SFA Chi Alpha

Katelyn's Story

2011-04-25T10:38:00.001-05:00

We hope everyone had a wonderful Easter holiday. Classes will be starting up again tomorrow and then it's just a few short weeks until the end of the semester.

Derrick, Katelyn, and I wanted to send you guys an update personally. I know many of you are just beginning to hear what's been happening with Katelyn over the weekend. We are sorry for the delay in getting the word out to you guys. Everything happened within a matter of hours and we've had limited time to send updates even to our families. Thank the Lord for Internet and text messages!

To read the full story of what's happened, you can go to our blog: derrickandashley.com, Katelyn's Story.

We are also posting updates there as we have them, so if you want to follow her progress, that's the place to go. The basic story is she had an infected left hip socket that was causing so much pain she had been immobile since last Monday morning. She needed surgery to drain it but since there are no pediatric orthopedic surgeons in Nac, we were transferred to Dallas in the middle of the night Friday. After another round of tests, she had the surgery Saturday afternoon and was back in her hospital room by that evening, sleeping soundly thanks to the pain medications. She has continued to improve since then. Her pain level is much decreased, she is beginning to move around again, and her appetite and sleep patterns are returning to normal.

Now, we are waiting for results on the fluid they removed to see if we can tell what kind of infection it was - they may or may not be able to pinpoint it. Tomorrow (Tuesday) she will have the dressing and drain removed from her hip and will have a repeat blood test to see if/when she will be able to return home. They have told us to expect to be here a week - so far, we've been here 3 days. So, we will not be back in Nac when you guys return to school, maybe not at all this week.

We wanted to let you know what's going on for two reasons:

1. We are asking you guys to pray (or continue to pray for those who have already heard): Pray that her blood test shows signs of improvement = lower levels. Pray that the blood work and dressing/drain removal tomorrow go as smoothly and painlessly as possible. Pray that her appetite returns fully. Pray that she gets lots of good sleep despite all the interruptions that being a hospital patient brings. Pray that her fear of medical personnel begins to subside. Pray that we would have strength and energy to give her all the love and attention she needs. Pray that we would have wisdom to make all the associated decisions for her. Pray that we would be able to help her understand what's happening to her.

2. We will be updating you guys again soon about plans for XA activities already scheduled for this week, specifically our Last XA Service and Water Baptisms. So watch here and/or on the Facebook Page for updates - or talk to your small group leader.

We love you guys - we know how much you all love our baby girl, too. This has been a scary, difficult few days, but even in the middle of ambulance transfers, IV sticks, vital signs, and sedation, God has been so faithful to us. You can read just one story about that at Ashley's blog - but be forewarned, it seems to make all the girls cry. :)

If you forget where to go for Katelyn Updates, I've added a link on the front page at sfaxa.org that will take you there.

Talk to you guys soon!

2011-04-12T11:10:00.000-05:00

Foundations: The Resurrection

Last week, Derrick told us the true story of the cross of Jesus Christ - but the story doesn't end there! Join us this Thursday as we look at the next chapter. Did the Resurrection really happen, and, if so, what does it mean for us today?

When: Thursday, April14
Time: 7pm
Where: Outside the Student Center!
......What: God...friends...music!
TOPIC: Foundations: The Resurrection

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

WHAT IS XA SERVICE?
Whether you're exploring faith for the first time or are looking to connect with other believers, you are invited to join us on the journey of knowing God!

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT XA SERVICE?
XA Service features music, food, friends, relevant speakers, and true spiritual connection. These gatherings are informal, charged with music, given to humor, and deal with everything from relationships to the nature of truth. The goal is to meet with God among friends! All faiths are welcome!

2011-04-12T11:03:00.000-05:00

iTeams - Make an IMPACT!

Chi Alpha exists at Stephen F. Austin to be an agent of change – to IMPACT the students on our campus with the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to be a constant example of the love of God for humanity. In every way, iTeams are vehicles for this change – whether it’s by rolling up a sound cord, shopping for the BBQ this weekend, or stopping by a new girl’s dorm room with cookies, iTeam members are IMPACTING the lives of students!

Pick up an application THIS THURSDAY at XA Service!

Want to know what teams are available??? Click "Read More"

The following iTeams are available for the 2011-2012 school year. If you have an idea for an iTeam not listed below, please talk with Derrick or Ashley!

Audio / Visual Team
If you are technically minded, this iTeam is for you! Every week it takes a crew of trained workers to set up & tear down the sound & A/V equipment for XA events. We need students who are familiar with sound equipment (or are willing to learn)… who are strong, physically in shape, familiar with computers & presentation software (ProPresenter for Mac), and who work well under pressure and with others.

