At The Woodlands Methodist Church, we often say that missions is the heartbeat of our church. But that heartbeat does not begin with a program, a trip or a project. It begins with Jesus.
In John 15:4-5 (ESV), Jesus says, “Abide in me, and I in you … I am the vine; you are the branches.” Before we go, we remain. Before we serve, we abide. Before we reach out to the world, we first receive the love of Christ for ourselves. Missions is not simply about doing more for God. It is about living so closely connected to Jesus that His heart begins to shape our own.
And the heart of Jesus is always moving toward the one.
This fall, during Missions Month, our theme will be Find the One, based on Jesus’ parable in Luke 15. Jesus tells the story of a shepherd who has 100 sheep, but when one is missing, he does not shrug and say, “Well, 99 is still pretty good.” He notices the absence. He feels the loss. And He goes looking for the one until He finds it.
That is the heart of God.
God sees the one who feels forgotten. He notices the one who has wandered. He moves toward the one who feels invisible. And when the lost one is found, heaven rejoices.
This is also the invitation of missions. We do not serve because people are projects to be fixed. We serve because people are beloved children of God to be seen, known and welcomed. Our mission partnerships, both local and global, are built on this conviction: that every person carries the image of God, every story matters, and every act of prayer, generosity and presence can become a signpost pointing someone toward the love of Jesus.
Sometimes “finding the one” looks like supporting a missionary serving in a difficult part of the world. Sometimes it looks like encouraging a local ministry partner who is faithfully caring for our neighbors. Sometimes it looks like joining a mission trip, giving financially, praying faithfully or serving quietly behind the scenes.
And sometimes it is much closer than we think.
It may be the person sitting alone in worship. The widower whose house feels too quiet. The neighbor who is carrying more than they can say. The new person in class who is wondering if there is room for them. The family who needs help, dignity and hope.
Missions Month is coming this fall, but we do not have to wait until then to begin living with the heart of the Shepherd. We can begin today by asking a simple question:
Who is the one God is asking me to notice?
May we be a church that abides deeply in Christ, walks humbly with our partners and keeps making room at the table until the whole world knows the love of Jesus.
TIME TO SERVE
by Rev. Chris McLain, Pastor of Caring and Adults
55+ Ministry HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY!
If you are looking for a couple of easy reads this summer, you may want to pick up two older books by Mitch Albom entitled The Five People You Meet in Heaven (his most famous) and Have a Little Faith I am currently revisiting the latter, and it is a great reminder of this truth:
All too often, humans spend too much time evaluating and not enough time doing.
In Have a Little Faith, Mitch spends a good amount of time with a Christian pastor who has a ministry for people who are “down on their luck.” Poor, homeless, addicted, hungry, disabled and discouraged are only some of the monikers attributed to the pastor’s flock. The author spends 55% of the book evaluating the plight of the ministry, the people, the buildings, and the pastor. I am not going to spoil the ending, but let’s just say the author is moved to action, and it impacts an entire community.
Mark 2:1-12 tells the story of four men who take action to change the life of just one man. They do this by lowering him through the roof of a house and placing him at the feet of Jesus. While I’m sure the men were only thinking about their friend getting healed, in doing so, word spreads like wildfire, and the power of Jesus impacts an entire community.
As we look forward to another summer, take some time and learn how you can serve this upcoming season.
If you are a member of the church, our next Congregational Care Ministry training will be in Wesley Hall on two consecutive Sundays, August 16 and 23, from 12:30 – 3:00 p.m. You can register at twmc.org/caring
The time for evaluating is over. The time to serve is now.
SAVE THE DATE
STAR-SPANGLED SALUTE TO AMERICA
Friday, July 3 | 8:00 p.m.
Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Star-Spangled Salute has become a beloved Woodlands tradition. Celebrate our nation’s freedom with an evening of patriotic music in tribute to our nation’s heroes, brought to you by the Houston Symphony. Register for this free event, listed under “Time for Fun” online, and meet us at The Pavilion at 7:00 to get your reserved seat.
HOUSTON ASTROS VS. MIAMI MARLINS
Tuesday, July 21 | 7:10 p.m. Game
Daikin Park
Get ready for a fun-filled evening of baseball, hot dogs, and great company as the Houston Astros take on the Miami Marlins! The cost of the event is $118 per person (includes transportation and game ticket). Register for this event, listed under “Time for Fun” online.
SPOTLIGHT 90+ CELEBRATION
Monday, August 3 | 11:15 a.m. | Wesley Hall
Join us as we celebrate our members who are 90 years young and older! We would like to treat these members to lunch and an afternoon featuring the Goldenaires singing favorite songs from the ‘60s. Guests are welcome to attend for $12 per person. Honorees eat free! We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
SPACE CENTER HOUSTON
Tuesday, August 11 | 8:30 a.m.
