News
 
Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Rev. Deborah Stokes

 

Rev. Deborah Morgan-Stokes will be the guest speaker at the September meeting of Disciples Women’s Ministry at Central Christian Church in Dallas.

Deborah is the Senior Pastor at East Dallas Christian Church.  She is a native Dallasite with many ties to East Dallas.

Deborah graduated from Bryan Adams High School in 1980.  She attended Texas Christian University in Ft. Worth where she received her Bachelor of Science in Education.  After graduation, she spent three years teaching public school at L. G. Pinkston High School in West Dallas.

During her time as teacher, Deborah acknowledged her call to ministry and made her way to Vanderbilt Divinity School in Nashville, Tennessee where she completed her Masters of Divinity degree. 

Deborah was ordained in 1990 and served at First Christian Church of Waynesboro, Tennessee and at Saguaro Christian Church in Tucson, Arizona.

She began her ministry at East Dallas Christian Church in 2006 and loves her work with the historic “congregation-in-transformation,” and the call that brought her back home to Dallas.

She currently serves on the boards of Lakewood’s Juliette Fowler Communities and Literacy Archives.

Seven years ago, Deborah married Don Stokes.  The union brought together a blended family of four cats. Deborah is an avid reader of fiction and when time permits, she loves to travel.  She especially loves to hike the desert southwest, which she fondly refers as “my heart-home.”

The 2018/19 Disciples Women’s study program topic is “Called for God’s Purpose” and Deborah chose the lesson: Positioned for Purpose, the story of Lydia.

“I chose Lydia because she was a rarity in her time—a woman who was a successful merchant during a period when women rarely had access to economic power,” Deborah said. “She made her money by excreting the color ‘purple’ from shells which she sold to Rome’s elite.”

“As a TCU alum, the color purple is important to me,” Deborah quips. “But not only did Lydia make money—she was generous with her earnings, sharing with the first Christian Church, supporting the apostle Paul,” Deborah said.

The lesson states that because Lydia took time away from the busyness of her life to worship God, she was positioned to hear the gospel, become a believer in Christ, transform her entire household and offer hospitality to Paul and his traveling companions. She was positioned for purpose, just as women can be today.

The Disciples Women of Central are excited to welcome Rev. Stokes as the first speaker in the “Spectacular Fall Line-Up” of exciting programs for the coming year.

Following the presentation, as always, lunch will be served in fellowship hall.  The cost for lunch is $5.00 per person and lunch requires a reservation.  Call the church office at 214-526-7291 or email shelia0806@sbcglobal.net. Central is located at 4711 Westside Dr. between Lemmon Avenue and Mockingbird Lane.

The meetings are open to the public (you do not have to be a member of Central or any church for that matter) and all are welcome.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Young and old gather for ice cream

Central Christian Church celebrated Sunday’s after-worship fellowship with sundaes, ice cream cones and banana splits in honor of National Ice Cream Day. 

Prior to the ice cream celebration, Dr. Crawford delivered Sunday morning’s sermon, “The Measures of True Faith,” reflecting on the use of the “plumb line” to build a good foundation.  

Following the inspirational service, the congregation gathered in fellowship hall to build one’s own ice cream concoction topped with fruits, nuts, whipped cream and maraschino cherries.

A huge thank you goes to Karen Woods for the beautifully presented “soda shoppe.”

Ice Cream has a long history as the favorite cold treat during the hot summer months.

By the late 1700’s America’s “high society” was enjoying ice cream and the first ice cream parlor opened in New York in 1776. 

The “sundae” dates back to the Gay Nineties when ice cream merchants introduced a non-carbonated version of ice cream soda to serve on Sundays in response to criticism of the rich soda as too sinful to be enjoyed on the Sabbath.

Central is the oldest continuously operating Protestant church in Dallas, but it is young at heart and both young and old enjoyed Sunday’s service and fellowship.

Check out the website and join Central anytime.  All are welcome!

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Wheels, Bubble Life Special Contributor

Do you work from home?  If so, you probably love the flexibility and freedom that working from home allows. Additionally, work from home employees and entrepreneurs site traffic, out-of-sight gasoline prices, parking, dress codes and even company politics as great reasons to work from home.   And for many, an added pleasure of working from home is that you have your dog right by your side!

It’s all great, right?  But, bet you never thought you’d miss the conversation around the water cooler and the camaraderie of the weekly lunch bunch.

You can have the best of both worlds! Check out the co-working space available in the Mid-Century Modern building of Central Christian Church of Dallas.

Just like home, there is a fully operable kitchen for preparing a home-made lunch, plenty of dining tables for enjoying it and cozy sofas for when you need a break from the desk.

