At Westlake Hills Presbyterian Church, we believe in the power of restoration—the kind of transformation that happens when someone hears, perhaps for the first time, “You matter. You are not alone. There is hope.” That’s exactly what Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services (PCHAS) offers families across Texas—and why we’re proud to call them a mission partner. We recently got an update from PCHAS during our monthly Mission Spotlight at WHPC.
We believe that faith calls us to action at Westlake Hills Presbyterian Church. Throughout Scripture, God commands us to care for the vulnerable, provide shelter for the homeless, and extend love to those in need. This mission drives our deep commitment to supporting families experiencing homelessness in Austin. One of the most powerful ways we are living out this call is through our partnership with the Foundation for the Homeless (FFH) and Peace Lutheran Church’s Peace Family Housing Project, a collaborative effort to provide transitional housing for families in crisis.
Written by Handy and Barbara Williamson
Anyone who doubts the saying, “the gift is in the giving,” should try volunteering, especially given multiple opportunities through Caring Ministries at WHPC. For us, it began with The Gathering and expanded to include Community First. In addition, we spent a Sunday afternoon riding in the Mobile Loaves and Fishes truck delivering meals to the homeless.
Although each experience was different, the commonality was meeting people where they were, without judgment, and trying to lend a helping hand.
Attending a mission trip to Belize with 25 WHPC students and other adult leaders was deeply spirit-filling and humbling at the same time. We served alongside the San Lazaro Pentecostal Church community in sharing God’s Goodness and Grace with children, youth, adults and those of all ages and stages homebound and in need. Getting to know the local children was amazing and we played every version of every game you can play with a soccer ball and shared hugs, laughter and fun in the sweltering heat and humidity while surrounded by Belize’s natural beauty!
I was honored to get to know some of our high schoolers and experience and validate how their time in relationship with the holy spirt at WHPC has given them these amazing gifts of loving and knowing a GOD who is Good, Steadfast and an ever-present friend to all. Their unique talents, gifts, strengths and even their struggles allowed them to connect with the 50 plus children in attendance at our Vacation Bible School throughout the week.
For me, the everlasting impact of this mission trip is a reminder that this community of Christians in San Lazaro know that there at 30 Americans over 1500 miles away, who will never forget them, prays for them and is reminded in big and small ways daily of their open hearts, generosity and kindness (and some of the best chicken we’ve ever had!!!) The tangible ways the people of San Lazaro showed and shared God’s love with us in those 6 days is more than we could have ever hoped to receive, and I think I speak for all of us there, our cups runneth over. Praise be the Lord!
Every year, WHPC hosts a special offering on Christmas Eve. In 2022, you all raised $100,000 that went to the Afghan Refugee Ministry and Memory Care Academy of Austin.
In 2024 we have high hopes to bring independence to our Afghan Refugee women.
Our refugee women rarely if ever leave their home. The local mosque here in Austin contacted us and asked us to encourage the women to experience community and education beyond their homes. They have encouraged the women to come to the Mosque during the day so that they can receive English as a Second Language classes while free childcare is provided. The mosque is eager to see the women break the cycle of dependency!
At Westlake Hills Presbyterian Church, we believe in the power of restoration—the kind of transformation that happens when someone hears, perhaps for the first time, “You matter. You are not alone. There is hope.” That’s exactly what Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services (PCHAS) offers families across Texas—and why we’re proud to call them a mission partner. We recently got an update from PCHAS during our monthly Mission Spotlight at WHPC.
We believe that faith calls us to action at Westlake Hills Presbyterian Church. Throughout Scripture, God commands us to care for the vulnerable, provide shelter for the homeless, and extend love to those in need. This mission drives our deep commitment to supporting families experiencing homelessness in Austin. One of the most powerful ways we are living out this call is through our partnership with the Foundation for the Homeless (FFH) and Peace Lutheran Church’s Peace Family Housing Project, a collaborative effort to provide transitional housing for families in crisis.
Written by Handy and Barbara Williamson
Anyone who doubts the saying, “the gift is in the giving,” should try volunteering, especially given multiple opportunities through Caring Ministries at WHPC. For us, it began with The Gathering and expanded to include Community First. In addition, we spent a Sunday afternoon riding in the Mobile Loaves and Fishes truck delivering meals to the homeless.
Although each experience was different, the commonality was meeting people where they were, without judgment, and trying to lend a helping hand.
