Monday Morning Coffee - Sep 8

Good morning, church family!

I hope you had a restful and joy-filled Sabbath.

As Pastor Tim Keller once wrote, “The gospel is not just the ABCs but the A to Z of the Christian life.” The more I learn, the more I taste and see the wonderful power of the gospel.

Yesterday I was encouraged by the story of Peter and Cornelius—how God shows no favoritism and delights to save all who turn to Him. I was also inspired by the moral courage of Christians in a small village in France during WWII. And through Gandhi’s autobiography, I was reminded that we can be faithful witnesses when we are true to ourselves and live out what we believe—whether we are outgoing or quiet.

If you missed it, you can read the message here: Simple Faith – Acts 10:1–16, or watch the service at these links:

• Hodgdon Service

• Houlton Service

I pray Acts 10 will be a source of strength and courage for you this week. Go in the joy of the risen Christ! Love you all.

Combined Church Conference This Saturday at 1 PM @ Houlton UMC

 

Dear Church Family,

I hope this note finds you well.

I want to invite you to join us for our annual Church Conference this Saturday, September 6, at 1 PM, hosted at Houlton UMC. This year, four congregations—Hodgdon, Houlton, Mars Hill, and Stetson Memorial (Patten)—will gather together.

Some of you may wonder what a church conference is. Think of it as a yearly family gathering for the church. It is a time to look back with gratitude, look around at who we are today, and look ahead to where God is calling us. It’s a time for prayer, reflection, and celebration, as well as making decisions together as God’s people.

This year, we will reflect on three questions: Who are we? Who is our neighbor? To what is God calling us? You are encouraged to read my pastoral report (link) and review the MissionInsite snapshots for each church: Hodgdon/Houlton and Mars Hill.

If you cannot attend in person, I invite you to hold us in prayer—for the conference, for our mission, and for the direction of our church. Please also feel free to share your thoughts and feedback by replying to this email or speaking with me personally.

We would not be the church we are today without you. Thank you for being part of our beloved community. I look forward to seeing many of you this Saturday at 1 PM at Houlton UMC.

In Christ's Love, 

Pastor Victor

Monday Morning Coffee - Sep 1

 

Good morning, friends! 

Can you guess where this conversation comes from? The fox says to the prince: “If you tame me, then we shall need each other. To me, you will be unique in all the world. To you, I shall be unique in all the world. You will always be my friend. You will want to laugh with me. And when you leave, I shall miss you.”

It’s from The Little Prince (Antoine de Saint-Exupéry). At first, the rose and the fox were “just one of millions.” But through relationship, they became special, one-of-a-kind, irreplaceable.

When Joyce and I came here in 2014, we didn’t know anyone. But over the years, you have become so meaningful to us. It is a gift to grow together, to learn names and stories, and to share in friendship.

Our Christian fellowship goes even deeper. Bonhoeffer reminds us that the person sitting next to you in worship is someone with whom you will be eternally united in Christ. That’s why we are called to love, forgive, and walk together even now.

Yesterday was a good day of worship and fellowship. For those who couldn’t be with us, we missed you! You can watch the service here: Facebook Video Link and read the message here: Sermon Blog.

Thank you for being among us. Have a wonderful day ahead!

In Christ's love,
Pastor Victor

Life Together - Aug 30

 

I know I am biased, but I truly believe the County is one of the best places to live. It is a welcoming, caring community. This spirit also shows in our local churches and the friendships among pastors.

The other day I had lunch with Pastor Steve at Littleton Baptist. Every time I meet him, I am encouraged by his heart for the lost and his passion for evangelism. This time he shared about a baptism at Carry Lake this summer. As I listened, I prayed, “Lord, may our church also see new birth and never stop hearing testimonies of new life in Christ!”

Next year will mark Pastor Steve’s 30th anniversary at Littleton Baptist. When I asked him the secret of his longevity, he said, “The secret is to stay put. People expected me to cut and run when trouble came. But I didn’t. For the first 10 years, I didn’t do much except persevere. After that, I began to see fruit.”

Though I can only see what is right before me, I sense we, too, are beginning to see something beautiful—collaboration among our UM churches. This Sunday’s combined service is a wonderful example. As we gather, may we be encouraged and renewed again. You're invited!

• This Sunday, August 31 at 10 AM
• Stetson Memorial UMC, 7 Houlton St, Patten

P.S. Do you like to sing—or make a joyful noise? Join our pick-up choir rehearsal at 9:30 AM. We will sing “Standing on the Promises.” After worship, we’ll enjoy a Love Feast potluck luncheon. Please bring your favorite dish or dessert to share!

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Life Review Project
This week I had the privilege of listening to Linda’s life story—her childhood in the Philippines, her journey to the US for medical practice, and eventually her move to Houlton. I could see God’s gracious hand guiding her at every step. Grace upon grace! You can read her full story here: Grace, Grace, Amazing Grace by Rosalinda “Linda” Maraya. Be inspired!