With “co-working” you can still have the pleasure of chats around the water cooler and at the Keurig coffee bar. And you have the much-coveted benefit of bouncing ideas around with others when you need a second opinion.

Work areas includes modular spaces with freshly painted walls in designer colors and light-filled windows looking out on mature Live Oaks. You may take a break from your lap-top with a walk around the manicured four-acre grounds or spend some quiet time in the meditation garden.  Or de-stress watching the dogs play in the one-acre dog park. If you are still not refreshed and relaxed, there is a Yoga studio.

Tuesday’s community lunch is a “bring and share” pot-luck.  Stop by for lunch and check out the atmosphere. Or call for an appointment to tour the building and discuss prices.   Day passes, two-week passes, monthly passes and more let you customize the plan that suits you best.

And yes, at this dog-friendly church, you can work with your dog by your side!

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

Like picnics, parades and fireworks, kids and dogs spell Fourth of July. And Central Christian Church Community Dog Park had a float full of both at Wednesday morning’s annual Park Cities celebration.

The float, reminiscent of a park shaded by umbrellas and enclosed by a picket fence, invited everyone to “Bring Your Dog to Church.” Onlookers were treated to a packet of dog biscuits tossed from the float carrying the same message.

Central opened a community dog park on the church grounds 11 years ago. The off-leash park sits on one-acre and is shaded by mature Live Oaks, cooled by electric fans and has plenty of seating for dog owners to sit and relax while their dog roams, sniffs and fetches.   It’s like a “play date for Fido” as many of the regulars gather at the same time each day so that people and dogs can visit with one another.  

The park is equipped with waste stations, running water, a dog bath and a “library” where you may exchange books and magazines or browse the latest issue of AKC’s "Family Dog Magazine."

A little over a year ago, Elder Tyson Woods began holding worship services at 9 a.m. on the first and third Sunday of the month.  The informal service includes casual dress, sing-a-longs, coffee and donuts as well as a brief lesson about God’s love.

Following your Fourth of July celebration, come and enjoy this little piece of “heaven” anytime.  The park is open from sun-up till sun-down and there is plenty of parking. Visit Central’s web-site to learn about all of the neighborly amenities and community outreach program offered by the church.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Hamburger picnic

The members of Central Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) enjoyed a “Hymn Sing” and a hamburger cook-out followed by a patriotic sing-a-long to celebrate the Fourth of July Sunday morning.

For Sunday’s gathering, rather than a “traditional” church service, members had been asked to list their favorite hymns the previous Sunday. “It Is Well With My Soul,” “Just A Closer Walk With Thee,” “Blessed Assurance” and “What A Friend We Have In Jesus” were among the most requested songs tallied.

Led by Music Director, David Aston, and the chancel choir, the congregation had the opportunity to sing those special tunes–so dear to their hearts. 

Soloists Marsha Anderson performed “The Lord’s Prayer” and Amelita Facchiano “He Lives.”  Pianist Tim Caffe,  guitarist Erik Stolpe and organist David Aston accompanied the choir for a beautiful musical ministry.

Following morning worship, everyone gathered in fellowship hall to enjoy delicious hamburgers grilled on -premise by elders Frank Whitington and Jim Archer as well as home-made picnic sides like baked beans, potato salad, black bean and corn salad, watermelon and more prepared by the Disciples Women. Banana pudding, peach cobbler, brownies and Million dollar Pie were among the dessert choices.

Following lunch was another sing-a-long.  Patriotic tunes like “Grand Ole’ Flag” and “The Star Spangled Banner” reminded everyone how fortunate we are to live in a country that allows us the freedoms that we enjoy. 

Central Christian Church wishes everyone a safe and happy Fourth of July. Join us anytime.  All are Welcome! All means all!

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Tinashe McGowan following a piano performance

Music Director David Aston of Central Christian Church is looking for young musicians.  Beginning this fall, Central's musical ministry would like to feature a “bright new star” once a month during the church’s 11 a.m. morning worship service.

Central has been a long-time supporter of the arts, encouraging and supporting young performers.

Former Booker T. Washington student, Natalie Homsher; Highland Park and SMU Piano Preparatory student, Apsaline Douglas; Former Garland High School student and recent graduate of the University of North Texas, Rosie Ninesling and William B. Travis Academy/Vanguard for the Academically Talented and Gifted, Tinashe McGowan, are but a few of the talented young artists that have been spotlighted at Central.

Each artist featured during Sunday morning worship service will receive monetary compensation, be honored at an after-worship reception and will be highlighted on social media. They will also have the opportunity to work with other talented musicians at Central like pianist Tim Caffee and guitarist, Erik Stolpe.

