by Rev. Brent Parker, Pastor, The Church at Woodforest
Imagination is a funny thing. It is a strange concoction of truth and the stuff of dreams, all mixed up to create an almost otherworldly reality. It doesn’t come completely out of nowhere, but it also doesn’t always paint the truest picture of the past, present or future. In my seminary days, I was introduced to the term “historical imagination.” The idea behind this term is that as we look back on a previous time and place, our recollection of said time and place may not accurately line up with what really happened back then. The “good ol’ days” may not have actually been as good as we now recall. And the bad may not have actually been as bad as we remember it to be. It appears that sometimes, after telling ourselves our own version of a story over and over again, we can actually convince ourselves of the story being true. This process sometimes serves as a coping mechanism to help us heal from a past hurt or even help us validate our opinions or positions on an encounter we had with another person in our past. To be clear, most of the time we do not even realize that we have done this. Again, imagination is a funny thing.
What historical imagination can do to our memories of the past, a holy imagination can also do to help us envision our future with greater hope. If we have been living through a difficult season of life, or have had a previous dream crushed, we can sometimes find ourselves assuming that our future holds only pain, grief or darkness. In moments like these, we need God’s help to imagine a better and brighter future that He has in store. God has given me a few words from His Word that have helped me; maybe they will help you as well.
In the second chapter of I Corinthians, Paul reminds us: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived — the things God has prepared for those who love him — these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit” (I Corinthians 2:9-10). Can you begin to imagine a future that stretches beyond anything you’ve ever seen, heard or conceived?
In a conversation with the prophet Habakkuk, God encouraged him: “Look at the nations and watch — and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told” (Habakkuk 1:5). While you may not be waiting for God to conquer your enemies as Habakkuk was, the promise of God remains. Can you imagine that what God has in store for you — for us — is so far beyond us that even if He revealed it to us, we wouldn’t believe it to be possible? God is up to something! Imagine that.
SPECIAL NEEDS EASTER
All followers of Jesus are called to proclaim Jesus’ resurrection. On Easter we say, “He is risen!” and reply, “He is risen, indeed!” Persons with special needs and their families are no exception! They participated in telling the good news by passing out Easter snacks. Each snack item represented a different moment in the Easter story.
SON-KISSED
by
Rev. Chris McLain, Pastor of Caring and Adults 55+ Ministry
Let’s talk about the past.
I mean the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s — when we didn’t use sunscreen but used baby oil instead to get that golden tan or just skipped the joy of being outside altogether and hit the tanning bed. Not a week goes by in ministry where one of my brothers or sisters in the faith doesn’t show up with a bandage on their face or arm where they had a skin spot removed, or worse — they have a melanoma diagnosis.
I think about the calling of Saul who would become Paul. Saul thought himself righteous in the mind of God while he was persecuting the followers of Jesus. In Philippians 3:5 Paul rattles off his pedigree. The truth is that Paul “did not know what he did not know.”
As we look at the summer where our programs at the church slow and we have an opportunity to sit back and see what we might step into in the fall, let us make sure to ask the question: How is the way I am serving, or worshipping, the best for the kingdom? How is my discipleship class or dinner group or ladies’ night honoring God?
My point is that Paul’s encounter with the risen Christ changed how he lived. It rocked his Jewish understanding of how God encountered both Jews and Gentiles, and he, in turn, made a change. Remember that we all thought it wasn’t harmful to be in the sun or give tanning sessions as Christmas stocking stuffers, but it ended up being harmful. Don’t be afraid to change some things up so that God can do a new thing. Also, when appropriate, don’t forget your sunscreen.
For the first time in 20 years, an Easter service was signed in American Sign Language.
EASTER LILY DELIVERIES
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you who helped deliver Easter lilies to our beloved 90+ community. Led by Colleen Rieth, American Heritage Troop Coordinator, five wonderful families stepped up to make deliveries, with additional support from our Shepherd Care Ministry and the Senior Living team. Thanks to your kindness and dedication, we were able to share the joy of Easter with over 100 beautiful lilies — bringing smiles to our cherished members aged 90 and above, as well as those in hospitals, hospice care and longterm facilities. What a meaningful expression of love and community!
