Life Together: "Full Circle of Life"

 

Peace to you.

On Christmas Day, Rev. Lee’s family gathered to give thanks to God for his life. During the service, we shared memories and stories. One family member reflected that, as she looked back on her father’s life, she could see the full circle of life—how he was planted in the Houlton community over fifty years ago, how his three children grew up, spread out, and then returned, and how the Han family now carries on the torch.

For me, the past four years with Rev. Lee have been a gift. I often feel I learned more about life and faith from time spent with him than I did in seminary. Our conversations broadened my perspective and deepened my heart. His family shared that these last four years were also deeply formative for them. I believe many in our church family would say the same. We will surely miss his presence among us.

On Christmas Day, we remember that God gave us the greatest gift—the gift of presence. God gave himself to us. Even today, we can still experience and touch that presence, especially through God’s Word. This is why reading the Bible is so precious. As we read through the whole of Scripture, we begin to see the full circle of life—not only our own story, but the story of humanity held in God’s grace.

C. S. Lewis once wrote, “In reading great literature I become a thousand men and yet remain myself. Like the night sky in the Greek poem, I see with a myriad eyes, but it is still I who see.” Through Scripture, we are led to ask deep and faithful questions: Who am I, and how shall I live as part of the full circle of life God has given us?

As we begin a new year, I encourage all of us to consider a fresh commitment to Bible reading. I have attached three reading plans:

1. A Bible Reading Chart (to follow at your own pace, book by book): 

2. A New Testament Reading Plan

3. The Robert M’Cheyne Plan (reading the Old Testament once, and the New Testament and Psalms twice in a year)

Paper copies are also available on the welcome table.

In addition, our new Bible study will journey through the entire New Testament over five months. My prayer is that our time together will help us see with “myriad eyes” and restore the image of Christ more fully in us.

As we gather for our final worship service of this year, may it be a pleasing offering to God. The service bulletin is attached. The worship service link (Houlton) is:
https://youtube.com/live/-hC49Plhjaw?feature=share

May the Lord bless you and your family as you trust in Him. Happy New Year :)

In Christ's love,
Pastor Victor

Monday Morning Coffee (Dec 22)

*Photo: Rev. Lee offering special music, “Comfort Ye” (December 7, 2025, Houlton).

Peace to you.

It is still hard to believe.

Exactly two weeks ago, Rev. Lee offered special music, “Comfort Ye.” It was the song he sang every Advent throughout his life. He sang it again with quiet strength and deep determination. He knew it would be his last.

This morning, Joyce and I met with his family. We sat around the table and shared stories of Lee’s life - stories we had never heard, and stories some had forgotten. As I listened, one thing became very clear: God’s timing and God’s will are always perfect.

Through his ministry here in Houlton over fifty years ago, and again through these past four years since 2021, Rev. Lee touched countless lives. Some of these stories will be shared at his memorial service in the spring. His legacy continues.

What meaningful timing this is, in the Christmas season.

This past Sunday, Hodgdon and Houlton churches shared a Christmas Pageant. Children from our Afterschool Programs, representing all four churches, prepared together an adaptation inspired by The King of Kings (2025). In this pageant, everyone participated in the story as angels, shepherds, or wise men. It is an old story, yet still the greatest story ever told. It reminds us how Christ came, and why he came to us.

You can watch the full service here (Houlton): https://youtube.com/live/U88ZrkV12KI?feature=share

We also enjoyed a beautiful time of caroling at Gardiner, led by our church carolers and the Houlton Community Handbell Choir: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1AK8F3F8iB/

You are warmly invited to join us for our Christmas Eve services:

• Hodgdon: Prayer Vigil at 3:45 PM, Service at 4:00 PM
• Houlton: 6:00 PM
• Mars Hill: 4:00 PM

May Christ Jesus bless you and bring comfort to you and your family as we celebrate his coming.

Peace,
Pastor Victor

Life Together: “Blue Christmas Eve” (Dec 20)

 

*Photo: Caroling at Rev. Lee’s Home – December 19, 2025

It was a long, dark, wind-howling night. I hope you are safe and well. Some of our church families experienced power outages.

