Peace to you.
I hope you had a meaningful Fourth of July.
For me, it was a blessing to watch the parade with my family and church family from our church parking lot. Often, we take our freedom for granted. The parade, songs, and flags reminded me that our freedom was given to us at great cost.
In the same way, I realized I have taken for granted the gift of worshiping together as a family. Since October 2022, our family has been worshiping in two teams – one going to Hodgdon and the other to Mars Hill, then uniting for the Houlton service. Since September 2024, our two older children have been away during the school year. And starting this Sunday, Joyce and I will no longer be worshiping together on Sundays.
Yet I trust that God makes everything beautiful in its season. Wherever we are in our journey, God’s grace is always sufficient. There is always something to celebrate and give thanks for. So let us come and celebrate Jesus together this Sunday!
Coffee Hour Time Change
Dear Houlton saints, starting this Sunday, Coffee Hour will move to before worship, from 10:15 to 10:45 AM. Worship will still begin at 11 AM.
This small change will allow us to enjoy fellowship with fresh hearts and minds, and then enter worship fully present. Plus, we can return home a little earlier. We will try this new rhythm for July and August, and if it feels right, we may continue.
The Good Book Club
Looking for a summer read and meaningful conversation? Join us for The Good Book Club starting Wednesday, July 9, meeting every Wednesday at 9:00 AM at the Co-Op.
This summer’s book is Life, the autobiography of Pope Francis. Books are available for $10. See Pastor Victor to sign up or get your copy. All are welcome!
Updated Dog Policy – Effective July 1
We love and value the companionship of your pets. However, in accordance with new church insurance requirements and liability concerns, only service animals and clearly identified emotional support animals with a harness or vest will be permitted inside the church building beginning July 1.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Outreach Opportunities
In June, Hodgdon UMC raised $417 for the Hodgdon Fire Department and $274 for The Well, supporting their important work in the community. Houlton UMC contributed $281.90 to Hope Christian School in Bethlehem, blessing children and families in the Holy Land. Mars Hill UMC also collected offerings for Hope Christian School, and the total will be reported soon.
Thank you all for your faithful generosity and care for others near and far.
Our July mission focus opportunities are:
• Hodgdon UMC: Supporting the Dorcas Sisters Mission in Danforth
• Houlton UMC & Mars Hill UMC: Partnering with Homeless Services of Aroostook
Thank you for your continued partnership and generosity!
730 Prayer Movement
This week’s prayer focus:
• Pray for leaders in government offices.
• Pray for those going through storms in life.
• Pray for new believers as they grow in faith.
Life Review Project – “Faithbook”
Each week, we’re sharing real-life stories of faith from members of our extended church family.
Read the stories here: faithbook2025.blogspot.com
Worship Servants
| Date | Hodgdon | Houlton | Mars Hill |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 6 | Greeters: Donald & Jennifer Metzger | Greeters: Cathy Hutchinson & Mark Jackins | Children & Youth |
| Coffee Hour: | Marion Collins & Robert Victor | ||
| July 13 | Greeters: Duane & Bonnie Quint | Greeters: Robert Victor & Jon Scott | Children & Youth |
| Coffee Hour: | Bob & Angela Cowperthwaite |
Happy Birthday!
• July 7 – Abe Han
• July 12 – Duane Eldridge
Ministry & Mission (M&M) Calendar
• June 30 – Community Chorus [HT], 6:30 PM
• July 1 – Cluster VBS Planning Meeting (Zoom), 7 PM
• July 2 – Admin Council [HD], 4:15 PM
• July 9 – The Good Book Club @ Co-Op, 9 AM
• July 10 – July Outing at Shin Pond, 1–3 PM
• July 11 – Gardiner Bible Study, 10 AM
• July 14 – Church Supper Planning Meeting [HD], 9 AM
• July 17 – Cluster VBS Planning Meeting (Zoom), 7 PM
• July 18 – Hodgdon Church Supper, 4–6 PM
• July 20 – Gardiner Music Service, 2 PM
• August 5 – Women’s Retreat at Linda’s camp
• August 14 – Cluster VBS at Jack & Cynthia’s camp, 10–4
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, Dotty Smith, Tina Smith, Mark and Abby Swallow, John Trask, Melanie Wilson, Debbie Wordwell, Karen Young
I am grateful that we are given one more opportunity to gather, worship, and fellowship in Jesus’ name.
May God bless you and keep you. Love you all.
Pastor Victor
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