XA International
Every year our campus is host to students from all around the world who come here to study. We want to welcome our international students to this campus, town, and country, and help them adjust to life in their new home. We do this by offering friendship and cultural exchanges. We need students to work with Ms. Pattie Willmon and the existing team to facilitate our growing Friday night dinners with international students – if you are interested in other cultures, enjoy cooking, organizing, and having good conversations, this iTeam is for you!

Party Planners
Whoever said Christians can’t have fun was crazy! We believe Christians have more fun on accident than most people do on purpose. It’s important to us to spend time together in a setting that is encouraging to all present. We try to offer at least one fun event each month for students and the Party Planners iTeam is responsible for coming up with ideas, organizing events, and making plans. They are the hands and feet behind all of our parties. The best part? We give you the money, you spend it!

(NEW!) Connection Team
Chi Alpha exists to love students! One way we apply this principle of love is by creating a welcoming environment at weekly XA Service meetings. We want visitors to know how excited we are to have them with us and to feel comfortable in the meeting as well. Our Connection Team are friendly faces, greeting and welcoming new students at XA Service and reconnecting with visitors who fill out contact cards, providing information, friendship, and a link to small groups (and maybe a bag of XA cookies, too).

Worship Team
God created mankind to enjoy His presence. This is how we define worship and in Chi Alpha we take that seriously, believing that even now His people are called worship God in spirit and truth. We want to create an atmosphere in which people feel comfortable and compelled to worship God in sincerity and with abandon. We are continually working to teach students what it means to worship God. The worship team strives to combine musical talents, forming a solid band that is able, both in heart and skill, to lead the larger Chi Alpha group into musical worship at weekly XA Service meetings as well as a lifestyle of worship throughout the week.

2011-04-12T10:56:00.002-05:00

XA Officer Elections

Remember to stick around after XA Service this week to participate in our annual officer elections. Our officers serve a vital role in connecting XA to the University - voting is important! See you this Thursday!

Want to know who's running??? Click "Read More"

Currently nominated are the following (voting members will be allowed to make nominations Thursday night):

President - Currently, Britney Wolther
Britney Wolther, Aaron Perez

Vice President - Currently, Aaron Perez
Britney Wolther, Aaron Perez, Greg Luetwyler, Trey Heidman, Norman Nickle, Amy Johnston

Secretary - Currently, Elizabeth Blanke
Chris Thompson, Greg Leutwyler, Elizabeth Blanke, Katherine Moore, Britney Wolther, Aaron Perez, Amy Johnston

Treasurer - Formerly, Hannason Lindley; Currently, None
Chris Thompson, Amelia Greene, Elizabeth Blanke, Kayla Deville, Britney Wolther, Aaron Perez

2011-04-12T09:15:00.000-05:00

Water Baptisms

Our last XA Service of the year will also be our Spring Water Baptism service! Join us as we celebrate what God has done this year in the lives of our friends who are getting water baptized! It's going to be a beautiful night - worship, short talk from Derrick, water baptisms, and maybe a little more worship!

***If you've never been baptized or were baptized as a small child and would like to participate, contact your small group leader asap - sign ups are going to close soon!***

2011-04-12T09:03:00.000-05:00

Crawfish Boil 2011

In honor of our pastor's home state, SFA Chi Alpha is breaking out the BIG pots and throwing a real, Cajun Crawfish Boil! Join us Saturday, May 7 at the XA House for some spicy crawfish, corn, and potatoes with all the fixin's!

Tickets are on sale NOW - Wednesday, May 4

$10 ALL YOU CAN EAT

$5 for 1 pound

Fruit Follow-Up & Links to 2 Good, FREE Books

2011-04-04T10:34:00.000-05:00

Check out this recording from A.W. Tozer to follow up with Gary Paschal's sermon last week on Fruit of the Spirit!

Listen Now!

Who was A.W. Tozer?

Tozer, as he was affectionately known during his lifetime, is widely regarded as one of the most perceptive writers in the 20th century. He served as pastor of Christian & Missionary Alliance churches in Chicago and Toronto, and was a popular speaker and prolific author who wrote with biblical insight and prophetic precision. In 1950, he became the editor of the Alliance Witness. His best-known books, The Pursuit of God and The Knowledge of the Holy, are perennial best-sellers, and most of his writings are still in print.

Tozer was known for his deep and personal relationship with God. His life is a compelling example of spiritual passion, commitment to lifelong learning, and the integration of theological reflection and ministry. (Bio courtesy of awtozerclassics.com - borrowed without permission)

2011-04-04T08:54:00.002-05:00

XA Under the Stars

Worshiping God outside in His creation is a very special thing - to get to do it with friends? Even better!!! You're invited to join us this week outside the Student Center for a night of worship and teaching on the Cross of Jesus Christ.

