by Rev. Enrique Sanchez, Pastor of Spanish Ministry
My name is Enrique Sanchez, and with great joy, I want to share with you something about our journey with God.
I was born in Camagüey, Cuba. There, I gave my life to Christ at the Methodist Church “El Tabernaculo de la Uncion,” where I had the privilege of serving God as a co-pastor, missionary and, for a year, a young adult leader. In 2006, I came to the United States and served the Lord in Miami as a youth pastor for seven years.
In 2014, I felt God’s call to come to Houston and start a new church. In 2017, with the help of God and the members who joined the work, we began what God was leading us to do. For a time, we lived in a small, rented space, ministering to the growing congregation. I firmly believe in God’s plan and desire in all things. I believe in divine intervention and connections, and this has been how God has worked in everything for us. That’s how, at the end of 2021, God connected us with Dr. Jeff Olive. In 2023, this connection led to a merger of our congregation with TWMC, and now we are The Woodlands en Español (ESP).
Located at the Recreation Center, ESP meets every Sunday at 10:00 a.m., and we have a huge celebration with our Lord. Our congregation, which began at The Woodlands Campus with an attendance of around 120125 people, is now averaging between 230-245 people each Sunday. We continue to grow, and to God be the glory.
I have been happily married for 22 years to Dania Sanchez, and we have two wonderful children, Ana and Benjamin. My wife and children are an immense support in the ministry; everyone serves God. We feel extremely privileged, happy and grateful to God for all the love, respect and kindness the leadership, staff and congregation of TWMC have shown us, welcoming us and making us part of the community.
We have great expectations for all that God has in store for TWMC, on all campuses and in all worship communities. We are convinced that this nation will experience a great revival and a spiritual awakening, and this church will not remain an observer, but will be part of this revival.
“These people who have been turning the world upside down have come here also.”
– Acts 17:6b (NRSVA)
A DAD’S “THANK YOU!”
by Rev. Chris McLain, Pastor of Caring and Adults 55+ Ministry
Eleven and a half years ago a young married pastor and his wife received a triple blessing: Their son had been born the previous June; their annual conference was sending the pastor to the Holy Land as a new ordinand; and the local congregation, unbeknownst to the couple, had gathered together enough to send the pastor’s wife on the trip as well.
You guessed it — I was that young pastor.
My wife, Skye, and I boarded a plane bound for the Holy Land. Skye was still nursing at that time and, being first-time parents, we had left a six-page instruction manual for the new grandparents to follow during our time away. I mean, it wasn’t like they had raised nine kids between the four of them.
We had a wonderful time experiencing the Scriptures come to life, gaining valuable insight into the culture and conflicts of the region. We brought back water from the Jordan River for our son’s baptism, and we purchased a necklace for his confirmation.
This month, our son will say “YES!” to following Jesus and be confirmed as a member of The Woodlands Methodist Church. Year after year, this congregation — as well as McGuire Methodist Church in West Monroe, Louisiana — has faithfully planned for future generations. What we know about the future is that soon it will become the present and, all too quickly, become the past.
Scripture reminds us: “‘In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.’ I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2 NIV).
ALWAYS IN OUR HEARTS
Sunday, May 4 | 4:00 p.m. | Robb Chapel Caring Ministry invites you to a special service, Always in Our Hearts, where we honor the life and memory of our beloved children who have gone on to their eternal home. Find more information at twmc.org/caring
So, thank you, my friends — my brothers and sisters in the faith. Your faithfulness, steadfastness, generosity and commitment to the gospel in all areas of your life are continuing to usher God’s kingdom into lives and families across the world!
PASTOR-LED LENTEN STUDY
Rev. Chris McLain nourished us spiritually throughout the Lenten season with his powerful series, “It Is Written: Prophecies to the Promise.” We examined the Old Testament prophecies that were fulfilled by Jesus during His life, gaining new insights and understanding.
MIDWEEK PRAYER INVITATION
We had a great turn out for our Lenten Lectio Divina Contemplative Prayer service each week during Lent. It was a blessing to be able to pause and reflect as we journeyed with Jesus to the cross through the Book of Matthew.