Early this morning, Hannah came to my bedroom because she was scared. That’s when I realized the power was gone. There was little I could do without electricity. Since my little ones were afraid, I stayed in their room, offering comfort and prayer. I was reminded how dependent and fragile our lives truly are.

Winter begins this Sunday. It is the shortest day and the longest night of the year. Some churches observe this day as Blue Christmas. Christmas can be joyful, but it can also be very hard, especially for those who are grieving, lonely, ill, or carrying loss. The bright lights and festive songs can sometimes feel heavy.

Christ’s birth was not naïve joy, but a costly one. When the angel announced Jesus’ birth to Mary, she gave up her own plans for a normal life, her reputation, and even risked her life. Simeon prophesied that a sword would pierce her soul—she would watch her son suffer and die on the cross. True joy is costly.

This week, we grieve together: over the Patten fire, the loss of the Hodgdon church bell, and Rev. Kwan Lee’s final stage of life. We grieve with those who have lost loved ones recently.

Yet the deeper our sorrow, the more profound the good news of Christmas. Christ, Immanuel, God-with-us, comes to weep with us and to give us undying hope and real joy through his death and resurrection. My prayer is that as we gather this Sunday, Christ may be present among us, comfort our hearts, and fill us with his surpassing peace and true joy.

Have a peaceful weekend. I look forward to seeing you Sunday!

 

In Christ’s Love,

Pastor Victor

 

P.S. Please join us in prayer and participation in these ministries and events:

1. Christmas Pageant Sunday – Dec. 21, Hodgdon and Houlton churches. Coffee Hour Fellowship follows.
2. Caroling & Mini Handbell Concert – Join us for caroling at Gardiner at 2 PM. Houlton community handbell choir will offer a mini Christmas concert.
3. Houlton Administrative Council – Brief meeting in the choir room after this Sunday’s service.
4. Christmas Eve Candlelight Services – Hodgdon (4 PM), Mars Hill (4 PM), Houlton (6 PM). Come and celebrate a deeply meaningful time of worship.

Bible Reading & New Bible Study

 

How has your Bible reading been so far this year?

Our goal is not just to read the Bible like any other book, but to let it read us—shaping our hearts, minds, and lives in a profound way. That’s why we make a conscious effort to read or listen through the entire Bible each year.

This year, Esther read through the New Testament for the first time! Joyce and I also help Hannah listen to the audio Bible every morning—even if it’s only five minutes. During breakfast, we share what we learned from our reading. Since school keeps the mornings brief, the time is short—but I see how this small habit is gradually shaping their worldview and character.

On the first Sunday of 2026, January 4, we will celebrate Epiphany Sunday—the day when Jesus, the Light and Word of God, was revealed to the world, symbolically through the visit of the magi. I think it is the perfect time to celebrate “Bible Sunday” and acknowledge those who have read through either the entire Bible or the New Testament this year. If you have, please let me know!

I’m also excited to share about our new Bible Study: Introducing the New Testament by D. A. Carson. From January to May, we will explore the entire New Testament together. This study will help us see the big picture and gain a deeper understanding of God’s Word. Stay tuned! 

Thank you, and stay well. Love you all. 

In Christ's love,
Pastor Victor

Christmas Memorial Poinsettia List (Draft)

Peace to you,

I hope you are well.

Below is the memorial poinsettia list. Please review it to check your name and the names you wish to honor.

If your name is missing or misspelled, kindly let me know.

This list will be included in the Christmas Eve service bulletin. Thank you. 

-------------------------

 

*In Memory of ___________ from Susan & Elizabeth Boyd

*In memory of Ruel and Virginia Taylor, and Phil Geishecker from Rue Geishecker.