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Combined Church Conference
On Saturday, September 6, at 1:00 PM at Houlton UMC, the churches of Hodgdon, Houlton, Mars Hill, and Stetson Memorial (Patten) will gather for a Combined Church Conference. This will be more than just an annual business meeting—it will be a time to reflect together on three important questions:

• Who are we?

• Who is our neighbor?

• To what is God calling us?

Come, let us build God’s community together!

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Life-Together Group Update
Our Fall Bible Study will focus on 1 Corinthians, exploring church life and discipleship. This 13-week study begins the week of September 8. We’ll use the N. T. Wright for Everyone Bible Study Guide ($7). Scholarships are available. All are welcome!

• Hodgdon LT Group: Wednesdays at 3:15 PM

• Mars Hill LT Group: Wednesdays at 10 AM

• Houlton LT Groups: Tuesdays at 10 AM (Women of Witness) & Thursdays at 6 PM

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 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.

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Worship Servants

		Hodgdon		Houlton		Mars Hill
Aug 31	Greeter	Combined Service @ Stetson Memorial UMC
	Liturgist
	Coffee Hour	Love Feast Potluck Luncheon
Sep 7	Greeter	Donald & Jennifer Metzger	Cathy Hutchinson & Marion Collins		Children & Youth
	Liturgist	Stacy Ramsey	Chuck Taylor		Andy Anderson
	Coffee Hour		Linda Maraya & Marion Collins

 

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Birthdays 

• Aug 31: Sharon Lyons

• Sep 1: Peter Blood, Cheryl Planeta

• Sep 2: Janice Cottle

• Sep 4: Richard Schenk

Anniversaries 

• Sep 4: Chris & Jamie Stewart

• Sep 5: Jack & Cynthia Forbush

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Ministry & Mission (M&M) Calendar

• Aug 31 – Combined Service @ Stetson Memorial UMC, 10 AM

• Sep 3 – Administrative Council [HD], 3 PM

• Sep 6 – Combined Church Conference @ Houlton, 1–2:30 PM

• Sep 9 – Women of Witness (WOW) [HT], 10 AM

• Sep 9 – Together Tuesday [HT], 3:00–4:15 PM

• Sep 10 – Life-Together Group [MH], 10 AM

• Sep 10 – Life-Together Group [HD], 3:15 PM

• Sep 11 – Life-Together Group [HT], 6 PM

• Sep 12 – Staff Parish Relations Com [HT], 9 AM

• Sep 12 – Outreach Com [HT], 10 AM

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Prayer List 
Dennis Anderson, Nathan Anderson, Janie Andrews, Bob & Jo-Ann Barton, Debbie & Anthony Benn, London Booker, Reita Briggs, Sue Carr, Lorinda Cushman, Duane Eldridge, Ann Folsom, Jan Footer, Jack Galda, 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

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In Christ's love,
Pastor Victor

Monday Morning Coffee - August 25

 

"Pay-It-Forward Love"

Yesterday’s piano concert was deeply moving.

The performance itself was wonderful, but what touched me most was not only the music—it was the “love” among those who made the concert so memorable.

Angell Husted, Chet’s sister, as one who carries a debt of love, generously donated her baby grand piano, even covering the shipping all the way from Virginia. Tears filled her eyes as Chet played. She gave this gift so freely in honor of Chet and Linda, who themselves live out this “pay-it-forward” love so beautifully.

Susan Laurence is a woman of many talents. In the midst of her busy schedule, commuting to Boston weekly, she never misses Grace’s piano lessons, encouraging her and helping her thrive. When Joyce and I expressed our gratitude, Susan said something like, “I wouldn’t be who I am today without those who invested in me. I am just paying it forward.”

How true that is. I am who I am today because so many people poured love into me so generously. As I reflected, Rodin’s sculpture The Cathedral came to mind. Just as Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam shows God breathing life into Adam by the near-touch of a finger, so too, one person passes on inspiration and love to another by a gentle touch, heart to heart.

Today, I am simply grateful to be part of this beloved community. I pray that we may continue to practice this beautiful “pay-it-forward” love freely and joyfully.

If you haven’t yet, you can watch this Sunday’s service and read the message at the links below:

• Hodgdon: Message (Penny Gowen)

• Houlton: Service | Message

• Mars Hill: Service | Message

Thank you for being among us. May your week ahead be filled with grace and love.

In Christ's love,
Pastor Victor

Life Together - August 23

 

*Photo: “An Ending, A Beginning” (Last picture with Lydia and Abe – August 23, 2025)

Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.” (Matt. 14:28, NRSV)

It’s time.

It always feels bittersweet to help my older children pack up their school things and drop them off. All the memories of our summer together pass before my eyes like a flash. There is always a little void, but my heart is deeply grateful to see them beginning to fly and thrive.

Change is hard. Today I was comforted by the story of Peter walking on the water. It reminds me that we cannot walk on water unless we first step out of the boat. Letting go—especially of those we love most—is never easy. But God calls us forward in trust.

Now in worship we are moving into Acts 8, where the early church faced transition and scattering. Yet God turned their crisis into an opportunity for revival. I sense the same hope for us today—our church is on the move, stepping into a new season together.