When: Thursday, April 7
Time: 7pm
Where: Outside the Student Center!
......What: God...friends...music...snacks!
TOPIC: Foundations: The Cross of Jesus Christ

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

HELP SPREAD THE WORD>

Save the "I'm Going to XA Under the Stars" pic to your computer and then upload it as your profile pic to help us spread the word about XA Under the Stars this week!

And you can also change your status to say, "I'm going to XA Under the Stars - Outdoor Worship Service this Thursday night!" and make sure you type the '@' symbol before typing "XA Under the Stars" so it links back to this event!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

WHAT IS XA SERVICE?
Whether you're exploring faith for the first time or are looking to connect with other believers, you are invited to join us on the journey of knowing God!

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT XA SERVICE?
XA Service features music, food, friends, relevant speakers, and true spiritual connection. These gatherings are informal, charged with music, given to humor, and deal with everything from relationships to the nature of truth. The goal is to meet with God among friends! All faiths are welcome!

Investing Spring Break

2011-03-18T20:09:00.002-05:00

I just finished looking through 500+ photos of the renovation work being done at Pleasant Hills Children's Home for this year's edition of Supreme Home Makeover. I was excited to spot our students in some of the photos and are proud of the work they're doing this Spring Break. When most college students spend Spring Break partying, 200+ volunteers (including Chi Alpha students, contractors, church workers, and more) have come together in Palestine, TX to remodel / improve facilities at the children's home! Click either picture to visit the Facebook page of the Children's Home and see the pictures for yourself!

2011-03-02T15:33:00.000-06:00

Help Chi Alpha win $200
SFA v. Sam Houston - Show for the Dough

Chi Alpha is competing in this year's Show for the (Double) Dough contest - the student organization with the most representatives at the game wins $200 from the University. Any student, faculty/staff, or community member can sign in for Chi Alpha! Come out and enjoy a great game and support SFA Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship!

Wednesday, March 2
7:00pm
William R. Johnson Coliseum

Ticket Prices:
Adults: $7
Children (ages 9-18): $4
Children (8 and under): Free
Visiting Student (w/ ID): $4
SFA Student (w/ ID): FREE

2011-03-02T15:23:00.000-06:00

XA Service - Foundations: Heaven & Hell

Have you ever wondered just what happens after we die? Is there really a heaven waiting for us? What about the Christian claims about hell? These are important questions that deserve an honest consideration and an honest answer. Join us this Thursday as we look at the Christian concepts of heaven and hell!

When: Thursday, March 3
Time: 7pm
Whe...re: Liberal Arts North, Room 102
......What: God...friends...music...snacks!
TOPIC: Foundations: Heaven & Hell

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

WHAT IS XA SERVICE?
Whether you're exploring faith for the first time or are looking to connect with other believers, you are invited to join us on the journey of knowing God!

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT XA SERVICE?
XA Service features music, food, friends, relevant speakers, and true spiritual connection. These gatherings are informal, charged with music, given to humor, and deal with everything from relationships to the nature of truth. The goal is to meet with God among friends! All faiths are welcome!

2011-03-02T14:40:00.000-06:00

Panhandling for Arizona Missions

Chi Alpha's missions motto is, "Every student goes. Every student gives. Every student prays." This Saturday, you will have an opportunity to give towards to the Arizona missions team by helping to panhandle in Lufkin. We have city permits allowing us to stand at busy intersections in town and collect donations for the trip.

Sign up at XA Service to help make a difference!

Saturday, March5
9:00am - 1:00pm
Lufkin, TX

2011-03-02T14:34:00.000-06:00

XA Picnic After Church

Whatever church you attend, join us afterward for lunch with the MGO team from Nicholls State University! Bring a blanket and your lunch. We will have the grill fired up and ready to go - if you want to cook on it, you're more than welcome - just bring your own supplies.

Sunday, March6
12:30 - 2:00pm
XA House Backyard

2011-03-02T14:30:00.000-06:00

XA Trash Day Service Project

We want to serve the students of SFA regardless of whether we know them. As a simple act of service with no strings attached, we are going to send groups of XA students into the dorms to offer to take trash out for residents and staff. Click "Read More" to find out more info and how to sign up!

Sign up to work on a team at XA Service!

Monday, March 7
8:30pm - 10:00pm
All SFA dorms

2011-03-02T14:24:00.000-06:00

Capture the Flag

Does your team have what it takes to be the reigning CTF champions??? Find out this coming Tuesday night in another round of Chi Alpha's CTF On Campus! Meet us at Surfin' Steve at 9pm on Tuesday - we'll take care of the rest. Close-toed shoes and long pants are recommended - we will be playing on concrete.