*In memory of David Guy, Wakelief and Margaret Rhoda from Jane Guy

*In memory of our grandparents from Victor and Joyce Han

*In memory of Melanie Wilson from Jerry Wilson, Howe Family & Fagnant Family

*In memory Galen Howe & Bernadette Howe from Howe Family

*In memory of our Grandparents & Great-Grandparents from Jerry Wilson & Howe Family

*In memory of __________ from Chet and Linda Husted

*In memory of Dolores Jackins, Melbourne and Mabel Jackins from Cathy Hutchinson

*In memory of Mrs. Kum H. Lee from Rev. Dr. Kwan Y. Lee and family

*In memory of Gellerson & Lilley families from Perry and Paula Lilley

*In memory of Edward Chenvert, Barbara Chenevert, Pamela Elms Scott, Melanie Wilson from Susan McMann

*In memory of our parents from Chuck & Mary Taylor

*In memory of Rev. Karl & Edna Drew, and Margie, and Jim & Addie Woods, Don Woods from Helen Woods

 
     

 

In Christ's love,
Pastor Victor

Listening Session Notes (Dec 17. 2025. Hodgdon)

Peace to you, church family. I hope you are doing well.

I want to thank each of you for being part of this vital body of Christ. First, thank you for your presence—for showing up, listening with humility, and speaking with love. Our listening session was not meant to solve everything. This work is hard, and it takes time. It is a process. Still, I truly believe our time together was a strong and faithful first step in the right direction.

Attached are my summary notes from the session. These are my personal notes, so they may not include every comment shared. I wrote down the points I felt were important to remember. Please feel free to add comments or share your feedback.

Each of us is encouraged to bring concerns or agenda items to the Administrative Council. If there are urgent or specific matters, you are always welcome to speak directly with me or with our SPRC team: Paula, Jennifer, and Jill.

I am deeply grateful to be part of this beloved community. I thank God for you. 

-----------

Hodgdon UMC Listening Session Notes
December 17, 2025

·        We acknowledge our human brokenness. Wherever people gather, conflict can arise. At the same time, we affirm that we are the body of Christ. We are given to one another. Each member is a valuable and unique gift from God. Therefore, we commit to honoring our differences and treating one another with respect.

·        We shared a common sense of communal frustration around communication. We recognize that there have been two groups working separately. There is consensus that improving communication is essential for the health and unity of the church.

·        There was discussion about the church yard sale. We value the yard sale as an important way to connect with and reach out to our community. At the same time, concerns were raised that it can linger—continuing until everything is gone—or that leftover items are stored in the church.

·        We named the need to be intentional about respecting and following the church’s official communication and decision-making channels. Our monthly Administrative Council is the governing body where we envision, plan, discuss, and make decisions together. The Women of Wonder (WOW) group is intended to carry out the details. Ministries and missions are encouraged to be brought to the Administrative Council, where we can plan and decide together—clarifying the who, what, when, where, why, and how.

 

Thank You Card: "Gift Economy"

Peace to you, church family. 

I would like to take a moment to thank each of you - members of God’s beloved community.

A few weeks ago, some of our church leaders came to Joyce and me and asked a question: “Do you have snow tires on your car?”

We simply answered, “No.” This is our 12th winter in Northern Maine. We have always used all-season tires, and, by God’s grace, we managed just fine. We never really thought about snow tires.

But our leaders gently and firmly encouraged us. “This is not about you,” they said. “It’s about Joyce’s safety as she travels to Patten. Please think about it.”

At first, it was hard to receive such a gift. After much thought and consultation with the Clacks, we decided to go ahead and have the snow tires installed.

What a difference it made!

Just a few days later, I led a funeral and committal service in Mars Hill. The cemetery was hilly, and the snow had not been plowed. On another day, while visiting members who live out in the country, I felt a new sense of safety and confidence. Joyce also shared how much more secure she feels, especially when driving locally in Patten.

Now we say to each other, “How did we ever live without snow tires?” We were deeply grateful for the care and thoughtfulness of our leaders and our church family. In response, we felt led to offer a thanksgiving offering of our own to the church. 

And then the story continued...

This morning, I learned that Stetson Memorial Church in Patten had also sent a generous gift to Houlton to help cover the cost of the snow tires. What a beautiful and unexpected surprise!

