Alpine MYministry

Friday Camp Update

2009-07-24T11:34:00.000-07:00

What a week it has been for our 27 servants at Camp of the Hills on Lake Travis! Eric said that he has enjoyed watching our teens WANT to serve this week...and honestly, who would not want to serve God's children in this beautiful setting?

Thursday is traditionally burger night at Camp...here are our teens preparing to serve the burgers.

After the burgers on Thursday night, it is a tradition for the college counselors to reenact the crucifixion scene for the campers. This year's reenactment was a bit more realistic since the campers were older. It was complete with a resurrection scene this morning.

Kortnee & Kristen making rice krispie treats.

Our group even found time to play baloon basketball using Bobby's arms as the hoop.

Brittany with one of the campers.

This is quite a piece of art on Morgan's head!

Eric reassured me that the group got lots of rest last night in preparation for their final full day of service. They are preparing Mexican Casserole for Friday's dinner and will get to enjoy the meal while the counselors serve and clean up!

Please keep them in your prayers as they travel home tomorrow. We will ask the teens to call their parents when they get to Tyler tomorrow. Their estimated time of arrival is still around 7 or 8 pm.

Thursday Post

2009-07-23T09:21:00.000-07:00

Wow...it is Thursday and the smiles keep coming! I can tell our teens are having a great week of serving and lots of laughter along the way!

Brittany, KrisAnn, Shannon, & Morgan making jello cups
Mama Kaki threw an ice cream party for our crew...with leis and all!

How many teens can we fit in a van?

Sweeping out the swimming hole Wednesday afternoon.

Making biscuit dough Thursday morning.

This last part of the week will bring a little more entertainment for our crew. Last night was the camp talent show, tonight is the Crucifixion reinactment, and Friday night is awards night.

Please remember you can leave comments below for anyone on the trip.

Wednesday Camp Update

2009-07-22T13:01:00.000-07:00

Here are a few pictures from Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning.

Sydney & Brenda celebrated their 15th birthday Tuesday...in style! This is becoming quite a trend for them to spend their birthday week doing mission work-they are such beautiful servants!

Making cookies...I'm sure none of them licked their fingers during the process! :-)

Making me super jealous...Carsen, Steph, Shannon, and Baker cutting watermelon for camper snacks.

KrisAnn...a watermelon artist!

Looks like Eric is taking orders from the master chef!

Thankfully our teens get to take turns in the washroom! It is a huge job!

Preparing mid-morning snacks for the campers.

Brittany and a few others woke up at 5 am this morning to begin preparing pancakes for everyone!

Here is a quote from Eric's e-mail addressing the "state of the group" earlier this morning:
They're doing good. Everyone's dragging just a bit at the moment, some have been here in the dining hall since 6am making pancakes this morning, and the rest of us since 7, so we're all pretty tired, as you know it's kinda non-stop with cleaning and then resetting the tables. This afternoon Mel's asked us to help him drain the pool and completely clean out the bottom of the pool with brooms and a fire hose, so no rest for the weary! But we've been really proud of them.

We are so proud of this group and look forward to hearing more humbling and exciting experiences from their week!

Camp of the Hills-Tuesday Post

2009-07-21T09:37:00.001-07:00

This past Sunday, 17 teens and 10 adults left Longview to serve as the Kitchen Crew at Camp of the Hills for the coming week. This week is a high school week at camp and they will serve around 150 campers, staff, & counselors 3 meals/day until Saturday breakfast. You can see that their first day on the job was full of smiles and dirty hands!

Shannon, Courtney, Braylin, Eric, Morgan, & Baker preparing to serve their cabin.

Sydney & Sam...all smiles in the washroom.

Kristen, Kortnee, & Courtney enjoying a brand new experience!

lots of choppin...

These ladies are pros!

3-year veterans!

Donna's cooking class...

Mason & Brittany now know what an oven is!

Betty & Carnes are a great addition to this year's crew!

Check back daily for updates & please keep our crew in your prayers this week!

