“Christ in Ten Thousand Places”
This week’s reflection comes from a book by one of my mentors, Eugene Peterson. In Christ Plays in Ten Thousand Places, he reminds us that Jesus is not only found in sacred spaces or holy moments, but also in the ordinary, daily rhythm of life.
Christ is present not just in worship, but in our work, our rest, and our relationships. We can see Jesus not only on Sunday—but also from Monday through Saturday.
We see Jesus in Brian, persevering and healing as he returns home.
We see Jesus in Carl’s smile as we celebrate his birthday.
We see Jesus in the joyful pink of Hodgdon church as we serve together.
We see Jesus in the voices of our book club as we listen and care.
We see Jesus in the bright eyes of children as we celebrate Korean Day and its diversity.
As we open our eyes and hearts, we realize Christ is nearer than we think. May we grow in attentiveness and wonder—learning to see Jesus in ten thousand places, Sunday through Sunday.
Gardiner Music Service – This Sunday at 2 PM
Join us for this uplifting time of worship through music. All are welcome!
Coffee Hour Fellowship Updates
This Sunday, Hodgdon UMC will host its monthly coffee hour following the service.
At Houlton UMC, our summer coffee hour (July & August) now takes place before worship, from 10:15 to 10:45 AM. Worship still begins at 11 AM.
“This small shift allows us to enjoy fellowship with a fresh heart and mind, then enter worship more fully present. And as a bonus, we return home a bit earlier. We’ll try this rhythm for the summer—and if it blesses us, we may continue.”
The Good Book Club
Looking for a meaningful summer read and conversation? Join us Wednesdays at 9:00 AM at the Co-Op for The Good Book Club.
This summer’s book is Life: The Autobiography of Pope Francis. Copies are still available for $10. See Pastor Victor to get one and join in. All are welcome!
Updated Dog Policy – Effective July 1
We love and value the companionship pets bring to our lives. However, to ensure everyone’s comfort and safety—and in line with our church’s insurance policy—only officially trained service animals are allowed inside the church buildings.
All service animals must be clearly identified with a harness or vest. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Mission Focus – July Outreach
We invite you to partner with us in this month’s mission opportunities:
• Hodgdon UMC – Supporting the Dorcas Sisters Mission in Danforth
• Houlton & Mars Hill UMC – Partnering with Homeless Services of Aroostook
Let’s continue to be the hands and feet of Christ, near and far.
730 Prayer Movement
This week’s prayer focus:
• Pray for church renewal
• Pray for students and educators
• Pray for discernment in our church’s future direction and mission
Life Review Project – “Faithbook”
Each week, we’re sharing real-life stories of faith from members of our extended church family.
Read the stories here: faithbook2025.blogspot.com
Worship Servants
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Happy Birthday!
July 18 - Charlotte Hebert
July 19 – Carl Crawford
We celebrate your life and thank God for you, Carl!
Ministry & Mission (M&M) Calendar
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July 20 – Family Worship & Coffee Hour [Hodgdon], 9 AM
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July 20 – Gardiner Music Service, 2 PM
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July 21–24 – UM Korean Clergy Family Conference (Boston)
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July 21 – Community Choir [Houlton], 6:30–8:00 PM
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July 23 – Good Book Club @ Co-Op, 9 AM
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July 25–31 – Pastor Victor & Family on Vacation
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July 25 – Gardiner Bible Study, 10 AM
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July 27 – Family Worship & Love Feast [Houlton], 11 AM
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August 5 – Women’s Retreat @ Linda’s Camp, 10 AM–2 PM
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August 6 – Administrative Council, 3 PM
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August 14 – Cluster VBS @ Jack & Cynthia’s Camp, 10 AM–4 PM
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August 15 – Lay Servant Team [Houlton], 9:30 AM
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August 17 – Kelly O’Mara Concert (1025 Dyer Brook Rd), 7–9 PM
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August 23 – Administrative Council [Houlton], 9 AM
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August 24 – To the Glory of God: Grand Piano Dedication Concert, 2 PM
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August 31 – Combined Service [Location TBD], 10 AM
Prayer List
Dennis Anderson, Nathan Anderson, Janie Andrews, Bob & Jo-Ann Barton, Carolyn Benn, Debbie & Anthony Benn, London Booker, Reita Briggs, Sue Carr, Lorinda Cushman, Duane Eldridge, Ann Folsom, Jan Footer, Jack Galda, Brian Ketchum, Austin McAfee, Jean Merritt, Beverly Nickerson, Richard Sherwood, Carol Sloat Smith, Dotty Smith, Tina Smith, Mark & Abby Swallow, John Trask, Jerry & Melanie Wilson, Debbie Wordwell, Karen Young
May the Lord be present in every time and every place of your life. Have a blessed weekend. Love you all!
Pastor Victor
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