In the end, we all became richer - Houlton, Patten, and the Hans. This feels like a true gift economy, a grace economy. It is not simply give and take. We receive everything as a gift, and we give everything as a gift - freely, with no strings attached.

I always pray that our church would be the most loving place in town. In moments like this, I see a glimpse of that prayer being answered.

Joyce and I are truly grateful to be part of this beloved community. We thank God, and we thank you, from the bottom of our hearts.

In Christ's Love, 

Pastors Victor & Joyce 

Monday Morning Coffee: "Greater" (Dec 15)

“The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases,
his mercies never come to an end;
they are new every morning;
great is your faithfulness.”
(Lamentations 3:22–23, NRSV)

“Why?”

This past weekend was a painful one for the Hodgdon church family. The church bell, removed from the steeple last year because of a leak and lovingly displayed as a memorial in front of the church, was stolen. That bell had become part of our identity. Its sudden loss feels like something precious has been torn away. Our hearts are still aching. And naturally, we ask, “Why?”

Loss is part of life. In many ways, we experience loss continually. Over time, we lose physical strength and health. We lose independence. We lose relationships. We lose people we love. We lose something or someone dear to us.

Some losses cut even deeper. For me, losing church family members - through death, through moving away, or through broken relationships - has been especially painful. Even now, I continue to pray for comfort for grieving families, and for forgiveness and reconciliation where relationships have been broken. Each time, my heart still aches.

Why does God allow such painful loss?

The author of Ecclesiastes wrestles with this same question. At first, he sounds like a pessimist: “Everything is meaningless.” Then, he seems to turn toward pleasure: “Eat, drink, and enjoy life.” But finally, he offers another way - a path we might call "Christian realism." It honestly names how fragile and broken life is “under the sun,” while still trusting that there is more "beyond the sun." Recognising life’s brokenness is not despair. It is a doorway. It awakens a deeper thirst for God and a longing for eternity.

Still, we groan. But when we groan, God groans with us. More than that, God gives us the Holy Spirit as a guarantee, a down payment, of the promise that he will make all things right. God always gives us "just enough grace" - enough to walk through whatever hardship or loss we face.

I remember an older brother speaking at the funeral of his younger brother, who died tragically in his twenties. With quiet strength, he said, “Our loss is great, but God is greater.”

Today, we grieve. But we grieve with hope. Because we know how the story ends. In Christ, we are eternal optimists.


In Christ's Love, 

Pastor Victor

P.S. We continue to hold in prayer all who are sick, especially those dealing with COVID. If you were unable to join us in person, you may watch the services online:

• Mars Hill Worship Service

• Houlton Worship Service

You may also read the sermon here:

• “Mighty God, Everlasting Father”

Life Together - Dec 12

Peace to you,

Do you ever have those moments when you just want to avoid people or obligations? 

I do. Yesterday was one of those days for me. I woke up without much enthusiasm, heading to the hospital for some lab work. On my way, I noticed a homeless woman sitting at the door. Often, when she sees me, she asks for something - sometimes small, sometimes more demanding. Today, I told her I was on my way to the lab.

After the lab work, I saw her waiting again. I thought, “I’m just not in the mood today,” and tried to slip out another door to avoid her. But almost immediately, I felt the Spirit grieving in me. I stopped and prayed, “God, help me. Give me strength.” And I went back. She just needed a little favor - a ride. Something small, yet it reminded me of how God calls us to be present, even when we feel weary.

Later in the afternoon, I found myself in a bit of a self-pity party, feeling unmotivated. I prayed again, and God gently reminded me of those in distress around me. Along with prayer, I acted, making tomato soup and preparing cards. By the end of the day, my heart felt lighter, grateful, and more open. My prayer continues to be that God shapes me into an "O.A.T." follower of Christ: Open, Available, and Teachable.

