“I am doing a new thing. Do you not see it?” — Isaiah 43:19
Yes, God is still doing wonderful things among us and around us! Just as He once connected Jewish Peter and Roman Cornelius, God has now connected us with the Wang family from Shanghai, China. Who but our amazing God could orchestrate such a divine appointment?
Today, I had the great privilege of sharing a meal with our new friend, Hong, and listening to his moving faith journey. From his grandfather’s conversion during the Qing Dynasty—thanks to the work of American missionaries—to the hidden home worship during the Cultural Revolution, and now to the present-day worship in Houlton, Hong’s family story testifies to God’s grace, perseverance, and unshakable faithfulness.
After hearing his story, I couldn’t help but lift my hands and say, “Hallelujah!” Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
You can read Hong’s full story on our “Faithbook” blog:
https://faithbook2025.
As we continue to share our stories and lives together, may God be exalted among us, and may our faith be strengthened and mutually encouraged.
Special Services in June
The month of June brings many reasons to celebrate and worship together:
Children’s Sunday
June 8 – Houlton UMC
June 15 – Hodgdon UMC
June 22 – Mars Hill UMC
Pentecost Sunday – June 8
Let us celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the Church with joy and fire in our hearts!
Father’s Day – June 15
We give thanks for fathers, grandfathers, spiritual fathers, and mentors in our lives.
Combined Worship Service – June 29 at Houlton UMC
All three of our churches will gather as one church family to celebrate Pastor Joyce’s new appointment to Stetson Memorial UMC in Patten. Join us for a special service followed by a Love Feast Potluck Luncheon. Bring a dish to share and your warm blessings for Pastor Joyce as she begins this new chapter in ministry.
730 Prayer Movement
We invite all three of our churches to unite in prayer each day at 7:30 a.m. or 7:30 p.m., whichever fits your schedule best.
And on Thursdays from 7:30–7:58 p.m., we gather in person at Houlton UMC or on Zoom for a focused prayer time.
(Why 7:30–7:58? Houlton & Hodgdon’s zip code is 04730, and Mars Hill’s is 04758!)
This week’s prayer focus:
For revival—beginning with our own hearts, then our churches, and then our nation
For smooth transitions in children’s ministries and leadership
For our country—its leaders, communities, and schools
Mission Opportunities
Hodgdon – Let’s show appreciation to the Hodgdon Fire Department for their ongoing service.
Houlton & Mars Hill – We continue to support Hope Secondary School in Bethlehem, West Bank. Even amid turmoil, Hope School stands as a beacon of light. And we stand with them. (https://www.
- Hope School's Vision: To offer excellent education to children in need, grounded in Christian values of love, peace, tolerance, dignity, and justice.
- Founded: In 1962 by Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), and now run by the Arab Charitable Society.
- Mission: To provide high-quality education to orphans and disadvantaged youth in the Bethlehem area and across Palestinian territories.
- Goal: To create a sustainable educational project that transforms lives through love, learning, and faith.
Let us remember our local and global mission partners in prayer and in giving.
The Good Book Club – A Summer Invitation
This summer, I’m excited to invite you to a special time of reading, reflection, and fellowship through The Good Book Club.
Wednesdays at 9:00 AM
July 9 – August 20 (7 weeks)
County Co-op in Houlton – Coffee and tea will be provided!
We’ll read Life by Pope Francis—a heartfelt memoir filled with wisdom, compassion, and hope for our world.
Each week, we’ll read a few chapters and come together to share what we’re learning, reflect on our own lives, and be encouraged in community.
Book Fee: $10
Let me know if you’d like a copy! Or you can find the book here: Life by Pope Francis on Amazon.
All are welcome—whether you read often or just want to enjoy good company and thoughtful conversation this summer.
Ministry & Mission (M&M) Calendar
June
June 1 – Communion Sunday June 3 – WOW [HT], 10 AM June 4 – LT Group at Andy & Bonnie’s, 10 AM June 4 – Admin Council [MH], 11 AM June 4 – LT Group [HD], 3:15 PM June 4 – Admin Council [HD], 4:15 PM June 5 – 730 Prayer, 7:30 PM June 6 – Dream Team [HT], 10 AM June 6 – Gardiner Bible Study, 10 AM June 7 – Donna Brewer Funeral [MH], 2 PM June 8 – Pentecost & Children’s Sunday [HT] June 9 – Community Chorus [HT], 6:30 PM June 13 – Staff Parish Relations Committee [HT], 9 AM June 15 – Father’s Day & Children’s Sunday [HD] June 15 – Gardiner Music Service, 2 PM June 18–21 – New England Annual Conference June 22 – Children’s Sunday [MH] June 28 – Admin Council [HT], 9 AM June 29 – Combined Worship Service & Love Feast [HT]
July July 9 – First Meeting of the Good Book Club at Coop, 9 AM
Let’s Celebrate!
Happy Birthday!
June 1 – Marion Collins June 1 – Tina Smith June 6 – Jane Guy June 7 – Marty Shaw
Happy Anniversary!
June 7 – Marty & Joan Shaw
We give thanks to God for your lives, your faith, and your presence among us. May this new year of life bring fresh joy and peace.
As we continue to walk together in the Spirit, may our hearts remain open to the “new thing” God is doing among us. Thank you for being part of this beloved community.
Pastor Victor
Light refreshments will follow.
Offering will support Good Shepherd Food Bank. (Checks can be made out to Aroostook Cluster UMCs.)
Need a ride or want to carpool? Call or text me at 207-538-0778.
This week’s prayer focus:
May 24–25, 9:00 AM–3:00 PM
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Gardiner Music Service
Aldersgate Day Cluster Service
This Saturday, May 24 at 6 p.m.
Special offering for Good Shepherd Food Bank
730 Prayer Movement
7:30–7:58 p.m.
Outreach Opportunity: Camp Mechuwana
The Good Book Club
Book Fee: $10
Celebrations