Vocalists and performers of all musical instruments are invited to contact David for an audition.

Call the church office at 214-526-7291 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday or by emailing central.christian.dallas@gmail.com.  

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Central Christian Church of Dallas

Central Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is a church of many hats.  Yes, the mission is loving God and loving each other, spreading the Good News, changing the world for the better and reaching out into the community to those who are suffering and in need due to circumstance and events. 

But Central also recognizes the daily needs of those among us who are seeking new friendships, new purposes and new experiences.  The “Fall Line-up” will offer something for everyone—a chance to get involved in fulfilling activities.

The Disciples Women’s Ministry will resume monthly meetings on Tuesday, September 4 with Rev. Dr. Debbie Chisolm sharing the story of “Hulda and Anna” from the study guide "Purpose and Call."  If you had the opportunity to hear Debbie speak in person or on WRR:  Classical 101 Radio you know that the program is one you won’t want to miss.

And that is only the beginning.  The “line-up” includes a variety of wonderful professional speakers like Rev. Deborah Morgan Stokes, Senior Minister of East Dallas Christian Church and Dr. Katie Hays of Galileo Church that prides itself on being the “quirky church for spiritual refugees.”

Always following the program is a “five-star lunch” in the dining area of Fellowship Hall. The cost for lunch is $5.00 and the meetings are open to everyone.  Just call the church office for a reservation.

Beginning in September, Tuesday mornings at 8:30 you will have the opportunity to stretch your body and relax your mind in a Vinyasa Flow Yoga class. Vinyasa is a type of yoga that links movement and breath to attain balance in the mind and body. From the Sanskrit “to place in a special way,” vinyasa aligns a deliberate sequence of poses with the breath to achieve a continuous flow.

Classes are $10.00 for a one-hour session and they are “drop-in” enrollment, so no contracts or fees if you miss a day. The class encourages all ages and all levels of participation—you may sit in a chair if that is what you need.  Enrollment will begin in August.

Dance Idea is a newly formed company with a studio on the second floor of Central’s building.  Liz Owens teaches contemporary and Flamenco-inspired dance for children and adults.  Visit the website http://www.danceidea.com/ for more information.

Sack Lunch Bible Study will resume on Wednesdays in September.  Bring your lunch and learn as Dr. Ken Crawford, lead pastor of Central shares his biblical knowledge in an informal, round table Bible Study class.  The class is free and everyone is welcome.  Call the church for more information.

Church in the Dog Park meets the first and third Sundays of the month at 9 o’clock in the morning.  Imagine how “cool” to enjoy coffee, donuts and fellowship with your dog at your side when the weather welcomes Autumn.

These opportunities are only a few offered at Central Christian Church.  Visit the church website and Facebook page to stay tuned to “what is going on” at this progressive church that embraces community.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

Dallas Canines kicked off summer with a Dog Park Festival at Central Community Dog Park Saturday morning.

Dogs and their owners from around the community came out to enjoy food, drinks and music while the canine family member joined a game of Frisbee or whatever it is dogs do when it’s their party.

Vendors like Mi Beada was selling yard art and jewelry (much of it pet inspired) and Jaksnaks was selling homemade, organic treats and eats.

Wheels and Phoebe JoAnn chose Yam Bam Cookies made of organic sweet potatoes, flax and pork for their take-home treat.  Mary Chris Gibbons of Mi Beada will create a personal piece of jewelry with your dog’s picture.  For more information about Jaki’s treats visit www.jaksnaks.com and call the church at 214-526-7291 to leave a message for Mary Chris.  

During the party, dogs could also spiff-up for their summer trip to the beach with a nail trim or take a bath at the dog wash.  If a new puppy needed to learn some manners before heading off on vacation, a trainer was on hand to give the new pet owner some tips.

Hot dogs, bagels and ice-cold water were available as well as a Starbucks Puppuccino for Fido.   

If you missed the party, visit Central’s dog park anytime.  It is a community park, open to the public, seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.

Although it may feel like it, the “dog days of summer” are not even here yet according to Sirius, the dog star, but you can stay cool under the mature live oaks that shade the park. There is plenty of seating for conversation with other “dog people” or a quiet place to read. A new “library” and a magazine stand holding current issues of “Family Dog” has been added for your reading enjoyment while visiting the park.

Visit anytime! Or Bring your dog to church. Church in the Dog Park is a casual worship service celebrated at 9 a.m. on the first and third Sundays of the month.  Sing-a-longs, a short sermon, coffee and donuts starts your week off right.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest
Intern Amethyst Kelly and Mom Crystal honored at luncheon

Central Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) said “hello summer” at a salad luncheon Sunday afternoon in the church fellowship hall.  The hall was decorated like a garden party and the buffet table featured an array of creative salads from summer’s bounty of vegetables and fruits.