I share this with you because this Sunday we celebrate Consecration Sunday at Houlton. It’s more than an annual event or a financial stewardship campaign. It’s a meaningful opportunity to pause, reflect, and rededicate our lives as God’s stewards - not only of our finances, but of all we are and all we do. During the service, we will have the chance to submit our “commitment card” as an expression of that dedication.

In Mars Hill, we will have a simple and meaningful Christmas pageant this Sunday; for Hodgdon and Houlton, the pageant will be next Sunday. May this Christmas season be transformative for us as we hear again the story of Christ’s birth and seek to live out his sacrificial love in our lives.

Have a blessed weekend. I look forward to seeing you on Sunday!


In Christ's Love, 

Pastor Victor 

"A Gift of Interwoven Love"

"For the love of Christ urges us on… he died for all, so that those who live might live no longer for themselves, but for him who died and was raised for them." (2 Corinthians 5:14-15)

Dear Church Family,

My grandfather, my hero, would sometimes say in his 90s, with a soft sigh, “It’s hard to live each day" ("하루하루 사는 게 힘들어"). Today, I heard a similar sentiment from Rev. Lee.

But here is the amazing thing: he still smiled. Though he admitted life’s difficulty, he continues to pour himself out. He is still thinking about our church and caring for others. There is no self-pity party, no giving up. I am simply amazed by that resilient love and joy. 

Today's visit with Rev. Lee was particularly meaningful because I delivered a very special gift: a prayer shawl crafted by a beautiful mother-and-daughter team, Liz and Lisa Taylor.

Liz learned crocheting from her daughter and has spent years lovingly gifting these shawls to people needing comfort across many states. Unfortunately, with age, her hands could no longer manage the yarn.

Upon sorting through her mother's belongings, Lisa found this specific shawl - mostly completed, but not quite finished. Knowing how much prayer her mother had poured into those initial stitches, Lisa couldn’t just toss it aside or unravel it. Instead, she picked up her mother's work right where she left off and finished it, adding her own prayers with every knot she tied.

Love begets love. It is the most powerful force in the world because only love can change a heart from the inside out. I pray that this agape love - the selfless devotion of the Taylor family, the unwavering commitment of Rev. Lee, and most of all, the ultimate sacrifice of Christ - may continue to spread like powerful, comforting ripples among us and extend far beyond our walls.

Thank you for the countless ways you share your love. Stay well, stay safe, and be encouraged.

In Christ's love, 

Pastor Victor

Sunday Afternoon Tea (Dec 7, 2025)

Peace to you.

This week, the Holy Spirit spoke to me in a very personal way.

By nature, I tend to be a “truth-teller” or a “fixer.” I see a problem, analyze it, and explain what I believe will help. Earlier this week, I pointed out a few things to Joyce, thinking I was being helpful. But the result was painful. She felt hurt, and my words did not bring the support or encouragement I intended.

As I sat with Scripture afterward, the Spirit gently revealed how deeply I need Jesus’ daily counseling - his truth, yes, but also his tears and his compassion. I was reminded of people I have unintentionally wounded in the past, moments when I thought I spoke truth but lacked love.

Last May, I had the privilege of interviewing Rev. Kwan Lee and listening to his life story. What moved me most was his prayer life. Each morning he prayed, “Lord, help me not to hurt anyone today—not through my words, my actions, or even my silence.” And each night he prayed, “Lord, if I’ve wronged anyone today, knowingly or unknowingly, please forgive me.”

At the time, I didn’t fully understand why he prayed that way. But now, I am beginning to see. Even our best intentions, without the guidance of our Wonderful Counselor, can cause more harm than help.

This morning’s service in Houlton was emotional. As many of you know, Lee’s health took a sudden turn this week. At one point, things were critical. By God’s grace, and through the faithful care of Bertrand, Susan, and their family, he stabilized. When I visited him, he told me he was looking forward to offering his special music on Sunday. He said, “For me, everything can be the last time.”

As he sang “Comfort Ye,” a piece he has offered faithfully for a lifetime. Many in the congregation were in tears, knowing this might be his final time sharing it with us.