Attending a mission trip to Belize with 25 WHPC students and other adult leaders was deeply spirit-filling and humbling at the same time. We served alongside the San Lazaro Pentecostal Church community in sharing God’s Goodness and Grace with children, youth, adults and those of all ages and stages homebound and in need. Getting to know the local children was amazing and we played every version of every game you can play with a soccer ball and shared hugs, laughter and fun in the sweltering heat and humidity while surrounded by Belize’s natural beauty!
I was honored to get to know some of our high schoolers and experience and validate how their time in relationship with the holy spirt at WHPC has given them these amazing gifts of loving and knowing a GOD who is Good, Steadfast and an ever-present friend to all. Their unique talents, gifts, strengths and even their struggles allowed them to connect with the 50 plus children in attendance at our Vacation Bible School throughout the week.
For me, the everlasting impact of this mission trip is a reminder that this community of Christians in San Lazaro know that there at 30 Americans over 1500 miles away, who will never forget them, prays for them and is reminded in big and small ways daily of their open hearts, generosity and kindness (and some of the best chicken we’ve ever had!!!) The tangible ways the people of San Lazaro showed and shared God’s love with us in those 6 days is more than we could have ever hoped to receive, and I think I speak for all of us there, our cups runneth over. Praise be the Lord!
Every year, WHPC hosts a special offering on Christmas Eve. In 2022, you all raised $100,000 that went to the Afghan Refugee Ministry and Memory Care Academy of Austin.
In 2024 we have high hopes to bring independence to our Afghan Refugee women.
Our refugee women rarely if ever leave their home. The local mosque here in Austin contacted us and asked us to encourage the women to experience community and education beyond their homes. They have encouraged the women to come to the Mosque during the day so that they can receive English as a Second Language classes while free childcare is provided. The mosque is eager to see the women break the cycle of dependency!
BY NANCY PICKETT
Prior to Covid-19 and recent government unrest, WHPC had both a consistent financial and physical presence in Nicaragua.
Even if WHPC is currently not as physically present, our WHPC missions still has a substantial financial and spiritual presence.
One example of WHPC involvement in Nicaragua Missions is:
Colegio Christiano Presbiteriano (CCP). CCP is our oldest and dearest school ministry. They are in one of the poorest neighborhoods, but shine as a true example of how God can take that which has been cast off and make it pure and vibrant.
WITH SHER HASSAN
On Sunday, Oct 8, 2023 our Afghan Refugee families came to WHPC to share a story in worship as well as showcase their home made products and sell them to the congregation. The women and children made beautiful bracelets, handbags and more. The men prepared delicious food and blessed us all with their presence. In addition to the beautiful market experience, Sher Hassan (one of the refugees), shared his story in worship. Keep reading to hear his story.
By Larry Bloomquist & James Gordon
You may have seen the movie, “God is NOT Dead.” That statement is certainly true, especially in the Westlake and Lake Travis area schools. In fact, God is stirring the hearts of many of our youth all over Austin through their involvement in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). In the words of one student, “Seriously, FCA has changed my life and as funny as it sounds, it’s one of the loves of my life!”
I am a father, and on Father’s Day, I contemplate and honor all of the courageous and loving fathers I have had the privilege to know and support. Whether in my personal life or professional one, most of the father’s I know are bound by a commitment to do the best they can for their children. At Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services, we serve some heroic dads, like Samuel. He was thrust back into parenting after losing his child.
Community First Village, Women of Goodness just hosted The WALK #5 “Cherished” scripture included: Ezekiel 37:1-14; The Valley of Dry Bones and Matthew 19:26 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Almost all of our 65 dear women in attendance struggle with the truth that they have not been cherished or “seen” for most if not all of their lives. They have been and most still are, in impossible situations. Depression and despair run deep.
What we witnessed as the scripture was unpacked and testimonies were shared is that, not only does God see us, but He loves us unconditionally. Healing comes and miracles happen when we acknowledge that we can’t fix it. When we have exhausted all our resources and means of fixing our impossibilities, that is when God does his greatest work. We had several women accept Christ for the first time. Almost every women present made a reaffirmation of faith. They were baptized or renewed their baptism as a way of taking that next step in faith.
We believe that God is a God of miracles and continue to marvel at ALL He is doing.
God Bless You
Nancy Pickett
Our Mission Spotlight for the month of May is Austin YoungLives.
This video provides a brief introduction to this amazing ministry that cares for teen moms here in Austin, TX.
Tamara Hartman, a staff member with YoungLives shares her story and the many service opportunities they have for the community to get involved.
