(*Photo of Houlton Riverfront Park Taken by Joyce Kang)
Dear Church Family,
Peace to you. I pray you are well.
Lately, many friends and colleagues have shared how political stress affects their daily lives—even their sleep. Personally, I, too, have concerns about recent appointments and policies. While I intentionally limit my news intake to avoid being consumed by it, I also want to stay informed without falling into despair.
How do we stay informed yet not overwhelmed? There may be no simple answer, but I firmly believe Lent is a God-given gift for us. This 40-day journey of reflection, prayer, and fellowship can serve as a powerful antidote to anxiety, despair, and fear. It offers us time to detox our souls, refocus our vision, and remember: What is our life truly about?
Lent begins on March 5, and I invite you to mark this sacred season together. All three churches will gather for an Ash Wednesday service at noon at Houlton UMC. Let us begin this journey with prayer and commitment.
Baby Bottle Return – This Sunday
If you have filled a baby bottle with coins, cash, or checks, please return it this Sunday. Your generosity supports the Pregnancy Care Center of Aroostook, a Christ-centered ministry serving women and families facing unexpected pregnancies. Thank you for being part of this vital work!
For March, our mission partner is UMCOR (the United Methodist Committee on Relief), which provides aid to communities facing crises worldwide.
Pen Pal Ministry – A Simple Way to Share Christ’s Love
We are launching a new Pen Pal Ministry to encourage and uplift members of our community, including Senior Meals recipients, Backpack for Kids students, and Gardiner residents.
Writing letters is a simple yet powerful way to build meaningful relationships and share Christ’s love. A few kind words can make a real difference! If you’d like to participate or have questions, please contact Pastor Joyce at 538-0780.
Life Review Project – Sharing Our Stories
I am deeply moved by how many of you have embraced the Life Review Project—interviewing loved ones, writing your own reflections, and sharing your journeys of faith.
Recently, Lisa Taylor interviewed her mother, Liz Taylor, over three different sessions and compiled a beautiful story of faith. With their consent, you can watch the interview (click here) and read the written version (click here).
Our stories are not just our own—they are part of God’s greater story. As we remember and share, may we honor God, encourage one another, and leave a legacy of faith for generations to come.
If you haven’t yet participated but feel led to do so, it’s not too late. This is an ongoing project, and I would love to hear your story. Simply reply to this email or contact me at 207-538-0778, and we’ll set up a time.
Church Family Updates
We celebrate and give thanks for those with birthdays and anniversaries this week:
Birthdays:
- March 1 – Jo-Ann Barton
- March 2 – Bob Barton, Mark Jackins, Nicholas Hardy
- March 3 – Justus Scott, Linda Stewart, Gaye Cronkite
- March 5 – Duane Quint
- March 6 – Joan Shaw
Anniversary:
- March 8 – Bob & Stacy Ramsey
Please also keep the Ketchum family in your prayers. Brian and Diane’s son, Ned Ketchum, passed away, and his funeral will be held on Friday, March 7, at 2:00 PM at Mars Hill UMC. (Obituary) May God’s comfort be with all who mourn.
As we enter this season of Lent, let us journey together in faith, hope, and love. God is with us, and He is at work in our lives. Let us walk this road not with despair, but with the assurance of Christ’s love and the hope of His resurrection. Shalom!
Pastor Victor
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