Tuesday, March 8
9-11pm
Surfin' Steve

NOT SURE WHAT CAPTURE THE FLAG IS?

Capture the flag (CTF) is a traditional outdoor sport often played by children or sometimes adults where two teams each have a flag (or other marker) and the objective is to capture the other team's flag, located at the team's "base", and bring it safely back to their own base. Enemy players can be "tagged" by players in their home territory; these players are then, depending on the agreed rules, out of the game, members of the opposite team, or "in jail."

2011-03-02T13:47:00.000-06:00

Praise & Worship Night

There is nothing like the time we spend in corporate worship - there's something so special about being together singing praises to our God. So we are very excited to tell you that we are going to set aside an entire night of XA Service devoted to worshiping God together!

Join us for the last XA Service before Spring Break for a night of praise & worship, led by our awesome worship team!

Thursday, March 10
7-9pm
Liberal Arts North Building, Room 102

2011-02-22T12:12:00.000-06:00

XA Service - Sin & Holiness

In the last several weeks we have presented an overview of the Christian argument for the existence of God, the reliability of the Bible, and the divinity of Jesus Christ. This week, Derrick & Ashley's Chi Alpha pastor from their time as students, Greg Pampell & family will join us to talk about the Christian insistence on personal holiness: what is it, can we achieve it, and, if so, how?

When: Thursday, February 24
Time: 7pm
Whe...re: Liberal Arts North, Room 102
...What: God...friends...music...snacks!
TOPIC: Foundations - Sin & Holiness

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

WHAT IS XA SERVICE?
Whether you're exploring faith for the first time or are looking to connect with other believers, you are invited to join us on the journey of knowing God!

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT XA SERVICE?
XA Service features music, food, friends, relevant speakers, and true spiritual connection. These gatherings are informal, charged with music, given to humor, and deal with everything from relationships to the nature of truth. The goal is to meet with God among friends! All faiths are welcome!

2011-02-10T12:38:00.000-06:00

XA Service - Is the Bible true?

Last week we discussed the existence of absolute truth... This week we look at the Christian Bible and ask whether it is the source of Truth?

When: Thursday, February 10
Time: 7pm
Where: Liberal Arts North, Room 102
...What: God...friends...music...sn

acks!
TOPIC: Foundations - The Holy Bible

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

WHAT IS XA SERVICE?
Whether you're exploring faith for the first time or are looking to connect with other believers, you are invited to join us on the journey of knowing God!

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT XA SERVICE?
XA Service features music, food, friends, relevant speakers, and true spiritual connection. These gatherings are informal, charged with music, given to humor, and deal with everything from relationships to the nature of truth. The goal is to meet with God among friends! All faiths are welcome!

2011-02-10T12:37:00.000-06:00

UPCOMING SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

We are excited to offer a number of opportunities for Chi Alpha students and friends to serve the larger University community. Be at XA Service tonight to get all the details for our next Service Projects!

2011-02-10T12:34:00.000-06:00

Missions Interest Meeting #2

As you may have heard by now, many of our students' parents expressed concerns about our upcoming mission trip to Mexico City. After speaking with the rest of the team at Sam Houston State Chi Alpha (the host for the Mexico City trip), we feel confident that our absence from the team will not hurt the trip in any way, so we are excited to offer a state-side trip during the same general time frame. If you would like to get information about this NEW missions opportunity, stick around after service tonight for details!

Thursday, February10th
aproximately 9:00pm (as soon as XA Service is over)
Liberal Arts North, Room 102

A Prescription?

2011-02-03T09:46:00.000-06:00

Ravi Zacharias, in his address Why I am Not an Athiest*, tells the story of a young teenage boy, maybe 12 or 13, who sits down at the table with his father and begins to talk about his day at school. He tells his father about a particular discussion in one of his classes about the ethics of a certain lifestyle and asks his father what he thinks about it. The father begins to share with his son a verse from Scripture that deals with the issue at hand.

Is this the right approach?

Maybe. But what the son does not say to the father is that, while quoting Scripture works at the kitchen table, it no longer works in our schools. Ravi calls this a prescriptive answer. What his son really wanted to know was why his father believed the Scripture!

It is one thing to know what you believe (the Bible); it is a whole other thing to know why you believe.

Do you know why you believe what you believe?

Join us tonight at XA Service as we look at, what I believe to be, the starting point of finding out!

* This title is a reference to Bertrand Russell's famous book, Why I am Not a Christian. Russell was an atheist.

