Adults 55+ Monthly Outlook: April 2024

ADULTS 55+ MONTHLY OUTLOOK

PREPARING FOR NEW GROWTH

by Dr. Stew Grant, Pastor of Marriage and Family Ministries

I was sitting in my preaching class at Asbury almost 30 years ago now. But it was yesterday in my mind. Dr. Ellsworth Kalas was walking us through how to preach a parable with integrity. He was very reflective of his vast experiences in the pulpit. He rarely had to look down at his Scriptures. And he pulled us along within his reflections so that by the end of his concise sermon, we were effortlessly on a trajectory of growth.

He used the parables of the soils (Matthew 13:3-9; Luke 8:4-15; Mark 4:3-12). He did not use them in the traditional sense but from the reflective heart of a man who knew the struggles of each spiritual soil therein. As a way of using his reflective viewpoint rather than precept, Dr. Kalas shared that from his vantage there were times he could see his own hard heart as that of the beaten pathway. There were times that thorns of this world seemed enticing but led to pain and scars. He continued that he could see the times where deep issues of his own heart led to shallow decisions and deep-rooted growth did not occur, so ministry dreams and efforts dried up and died. And he finally said there were times when ministry was an abundant blessing — so much so, that attribution belonged to God alone and that he was a witness who was able to enjoy the fruition.

The reflective message he titled “Seasons of the Soil.” He was careful not to offer this as any replacement to an explanation that Jesus clearly gives us in the Synoptic Gospels. So, I will do the same. Scripture explains Scripture. Yet, his reflection also reminded me that we do have hope whenever we find ourselves in any of these soiled conditions (pun intended) and, as many farmers know, all soil is redeemable. It is the same for us with the work of the Holy Spirit. He softens our hearts. He convicts us of our worldly temptations. He wrestles with our issues buried deep within us. He does this to prepare us for growth.

My wife and I spent a little time at her family farm this past month. Things are turning green coming out of the winter into spring. Farmers are preparing their fields for sowing. Absent are worldly trappings that metro areas provide in abundance. Ironically, new thorns were growing where we had spent days in the fall removing. The world and its thorns will always encroach without maintenance. Also, emerging from the sandy river soil was a piece of petrified wood on the driving path used some 50-60 years before it presented itself. Issues of the heart have a way of coming to the surface after many years. That is also hope. God loves improving us.

Preparing for growth requires reflection. We cannot project in positive, life-giving ways without an assessment of our struggles. If we do not do the hard work of reflection (reconciliation, repentance and forgiveness), we may carry issues far into the future. We may harden our hearts. We may be enticed by worldly alternatives. But good soil receives God’s Word and grows without resistance and without struggle. Good hearts receive daily the refreshment by the Holy Spirit to prevent any hardening of the spiritual heart. Good hearts may not be able to remove the world’s thorny encroachment, but good hearts place effective boundaries to keep the thorns at a distance. Let our hearts be continually cultivated into good soil.

WHY ARE YOU WEEPING?

by Rev. Chris McLain, Pastor of Caring and Adults 55+ Ministry

I wanted to start this devotional with Ecclesiastes, chapter three, which talks about how there is “a time” for everything. Instead, I thought I would keep us in the New Testament when Jesus speaks to Mary Magdalene in chapter 20 of John’s Gospel. Jesus looks at Mary and says the same thing the angels said to her just moments before, “Why are you weeping?” I love that neither one of them is trying to make Mary self-conscious of her emotions, but they are doing something even greater.

I’m sure that once Mary understands why Jesus’ body is not lying cold behind the stone there are tears of joy, wonder and amazement. We, like Mary, have experienced trauma throughout life. We’ve grieved, mourned and felt abandoned and some have had close battles with death. The question of the angels and Jesus is poignant. It rearticulates everything:

Death to resurrection, Mourning to wonder, Ambiguity to clarity, And, finally, the unknown of the cross to the hope of an empty tomb.

Remember in February when we were told we were ash? Now you are told there is a future where sadness, mourning and even the grave have no sting!

So, child of the Risen Christ, let me ask you, “Why are you [still] weeping?”

SPOTLIGHT

At Woodforest we hosted the Jim Sloan Trio bluegrass band. They performed some amazing hymns for us.

SINGLES 55+ AND SINGLE LIFE WIDOWS

The Singles 55+ and Single Life Widows group got together for two outings, Ordinary Angels and lunch at The Goose’s Acre Bistro.

2024 Travel Opportunities

• IRELAND | October 2024

Registration deadline is July 8.

• HISTORIC SAVANNAH AND CHARLESTON HOLIDAY TOUR | December 2024

Registration deadline is June 9.

• CHRISTMAS ON THE DANUBE | December 2025

Save the date for a trip preview meeting on Sunday, June 9, at 10:30 a.m. in Room B203.

View the itineraries at twmc.org/adults55

Upcoming Day Trips

DUELING PIANOS BRUNCH

Sunday, April 7

1:00 p.m. | Oak Ridge North

Join us for brunch at Two Tones Dueling Piano Bar at 27832 I-45 North, Oak Ridge North 77385. Register online.

SAVE THE DATE

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

MAY 02

BUDDY: THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY

Sunday, April 14

2:00 p.m. | Crighton Theatre

Buddy Holly is renowned as a pioneer of rock and roll. The Buddy Holly Story tells the story of his three-year journey toward becoming one of the top recording artists in the world. Come celebrate the humor, ambition, charm and sheer talent that was Buddy Holly. Cost is $23 per person. Dinner after the show is dutch.