Often people comment that Central is “the ‘eatinest’ church I’ve ever seen.”  Why is church fellowship important? Throughout the Bible, when the people of God ate and drank together, they expressed social solidarity.

Tuesdays at noon Central’s hall is again open to the community for lunch.  All are welcome, there is plenty of seating, no waiting in line and no Dallas prices.  You may bring a dish and share if you like.

Wednesday evening, Jun 6, the church will host Ramadan.  Ramadan is the holiest month of the Islamic calendar. It is observed by fasting and self-discipline. The fast is from dawn to sunset, with a pre-dawn meal known as suhur and a sunset meal called iftar.

This dinner is an opportunity for Christians to better understand the Islamic faith.  Following the day of fasting, there will be prayer before the main meal, iftar, is served at 8:34 p.m.

Muslim faithful greet one another by saying, "Ramadan Mubarak." This greeting, which means "Blessed Ramadan," is just one traditional way that people welcome friends and passersby alike during this holy time.

All are welcome to come at 7:30 p.m. to take part in this special Ramadan dinner. There will be home cooked food by the Islamic community. For more information, call Central's office at 214-526-7291.  

There is no shortage of great cooks in Central's congregation. Holly Puig's Asian Slaw and David Aston's frozen fruit salad were hits at Sunday's salad lunch. The recipes follow.

ASIAN SLAW

1  medium head cabbage, shredded

1 bunch green onions, finely chopped

Chill the above 

8 tbsp sunflower seeds, toasted

8 tbsp slivered almonds, toasted

2 (3oz) pkgs Top Ramen noodles, broken up 

Dressing:  Mix together and chill  

6 tbsp Rice vinegar

4 tbsp sugar

2 tsp salt

1 tsp pepper

1 cup Grapeseed oil LESS 3 tbsp

3 tbsp Toasted Sesame oil 

When ready to serve, toss ingredients together.

 

Frozen Fruit Salad

1 carton whipped cream cheese

1/2 cu mayo

1/2 c sour cream

1/4 cup sugar

Beat until smooth

Drain fruits well

1 large can Mandarin oranges (22 oz.)

2 cans dark sweet cherries (15. oz. each) 

1  large can crushed pineapple (15 oz.)

1/2 cup chopped pecan

Fold into cream mixture. Place  in a 9 x 13 inch pan or 2 loaf pans and freeze.

Thaw just before serving.

Gravatar
Pin on Pinterest

The Westside Wanderers of Central Christian Church chose the Deep Ellum favorite, Pepe’s and Mito’s, to say “Vaya con Dios” to their 2017/18 intern, Amethyst Kelly.

Amethyst paired with Central last fall as part of the National Benevolence Association’s XPLOR program that allows young adults the opportunity to explore the intersections of a life of faith while gaining awareness of systems of injustice.

The Westside Wanders, church members who enjoy their own exploring through day trips around Texas and the best deals for learning and having fun while doing it, chose the Deep Ellum based restaurant known for its excellent Tex-Mex as the place to celebrate Amethyst’s time in Texas before beginning her next journey.

Twenty members of the church gathered in the colorful back room of the restaurant enjoying menu favorites like nachos, enchiladas, mole and more while visiting with Amethyst about her forthcoming plans and what she learned from her time at Central.

Amethyst, originally from Oklahoma, will attend graduate school at North Carolina State University in the fall.

Founded in 1863, Central is the oldest continuously operating Protestant church in Dallas.  For over 150 years Central has witnessed patterns and changes in how people worship.  Although it is as passionate today about following the teachings of Jesus and being a disciple of Christ as it was when it was organized all those years ago, the church is reaching into the community with a renewed vitality and spirit.

Realizing that church is not just visiting a building once a week on Sunday, Central offers numerous opportunities for a connected lifestyle throughout the week.  Co-op work space is being offered and the upper story of the building is currently being renovated featuring fresh designer paint colors and new office furniture.

In addition to participating in the XPLOR program, the church is home to Connecting Point of Park Cities, a day care program for adults with disabilities; Central Dog Park, a community off-leash dog park; Dance Idea, a modern and contemporary dance studio with spiritual connection and more.  The church offers financial and hands-on assistance to a variety of local and world-wide charities and the Disciples Women’s Ministry consistently reaches into the community through education and outreach.

Come for worship Sunday mornings at 11 a.m. or bring your dog to church at “church in the dog park” on the first and third Sundays of the month at 9 a.m. or stop in for Tuesday community lunch at noon.  You might decide to stay.