2011-01-30T19:29:00.000-06:00

Super Bowl Party 2011

Greenbay Packers take on the Pittsburg Steelers in this year's epic Super Bowl match up! We will be watching the game and celebrating in style with FREE FOOD & DRINKS! You're invited to join us - get the details below:

Sunday, February 6th
6:00pm
XA Cafe

2011-01-12T12:24:00.001-06:00

UCM Plaza Bash

You're invited for FREE HOT DOGS & CHIPS and FREE GIANT INFLATABLE GAMES the day classes start in the BPSC Plaza!

Wednesday, January 19th
11:30am
BPSC Plaza

Sponsored by SFA United Campus Ministries. All SFA students & faculty welcome!

2011-01-12T12:22:00.000-06:00

Chi Alpha Worship Workshop

WORSHIP WORKSHOP
Saturday, January 22, 1-7:30pm
SFA Chi Alpha, Nacogdoches, TX

Calling all worship teams, sound, lighting, and multimedia techs!

Worshiping together is a vital part of our experience as believers. As Chi Alpha, that truth is amplified because of college students’ love and appreciate of music (of all kinds). So how do we excel at the music portion of our weekly meetings???

We have gathered top worship leaders from the South Central area for a one day, bootcamp worship training experience designed to challenge both your heart and your skill level! The day will be a combination of group study & discussion, and individual encouragement and instruction in specific instruments.

Cost for non-SFA students: $10
Housing: If you need a place to stay, and don't mind crashing on a couch, we have plenty of space for you at our Chi Alpha house (guys) or with students (girls)

2011-01-12T12:18:00.000-06:00

Dare YOU to Move!

Click the pic above to watch a very important message from Derrick about XA Service!

Dare YOU to MOVE!

2010-12-15T22:20:00.001-06:00

A very important message from Derrick Jackson (and Katelyn) about XA Service this coming Spring Semester!

Spiritual Maturity

2010-12-13T20:56:00.001-06:00

Rediscovered this post from my personal blog and thought I would share it with you guys!

"

"The only test for spiritual maturity is the fruit of the Spirit."
(Mary Gautreaux)

What is happening through you that you cannot explain?

Were your friends better for having seen you yesterday?

I am a problem-solver by nature. I love puzzles - any kind: word puzzles, sudoku, ken ken, crosswords, cryptograms, jigsaw puzzles, riddles... anything that gets my mind thinking. So learning has always been fun to me, at least the form of learning where you're not just memorizing facts. If there is something to figure out, like in math and science, I loved it. That's right - I'm probably the only math-loving artist you've ever met. I'm twisted, what can I say?

Because of my propensity towards things that need figuring out, I've always been very interested in theology and apologetics. I actually LOVE to study the Bible - not just read it, but really study it, like a textbook. So when I come upon something either in life or Scripture or reading that I don't understand, it's really exciting to me. And I will pour myself into studying that thing until I feel like I have it figured out, until I understand it.

My latest case in point has been the topic of growth / maturity / fruit of the Spirit. Aside from a recent hiatus due to morning sickness, afternoon sickness, and evening sickness, I have spent the last 4+ months reading, thinking, studying about the fruit of the spirit and several connected topics. After that much time, I feel like I have found some level of understanding. (Even though, honestly, I would like to continue studying the fruit individually for at least 6 more months...) Then there was service last night...

I realized my tendency is to study and learn and ask questions and find answers until (and only until) I reach as much understanding as I can on a given topic. Once that happens, I'm done. What this means is that I often have a good amount of understanding with no real evidence of it in my actions and attitudes. Ouch. Mary got quoted last night: The only real test of spiritual maturity is the fruit of the Spirit... and fruit is not understanding, it's being."

Mexico City 2011

2010-12-07T16:34:00.007-06:00

Interested in joining a large mission team ministering in Mexico City this May? We have been invited to join Sam Houston Chi Alpha's trip! Get the details below, talk to your parents over break, fill out your app and have it ready to turn in early Spring semester!

Trip Info:
Dates: 8 days between May 15 - 30
Cost: Appx. $1,200 / person (all inclusive except your Passport, which is REQUIRED)
Transportation: We will be flying straight into Mexico City from Houston, TX
Ministry: This trip offers a variety of ministry opportunities, including church speaking, children's ministry, street ministry, college ministry, and more!
Lodging: Team members will be paired/grouped and stay in a hotel.

