Dear Church Family,
Peace to you! I hope you're doing well. Thank you for your loving support. My family and I had a refreshing time at the Korean Clergy Family Conference, followed by a family vacation.
This year, we visited the White Mountains, with a special stop at Story Land. Did you know Story Land turns 71? Many of us have fond memories there—first as children, now as parents or grandparents. While there, I noticed how much Story Land reflects life itself. Here are a few lessons I took away:
1. Waiting Is Part of the Fun
If you visit in peak season, lines are unavoidable. But waiting doesn’t have to be wasted. We found those were the moments for deep conversation and laughter. Life is like that. Waiting seasons can grow us in patience and wisdom.
2. Practice Makes Perfect
Our family favorite is Bamboo Chutes, a log flume ride with a big splash. At first, we were terrified—screaming with our eyes shut! But by our third ride, we were hands up, eyes wide, and laughing all the way down. Growth takes practice.
3. Help Is on the Way
Every ride has a staff member offering help. Moo Lagoon, water play area, had extra helpers to keep kids safe. In life, we often meet “angels” in unexpected moments. And sometimes, we get to be that angel for someone else.
4. Joy Is the Key
At Story Land, almost everyone is smiling. It’s fun to ride, and it’s fun to watch others enjoy. Life, too, is meant for joy. It’s a journey of discovering pure and lasting joy.
5. Rest Is Necessary
We tried to ride everything in one day. We skipped lunch and pushed through—until we hit a wall. A short break, snacks, and water made all the difference. Life needs balance: work and rest, activity and reflection.
6. It’s a Small World
We unexpectedly ran into Pastor Frank and his family from Houlton! Life reminds us: we’re more connected than we think. We’re not alone. We're in this life journey together.
7. There’s a Time for Everything
Story Land opens at 9:30 am and closes at 5 pm. We wished we had more time, but we made the most of what we had. Life is the same. Between birth and death, may we live wisely and joyfully. Carpe diem!
I’m grateful to journey with you. If you’re unable to join us in person, you can worship online via YouTube Live and access the service bulletin here.
See you Sunday!
Outreach Opportunities
In July, Hodgdon UMC gave $335 to support the Dorcas Sisters Mission in Danforth. Houlton UMC gave $125, and Mars Hill UMC amount TBA) partnered with Homeless Services of Aroostook.
August Mission Focus:
- Hodgdon UMC – Hope School in Bethlehem (West Bank)
- Houlton UMC – Backpacks for Kids
- Mars Hill UMC – Community Cupboard
Thank you for joining in God’s life-giving work!
Women’s Retreat – All Four Churches
Tuesday, August 5 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Linda’s Camp
All women are invited for a special time of fellowship, reflection, and renewal. See Linda Maraya or Pastor Joyce for details.
Cluster One-Day VBS
August 14 | 10 AM – 4 PM | Jack & Cynthia’s Camp
All K–6th grade children are welcome to a joyful day of praise and worship, games, water play, and lunch. We look forward to a wonderful time together!
Updated Dog Policy
We love the joy pets bring, but only officially trained service animals (with vest or harness) are allowed inside church buildings. Thank you for understanding!
Music in August
Join us for two joyful music evenings:
Friday, August 15 | 5:30–7:00 PM | Monument Park
Houlton Community Chorus and Bertrand Laurence & Friends – singing, guitars, and band. Bring a friend and a chair!Sunday, August 17 | 7:00–9:00 PM | 1025 Dyer Brook Rd
Christian Concert with Kelly O'Mara & Friends – an uplifting night of worship and community.
730 Prayer Movement – This Week’s Focus:
Women’s Retreat – fellowship and renewal
Upcoming VBS – joy, safety, and lasting fruit
Greater unity among churches and all Christians
Life Review Project – "Faithbook"
Each week we share real-life stories of faith from our extended church family.
Read the stories: faithbook2025.blogspot.com
Worship Servants
|
| Hodgdon | Houlton | Mars Hill |
Aug 3 | Greeter | Donald & Jennifer Metzger | Marion Collins & Robert Victor | Children & Youth |
Liturgist | Perry Lilley | Robert Victor | Andy Anderson | |
Coffee Hour |
| Bob & Sharon Lyons |
| |
Aug 10 | Greeter | Duane & Bonnie Quint | Mark Jackins & Jon Scott | Children & Youth |
Liturgist | Jill Quint | Sirong Wang | Dale Blanchard | |
Coffee Hour |
| Cathy Hutchinson & Mark Jackins |
|
Happy Birthday!
Aug 3 – Paul Stewart, Marge Yeager
Aug 6 – Lorinda Cushman
Happy Anniversary!
Aug 8 – Clint & Lorinda Cushman
Ministry & Mission (M&M) Calendar
Aug 4 – Community Choir [HT], 6:30-8:00 PM
Aug 5 – Women’s Retreat at Linda’s camp, 10-2
Aug 6 – The Good Book Club @ Co-Op, 9 AM
Aug 6 – Administrative Council [HD], 3 PM
Aug 8 – Gardiner Bible Study, 10 AM
Aug 14 – Cluster VBS at Jack & Cynthia’s camp, 10–4
Aug 15 – Lay Servant Team [HT], 9:30 AM
Aug 15 – Community Chorus @ Monument Park, 5:30-7
Aug 17 – Kelly O’Mara Concert (Dyer Brook), 7–9 PM
Aug 23 – Administrative Council [HT], 9 AM
Aug 24 – Grand Piano Dedication Concert, 2 PM
Aug 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, Al Higgins, Brian Ketchum, Austin McAfee, Jean Merritt, Beverly Nickerson, Richard Sherwood, Carol Sloat Smith, Dotty Smith, Tina Smith, Mark and Abby Swallow, Liz Taylor, John Trask, Jerry & Melanie Wilson, Debbie Wordwell, Karen Young
Pastor Victor
No comments:
Post a Comment