He arrived in a wheelchair today, as his strength has been fading. He had to rely entirely on others to carry him up the stairs. Yet he never lost his dignity. When the men lifted him, he thanked us with his warm smile. There is loss, yes. But there is also a joy that runs deeper still.

One service at a time, one day at a time. I am deeply grateful to walk with this beloved community. I am grateful for you. 

In Christ's love, 

Pastor Victor

P.S. If you haven’t had a chance, you may watch the services here:

• Hodgdon Service
• Houlton Service

You can also read today’s message here:
Sunday’s Message – “Wonderful Counselor”

And here is the full interview and life story of Rev. Kwan Lee:
“It Is Well With My Soul” – Life Story of Pastor Kwan Lee

December Mission Project (Mars Hill UMC)

 Dear Church Family,

Peace to you.

This month, our mission focus is the Northern Lighthouse Safe Harbor Youth Shelter in Mars Hill. They serve vulnerable youth with compassion and dignity, and we are grateful for the opportunity to bless them during this Christmas season.

Their current needs include:

• Non-perishable food: mac and cheese, spaghetti and sauce, canned soup, ramen, etc.

• Snack items: fruit gummies, individual snack chips

• Toiletries

• Winter coat (Women’s XXL)

• Winter hats (boys and girls)

• Blankets

• Hygiene products

We will collect donations through December 21, and then we will deliver these gifts as our shared offering of Christ’s love.

Thank you for sharing Christ's love with our neighborhood in such practical and meaningful ways. God bless! 

St. Apollonia Festival of Trees Update

 

Good afternoon, Church Family,

I’m excited to share our church’s contribution to the St. Apollonia Festival of Trees! Many thanks to Melonie, Cheryl, Erica, Carolyn, and Keith for setting up the tree, and to Marie Bagley for the beautiful tree skirt and additional handmade items. Our cluster theme, “Fruits of the Spirit,” shines so brightly!

The gift cards on the tree total over $2,000, with contributions from Hodgdon ($235), Houlton ($175), and Mars Hill ($95). They were generously provided by Hannaford, County Coop & Farm Store, Sadie’s Bakery, McDonald’s, Macy’s, BP Gas, Shell Gas, Walmart, IGA, and many more! 

The 2025 Festival of Trees will be held at the Northern Maine Community College (NMCC) Gym in Presque Isle, ME, from December 5–7. If you are able, please attend and support this wonderful event, which provides dental care for children in our County.

Thank you to everyone who made this outreach possible. Your generosity and prayers are making a real difference in our community!

In Christ's love,
Pastor Victor

Christmas Memorial Poinsettias

 

Dear Church Family,

Grace and peace to you in this holy season.

As we prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ, we will again fill our sanctuary with beautiful poinsettias in loving memory of those who have touched our lives.

If you would like to honor a loved one this Christmas, you may dedicate a poinsettia in their memory. These flowers will brighten our worship space and remind us of the hope we share in Christ.

*Poinsettia options:

•         Single – $29.95
•         Triple – $36.95
•         Quadruple – $54.95
•         Or, you may bring your own.

Please place your order by December 14. (The sooner, the better.) If you are paying by check, please make it payable to Houlton UMC and write “Memorial Poinsettia” in the memo line. If you bring your own poinsettia, simply let us know the name of the person you wish to remember.

In memory of: _______________________________________

Thank you for helping us create a beautiful and meaningful space for worship this Christmas. May the peace of Christ be with each of you and your families.

In Christ's love,
Pastor Victor

24 Days of Luke

Did you know the Gospel of Luke has 24 chapters? 

If we read one chapter a day starting today, we will finish on Christmas Eve. Luke is especially meaningful because it shares the details of Christ’s birth and his life in ways that touch our hearts. You are warmly invited to join us in this reading challenge.

Also, on Epiphany Sunday, the first Sunday of 2026, we will celebrate those who completed reading the entire Bible or the New Testament in 2025, as encouraged at the beginning of the year. Keep up the great work!

May God’s Word fill us completely, so we may grow in love and kindness toward others.

In Christ's love,
Pastor Victor