Requirements:

Complete and turn in before the deadline (TBA) two required applications and one confidential reference form by your small group leader.
Attend a weekend training retreat (April 15-17) out of town, in addition to various local team meetings.
Team members work to raise the cost of your trip by writing letters to family and friends, informing them of the trip and asking for donations towards the cost of your trip. Money is raised individually and spent as a team, which means any extra money you raise would fall into the team's general fund; in the event the team raises extra overall, extra funds roll over into the Sam Houston general missions fund. (All trip funds will be processed and receipted through Sam Houston Chi Alpha's missions department.) *If you were a member of the Arizona team two years ago, I will check on the status of the leftover money from our trips that year. Those were special circumstances; but I would still not count on those funds still being available.

Download Applications:
National Application
Supplemental Sam Houston Application
Reference Form

2010-12-06T10:03:00.001-06:00

Leadership Christmas Party

We love our leaders and want to say thank you for all your work this semester - and hang out one last time before everyone leaves for Break!

We will have snacks, hot cocoa (possibly homemade!), Christmas movies, and a white elephant present exchange! Don't spend any money - bring something you already have lying around - wrap it up and put it under our tree for the exchange!

This little party will double as our last Leadership Meeting (but the business part will be kept to a bare minimum)!

2010-12-06T10:01:00.001-06:00

XA Study Break - FREE PANCAKES!

No one studies the ENTIRE finals week so make use of your break time and come hang out with us one last time! The key to success in finals is... pancakes!!!

@ the XA House, piles of pancakes and toppings, friends, and who knows what else!

Tuesday, December 14
9pm - midnight
XA House, 2 doors up from McDonald's on North Street

SFA Chi Alpha Podcast

2010-11-16T19:50:00.003-06:00

We are officially up and running - Subscribe to SFA Chi Alpha's podcast to save your favorite services & sermons for your future listening pleasure!

iTunes

2010-11-07T22:34:00.000-06:00

XA Service - Our Story: Will Crouch
Will Crouch has been involved with SFA Chi Alpha the last two years and has been a crucial member of our leadership team ever since. Hardworking and faithful, he's always available whether we need work done around the house or someone to lead small group or drive a carpool to Houston! His attitude is always amazing and everywhere he goes, people see Jesus in his smile. We love him and appreciate his serving the students of SF...A with us this year. Join us Tuesday night as he shares a bit of his story with us!

When: Tuesday, 11/09
Time: 7pm
Where: Education Building (McKibben), Room 131, right by Surfin' Steve
...What: God...friends...music...snacks!
TOPIC: Our Story: Will Crouch

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

WHAT IS XA SERVICE?
Whether you're exploring faith for the first time or are looking to connect with other believers, you are invited to join us on the journey of knowing God!

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT XA SERVICE?
XA Service features music, food, friends, relevant speakers, and true spiritual connection. These gatherings are informal, charged with music, given to humor, and deal with everything from relationships to the nature of truth. The goal is to meet with God among friends! All faiths are welcome!

2010-11-02T12:03:00.001-05:00

XA Prayer Group

"We will engage in intercessory prayer for Chi Alpha, SFA, and our brothers and sisters."

That's the heart of our student-led prayer group. Join them Wednesday, November 3, from 7-8:30pm at the XA House on North Street. Click the pic above to see the Facebook Event!

The Blindside Lesson

2010-11-02T11:48:00.005-05:00

I love this movie - most people did. And this is one of my most favorite scenes. But probably not for the reason you think. It's not because Leigh Anne reaches out to Big Mike, helps him when he's in need, although that is great. It's not because of her saucy attitude ("She's about to get her way"), although that does hit close to my heart. And it's not because of the general spirit of charity and love and generosity that's displayed in this clip.

If you've ever moved an entire house, you'll understand my pain when I tell you Derrick and I have lived in 8 houses in 7 years of marriage. We've lived in every kind of house you can imagine - old 1950's homes, super nice apartments, over an old garage... and one thing has been consistent in every house we've lived in: our ability to cram alot of stuff into a small space! Every time we move, we replay the same scene like our life is stuck in some skip on a scratched up CD.

Derrick: "Where does this go?" (Holding some very pretty, but rarely used, crystal vase)

Me: "I have no idea. Oh wait, there's a spot in the hall closet, top shelf, back left corner."

That's right, I keep a running list of empty spots in cabinets, closets, drawers, under beds, on bookshelves... anywhere we could possibly cram something else. Where can I find more space? How can I arrange things so this will fit, too?

But the truth is, as we have learned every single time we've moved, sometimes everything just won't fit. And then comes the hard part. What's most important? What gets to stay? Because sometimes you have to get rid of things to make room for others.

And that's why I love this scene in The Blindside. You can barely hear Leigh Anne say it. The camera angle is showing the scene from a distance, looking on from the trees off the side of the road. But over the sound of her clacking heels, the passing cars, and the car door opening, if you listen, you will hear Leigh Anne say: "Make room, SJ."