WOODLANDS CAMERA CLUB
Monday, June 2 | 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Aldersgate Hall
Jai Shet will present “The Lens in Your Pocket: Mastering Smartphone Photography.” iPhones and Androids are great tools for capturing memories, especially when traveling, when gear is too bulky, or when you just want something simple. This workshop will cover how to use your phone camera to create strong compositions, the major differences between phone cameras and regular cameras, and how to push your phone to its technical limits. It’s not about having the best gear; it’s about learning to see like a photographer even when your gear is as simple as a smartphone. Check out the Camera Club at thewoodlandscameraclub.org
TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES
TROPICAL COSTA RICA
September
Final payment due: June 17, 2025
Save the Date
PASTOR-LED SUMMER LUNCHTIME SERIES
C.S. Lewis: The Screwtape Letters
Tuesdays, June 3 – July 8 | Noon
Aldersgate Hall
This summer, join Rev. Chris McLain for a sixweek Pastor-Led Summer Lunchtime Series as we dive into The Screwtape Letters , the timelessly insightful work by C.S. Lewis. Beginning June 3 at noon in Aldersgate Hall, we will explore four letters each Tuesday, uncovering their theological and practical relevance for our lives today. The cost of the book is $12.
ASTROS OUTING
Houston Astros vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Thursday, June 26 | 1:10 p.m. game
Section 131
The cost is $103 per person, which includes a $15 food and beverage credit. We will depart from The Woodlands Campus at 11:00 a.m.
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.
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 seven-night 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.
TWMC MAH JONGG ANNIVERSARY
“Crak! Bam! Dot! Did you know we just celebrated the two-year anniversary of our Mah Jongg ministry? Founded in 2023, Mah Jongg Game Day brings people together for fun, fellowship and community while keeping our minds sharp and engaged with others. Don’t know how to play Mah Jongg? No problem! We have talented teachers who will get you up and running, or help you brush up your skills while learning game strategy. We play the first and third Thursdays of the month from 2:00-4:00 p.m. in Room B204 at The Woodlands Campus. We typically have 80 players each game day. Come join the fun! First-time players, register online then look for a bi-monthly registration email from SignUp Genius to reserve your spot. Email Glenda Hudson at ghudson55@gmail.com with any questions.”
– Sally Bacon
GEORGE H.W. BUSH LIBRARY TOUR
“We had a great day at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library in College Station. The weather was beautiful for an outing, with the sun shining and pleasant temperatures. We learned so much about the personal life of George and Barbara Bush. Lunch was at the Koppe Bridge Grill, which is a local favorite.”
– Howard Rife, Woodforest Day Trip Lay Volunteer
SPOTLIGHT WOODFOREST
In April, we had the pleasure of welcoming the Bonterra Singers to our Woodforest gathering. It was a joyful time of fellowship, highlighted by their vibrant spring program, Cinemagic: Academy Award Music. What a wonderful performance!
THE WOODLANDS CAMPUS
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
Outreach to our Assisted Living Communities is a growing ministry. We offer worship services and Holy Communion each month at these locations: The Village (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 or Karen Williams at aggiemom43@hotmail.com
TWMC BOWLING FUN LEAGUE
Second Monday of Each Month | 7:00 p.m. | Bowlero
We bowl two games from 7:00-8:45 p.m. Warm up from 6:30–7:00 p.m. No skill required. The cost is $8 per person payable in cash on the day of the event. For more information contact Jeanette Bates at 281.455.9073
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 a study of J.I. Packer’s Knowing God. J.I. Packer offers profound insight into the most significant question of the Christian life: What does it mean to know God? 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 or twice a month depending on the group. This will be casual bridge for those who just want to play bridge. Some bridge knowledge is necessary. For more information contact Betty Gibson at 832.654.3335
*Casual bridge is scheduled for Friday, June 20, due to Annual Conference.
