The Epistle
St. John’s
Presbyterian Church
in Houston
July 29, 2026
Dear friends,
I am grateful for the many ways you remain part of the life of St. John’s, even when you cannot join us in person. You are remembered in our worship and prayers, and your presence continues to matter to this church family.
Last Sunday we reflected on Jesus’ parable of the buried treasure. It was good to be back in the pulpit with you.
This Sunday we will hear another of Jesus’ parables, the story of the ten bridesmaids in Matthew 25:1-13. Five brought oil for their lamps, while five did not. When the bridegroom arrived, those who were ready went in with him, and the door was closed.
The story reminds us that faithfulness is formed over time. Prayer, worship, service, generosity, and love become the oil in our lamps. These are ordinary practices, often carried out in quiet and unremarkable moments. Yet they prepare us to recognize God’s presence when the time comes.
My prayer is that God will help each of us tend our lamps and keep our hearts open.
Peace,
Pastor Jon B.
Church Life
Our Summer Quarterly Bible Study recently brought adults and children together for a full day of learning, fellowship, music, and good food. We studied the parables of Jesus and considered how his teachings belong in our kitchens, workplaces, neighborhoods, and daily conversations.
Many people helped make the day possible. Volunteers cared for the children, prepared meals, organized the schedule, led the Bible study sessions, and provided music. We are thankful for everyone who served and for everyone who took part.
A Bible study is about more than information. It is also about the joy of learning together and growing as a church family.
Beginning August 16, we will begin a six-week study of Paul’s letters written from prison. Paul wrote with joy and hope even while he was under guard and uncertain about his future. Together we will consider how Christian freedom can remain strong even during difficult seasons of life.
Standing With a Family in Our Care
Many members of our church have welcomed a family in our care since their arrival in the Houston area. Your generosity has helped make their first months here easier and has shown them the love of Christ in practical ways.
The family is preparing for an upcoming immigration hearing and has legal representation. Members of the church are organizing a group to attend as quiet observers. Those who attend will sit in the public gallery. Photography and recording are not permitted during court proceedings.
Please pray for this family. If your health and schedule allow you to attend, a sign-up sheet will be available in the narthex to help coordinate transportation and estimate attendance.
Healing Hearts
Healing Hearts continues to offer a safe, faith-filled place for those walking through grief. The group gathers in the Prayer Room of the Church Office Building to share stories, receive encouragement, and walk together through seasons of loss.
Upcoming meetings are scheduled for:
Wednesday, August 12, 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Monday, August 31, 11:00 a.m. to noon
Please pray for those who attend and for all who are grieving. Grief can be a lonely road, and Christian companionship helps us remember that we do not walk it alone.
Prayer
We continue to pray for members and friends of our church family who are facing health concerns, recovering from surgery, receiving hospice care, waiting for medical treatment, or grieving the loss of someone they love.
We also pray for our college students, the families and staff of One Hope Preschool, the families connected with Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services, and all those who need God’s care in this season.
If you would like to add a name to the prayer list or keep a current name listed, please contact the church office. Thank you for helping us care for one another through prayer.
Church Phone Update
Our church phone line was repaired this week and is working again. However, the system assigned the line our old fax number instead of the church’s regular phone number. We are working to restore the correct number.
In the meantime, please call the church office at
(713) 993-6412.
Upcoming Worship
Sunday, August 2, is the Tenth Sunday after Pentecost.
Adult Sunday School will meet at 9:30 a.m.
Worship will begin at 11:00 a.m. and will be available in the sanctuary and on Facebook.
We will also gather for Bible study and other activities throughout the week. Please know that your prayers and encouragement are part of all that happens here.
As we move into August, we give thanks for those celebrating birthdays and anniversaries. We are grateful for each person whose life is part of our church family.
If you would like a call or visit, please contact the church office at
(713) 993-6412. We would be glad to hear from you.
May the peace of Christ be near to you. May God strengthen you, encourage you, and remind you that you are loved.
With gratitude and prayers,
Pastor Jon
