMillan UMC Snack Pack Ministry of Witness
9/27/2022
One of the most vital ministries is the ministry of witness, and witnessing can be done in so many ways. As part of McMillan’s Witness Ministry, to Witness to the Children as well as their Parents, by showing them they care, every Friday after school members of McMillan UMC in Ft. Worth pass out ...
Update from Dr. Will Cotton on Reimagining Youth and Young Adult Ministry in the CTC
9/21/2022
We invite you to watch a brief video of Dr. Will Cotton, Executive Director of the Smith Center for Evangelism, Mission, & Church Growth, give an update on the Task Force for Reimagining Youth and Young Adults Ministries in the Central Texas Conference.
Bishop Offers Episopal Address to the Special Session of AC22
9/19/2022
On Saturday, Sept. 17, the Central Texas Conference of The United Methodist Church came together for a Special Session of the 2022 Annual Conference to take action on 81 petitions for disaffiliation from CTC local churches and to adopt the 2023 Conference budget. Prior to voting on the issues of the...
Bishop Saenz shares about the Upper Room Devotional Ministry
9/7/2022
For many years in the United Methodist Church the Upper Room Devotional Book has been a mainstay for Bible Study for all ages in the greater connection of the United Methodist Church. Bishop Saenz in today's video shares a little about his personal experience with the Upper Room and how it has ...
The CTC Cabinet Works to Reimagine Discipleship at the Texas/Mexico Border
9/1/2022
Speaking from the Texas/Mexico Border, Bishop Saenz reminds us our call to Reimagine Discipleship in action of Crossing Over Borders that Christ calls us to cross. Borders that limit our reach because of culture, language, race, and much much more. What borders are preventing you and your local ...
CTC Cabinet Visits Texas/Mexico Border Wall
8/31/2022
Bishop Saenz provides an update from the Joint CTC and Great Plains Cabinet summit at the Texas/Mexico border. As a part of their immersive experience the teams visited a section of the border wall and an organization that helps migrants legally and effectively transition. Bishop Saenz briefly ...
CTC Cabinet "Crosses Over" in South Texas
8/30/2022
As part of the Central Texas Conference focus to Reimagine Discipleship and reach new people in new ways in our mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world, Bishop Saenz is leading the Cabinets from Central Texas and the Great Plains Conferences to several areas in ...
It's Game-Time!
8/18/2022
Bishop Saenz trades his sport coat and tie for a coach’s hat and whistle and shares a rousing “pre-game pep talk” to the CTC as churches begin to emerge from their summer schedules and ramp up their disciple-making ministries and community outreach initiatives for this fall and beyond. “The ...
A Special Back to School Message from Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr!
8/10/2022
Take a moment to watch and hear a special Back to School Message from Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr. We are praying for all of you as you engage in discussions and study throughout the new school year. Study and learn and grow as a testimony of how much you love Jesus! Churches we invite you also to share ...
Cedar Springs UMC - A New #BeUMC Video Narrative
8/10/2022
Cedar Springs UMC is home to many who drive from far away to come to worship our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Tragedy struck this beloved church building, but the foundation of Jesus' saving grace was still present and has propelled Cedar Springs UMC with new confessions of faith and baptisms! Rev....
First UMC Arlington Vacation Bible Camp - A NEW Video Narrative
8/3/2022
It has been said or inferred very heavily throughout the years of the church that ministry is the greatest science experiment in the church, and that is definitely at play in our young people's ministry all across the conference. At FUMC Arlington, under the leadership of the Director of Family ...
Summer Fun Day at Glen Lake Camp
7/29/2022
The Waterpark was open and available for everyone to enjoy along with other activities, and Food Trucks will be available on-site. It was a wonderful day at Glen Lake Camp Summer Fun Day in 2022. Thanks for all that came!
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Mel Bishara Shares Why He is Choosing to #BeUMC
7/14/2022
Coming to the Central Texas Conference all the way from Nazareth, yes, that Nazareth. As Mel says quite literally, "Jesus is my Homeboy." From our love of Christ to the Mission we do each and every day in the name of Christl, Rev. Mel Bishara, Senior Pastor at St Luke UMC in Haltom City, TX says ...
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Joy Dister-Dominguez Shares Why She is Choosing to #BeUMC
7/12/2022
Rev. Joy Dister-Dominguez, Associate Pastor at Arlington Heights United Methodist Church in Fort Worth, TX orginally hails from the great state of Michigan and has been a Methodist for many years. Through working with the Hotel Business she transferred to the state of Texas and the United Methodist ...
Bishop Ruben Saenz, Jr Shares a Message for our CTC Laity
6/7/2022
Bishop Ruben Saenz Jr., Resident Episcopal Leader of the Central Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church shared the following video message at our 2022 Annual Conference Laity Session this past Saturday. We are so thankful for all the ministry that the Laity all across the conference partner...
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Rev. Daniel Hawkins shares his reasons for choosing to #BeUMC
6/2/2022
Rev. Daniel Hawkins, Senior Pastor at First United Methodist Church of Cleburne shares about the way of the Via Media (The Middle Way), a way of thinking now am I left or right, but where can we meet in the middle. It's true The United Methodist Church is not of one mind, but as Daniel reminds us, ...
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Rev. Lance Marshall shares his reasons for choosing to #BeUMC
5/31/2022
Rev. Lance Marshall, Co-Senior Pastor of First United Methodist Church - Fort Worth, Texas shares his story of self study, listening to podcasts, and choosing to a United Methodist first before joining a church. Lance shares how important it was to him to first commit to a denomination. He chose to ...
Rev. Sharon Reid with Drs. Bill and Kristi Gaultiere, Journey of the Soul: A Practical Guide to Emotional and Spiritual Growth
5/30/2022
Rev. Sharon Reid, East District CTC Discipleship Coordinator and Associate Pastor at First Methodist Mansfield with Drs. Bill and Kristi Gaultiere, Journey of the Soul: A Practical Guide to Emotional and Spiritual Growth.
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Rev. Zhenya Gurina-Rodriguez shares her first experience in the UMC and how it really is all about Grace.
5/19/2022
Before she was an Ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church, Zhenya first experienced the UMC in Russia as a translator. She experienced Grace on her first day in a UMC church and to this day she continues to experience Grace, for Zhenya it really is all about Grace and that is why she continues...
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Rev. John Woodard Shares his reasons for Choosing to #BeUMC
5/17/2022
Rev. John Woodard, Senior Pastor serving local churches Cross Plains United Methodist Church and First United Methodist Church of Cisco shares about his faith journey as a young boy that was born into the Methodist Church, and our belief about Communion, that is Christ's Table, that it is a table ...
Allison Alvarado Shares her reasons for choosing to #BeUMC
5/10/2022
Allison Alvarado, serves as the Executive Director at First United Methodist Church in Downtown Fort Worth and today she shares with the Central Texas Conference why she is choosing to #BeUMC. She in her own words doesn't remain the UMC because of loyalty but instead of what it stands for and how it...