The church has always been on the move because God is always at work. I look forward to being guided with you into this next season.

May the Lord bless you and your family as you begin this new school year!

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 Classical Piano Recital – This Sunday! 

Sunday, August 24 at 2:00 PM
Piano Classics Through the Musical Ages
Presented and performed by Grace Han, Chet Husted, and Susan Laurence

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 Combined Service – Next Sunday!

Join us on Sunday, August 31 at 10:00 AM at Stetson Memorial UMC.

All four churches will gather to worship and praise God in a music-filled, Spirit-filled service of celebration for all ages, featuring worship dance, a pick-up choir rehearsal at 9:30 am, and a special offering for the Laos Sunday School Mission. A Love Feast Potluck Luncheon will follow.

If you need a ride or would like to carpool, please let Pastor Victor know. Come and be part of this joyful day!

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 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!

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 Combined Church Conference

Hodgdon, Houlton, Mars Hill, and Stetson Memorial (Patten) will gather on Saturday, September 6, at 1:00 PM at Houlton UMC.

This will be more than an annual business meeting—it will be a time to reflect on three important questions:

• Who are we?

• Who is our neighbor?

• To what is God calling us?

Come, let us build God’s community together.

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 Life-Together Group Update

This fall, our Bible Study will focus on 1 Corinthians, exploring church life and discipleship. This 13-week study begins the week of September 8. All are welcome to grow in faith, connect with others, and deepen your walk with Christ.

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 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.

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 7:30 Prayer Movement – This Week’s Focus

• For the new school year—teachers and students

• For small group ministry

• For being a disciple and making disciples

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 Life Review Project – “Faithbook”

Each week, we share real-life stories of faith from our extended church family.
 Read the stories here: faithbook2025.blogspot.com

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Worship Servants

Hodgdon Houlton Mars Hill Aug 24 Greeter Carolyn Benn & Sandra Malone Bob & Angela Cowperthwaite Children & Youth Liturgist Rue Geishecker Angie Wotton Gaye Cronkite Coffee Hour   Chuck & Mary Taylor   Aug 31 Greeter Combined Service @ Stetson Memorial UMC Liturgist Coffee Hour Love Feast Potluck Luncheon

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 Ministry & Mission (M&M) Calendar

• Aug 24 – Grand Piano Dedication Concert, 2 PM

• Aug 27 – 7:30 Prayer Meeting [HT], 7:30 PM

• Aug 29 – Gardiner Bible Study, 10 AM

• Aug 31 – Combined Service @ Stetson Memorial UMC, 10 AM

• Sep 3 – Administrative Council [HD], 3 PM

• Sep 6 – Combined Church Conference @ Houlton, 1–2:30 PM

• Sep 9 – Women of Witness (WOW) [HT], 10 AM

• Sep 9 – Together Tuesday [HT], 3:00–4:15 PM

• Sep 10 – Life-Together Group [MH], 10 AM

• Sep 10 – Life-Together Group [HD], 3:15 PM

• Sep 11 – Life-Together Group [HT], TBD

• Sep 12 – Staff Parish Relations Com [HT], 9 AM

• Sep 12 – Outreach Com [HT], 10 AM

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 Prayer List

Dennis Anderson, Nathan Anderson, Janie Andrews, Bob & Jo-Ann Barton, Debbie & Anthony Benn, London Booker, Reita Briggs, Sue Carr, Lorinda Cushman, Duane Eldridge, Ann Folsom, Jan Footer, Jack Galda, Brian Ketchum, Austin McAfee, Jean Merritt, Beverly Nickerson, Richard Sherwood, Carol Sloat Smith, Dotty Smith, Tina Smith, Mark and Abby Swallow, Liz Taylor, John Trask, Jerry & Melanie Wilson, Debbie Wordwell, Karen Young

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In Christ's love,
Pastor Victor

Monday Morning Coffee - August 18

 

“So then you are no longer strangers and aliens,

but you are citizens with the saints

and also members of the household of God.”

(Ephesians 2:19, NRSV)

It was a beautiful day in God’s household yesterday.

At Houlton, we celebrated Shirley Ward’s 90th birthday! The room was filled with laughter, hugs, and plenty of sweets. Shirley said, “It’s the first time I’ve ever had this kind of attention and celebration.” (*Would you like to hear Shirley’s life story? You can read it here: Because He Lives – by Shirley Ward.)

What a mystery and privilege it is that, through Christ, people of all ages, backgrounds, and stories are given to one another as one family. That is what makes the church such a unique and special community. It’s a foretaste of heaven itself. I just love the church. And I just love each of you.

If you haven’t had a chance yet, you can watch the services and read the messages through the links below:

• Hodgdon: Service | Message (Pastor Joyce)

• Houlton: Service | Message

• Mars Hill: Service | Message

And here’s a joyful highlight—our Cluster VBS video clip: Watch here.

May the Lord bless you and keep you in His household this week.

In Christ's love,

Pastor Victor