Join us for an exciting day at Space Center Houston, featuring a four-hour, self-guided tour of one of Houston’s most popular attractions. Explore Independence Plaza with its fullscale Space Shuttle, tour artifact galleries, or enjoy The Moonwalkers, a short documentary narrated by Tom Hanks. Lunch will be available on-site and is a dutch treat. The cost is $45 per person. You can register online under “Time for Fun.”
THE WOODLANDS CAMPUS
WOODLANDS LUNCH BUNCH
Tuesday, July 14 | 11:00 a.m. | Fielding’s Wood Grill
Fielding’s Wood Grill is located at 1699 Research Forest Drive in The Woodlands. Bring a friend — all are welcome. Make a reservation with Dee Megee at 281.793.6622 by Monday, July 13.
WOODFOREST
CAMPUS
WOODFOREST LUNCH BUNCH
Thursday, July 9 | 11:00 a.m. | Citizen’s Grill
Join us at Citizen’s Grill, a casual, upscale eatery. This restaurant is located at FM1488, 315 Enclave Drive, Old Conroe Road Suite 300. To make a reservation, contact Roberta Duncan at 713.775.3030 no later than Monday, July 6.
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Monday, July 6 and 20 | 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, contact Angela Street at 281.723.6819.
MONTGOMERY CAMPUS
MONTGOMERY LUNCH BUNCH
Friday, July 10 | 11:30 a.m. | Big Sombrero
Join us for delicious, classic Tex-Mex cuisine.. This restaurant is located at 19402 Hwy 105W, Montgomery. To make a reservation, contact Donna Carr at 936.443.6748 or Sally Tinsman at 936.499.9687 by Monday, July 6.
WALDEN WOMEN’S GROUP
Women of the Church at Montgomery are invited to join Linda Bench and others for Bible study and fellowship every Monday evening. Currently, the group is studying Finding I Am by Lysa TerKeurst. All women are welcome. For more information, including the location, contact Linda Bench at 281.536.2652
CREEKSIDE CAMPUS
GAME NIGHT AT CREEKSIDE
Register for these events at twmc.org/adults55
Friday, July 3 | 6:00 p.m. | Gathering Room
Join us for fun and fellowship. Feel free to bring your favorite game. For more information, contact Vicki Judice at 832.444.1492.
DISCOVERING AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY HERITAGE
Eighteen members of our church recently participated in the “Discover America’s 250th Anniversary” tour, visiting historic sites that played vital roles in our nation’s founding.
Our journey began in Boston, where we explored locations connected to the American Revolution and gained a deeper appreciation for the courage of the founders. We then traveled to West Point, New York, home of the U.S. Military Academy, to learn about the history and service of America’s military leaders.
Our tour concluded in Pennsylvania with visits to sites associated with the Declaration of Independence and the birth of our nation. Along the way, we enjoyed wonderful fellowship, meaningful learning experiences, and lasting memories, returning home with a renewed appreciation for America’s heritage and values.
MEMBERS ENJOY AN EVENING WITH BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL
Thirty-three members recently gathered for a memorable evening in downtown Houston to attend Beautiful: The Carole King Musical at Theatre Under the Stars.
The production brought the remarkable story of Carole King to life, sharing her journey from a young songwriter to a legendary music icon. Members especially enjoyed learning the stories behind many of the hit songs she wrote throughout her extraordinary career. The performance was filled with energy, nostalgia, and music that had everyone singing along and reminiscing.
Following the show, the group continued the evening with dinner at Pappasito’s Cantina for Mexican food and great conversation.
The outing provided a wonderful opportunity for fellowship, entertainment, and shared memories with friends, making it a fantastic evening enjoyed by all.
TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES
ISLANDS OF NEW ENGLAND
June 2027
2027
View itineraries at twmc.org/adults55
This is an eight-day guided tour with Collette Travel Agency and includes an optional two-night Boston post-tour extension. A perfect blend of culture, history and coastal beauty is waiting for you.
Preview Meeting: August 6, 2026
Registration Deadline: December 4, 2026
View itineraries at twmc.org/adults55
SCOTLAND
September 2027
This unforgettable nine-day guided journey explores the beauty, history and charm of Scotland. Along the way, you’ll enjoy thoughtfully planned stops in iconic destinations such as Edinburgh and Glasgow, take in the breathtaking scenery of Loch Lomond, and experience a memorable cruise on the legendary Loch Ness.
AN INTERVIEW WITH A LIVING LEGACY –IN THEIR OWN WORDS
By Linda Allen and Anita Combs, Congregational Care Members 90+
Arlene Holden lived a life of resilience and generosity in her almost 96 years this side of Heaven. Having outlived three husbands, she is remembered by her daughter, Gayle Kuoni, for her steadfast philosophy: “She spoke to the need of picking yourself up and looking to the future, to do what you can to help others.”
With two daughters, eight grandchildren, and 32 great-grandchildren, she instilled wisdom and a love for her country in each. Arlene was born April 26, 1930, in Pittsburgh and graduated magna cum laude with a degree in English and fine arts. Her passions were family, community, faith, and nature. She held numerous positions of influence in her daughters’ schools and within the community. After losing her daughter, Lerryn, to cancer, and facing her own battle with breast cancer alongside her daughter Gayle, she established “The Sister Funds” at MD Anderson— four endowed funds supporting cancer research and patient wellness initiatives. Yet, when asked about her accomplishments, Arlene did not mention her many positions and organizations.