Although our Lenten prayer service has ended, our time in God’s presence has not. We invite you to join us each Wednesday at noon in Robb Chapel on The Woodlands Campus for our Midweek Prayer Room. This is a time for us to push pause in the middle of our week to worship God, hear His Word and be guided in Spirit-led prayer. We hope you’ll join us!
TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES 2025
TROPICAL COSTA RICA
September
Final payment due: July 17, 2025
Save the Date
ORIGIN OF THE SPANISH LANGUAGE LECTURE SERIES
Beginning Monday, April 28, for six weeks 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | Room B107
Learn about the origin of the Spanish language with Maria Begoña Concepción Fernández de Bisteni from our Creekside Campus. This class will be taught in Spanish. Cost: $50 per person. The class size is limited to 10 students.
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER
Thursday, May 1 | Noon | Robb Chapel
In honor of the 74th National Day of Prayer, Caring and Prayer Ministry will host a prayer service on Thursday, May 1, at noon in Robb Chapel. We will unite our hearts around the theme, “May the God of Hope Fill Us” from Romans 15:13, as we pray for our local, state and national leaders, and seek Christ’s heart of renewal and revival for our nation. Find more information at twmc.org/caring
THE WOODLANDS CHORALE PRESENTS OF DREAMS & VISIONS
Saturday, May 3 | 7:00 p.m.
Christ Church Methodist
On May 3 experience the joy of live music with The Woodlands Chorale at their sendoff concert for their UK tour. The concert will be a mix of sacred and American music. Cost: $25 per person. We will meet at Christ Church Methodist on Research Forest Drive.
FEEL THE NEIL
Friday, May 30 | 7:30 p.m. | Crighton Theatre
Direct from Branson, enjoy Keith Allynn in this Neil Diamond tribute. Cost: $49 per person. We will meet at Crighton Theatre.
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. A trip preview meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 15, at 1:00 p.m. in Hayes Hall A. Registration deadline is October 16, 2025. Final payment is due January 22, 2026.
PETS WITH A MISSION: IMPROVING LIVES THROUGH THE HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND
Pets With a Mission, Inc., a non-profit organization, is dedicated to enhancing the lives of children, patients and individuals in healthcare and community settings. Through the human-animal bond, the organization helps improve literacy skills in children, enriches the quality of life in hospitals and healthcare facilities, and educates children about the care and welfare of pets.
This volunteer-driven initiative allows canines and their human partners to make a meaningful impact through their interactions, volunteering at schools, libraries, hospitals, senior care facilities and community events. Currently, Pets With a Mission teams volunteer monthly at The Gathering Place at TWMC.
Arthur and Susan Goldsmith, along with their Shetland Sheepdogs, Jack and Lexi, have dedicated over 300 hours at Memorial Hermann The Woodlands Hospital. Lexi, pictured here at age 10, recently retired after nearly three years of visits.
If you’re interested in volunteering or learning more about this organization, please contact the Goldsmiths at Info@PetsWithAMission.org
WOODFOREST LUNCH BUNCH
Our Woodforest friends gathered at Good Charlie’s Seafood Kitchen for a wonderful meal and enjoyable fellowship. This group meets on the second Thursday of each month, creating a special opportunity for connection and community.
MARCH SPOTLIGHT
For our Fat Tuesday breakfast, we had the pleasure of hosting Tyler Berry and Josh Herrod from Two Tones Dueling Piano Bar for a vibrant morning filled with lively piano tunes and a fun sing-along experience.
THE WOODLANDS CAMPUS
COMMUNITY OUTREACH
We offer worship services and Holy Communion at assisted living communities at the following locations: The Village, The Conservatory, Avanti, The Forum and Sundale. 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 Night 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
Rehearsals Every Wednesday | 2:30 p.m. | Choir Room
Members of the Goldenaires, a 55+ adults choir, love to share fellowship through music. For more information contact Ed Wandling at 281.788.9880 or Louise Kramer at louise.kramer917@gmail.com
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. For more information about this group, contact Jerry Barney at 915.373.3707 or jbarney177@gmail.com
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 cancelled on Friday, May 2, due to a missions conference. We plan to meet on Friday, May 9.