Meet Élida, an extraordinary woman who works in the kitchen of a local hotel, cares for her family, and attends ESL class at Manos de Cristo. Élida’s story is not only inspiring, but also a powerful reminder of the grit, determination, and resilience that immigrants bring to this country.
As an ESL instructor, I had the pleasure of teaching Élida in an Introductory ESL (English as a Second Language) class. During one of our classes, we worked on English vocabulary for weekly schedules, and I asked Élida to share her schedule with the class. What I heard next completely blew me away!
Meet Élida, an extraordinary woman who works in the kitchen of a local hotel, cares for her family, and attends ESL class at Manos de Cristo. Élida’s story is not only inspiring, but also a powerful reminder of the grit, determination, and resilience that immigrants bring to this country.
As an ESL instructor, I had the pleasure of teaching Élida in an Introductory ESL (English as a Second Language) class. During one of our classes, we worked on English vocabulary for weekly schedules, and I asked Élida to share her schedule with the class. What I heard next completely blew me away!
Every day, Élida wakes up at 3:00 a.m. She starts work in the hotel kitchen at 4:00 a.m., where she works a full day preparing food for guests. After work, she goes home to care for her children and prepare meals for her family.
But Élida’s day does not end there. She then attends ESL class from 6:00-9:00 p.m. Elida gets home around 10:00 p.m. and starts all over again the next day. Even after a long day at work and taking care of her family, Élida makes time for her education. Élida never misses class, always completes her homework, and is a cheerful and enthusiastic participant in class.
And Élida’s story is not unique. Among my ESL students, I have had an aspiring banker (who wants to open a bank to make loans for poor people), several aspiring restauranteurs, and a young woman who is learning English so she can get a degree in graphic design, among other aspirations.
I have had the pleasure of working with Manos de Cristo for a year and a half. Although I am a relatively new volunteer, our church has supported Manos de Cristo for decades. Many church members have volunteered at Manos’ food pantry; others have taught classes at Manos; and still others have served on the Board of Directors. And, of course, a very large number of you have kept the food pantry at Manos de Cristo stocked by filling up Blue Bags and contributing gift cards.
While our church has had a longstanding relationship with Manos de Cristo, it bears repeating Manos’ mission statement:
Manos de Cristo’s mission is to empower low-income individuals with a loving hand of assistance and without regard to age, gender, race, or religious preference. Manos de Cristo promotes dignity and self-reliance by meeting basic needs with food and clothing, providing essential oral care, and furthering educational development.
Manos’ focus on providing assistance with dignity and self-reliance is a key component of its mission. As an example, the aspiring graphic design student who was in my Intro class last summer is now on ESL Level Two. She has completed two years of ESL classes in less than 12 months! Talk about self-reliance!
In addition to ESL classes, Manos de Cristo offers Citizenship and Computer Classes, and enrolls approximately 600 students each semester. During the pandemic, Manos de Cristo pivoted to online classes and now offers both in-person and online classes and tutoring opportunities.
One of the challenges for ESL and Citizenship Class students is that they do not have the opportunity to speak English outside of class. They speak Spanish at home and at work. They speak Spanish with friends and go to Spanish-speaking churches.
These students need volunteers who simply will give them the opportunity to practice English, help them learn correct pronunciation and sentence structure, and for Citizenship Class students, prepare for oral citizenship interviews. These students relish the opportunity to try out their new language skills and are grateful for every offer of help.
In closing, I cannot say enough about how the opportunity to work with Manos de Cristo has blessed my life. I would be happy to discuss volunteer opportunities at Manos de Cristo with you at any time.
If you are interested in volunteer opportunities, you can contact Manos de Cristo directly at 512-628-4203 or www.manosdecristo.org or you may contact me at 512-799-6039 or reynoldschris9447@gmail.com.
Thank you.
Chris Reynolds
by Mission Committee Member, Sarah French
To be perfectly honest, every time we pass out the blue bags to collect food for our partner ministry, Manos de Cristo, I just avoid eye contact with the people passing them out and scoot to the other side of the hallway.
I know, I know; Jesus literally told us to feed the hungry, but I usually feel like I am just barely surviving life, and buying groceries for someone else just feels like One. More. Thing. One more thing that I have to add to my mobius strip of a to-do list. One more thing that I have to make time for.
So, I have told myself for many years, I feed the hungry by giving financial support. I happily write Manos de Cristo a very generous check, which they can use to buy food for their pantry, probably at a bulk rate and tax-free, making my dollar go further. Everybody wins! Right?