What an interesting bit of instruction to her son. Most of us would have said, "Scoot over." But I think she had it right. "Make room."

2010-11-01T12:24:00.000-05:00

Our Story: Kristen Matej
Kristen Matej has been a cornerstone of this group for many years - I cannot actually tell you all the ways she has helped us personally and Chi Alpha as well. She is an amazing woman with an amazing passion for God - Join us Tuesday night as she shares a bit of her story with us!
When: Tuesday, 11/02
Time: 7pm
Where: Education Building (McKibben), Room 131, right by Surfin' Steve
...What: God...friends...music...snacks!
TOPIC: Our Story: Kristen Matej

WHAT IS XA SERVICE?
Whether you're exploring faith for the first time or are looking to connect with other believers, you are invited to join us on the journey of knowing God!

WHAT CAN I EXPECT AT XA SERVICE?
XA Service features music, food, friends, relevant speakers, and true spiritual connection. These gatherings are informal, charged with music, given to humor, and deal with everything from relationships to the nature of truth. The goal is to meet with God among friends! All faiths are welcome!

2010-11-01T12:14:00.002-05:00

2010 Homecoming Tailgating & Game

2010-11-01T12:05:00.001-05:00

SFA Bonfire & XA Halloween Party

2010-11-01T11:30:00.000-05:00

Remember to Vote!
Students can vote either in their hometown (aka, "Where Mom & Dad live") or here in Nac - Find out where you're registered at the votexas.org website! And get all the details on the ballot, too!

2010-11-01T11:22:00.001-05:00

XAI - Dancin' the Night Away
Strap on your dancing shoes - whatever they may be - and join us as we dance the night away, learning about cultural dances from around the world! We want as many countries represented as possible! FREE Dinner, too!

Friday, November 5, 6:00pm
Chi Alpha International House (329 Blount Street)
RSVP on the Facebook Event!

2010-11-01T11:15:00.004-05:00

XAI - Houston Market Trip
You're invited to join us for a road trip to the international food markets in Houston, TX! Whether you need to buy some cooking supplies or you're just excited to learn about other cultures, this is going to be a great trip and a great chance to make a new friend! So clear your calendar and come with us! But reserve your seat fast - it's first come, first goes! Get the details by clicking "Read More."

Saturday, November 6
We are leaving at 9am - American time: do not be late; we will have to leave you!
Meeting at the Chi Alpha International House (329 Blount Street, across from Grace Bible Church and the new Education Building behind the football stadium)
To Reserve Your Spot: Go to the Facebook Event, RSVP yourself as Confirmed, AND leave a comment on the wall saying you're coming with your phone number in case we need to contact you!

2010-11-01T11:04:00.004-05:00

Service Project - Painting
WANNA HELP? Chi Alpha is sponsoring a service project for our sister ministry, XA International - we are going to paint the entire inside of the girls' house in one day! To make this happen we need as much help as possible! Will you make time in your schedule to pick up a paint brush?

Saturday, November 13 - all day
XA International House (329 Blount Street)
Wear work-clothes cuz you'll probably get painted on at some point!

Click the image above to view the Facebook Event and RSVP!

*Breakfast & Lunch provided for all workers

2010-10-31T17:43:00.000-05:00

Chili Cook-Off
Break out your cowboy gear and get ready for a rootin' tootin' good time - literally! Chi Alpha is hosting a Chili Cook-Off at our Western Party; get your small group together, choose your recipe and bring enough chili for your group (plus a little extra) and we'll see whose wins: Best Tasting and Hotty awards.
You'll also have a chance to break in your dancin' boots - we'll be line dancing the night away!

Hope to see everyone there!

2010-10-30T17:45:00.000-05:00

Feed the Multitude

The Nacogdoches Dream Center presents
Feed the Multitde
Please join us for a FREE Thanksgiving Meal
Sunday, November 21, 2010
12:00pm - 2:00pm
International Church of Nacogdoches
1610 S.W. Stallings Drive

For more information, please call (936) 564-7265

XA International

2010-10-28T10:17:00.009-05:00

What is XA International?
When you move to a new place there is never a shortage of questions….

Where can I go to buy groceries?
What do people here do for fun?
Who can I ask about cultural differences?
Where are the good places to eat in town?

We would love to help you find answers as you adjust to your new home here at Stephen F. Austin! That’s what XAI does – we help you get settled.

Technically speaking, XAI is a welcoming organization for international students studying at Stephen F. Austin State University and an extension of Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship, a chartered student organization at SFA. We provide practical assistance in adjusting to life in Texas as well as cultural exchanges and friendship building. We are a Christian organization, but you do not have to be a Christian to participate and if an event will have Christian teaching involved, we will say so clearly ahead of time.

