by Rev. Pierce Drake Lead Pastor for Covenant Church at Creekside
It’s hard to put into words the joy I feel as I write this. My name is Pierce Drake, and I have the privilege of serving as the Lead Pastor at Covenant Church at Creekside, a campus of The Woodlands Methodist Church. As we step into the rhythm of summer, I’m filled with awe and gratitude for what God is doing in and through this community.
When my family and I arrived in The Woodlands in 2022, we came with hearts full of prayer, dreams and a deep desire to say “yes” to whatever God would have for us. What we’ve discovered here at Creekside this year is a church that is hungry for the presence of God, rooted in His Word and passionate about people — inside and outside our walls.
At Covenant Church, we often say, “God comes where He is wanted.” This simple truth has become a defining heartbeat of our worship, our teaching and our life together. Week after week, I watch as families gather, friendships form, prayers are lifted, and the Spirit of God moves. Whether it’s welcoming new members, celebrating Holy Communion or seeing children learn about Jesus in vibrant ways, I’m reminded again and again: God is at work here.
One of the most beautiful things about being part of The Woodlands Methodist Church family is knowing that while we serve unique communities, we are united in mission and heart. From our shared commitment to reach people for Jesus, disciple them in faith, and help those in need, the vision we carry to reach people across Montgomery and Harris counties and beyond is strengthened by our connection.
This summer at Covenant Church, we’re journeying through the sermon series Wanted, exploring the ways our longing for God meets His desire to dwell with us. It’s already shaping hearts and deepening lives of prayer and worship. Also this month, I’m honored to be ordained as an Elder in the Global Methodist Church — a moment of sacred commitment and joy that I share with you, my church family.
To those of you who are faithfully praying, serving and supporting the ministry of The Woodlands Methodist Church — at The Woodlands, Woodforest, Montgomery or Creekside — thank you. And if you’ve never been to our campus, we’d love for you to visit. Join us on a Sunday morning. Come early for coffee and stay after to connect. There’s a place for you here.
OUR EVER-PRESENT GOD
by Rev. Chris McLain, Pastor of Caring and Adults 55+ Ministry
While in preparation for my pastor-led study of The Screwtape Letters, I was reminded how often evil makes us feel like no one, anywhere or at any time, has experienced what we are experiencing at this very moment of life. I was reminded that all people — all races, ethnicities and languages — face the same innate struggle: the struggle of the human condition. I was also reminded that while evil can be manifest in our hearts and actions, and demons can be anywhere, neither demons nor Satan himself can be everywhere all at once. The property of being “ever-present” belongs to our God alone.
This reminds me of Acts 1:8, which says, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Therefore, when you and I are tempted by that which is lesser, we do not face it with a lesser power. Instead, we face it with the full power of the Holy Spirit. It’s incredible to think if we are fighting despair, grief, anger, disenchantment, guilt, shame or misery, through God’s work we, as the body of Christ, are literally empowered with God’s authority to be agents of change in our physical world.
God is not done with “His-story” yet, and you are a part of it. You have been given the power of the Holy Spirit to help impact those around you by the proclamation of His good works in your life. So, don’t get complacent! Get proactive and share the good news with everyone you meet this month. No lazy summer days here. Evil is doing its best to keep you apathetic, but the ever-present, omnipotent creator of the universe has something really special planned. Let’s get to work — to the ends of the earth!
Happy 4th of July!
TWMC ADULTS 55+ MINISTRY
BOWLING NIGHT
Join us at Bowlero on the second Monday of each month for an evening of fun, fellowship and friendly competition — singles and couples welcome.
• Warm-up at 6:30 p.m., followed by a short devotional and two games of bowling.
• Just $8 cash, which includes shoes and ball.
• Teams formed based on who attends.
Not a bowler? Come cheer on friends and enjoy the fellowship. Sign up on the church website to reserve your spot. At the venue, mention you’re with the church, check in with Jeanette, and pay her directly. Come for the strikes, stay for the laughs — all skill levels welcome! Questions?
