I grew up in a typical Korean family—close-knit and collective, always watching over one another. But looking back, I realize that one downside of our closeness was a tendency to be exclusive toward others. I didn’t feel the need to be open or inclusive.
The early church was a wonderful community, but it also had its limitations. Their fellowship and evangelism were often limited to their own people and tribe. Then persecution broke out, and all except the apostles were scattered. Something unexpected happened: for the first time, those who were scattered began to share the good news with the Gentiles and to have fellowship with them.
I don’t know about you, but for my family, our new appointment was at first more painful than joyful—Joyce and I serving four churches felt overwhelming. We were unsure how things would work out.
Though a full evaluation will take time, I have already seen encouraging signs of God’s work among us. One of these is greater unity and collaboration. The Women’s Retreat this week is a wonderful example. Until the last minute, Linda and Joyce were unsure how many would attend—but it became one of the most memorable and well-attended gatherings. There was laughter, tears, hugs, testimonies, songs, and… plenty of food!
Next week, we will hold our first-ever cluster-wide one-day VBS. I believe it will be another clear sign of God’s work among us, and I look forward to seeing where He leads us next.
Thank you for journeying with us in this new season. May God’s name be honored, His will be done, and His kingdom come.
Outreach Opportunities
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!
Cluster One-Day VBS
August 14 | 10 AM–4 PM | Jack & Cynthia’s Camp
All children in grades K–6 are welcome for a joyful day of praise, worship, fun games, water play, and a provided lunch. We look forward to a wonderful day together!
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!
Music in August
Friday, August 15 | 5:30–7:00 PM | Monument Park
Enjoy the Houlton Community Chorus and Bertrand Laurence & Friends with singing, guitars, and band music—fun for all ages! Bring a friend and a chair.
Sunday, August 17 | 7:00–9:00 PM | Dyer Brook
Christian concert with Kelly O'Mara & Friends—an uplifting night of worship music, faith, and fellowship. (1025 Dyer Brook Rd.)
730 Prayer Movement – This Week’s Prayer Focus
For the upcoming VBS – for joy, safety, and lasting fruit
For God to send and raise His servants for the harvest
For peace in conflict areas
Life Review Project – “Faithbook”
Each week, we share real-life stories of faith from members of our extended church family.
Read the stories here: faithbook2025.blogspot.com
Worship Servants
|
| Hodgdon | Houlton | Mars Hill |
Aug 10 | Greeter | Duane & Bonnie Quint | Mark Jackins & Jon Scott | Children & Youth |
Liturgist | Jill Quint | Sirong Wang | Bonnie Anderson | |
Coffee Hour |
| Cathy Hutchinson & Mark Jackins |
| |
Aug 17 | Greeter | Jacob and Collin Lilley | Cathy Hutchinson & Marion Collins | Children & Youth |
Liturgist | Jill Quint | Jon Scott | Dale Blanchard | |
Coffee Hour |
| Jon Scott & Marion Collins |
|
Happy Birthday!
Aug 13 – Joyce Kang
Aug 13 – Pamela Galda
Ministry & Mission (M&M) Calendar
Aug 11 – Community Choir [HT], 6:30–8:00 PM
Aug 13 – The Good Book Club @ Co-Op, 9 AM
Aug 14 – Cluster VBS at Jack & Cynthia’s Camp, 10 AM–4 PM
Aug 15 – Gardiner Bible Study, 10 AM
Aug 15 – Lay Servant Team [HT], 9:30 AM
Aug 15 – Community Chorus @ Monument Park, 5:30–7:00 PM
Aug 17 – Kelly O’Mara Concert (1025 Dyer Brook Rd)
Aug 23 – Administrative Council [HT], 9 AM
Aug 24 – Grand Piano Dedication Concert, 2 PM
Aug 31 – Combined Service @ Stetson Memorial UMC, 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 & Abby Swallow, Liz Taylor, John Trask, Jerry & Melanie Wilson, Debbie Wordwell, Karen Young
Pastor Victor
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