Fun Day at Padre

2009-07-05T15:16:00.000-07:00

After a week of hard labor and lots of service, our McAllen team enjoyed a day at Padre-Schlitterbahn and on the beach. The group returned home safe Friday evening and are continuing to share stories from their experience and bask in God's great love!

Carmen & Sophie

Bobby & Morgan

The group enjoying the saltwater

Shannon & crew enjoying the rides

Finding the perfect shell...

Thursday morning update...

2009-07-02T08:05:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Dee Anne, here are a few pictures from the group's final workday in the Valley. I think these guys are ready to be hired!

This is serious business for Morgan!

Braylin has mastered a new skill!

Kortnee, Sophie, Carmen, and Kristen with the little girl who lives in the house they are painting...I think her name is Lemni.

All smiles from Shannon...we are so thankful for Shannon's positive and upbeat personality...and for her knowledge of the Spanish language! I hope she will want to hang out with us again next summer!

Carmen taking a much deserved break!

Our very wonderful and hard-working missionaries at the Palmview Church of Christ, Jose & Marilu Cabello. They are always such an encouragement to our group!

Our girls with Lemni awaiting the last day of VBS.

This shot was actually posed on Sunday, but I bet it was an accurate representation of them yesterday after the last child left VBS. An estimated 100 kids came to enjoy the final day of VBS at Palmview!

The weather looks great for the group's trip to Padre Schlitterbahn today! Please keep their travels in your prayers. They will keep us updated tomorrow concerning their approximate return time to Alpine. I can't wait to give these kids a hug!

Wednesday Morning Update

2009-07-01T08:05:00.001-07:00

These pictures are becoming harder and harder to see...without getting to experience the week in person with these beautiful and hard-working servants! I think our group was a bit overwhelmed yesterday as 80 kids came to VBS, but from these smiles. you can't tell they are even tired! Our Alpine group of 8 teens and 7 adults are totally in charge of a VBS usually led by at least 20 teens and 10 adults! We should be so proud of this group and grant them MUCH grace if they ever mention being tired!!!

Sweet Kortnee and a new friend at VBS.

Kristen and Kortnee lovin' life in the Valley.

The group leading Father Abraham.

Sweet Sophie and a new friend from VBS.Morgan enjoying a new friend as well! I can only imagine watching Morgan, Matt, and Braylin offering their bodies as "trees" for all the little kids to climb up on!

The manly construction crew...looks like they are enjoying a bit of a breeze!

Preparing wall frames with the infamous Randy.

Matt and his new favorite tool...the nailgun!

I am excited to see the house our girls have been working on...they said they are painting it blue & brown!
Our team will complete their work projects and VBS this afternoon. Please continue to pray for our group and leave them encouraging comments on this blog! We are also prayign the weather will remain calm for their trip to Padre tomorrow!

Tuesday Morning Update...

2009-06-30T09:07:00.000-07:00

I just received a few pictures from Dee Anne. I am so thankful for her updates & glad I get to share them with all of you! I spoke with the team again last night and am encouraged by their enthusiasm and teamwork. The group is really bonding and growing this week in new experiences!

Here are the 5 year olds in their new vbs shirts! Our team ministered to about 60 children on the first day of VBS...praise God!

Bobby & Shannon leading the Lord's Army...Texas Style!

Our girls and their new friend from Palmview, Terri. (Sidenote: I remember rocking Terri to sleep as a toddler on one of my first visits to Palmview. Her family are faithful members of the church.)

Terri & Carmen

Another Palmview friend, Joey, all grown up!

Stephanie's new VBS buddy, Isiic.

Braylin & Matt enjoying a treat from the Palmview ladies after a long day at vbs. By the way, the same amazing women are cooking homemade tamales for our group's lunch today! Clay & I hope they bag some up & bring them back to Longview!

This morning's paint team...ready for day 2! The girls are painting a home in the Palmview area and our guys are helping construct a home in the Alton area.

Following VBS this afternoon, our group will enjoy a meal at Joe's Crab Shack and putt putt before returning to the dorm for a devo and rest. Please pray that they will get to minister to even more children at VBS, and God will grant them the energy to work hard one more day before playing at Schlitterbahn!

