I know I am biased, but I truly believe the County is one of the best places to live. It is a welcoming, caring community. This spirit also shows in our local churches and the friendships among pastors.
The other day I had lunch with Pastor Steve at Littleton Baptist. Every time I meet him, I am encouraged by his heart for the lost and his passion for evangelism. This time he shared about a baptism at Carry Lake this summer. As I listened, I prayed, “Lord, may our church also see new birth and never stop hearing testimonies of new life in Christ!”
Next year will mark Pastor Steve’s 30th anniversary at Littleton Baptist. When I asked him the secret of his longevity, he said, “The secret is to stay put. People expected me to cut and run when trouble came. But I didn’t. For the first 10 years, I didn’t do much except persevere. After that, I began to see fruit.”
Though I can only see what is right before me, I sense we, too, are beginning to see something beautiful—collaboration among our UM churches. This Sunday’s combined service is a wonderful example. As we gather, may we be encouraged and renewed again. You're invited!
- This Sunday, August 31 at 10 AM
- Stetson Memorial UMC, 7 Houlton St, Patten
P.S. Do you like to sing—or make a joyful noise? Join our pick-up choir rehearsal at 9:30 AM. We will sing “Standing on the Promises.” After worship, we’ll enjoy a Love Feast potluck luncheon. Please bring your favorite dish or dessert to share!
Life Review Project
This week I had the privilege of listening to Linda’s life story—her childhood in the Philippines, her journey to the US for medical practice, and eventually her move to Houlton. I could see God’s gracious hand guiding her at every step. Grace upon grace! You can read her full story here: Grace, Grace, Amazing Grace by Rosalinda “Linda” Maraya. Be inspired!
Combined Church Conference
On Saturday, September 6, at 1:00 PM at Houlton UMC, the churches of Hodgdon, Houlton, Mars Hill, and Stetson Memorial (Patten) will gather for a Combined Church Conference. This will be more than just an annual business meeting—it will be a time to reflect together on three important questions:
Who are we?
Who is our neighbor?
To what is God calling us?
Come, let us build God’s community together!
Life-Together Group Update
Our Fall Bible Study will focus on 1 Corinthians, exploring church life and discipleship. This 13-week study begins the week of September 8. We’ll use the N. T. Wright for Everyone Bible Study Guide ($7). Scholarships are available. All are welcome!
Hodgdon LT Group: Wednesdays at 3:15 PM
Mars Hill LT Group: Wednesdays at 10 AM
Houlton LT Groups: Tuesdays at 10 AM (Women of Witness) & Thursdays at 6 PM
Updated Dog Policy – Effective July 1
We love the joy pets bring, but only officially trained service animals (with vest or harness) are allowed inside our church buildings. Thank you for understanding.
Worship Servants
|
| Hodgdon | Houlton | Mars Hill | ||
Aug 31 | Greeter | Combined Service @ Stetson Memorial UMC | ||||
Liturgist | ||||||
Coffee Hour | Love Feast Potluck Luncheon | |||||
Sep 7 | Greeter | Donald & Jennifer Metzger | Cathy Hutchinson & Marion Collins | Children & Youth | ||
Liturgist | Stacy Ramsey | Chuck Taylor | Andy Anderson | |||
Coffee Hour |
| Linda Maraya & Marion Collins |
| |||
Birthdays 
Aug 31: Sharon Lyons
Sep 1: Peter Blood, Cheryl Planeta
Sep 2: Janice Cottle
Sep 4: Richard Schenk
Anniversaries 
Sep 4: Chris & Jamie Stewart
Sep 5: Jack & Cynthia Forbush
Ministry & Mission (M&M) Calendar
Aug 31 – Combined Service @ Stetson Memorial UMC, 10 AM
Sep 3 – Administrative Council [HD], 3 PM
Sep 6 – Combined Church Conference @ Houlton, 1–2:30 PM
Sep 9 – Women of Witness (WOW) [HT], 10 AM
Sep 9 – Together Tuesday [HT], 3:00–4:15 PM
Sep 10 – Life-Together Group [MH], 10 AM
Sep 10 – Life-Together Group [HD], 3:15 PM
Sep 11 – Life-Together Group [HT], 6 PM
Sep 12 – Staff Parish Relations Com [HT], 9 AM
Sep 12 – Outreach Com [HT], 10 AM
Prayer List 
Dennis Anderson, Nathan Anderson, Janie Andrews, Bob & Jo-Ann Barton, 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, Liz Taylor, John Trask, Jerry & Melanie Wilson, Debbie Wordwell, Karen Young
Pastor Victor
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