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 June 4–6 due to Annual Conference.
SINGLE LIFE WIDOWS
Check our webpage for activities.
THE GATHERING PLACE
Monday, June 2 | 10:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Join us this month for a wedding themed gathering. The Gathering Place is a ministry for adults who have mild to moderate dementia. If you would like to volunteer your time, contact Jana Jordan at 281.948.0247
MAH JONGG GAME DAY
*Thursdays, June 12 and 19 | 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. | Room B204
Beginners or players of all levels are welcome to play this fun Chinese game utilizing the National Mah Jongg League cards and rules. Teachers will be available to assist in learning or to brush up on game rules and strategies. Register online. For more information contact Glenda Hudson at 281.367.9155. *Mah Jongg is schdeuled on Thursday, June 12, due to Annual Conference.
ADULT GAME NIGHT
Friday, June 13 | 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.
PEGGY’S BOOK CLUB
Tuesday, June 17 | Noon | Allen Parlor
In June we will review Swamp Kings: The Story of the Murdaugh Family of South Carolina & a Century of Backwoods Power by Jason Ryan. If you would like to read ahead, in July we will review Profiles in Courage by John F. Kennedy. For more information about Peggy’s Book Club, contact Libby Heintz at 936.271.7660 or Kathy Wisenbaker at wisenbaker@sbcglobal.net
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY MEETING
Friday, June 27 | 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
CLASS NEWS
WOODLANDS LUNCH BUNCH
Tuesday, June 10 | 11:00 a.m. | Lama Mediterranean Restaurant
The Friendship Class is meeting at Lama Mediterranean restaurant, located at 1644 Research Forest Drive, Shenandoah 77381. All are welcome. To make a reservation call Dee Megee at 281.793.6622 by Monday, June 9.
FRIENDSHIP CLASS MANNA BAGS MISSION PROJECT
Thursday, June 19 | 2:00 p.m. | Allen Parlor
The Friendship Class gathers to put snack bags together for the 1960 Hope Center.
WOODFOREST CAMPUS
WOODFOREST LUNCH BUNCH
Thursday, June 12 | 11:00 a.m. | Rudy’s Bar-B-Q
Enjoy a savory barbeque meal cooked on their special wood fired oak pit. This restaurant is located at 14545 Hwy 105 W Unit E, 77304. To make a reservation contact Roberta Duncan at 713.775.3030 no later than Monday, June 9.
WOODFOREST BOOK CLUB
Thursday, June 19 | 11:30 a.m. | WF Campus
In June, we will review The Duzy House of Mourning by Ka Hancock. If you would like to read ahead in July, we will review Eddie Winston Is Looking for Love by Marianne Cronin. No registration required. For more information about this group, contact Diane Oakley at 936.701.8067
ADULT GAME NIGHT
Friday, June 27 | 6:00 p.m. | Woodforest Worship
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
We are meeting on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. 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 June 10-12 and June 17-19 due to summer camps.
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Mondays, June 2 and 16 | 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
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, June 13 | 11:30 a.m. | Vernon’s Kuntry Katfish
To make a reservation contact Donna Carr at 936.443.6748 or Sally Tinsman at 936.499.9687 by Monday, June 9.
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.
COVENANT CHURCH AT CREEKSIDE
Welcome to our friends at Covenant Church at Creekside. Worship gatherings are held on Sundays in the Worship Center at 8555 Creekside Green Drive at 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. (English) and 1:00 p.m. (Spanish).
GOLDEN AGE GATHERING
Tuesdays | 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Join us on Tuesdays for fellowship and a time for learning. Contact Anna Vargas (anna@connextsteps.org) for more information.
COVENANT
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 |
The Church at Montgomery | 281.297.5900
Covenant Church at Creekside | 832.510.4823
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
Woodlands, Texas 77380
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
*Friday, June 20 | 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. *Cancelled on Friday, June 6, due to Annual Conference.
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!