More Pictures

2009-06-29T08:47:00.000-07:00

As of Monday morning, the McAllen group is doing well and hard at work for their first day on the jobsites. Sunday was a long, but very productive day for the group as they worshiped with the family of believers at Palmview, prepared VBS materials, and walked through neighborhoods to advertise this week's VBS. Following the afternoon activities, the group traveled to worship at Pharr Church of Christ, and then on to an incredible meal at the local Ponchos...no flags involved at this restaurant! Shannon and Alyssa successfully joined the group late Sunday evening and are working with the teens today. We are so thankful that Shannon Morgan can be with the group this week since she speaks Spanish!

A few more pictures from Saturday's trip...

All smiles for Carmen!

The girls at Gattiland.

Sunday morning at Palmview Church of Christ. Jose and MaryLou Cabello serve the body here and are supported by Alpine Church of Christ. Our group has visited this church for the past 8 years.

Braylin is a happy camper...we are so thankful for his smile, especially on long days!

The girls are making new friends and preparing vbs t-shirts for all who come today!

The fellas are enjoying the beautiful valley sunset on a fell stomach Sunday evening.

Thanks for your continued prayers...the group has a full and exciting day ahead. Plans for Monday: work at jobsites until noon, lunch, VBS, Wallbangers (home of the 3 lb. burger), and then back to the dorm for a devo and a good night's rest!

More updates to come...

On the Road to McAllen...

2009-06-27T17:10:00.001-07:00

Our 2009 McAllen team is almost to their destination! They departed Alpine this morning at 8 am and are set to arrive at Gattiland for dinner within the hour. Our team consists of Carmen, Stephanie, Kortnee, Kristen, Sophie, Matt, Morgan, Braylin, Kevin, Dee Anne, Rick, Laurie, Bobby, Shannon, and Alyssa. Shannon & Alyssa will join them tomorrow, so please continue to pray for their safety!

The group about to enjoy my favorite food...without me!

Carmen & Steph at a quick rest stop!

The fellas showed off as they changed a trailer tire in under 15 minutes! Just a minor setback!

Update...they are in MCAllen enjoying pizza at Gattiland!

More pictures and updates to come throughout the week!

Annual Mother/Daughter Tea

2009-05-21T13:32:00.000-07:00

LTC 2009

2009-04-17T08:42:00.001-07:00

Our teens excelled in all of their events this past weekend at Leadership Training for Christ. All of our teams received Gold and our Bible Quiz teams set the standard!

7-8 Drama crew...MINE!

Cole with the Knight guys

Cole sporting Baker's hat...in some of his favorite arms!

7-8 small chorus team...they sounded like the angels they are!

Not sure Cole is a big fan of puppets yet!

SAGE RETREAT

2009-04-17T07:56:00.001-07:00

Some of our middle school girls traveled to Tyler the first weekend in April for the annual SAGE retreat. This year's theme was "TRANSPARENT." The girls, Tami, I enjoyed worshiping together, laughing together, eating together, and spending the night at the Parker's home in Tyler. Thanks John & Janet!

smiles as the sun came out!

hamming it up on stage...

you just can't beat McDonald's on a Saturday morning!

rachel and courtney at the truck stop

Brooke found a horse for Cole!

Brooke has recently spent much time with Cole during various meetings and conferences. Cole lights up each time she sees her. Thanks for your help, Brooke!

We Believe

2009-03-10T14:31:00.000-07:00

Our 5th-8th graders had a great chance to discuss Belief last Wednesday evening. After Jaime shared her story of "Believing amidst Trials," we designed a special card for her and Jaidan.

The card read...
WE BELIEVE (on the front)
(and inside each teen wrote what they believed to be true for Jaidan & Jaime's situation. Here are some examples)

You are in God's hands
God will be with you
Jaidan will be healed
In the dark, God will shine a light on Jaidan
Jaidan will receive a healthy liver
you will make it and not suffer

CHOCOHOLICFEST

2009-02-13T09:34:00.001-08:00

This past Wednesday evening the Alpine Youth Ministry hosted the 8th annual CHOCOHOLICFEST. It was once again a huge success as we welcomed over 150 teens to the LOFT and heard great insight from an outstanding speaker.