Contact Jeanette Bates at 281.455.9073
THE WOODLANDS CAMERA CLUB
Monday, July 7 | 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
John Tveten’s Texas Moths
Presented by Kathy Adams Clark
We often overlook moths fluttering under porch lights or streetlamps, but these beautiful, diverse insects outnumber butterflies and display just as much beauty and variety.
Join us for a program on the work of John Tveten, a renowned Texas naturalist, author and photographer. From 1978 until his death in 2009, Tveten kept detailed field notes on the birds, butterflies, mammals, reptiles, dragonflies and moths he observed — many of them raised in his own garage. His notes, paired with photographs, were part of his plan to write a book titled Butterflies of the Night.
Come discover the hidden beauty of Texas moths and celebrate the legacy of a passionate naturalist. Check out the Camera Club at thewoodlandscameraclub.org
TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES
TROPICAL COSTA RICA
September
A document party is scheduled for Wednesday, September 3, 2025
Save the Date
SALUTE TO AMERICA
Thursday, July 3 | 8:00 p.m.
Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Star-Spangled Salute has become a beloved Woodlands tradition — an iconic annual celebration that brings families and communities together in a powerful, unifying way. Now, it’s your turn to be part of the tradition. Let’s come together to celebrate our freedom and honor the heroes who make it possible. It’s time for Star-Spangled Salute! There is no cost for this event.
THE WEDDING SINGER MUSICAL COMEDY
Sunday, July 13 | 2:00 p.m. | Crighton Theatre
Enjoy this fun romantic comedy. The cost is $23 per person. We will meet at Crighton Theatre. Dinner will be dutch at one of the local restaurants in Conroe.
ASTROS OUTING
Houston Astros vs. Washington Nationals
Tuesday, July 29 | 7:10 p.m. Game
Section 131
The cost is $113 per person. We will depart from The Woodlands Campus at 5:00 p.m.
THE WIZARD OF OZ
Sunday, August 3 | 2:00 p.m.
The George Theatre
Join us for this timeless and classic musical tale as Dorothy and her friends travel the universe of Dorothy’s imagination, crossing over the rainbow to the beautiful and treacherous land of Oz. Dinner will be dutch at Cleburne’s Cafeteria after the show.
Register for these events at twmc.org/adults55
View itineraries at twmc.org/adults55
DOURO VALLEY PORTUGAL AND SPAIN TOUR
November
Final payment due: August 3, 2025
Premier World Discovery is presenting a Douro Valley Portugal and Spain tour. This is a sevennight riverboat cruise aboard the NEW Riviera Rose with a pre-cruise extension in Lisbon.
DISCOVER SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA AND BAVARIA
April 2026
CHRISTMAS ON THE DANUBE
December
Final payment due: August 5, 2025
This tour takes place April 22 – May 1, 2026. The highlights include Bern, Alphorn Maker, a yodeling demonstration, fondue lunch, Lucerne, Austrian Alps, Innsbruck, Salzburg, Mirabell Gardens, St. Peter’s restaurant, Bavaria, Linderhof Palace and the Tyrolean Folklore show. There is a post-tour extension of three nights in Vienna. Registration deadline is October 16, 2025. Final payment is due January 22, 2026.
90+ COMMUNITY
THE WOODLANDS
In May, we had the absolute joy of hosting gospel singer Miles Pike and his wonderful family. The afternoon was filled with uplifting music as Miles treated us to a few powerful songs from his brand-new album. It was a heartwarming time of connection, with both longtime friends and new faces coming together for a wonderful afternoon of fellowship.
Did you know we have 100 members at TWMC who are 90 years old or older? We’re launching a new and expanded ministry to support these amazing individuals through prayer, visits, cards and flower deliveries. If you feel called to serve in this way, please contact Rev. David Lindwall (dlindwall@twmc.org) or Teri Rossi (trossi@twmc.org).
All volunteers will need to complete Congregational Care training and a background check. Caring Ministry is hosting a two-day training on August 17 and 24 from 12:30–3:00 p.m. Register at twmc.org/caring
COVENANT CHURCH AT CREEKSIDE
Covenant Church at Creekside is a neighborhood church where everyone is welcome. Worship gatherings are held in the Worship Center at 8555 Creekside Green Drive on Sundays at 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. (English) and 1:00 p.m. (Spanish).
