A lot happened in the life of Highland Park United Methodist Church in 2016!
1. HPUMC celebrates a major milestone by turning 100 Years Old!
On February 21, 2016, the people of Highland Park United Methodist Church came together to celebrate a monumental day in the history of the church. Rev. Rasmussen was shown in every venue as he preached on the future of our church. As a church Rev. Rasmussen challenged the congregation to move Beyond 100 in three ways: beyond generation, beyond habitation, and beyond expectation.
2. HPUMC dedicates its 100th home with Carpenters for Christ
On February 27, 2016 HPUMC honored the 100 families who became homeowners over the last 20 years through HPUMC’s Carpenters for Christ and Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity. The partnership has helped make the dream of homeownership a reality for 300 families—100 in Dallas and an additional 200 around the world. But we’re not going to stop there! We have extended our partnership to impact even more families.
3. Unlocking of the Cottages at Hickory Crossing
On Thursday, September 8, The Cottages at Hickory Crossing were ceremoniously unlocked. The cottages will serve as the home for 50 of Dallas' most chronically homeless neighbors. Not only did HPUMC members help fund two of the 50 cottages, individual members, Sunday Morning Classes, and Small Groups helped outfit 33 cottages with everything from appliances to sheets, cups and plates. The cottages are just one element of the bold partnership between HPUMC and CitySquare.
4. Holly Scurry’s Story
Holly was just a young girl when her father left. For years she felt alone and abandoned. But then one day, something changed. Holly shares how the church rescued her during this dark time, and how it inspired her to serve others.
Have a story you want to share? Send us an email at stories@hpumc.org.
5. HPUMC challenges men to “Be A Man” during Domestic Violence Awareness month
In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, HPUMC issued a challenge for men to #beaman. During a panel discussion, Rev. Matt Tuggle and SMU head football coach Chad Morris discussed what it means to be a man and use your power and influence for the sake of others.
6. Rev. Victoria Powers becomes the first female minister in Cox Chapel
In August of 2016, the Cox Chapel community welcomed its first female minister, Rev. Victoria Powers. Rev. Powers also serves as the director of adult ministries at HPUMC. Cox Chapel has notoriously been a service of liturgy and sacrament. Communion is celebrated each week, as are elements such as the doxology, apostle's creed, passing of peace, and prayers of confession and assurance. The hope of Cox Chapel is that the rich liturgy and repetition will guide and transform the hearts of each person in worship.