SINGLE LIFE WIDOWS
Check our webpage for activities.
THE GATHERING PLACE
Monday, May 5 | 10:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Join us this month for a Cinco de Mayo 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
THE WOODLANDS CAMERA CLUB
Monday, May 5 | 7:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Vance Schwantes rekindled his love for photography in 2016 with a mirrorless camera. He joined the Camera Club in 2017, has contributed to the Post Processing SIG since 2018, and occasionally leads workshops. Primarily using Sony equipment, he continues to explore the evolving world of photography. Check out the Camera Club at thewoodlandscameraclub.org
MAH JONGG GAME DAY
Thursdays, May 1 and 15 | 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.
ADULT GAME NIGHT
Friday, May 9 | 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, May 20 | Noon | Allen Parlor
In May we will review The Four Winds by Kirstin Hannah. If you would like to read ahead, in June we will review Swamp Kings: The Story of the Murdaugh Family of South Carolina & a Century of Backwoods Power by Jason Ryan. 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, May 23 | 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
FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS
Monday - Friday | 9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
In 2025 our Fit for Life Fitness classes will meet five days a week. Same great instructors and exercises, two additional times a week.
CLASS NEWS
WOODLANDS LUNCH BUNCH
Tuesday, May 13 | 11:00 a.m.
Lupe Tortilla Mexican Restaurant
The Friendship Class is meeting at Lupe Tortilla Mexican Restaurant, 19437 I-45 N, Shenandoah 77385. All are welcome. To make a reservation call Dee Megee at 281.793.6622 by Monday, May 12.
FRIENDSHIP CLASS MANNA BAGS MISSION PROJECT
Thursday, May 15 | 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, May 8 | 11:00 a.m. | Akashi Asian Bistro
This bistro, located at 15250 TX-105, Montgomery, is known for blending Japanese and Chinese flavors in their food. Join us for a delicious meal. To make a reservation contact Roberta Duncan at 713.775.3030 no later than Monday, May 5.
WOODFOREST BOOK CLUB
Thursday, May 15 | 11:30 a.m. | WF Campus
In May, we will review The Door to Door Bookstore by Carsten Henn. If you would like to read ahead, in June we will review The Duzy House of Mourning by Ka Hancock. No registration required. For more information about this group, contact Diane Oakley, 936.701.8067
ADULT GAME NIGHT
Friday, May 23 | 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
In 2025 our fitness classes will meet Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Monday, May 5 and 19 | 10:00 a.m. | WF Classroom
This support group is for caregivers of family and friends with chronic, long-term or terminal illness. For more information about this group, contact Angela Street at 281.723.6819
The Woodlands Chorale 7:00 p.m. Christ Church Methodist
Happy Mothers Day
TWMC CLOSED
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, May 9 | 11:30 a.m. | Tuscany Italian Grill
To make a reservation contact Donna Carr at 936.443.6748 or Sally Tinsman at 936.499.9687 by Monday, May 5.
WALDEN WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY AND FELLOWSHIP
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.
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 | 281.822.8182
The Church at Montgomery | 281.297.5900
Covenant Church at Creekside | 832.510.4823
SPOTLIGHT
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7
11:15 a.m. | Wesley Hall
Miles Pike will be returning to entertain us with his incredible five-octave range! He’ll be performing songs from his new album, bringing his signature talent and passion to the stage. Don’t miss out on this amazing performance!
55+
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
*Friday, May 9 and 16 | 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, May 2, due to a Missions conference.
SUMMER GRIEF SHARE SESSIONS
13 weeks beginning May 1, 2025
This course explains both the spiritual and practical issues of grief and suggests specific strategies to guide you back to fullness of life.
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 is offering 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!
The Woodlands Methodist Church 2200 Lake Woodlands Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380