Chet speaking while our teens listened intently.
His joy is contagious!

He stood most of the hour even though his pelvic bone is disconnected from the other leg bones...he stands on pure muscle.

A huge thanks to a few of our amazing Big Night Crew!

Stephanie participated in "Do-Do-Do You Know?" It was a new contest this year involving melted chocolate in diapers.

Rachel got just a little messy in the chocolate pie eating contest.

The Knight boys competing in chocolate apple bobbing...they were impressive!

Brooke vs. Luke in the chocolate apple bobbing competition!

Rachel & Morghan won the "kissing contest"...I promise, no kissing involved!

The smiles were constant as everyone feasted on chocolate and dipped their food in the chocolate fountains!

Morgan's Baptism

2009-02-13T09:17:00.001-08:00

After an exciting weekend at Winterfest, Morgan made the decision to be baptized!
We rejoice with his family!

Tyler Water Park

2009-02-13T09:05:00.001-08:00

This past weekend our 5th and 6th graders traveled to Tyler's indoor water park. What a great escape in the midst of Winter!

We especially had fun celebrating Olivia's & Mason's birthdays!

Brooke on the lazy river.

Can you tell Cole fell asleep? The lazy river did the trick!

Peanut butter jelly time!

Coats for Kids

2008-11-11T13:38:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday our Middle School Ministry assisted with the distribution of Coats for Kids. After most of the kids picked out their favorites, we had a little fun of our own! Thanks to all of the teens who sacrificed their Saturday morning for "service over self."

You can view more photos from the event at the following website:
http://www.news-journal.com/ap/mediahub/media/slideshow/index.jsp?tId=129916

Corn Maze Craze

2008-11-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

MYretreat 2008

2008-10-31T10:45:00.000-07:00

MYretreat Reminder

2008-10-23T14:28:00.000-07:00

This is just a reminder that everyone attending this weekend's Fall Retreat will meet at Alpine Saturday morning at 9:00 am. Make sure you eat breakfast before you come!
We will return to Alpine Sunday at 1:00 pm.
Remember to bring:
Cash for a Sonic lunch, sleeping bag, pillow, flashlight, toothbrush, comfortable & casual clothes, tennis shoes, towel, overnight toiletries, coat/rain jacket, & Bible.
Permission Form:
If you have not already turned in a permission form, a parent will need to complete the form before leaving our parking lot Saturday morning.

Recent Baptisms

2008-10-23T14:11:00.000-07:00

We rejoice with these 3 new brothers in Christ...Way to go guys!

Carsen & Geoffrey

Geoffrey & Erin
Carnes & Carsen
Chip & McClain
The guys are celebrating with McClain

Saturday Morning Stars!

2008-10-21T08:11:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday morning, Cole and I rolled out of bed to watch two of our awesome 5th graders do what they do best!

Mason giving me a thumbs-up with victory in sight.

Olivia cheered on her 5th grade football friends with a huge smile & a great halftime performance!

The team ran through the victory line.

The two stars stopped for a pose for their very proud youth minister!

GLOW for God

2008-10-15T14:58:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday evening, our teens began the contruction of this year's Fall Fest Tunnel of Fun! We had lots of fun with duct tape & glow in the dark paint.

A smile from Steph

Clay & the fellas

Kristen & Kortnee

Stephanie, Morghan, & Jilayna

way to be creative, Matt!

Olivia, Sara, & Rebekah

Laura, Sophie, & Courtney

Thomas & Ross

Steven & the guys

Caleb exploring the entrance

Teens, remember we will complete the tunnel construction this Saturday at 2:00 pm in the Alpine gym.

Courtney's baptism

2008-10-15T14:50:00.000-07:00

We rejoice with Courtney, Tally, & Olivia on their recent baptisms! Here are a few pictures from Courtney's baptism...

Courtney & her dad

"towel-head" & friends

mothers & daughters celebrate together

MYnews 10.15.08

2008-10-15T14:00:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the Alpine MYministry's blog...a site for ministry updates, announcements, & pictures! Check back weekly for MYnews.