What can I expect at events?
Music, food, fun, games, high energy, and a chance to talk with American students and learn more about American culture and traditions, as well as share your own culture and traditions.

Calendar of Events

February 4: Welcome Back Party

February 18: Chinese Night

March 4: Camping Trip

March 25: Arabic Night

April 8: Indian Night

April 29: To be announced...

2010-10-28T09:54:00.000-05:00

A/V Workshop

Interested in helping with the audio / visual side of Chi Alpha? Do you have graphic design skills? Do you have experience with sound systems or projection systems?

Join us Saturday, December 4th @ 2pm at the XA Cafe (329 Blount Street) for an afternoon workshop - we will challenge your heart and your technical skills!

Watch Now

2010-10-25T22:24:00.004-05:00

Watch LIVE on Tuesday nights, 7pm (CST)

Want to watch previously recorded videos? Check here!

2010-10-25T21:10:00.001-05:00

Alumni Preaching @ Service
XA Service: Our Story > The Faircloths

Happy Homecoming Week! To honor the history of SFA & Chi Alpha, we are excited to have Justin & Michelle Faircloth returning to continue our sermon series, Our Story. Justin & Michelle were pivotal student leaders in Chi Alpha during their college years here at SFA and are still committed to the group today! Join us Tuesday night to hear their story... you never know, it could turn out to be your story, too!

2010-10-25T21:01:00.000-05:00

SFA Homecoming 2010
We kick off a week of celebrating the awesome-ness of SFA today! Chi Alpha is participating in a ton of the Homecoming week festivities, so check the schedule below and join us:

Friday:
Annual SFA Bonfire, fire is lit at 9:30pm; we'll meet at 9pm and walk over together!
Halloween Party, join us for a costume contest, bobbing for apples, a pumpking carving contest, and much more! Just a little Fall fun - keep costumes decent please. Immediately after the bonfire at the XA House on North Street!

Saturday:
Tailgating, You're invited to spend Saturday with us tailgating before the big Homecoming game against Texas State! Find us in Lumberjack Alley - look for the blue XA signs! 11am - 1pm; all the tailgate fixin's - tickets are $5 and can be purchased at XA Service this week or at the tent. First come, first served; advanced purchased tickets get priority!
SFA v. Texas State, Sit with us as we cheer the 'Jacks on to another victory!
Scare on the Square, Join us for some trick or treating in downtown Nac, 6-8pm

2010-10-25T20:48:00.000-05:00

Interested in working with XA International?
We help welcome international students to our country, town, and campus - it takes alot to adjust to a totally new way of life and we want to help with that transition! If you're interested in working with international students, we are offering a FREE training workshop THIS SUNDAY, 4pm at the XA House.

2010-10-25T20:27:00.000-05:00

SALT 2010
SALT is the primary student training conference of Chi Alpha, the Assemblies of God campus missions movement.

Young leaders find practical, Biblical preparation for ministry on campus, in church groups and in the workplace while learning to reach out to God and one another. SALT will include relevant training, anointed worship, passionate prayer and encouraging friendships with hundreds of students from Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas and New Mexico. SALT is open to all college-age young adults, high school seniors planning to attend college, youth workers, pastors, campus leaders and any person interested in campus missions.

December 29, 2010 - January 1, 2011

Student Early Bird Special: $159
(Includes: conference registration, 2 lunches, 4 per room hotel housing)

2010-10-20T11:06:00.002-05:00

Altitude 2010 - Dallas, TX, Doubletree Hotel

Katelyn & XA Service

2010-10-04T14:39:00.000-05:00

You're invited to a 1st Birthday Celebration for Katelyn Jackson. Presents are not necessary. We will have cake and ice cream!

6-7pm, immediately before XA Service
Education Bldg, Room 131

We are super excited about the new sermon series we're beginning this week: Our Story!

When: Tuesday, 10/05
Time: 7pm
Where: Education Building (McKibben), Room 131, right by Surfin' Steve
What: God...friends...music...snacks!
TOPIC: Our Story: Derrick Jackson

XA Disney Double Feature

2010-10-01T11:06:00.000-05:00

Freshman & Transfer Orientations

2010-05-17T09:25:00.000-05:00

ARE YOU AN INCOMING FRESHMAN OR TRANSFER STUDENT?

Chi Alpha will be at all the summer Freshman and Transfer Orientation programs! Stop by the table and make some new friends - we'd love to meet you! We will have info on Chi Alpha's Fall 2010 activities for you to take home with you - along with a few goodies.

See you there! Check out the schedule below:

Freshman Orientation, Session 1

Thursday, June 10, 4:50 - 5:15