GOLDEN CONNECTION
Come be a part of the joy! Join us for a time of fellowship, fun and learning. All classes are taught in Spanish. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself or practice your Spanish in a welcoming environment.
Zumba | Get moving and feel the rhythm Tuesdays | 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. | $20 per person
Technology Class | Boost your tech skills Tuesdays | 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | $20 per person
Painting Class | Unleash your inner artist Wednesdays | 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. | $20 per person
Fees are discounted to $30 total when you sign up for two classes. For more information contact Anna Vargas at anna@connexsteps.org
GOSPEL HOUR
Sunday, July 20 | 5:00 p.m. | Sanctuary
Join the Traditional Worship community for a special summer gathering and dinner following Gospel Hour on Sunday, July 20. Whether you come for Gospel Hour or just want to enjoy the fellowship afterward, all are welcome! Dinner will be provided by Rudy’s Bar-B-Q, and the cost is $10 per person. Registration for dinner is required. Gospel Hour is free and open to all as usual. We look forward to seeing you there! Learn more and register for the dinner at twmc.org/traditional
THE WOODLANDS CAMPUS
SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Outreach to our senior living communities is a growing ministry. We offer worship services, Holy Communion and Bible studies each month at these locations: The Village and Sundale (first Wednesday), The Conservatory (second Wednesday), Avanti (third Wednesday) and The Forum (fourth Wednesday). If you would like to join us, contact Rev. David Lindwall at dlindwall@twmc.org
GOLDENAIRES CHOIR
We are taking a summer break and will return in the fall.
MEN’S BOOK STUDY
Second and Fourth Wednesday | 10:00 a.m. | Room C217-A
Join us for a discussion on our new study Help Is Here: Finding Fresh Strength and Purpose in the Power of the Holy Spirit by Max Lucado. You are welcome to join at any time. For more information about this group, contact Jerry Barney at 915.373.3707.
CASUAL BRIDGE
*First Friday of Each Month | 12:30 – 3:00 p.m. | Room B107
Come and be part of a fun, social bridge group once a month. This will be casual bridge for those who just want to play bridge. Some to a little bridge knowledge is necessary. For more information contact Betty Gibson at 832.654.3335. *Casual bridge is scheduled for Friday, July 11, due to the holiday.
FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS
*Monday – Friday | 9:00 a.m. Aldersgate Hall
Our Fit for Life fitness classes are meeting five days a week. That means more opportunities to move, stay strong and feel great — with the same amazing instructors and workouts you love, now two extra days each week! *Classes are cancelled on Thursdays for the month of July.
THE GATHERING PLACE
Monday, July 7 | 10:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Join us this month for an “America’s favorite pastime” baseballthemed gathering. The Gathering Place is a ministry for adults with mild to moderate dementia. If you would like to volunteer your time, contact Jana Jordan at 281.948.0247
MAH JONGG GAME DAY
Thursdays, July 3 and 17 | 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. | Room B204
Players of all levels are welcome to play this fun Chinese game utilizing the National Mah Jongg league card and rules. Teachers will be available to assist in learning or to brush up on game rules and strategies. For more information contact Glenda Hudson at 281.367.9155.
ADULT GAME NIGHT
Friday, July 11 | 6:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Bring your favorite game or play Mexican Train. Bring a dish to share and $1. For more information, contact Karen Freeman at 858.204.0012.
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY MEETING
Friday, July 25 | 10:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
Crochet or knit for those in need. For more information contact Connie Norton at 281.292.3875 or concetta44@comcast.net
SINGLE LIFE WIDOWS
Check our webpage for current activities and to register.
CLASS NEWS
WOODLANDS LUNCH BUNCH
Tuesday, July 8 | 11:00 a.m. | Good Charlie’s Seafood Kitchen
The Friendship Class is meeting at Good Charlie’s Seafood Kitchen, located at 545 Woodland Square Blvd, Conroe, 77384. All are welcome. To make a reservation call Dee Megee at 281.793.6622 by Monday, July 7.