She was most proud of striving to be a good citizen, being honest, and helping her family and others. Gayle recalls her mother was “really sweet, really kind, and never complained. She was always busy thinking of what she could do next.” In her later years, Arlene helped establish and support church services at The Village. TWMC’s Caring and Prayer Ministry and the personal visits from Pastor David Lindwall were blessings of vital connection for her. Arlene passed peacefully April 4, 2026. Her legacy of faith and service continues to impact future generations.
ADULTS 55+ ENJOY THE ASTROS GAME
On June 4, 36 members of our Adults 55+ group gathered for an exciting evening at a Houston Astros game. The outing provided a wonderful opportunity for fellowship and fun as everyone enjoyed America’s pastime together. We look forward to more group events in the months ahead!
GOSPEL HOUR
Sunday, July 19 | 5:00 p.m. | Sanctuary
Bishop Bob Hayes and worship leader David McKenery, along with the Spiritwind Band, invite you to the Gospel Hour on Sunday, July 19, at 5:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary. We welcome back our Chancel Choir for a time of fellowship as we praise the Lord with music and song, and afterward enjoy a community dinner in Wesley Hall to celebrate summer. For more information, visit twmc.org/music-fine-arts
WOODLANDS LUNCH BUNCH ENJOYS MAGNOLIA GATHERING
The Woodlands Lunch Bunch met on May 12 at B’LVD (Beloved) Café in Magnolia, Texas, where they enjoyed a delightful lunch featuring homemade cuisine.
WOODFOREST LUNCH BUNCH GATHERS FOR LAKESIDE
DINING
The Woodforest Lunch Bunch gathered on May 14 at Papa’s on the Lake in Conroe, Texas, where they enjoyed great food, fellowship, and beautiful lakeside views. The event was well attended, with 25 members joining in the fun and camaraderie. The excellent turnout made for a lively and enjoyable afternoon of conversation and connection.
The Woodlands Methodist Church is pleased to welcome Anita Willis as our new Adult 55+ Ministry Coordinator.
Anita brings a heart for ministry, a passion for serving others, and a wealth of leadership experience to her new role. Throughout the years, she has been actively involved in church ministry, including planning large women’s conferences, coordinating volunteers, serving on praise and worship teams, and participating in children’s ministry. She also currently leads a neighborhood women’s Bible study in the Woodforest community.
As the Adults 55+ Care Coordinator, Anita will focus on supporting and coordinating Adult 55+ activities, assisting groups and volunteers, producing newsletters, and coordinating funeral and memorial services. Her desire is to help create meaningful opportunities for connection, care and spiritual growth within our church family.
Before joining The Woodlands Methodist Church, Anita served as a program and project manager, specializing in process improvement for one of the nation’s largest healthcare companies. During that season, she began to sense God’s calling toward full-time ministry. Today, she is grateful for the opportunity to answer that call and looks forward to serving alongside the congregation in this meaningful work.
Outside of church, Anita enjoys spending time with her husband, Jim, their children, extended family, and many friends. Her favorite hobbies include flower gardening, painting, and enjoying live music throughout the community. Please join us in giving Anita a warm welcome. She is excited to be part of The Woodlands Methodist Church family and looks forward to getting to know many of you in the months ahead.
WALK WITH SOMEONE AS THEY SAY “YES”
Serving as a New Member Host
Few moments in church life are as meaningful as welcoming someone into the church family. As a New Member Host, you have the opportunity to walk alongside individuals or couples as they take this important step of faith and commitment.
Following worship, Hosts spend about 20 minutes guiding new members through the joining process with a warm, welcoming presence, helping them feel supported. Shadow training is provided, allowing you to learn from an experienced Host before serving on your own.
This ministry is rooted in hospitality, creating a space where people feel seen, valued, and at home. Whether sharing in someone’s excitement or offering reassurance during a more emotional moment, Hosts play a meaningful role in helping people connect with the church community.
If you have a listening ear, a welcoming spirit, and a desire to serve, consider becoming a New Member Host. Be part of someone’s “yes.”
Contact Deb King, your Connections Director, at 281.297.5963
RESOURCE CORNER
PRAYER MINISTRY
If you or your family would like prayer, prayer teams are available after each of the services, or you can contact Margarita McCarthy with our Prayer Ministry at 281.822.8250.
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 them, 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
prayer and care
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Fridays, July 10 and 17 | 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 Ned Dean at 713.578.0146.
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. You can also contact John to volunteer.
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP
Friday, July 10 | 10:00 a.m. | Hayes Hall
Join the Low Vision Support group on July 10 in Hayes Hall. This group welcomes those who are blind or experiencing vision loss, as well as caregivers seeking support and shared insights. For more information, go to twmc.org/support groups
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