Well, this approach may have been all well and good in other years, but sadly my delusion was recently shattered by my friend Julie Ballesteros, the executive director of Manos de Cristo. She told me that the Capital Area Food Bank is experiencing record-low inventory, and has been unable to offer the food they typically can supply to food pantries like Manos De Cristo. The shelves at Manos are emptier than they have ever been, at the same time they are experiencing increased demand for food.
Julie showed me a picture of the mostly empty pantry and told me that almost everything they had was being supplied by their partner churches, including WHPC. This was certainly a wakeup call for me!
I should point out that generous financial giving to Manos de Cristo is still a wonderful (and needed) thing. Manos de Cristo offers English, computer, and citizenship classes; a clothes closet; and critical dental care. Financial gifts are a wonderful way to support the ministry.
But I want to make sure there aren’t others like me in our congregation who dismiss food drives as unnecessary. I have realized that the blue bags are not just an exercise to make us feel involved in ministry. They aren’t a just an opportunity to get our kids involved in mission work and teach them about generosity. They are all of these things, but perhaps most importantly, the blue bags are now a critical supply of food that hundreds of our neighbors are counting on to feed their families.
I’ll be picking up two blue bags today, and I hope you will too.
What began as a day of service developed into a week of Service Projects! On Wed, Oct. 26th, the Choir brightened up the sanctuary entries. Then, On Sat. Oct. 29th, about 44 people pitched in to brighten up the WHPC gardens, grounds, and stonework!
The 6 tasks that were accomplished that week were:
On Wed. before choir practice even began-
6 choir members arranged some 34 fall mums around the entries to the sanctuary & vestibule, as well as at the plaza, while one person clipped and fertilized the roses
On Sat. following a hearty Rudy’s breakfast served by the Deacons 5 crews got busy making things look fresh and alive-
14 folks hauled & spread 155 bags of hardwood mulch in and around the Memorial Garden by 10:30am!
5 guys cleaned the stone walls, columns, and some stone around the bell area using 3 high-pressure power washers
3 painters coated the cinder block wall of the NEW Storage Area under the garage
10 gardeners cleaned, planted fall color, and mulched the bed above the parking garage, Plus 2 folks mulched the roses at the sanctuary
3 guys bushwacked the overgrown red tips at the upper lot, then loaded and hauled off a huge trailer full of limbs & cuttings
By noon several projects had been completed and clean-up begun, while the power washing and painting crews continued for a while!
Please know that WHPC’s Pastors, Leaders, and the Building & Property Committee are so very grateful for the turnout & hard work performed at this Fall Service Day 2022.
Certainly some big things were done, but the joy of fellowship while serving side-by-side in these hands-on tasks was the great gain that day. Many friendships were renewed even while new relationships birthed among members, friends, scouts, staff, and the delightful members of True Vine Church of God 7th Day.
Thank you all! We are certainly better together!
This year, our church raised $4,300 for our Peace and Global Witness offering!
While a portion of this offering goes directly to Mission Presbytery’s work, WHPC gets to designate a portion to an identified candidate.
The mission committee wanted to do something for those effected by hurricane Ian in Florida.
We were able to find a church community that is doing incredible work to help their congregation and local community recover from extreme loss due to the hurricane.
One third of the members of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Fort Myers Florida experienced a total loss of their homes. It is our joy to partner with this congregation in their efforts to bring healing and peace to this community.
Here are the prayer requests from Reverend Bill Teng, Pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church.
Prayer Requests from Rev. Bill Teng
1. That the recovery efforts from their church would be a blessings to their community
2. Guidance on next steps for those who experienced total losses. Do they stay and rebuild? Do they move?
3. For insurance companies to be responsive and effective
4. For the psychological well being of those experience PTSD
The experience I had in Puerto Rico was a once in a lifetime experience that I could not be more grateful to have. And would like to tell you a little bit about it. Traveling there on the first day was a really long day especially since it started at 3 AM with me only knowing a few people on the trip. I was excited but a little nervous at the same time. To go on a trip like this with some people I have never talked to. Little did I know I would become incredibly close with each and every person throughout this next week. Once we got there it was almost like I imagined a tropical island which was pouring rain while we waited for our bags. But by the time we got outside it stopped raining and the sun came out and you can really see the true beauty of the island as we drove to the school that we stayed at. It was definitely a little different than what we normally stay in not much air conditioning. But at the same time I was excited for what was ahead.
Keep up with WHPC's latest
news and info every Thursday!
If you have an Apple product, hear our latest sermon on Apple Podcast!
If you don’t have an Apple product, hear our latest sermon on Soundcloud!