FRIENDSHIP CLASS MANNA BAGS MISSION PROJECT
Thursday, July 17 | 2:00 p.m. | Allen Parlor
Each month, Friendship Class members assemble 100 manna bags for the homeless, distributed through the 1960 Hope Center to provide weekend food support when hot meals aren’t available. Want to help?
Donate single-serve nonperishables: Vienna sausages, cookies, crackers, protein bars, raisins
Or give a check to the church with “Friendship Class Manna Bags” in the memo line
All are welcome to join this meaningful mission!
WOODFOREST CAMPUS
WOODFOREST LUNCH BUNCH
Thursday, July 10 | 11:00 a.m. | Good Charlie’s Seafood Kitchen
Join us for an oyster special or other seafood entrees. This restaurant is located at 545 Woodland Square Blvd, Conroe, 77384. To make a reservation contact Roberta Duncan at 713.775.3030 no later than Monday, July 7.
WOODFOREST BOOK CLUB
Thursday, July 17 | 11:30 a.m. | WF Campus
In July, we will review Eddie Winston Is Looking for Love by Marianne Cronin. If you would like to read ahead in August, we will review The Keeper of Happy Endings by Barbara Davis. No registration required. For more information about this group, contact Diane Oakley at 936.701.8067
ADULT GAME NIGHT
Friday, July 25 | 6:00 p.m. | Woodforest Classroom
Join us for Mexican Train, 42 or a game of your choice. Bring a snack to share. The cost of this event is $1 per person. For more information contact Debbie Griffing at 979.236.1654
FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS
*Tuesday – Thursday | 8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
PEGGY’S BOOK CLUB
Tuesday, July 15 | Noon
Allen Parlor
In July we will review Profiles in Courage by John F. Kennedy. If you would like to read ahead, in August we will review The Book of Lost Friends by Lisa Wingate. For more information about Peggy’s Book Club, contact Libby Heintz at 936.271.7660 or Kathy Wisenbaker at wisenbaker@sbcglobal.net
Enjoy the same great instructors and energizing exercises — now with even more chances to stay active and healthy! *Fitness classes are cancelled the week of July 22-24 due to summer camps.
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Mondays, July 7 and 21 | 10:00 a.m. | WF Classroom
This support group is for caregivers of family and friends with chronic, long-term or terminal illness. No registration required. For more information about this group, contact Angela Street at 281.723.6819.
Pictured: Mary Grace Randerson, Betty Loehmann, Beth Northrup and Patti Hardee
11:00 a.m. | Good Charlie’s Pastor-Led Study Noon | Aldersgate Hall
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Golden Connection
10:00 and 11:00 a.m.
Creekside Peggy’s Book Club Noon | Allen Parlor
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Golden Connection
10:30 a.m. | Creekside
Midweek Prayer
Noon | Robb Chapel
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Men’s Book Study
10:00 a.m. | C217-A
Golden Connection
10:30 a.m. | Creekside
Midweek Prayer Noon | Robb Chapel
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Golden Connection
10:30 a.m. | Creekside
Midweek Prayer Noon | Robb Chapel
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Mah Jongg
2:00 p.m. | B204
Salute to America
8:00 p.m.
Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
WF Lunch Bunch
11:00 a.m. | Good Charlie’s
TWMC Closed Happy Fourth of July
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Caregivers Support
11:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
Montgomery Lunch Bunch
11:30 a.m.
Ransom’s Steakhouse
Casual Bridge
12:30 p.m. | B107
Adult Game Night
6:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Fit for Life Fitness
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
WF Book Club
11:30 a.m. | WF Campus
Mah Jongg 2:00 p.m. | B204
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Caregivers Support 11:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
Casual Bridge
12:30 p.m. | B107
Single Life Widows Check Website
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Gospel Hour
5:00 p.m. | Sanctuary
WF Caregivers Support
10:00 a.m. | WF Classroom
Walden Women’s Bible Study
6:00 p.m. | 3713 Poets Ct
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Golden Connection
10:00 and 11:00 a.m.
Creekside
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Walden Women’s Bible Study
6:00 p.m. | 3713 Poets Ct
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Golden Connection
10:00 and 11:00 a.m. Creekside
Astros Outing
7:10 p.m. Game Leaving TWMC | 5:00 p.m.
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Men’s Book Study
10:00 a.m. | C217-A
Golden Connection
10:30 a.m. | Creekside
Midweek Prayer
Noon | Robb Chapel
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Prayer Shawl Ministry Meeting
10:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
WF Adult Game Night
6:00 p.m. | WF Classroom
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Golden Connection
10:30 a.m. | Creekside
Midweek Prayer
Noon | Robb Chapel
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
THE CHURCH AT MONTGOMERY
The Church at Montgomery meets Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at Oak Hills Junior High, 19190 Keenan Cut Off Road, Montgomery.
MONTGOMERY LUNCH BUNCH
Friday, July 11 | 11:30 a.m. | Ransom’s Steakhouse
To make a reservation contact Donna Carr at 936.443.6748 or Sally Tinsman at 936.499.9687 by Monday, July 7.
WALDEN WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY AND FELLOWSHIP
Mondays | 6:00 p.m.
This group meets at the home of Dee Ferris, 3713 Poets Ct, Montgomery 77356. For more information contact Linda Bench at 281.536.2652.
CRAFT CIRCLE
Join our Craft Circle family, where creativity and compassion come together to support local and global missions. As we enter a season of capital campaign renovations, our commitment to community remains strong!
THE WOODLANDS CAMPUS
Tuesdays | 9:30 a.m. | Loft Building WOODFOREST CAMPUS
2nd and 4th Thursdays | 1:00 p.m. | Woodforest Gym
RESOURCE CORNER
prayer and care
PRAYER MINISTRY
If you or your family would like prayer, prayer teams are available after each of the services, or you can contact Dora Marquez with our Prayer Ministry at 281.822.8249.
CONGREGATIONAL CARE
Congregational Care is a priority for our pastors. If you or someone you know is hospitalized, in rehabilitation or in hospice care — local or in the Texas Medical Center — we would love to send a pastor or a Caring Ministry volunteer to visit and pray with you and your family.
Contact Caring Ministry:
The Woodlands Methodist Church | 281.297.5900
The Church at Woodforest | 281.822.8182
The Church at Montgomery | 281.297.5900
Covenant Church at Creekside | 832.510.4823
Email | caringministries@twmc.org
SPOTLIGHT
MONDAY, AUGUST 4 | 11:15 A.M. | WESLEY HALL
Each year, we come together to honor and celebrate our incredible members who are 90 and older, along with their families. This year, we’re turning up the fun with a rock ’n’ roll theme! Join us for a lively celebration featuring The Goldenaires performing classic rock ’n’ roll oldies. It’s sure to be a joyful and memorable event! Register at twmc.org/adults55
The Woodlands Methodist Church 2200 Lake Woodlands Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
*Fridays, July 11 and 18 | 11:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
This support group is for caregivers of family and friends with chronic, long-term or terminal illness. No registration required For more information contact Teri Rossi at 281.297.5935. *TWMC is closed on Friday, July 4.
COMPUTER SUPPORT MINISTRY
If you need computer support, contact Jerry Barney at 915.373.3707 or jbarney177@gmail.com
NEED A RIDE?
If you need a ride to a medical appointment, contact John Cunningham at 713.594.4499. Please call at least 48 hours in advance. If you would like to volunteer for this ministry, contact John Cunningham.
SHEPHERD CARE
Shepherd Care is a ministry of friendship for our members who are in local nursing homes or private residences. If you know of someone in need of companionship or if you would like to volunteer to be a Shepherd, please contact Carolyn Crawford at 281.682.9142
CONSECRATED
HOLY COMMUNION ELEMENTS
Caring Ministry offers consecrated Holy Communion elements for those of you worshipping at home. Stop by the main administration office on The Woodlands Campus to pick up elements.
We encourage you to sign up for the digital version of Monthly Outlook. Not only will this save postage costs for Adults 55+ Ministry, but it will also save resources like paper. Plus, you can access the newsletter anywhere on a computer or your phone. It’s a win-win!