LIBRARY AND GARDENS TOUR

Thursday, April 18

Depart TWMC 9:00 a.m.

Join us for a tour of Lanier Theological Library. While we are there, we will worship in the Stone Chapel. Lunch is at Campioni Italian restaurant. After lunch we will stop at Mercer Botanic Gardens where you can rest in the shade or take a short tour with the docent. The cost for this outing is $45. Lunch is dutch.

HOUSTON ASTROS VS. LOS ANGELES ANGELS

Wednesday, May 22

1:10 p.m. | Depart TWMC 11:00 a.m.

Join us to cheer on the Houston Astros. All seats are in section 131. Cost is $105 per person.

MAY 05

Thursday, May 2 | Noon

Robb Chapel

Join us as we celebrate The National Day of Prayer. We will unite our hearts around the theme: Lift Up the Word – Light Up the World (2 Samuel 22: 29-31) as we pray and lift up our national, state and local leaders before God’s throne room as a community of faith.

ALWAYS IN OUR HEARTS

Sunday, May 5 | 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.

CRAFT CIRCLE

Bring your time and talents and join our Craft Circle teams. All proceeds go to support our local and global missions funding efforts.

THE WOODLANDS CAMPUS

This group meets Tuesdays at 9:30 a.m. in the Loft Building.

THE WOODFOREST CAMPUS

Our Woodforest group meets on the second and fourth Thursday at 1:00 p.m. in the Woodforest gym.

FOUNDATION LUNCHEON

Thursday, May 16

11:30 a.m. | Wesley Hall

Join us for the Foundation Luncheon with guest speaker Dr. Todd D. Still, Dean of Baylor University’s George W. Truett Theological Seminary. We hope you’ll come hear how our gifts to the Foundation are making an impact.

Leaving a legacy can be a testament of your faith to your family and others. Our Foundation gives members a pathway to do this as it plays a pivotal role in securing a brighter tomorrow for our church through new initiatives, missions, church multiplication, education and resources, and scholarships. We hope you will join us to learn more about our Foundation and how it’s impacting our vision now and for years to come.

More information and registration available via twmc.org/foundation

THE WOODLANDS CAMPUS

MIDWEEK PRAYER ROOM

Every Wednesday | Noon | Robb Chapel God invites us to draw near to Him throughout the day so that we might rest in His presence. Join us as we approach God through worship, prayer and His Word.

THE GATHERING PLACE

Tuesday, April 2 | 10:00 a.m. | Jones Library*

Join us this month for a springtime theme. The Gathering Place is a ministry for adults who have been diagnosed with early to moderate dementia. It provides an opportunity for caregivers to find a respite while their loved one enjoys music, art and entertainment on the first Monday of each month. If you would like to volunteer your time, contact Pam Baker at 832.381.4514. *Note the change in meeting place.

MAH JONGG GAME DAY

Thursdays, April 4 and 18 | 2:00 p.m. | Room B204

Join us to play Mah Jongg. Beginners or 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. Register online. For more information, contact Glenda Hudson at 281.367.9155

SINGLE LIFE WIDOWS

Join us for these April activities:

Friday, April 5 – Sakekawa Sushi Hibachi Bar

Friday, April 26 – Movie matinee and lunch at Toasted Yolk Register for these events online.

ADULT GAME NIGHT

Friday, April 12 | 6:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Join us for a night of fun, fellowship and games. The cost is $1 per person. Bring a dish to share. All are welcome. For more information, contact Karen Freeman at 858.204.0012

PEGGY’S BOOK CLUB

Tuesday, April 16 | Noon | Infant Care Room*

Join us this month to review Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus. In May we will review Astor by Anderson Cooper. For more information, contact Libby Heintz at 936.271.7660 or Kathy Wisenbaker at wisenbaker@sbcglobal.net *Please note room change.

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY MEETING

Friday, April 26 | 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

WOODLANDS CAMERA CLUB

Saturday, April 27 | 10:00 a.m. | Zoom

In place of our April general meeting, we will be having a Zoom presentation where Sean Bagshaw will be speaking to us on “Favorite Techniques in Photoshop.” Sean is a landscape/ travel photographer whose images have been exhibited in the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, the Burke Museum, Bohemia Gallery, Hanson Howard Gallery and others. Email info@thewoodlandscameraclub if you would like to attend.

FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS

Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays | 9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

All levels of fitness welcome. No registration required.

MEN’S BOOK STUDY

2nd and 4th Wednesday | 10:00 a.m. | Room C217-A

Join us for a discussion on a new 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 281.826.3232 or jbarney177@gmail.com

GOLDENAIRES CHOIR

Rehearsals Every Wednesday | 2:30 p.m. | Choir Room

The Goldenaires are a 55+ adult choir who love to share fellowship through music. Singing both sacred and secular music, we sing four times a year at the 8:30 a.m. Chapel service as well as many performances in the community. For more information, contact Ed Wandling at 281.788.9880 or Louise Kramer at louise.kramer917@gmail.com

CLASS NEWS

FEED THE HUNGER KATY PACKATHON

The Perspectives Class made their annual trek to Katy to volunteer at the Feed the Hunger Packathon. This organization feeds the local community as well as at-risk children nationally and internationally.

WOODLANDS LUNCH BUNCH

Tuesday, April 9 | 11:00 a.m. | Pit-Master Bar-B-Que

The Friendship Class is meeting at Pit-Master Bar-B-Que, 343 Sawdust Road, The Woodlands 77380. All are welcome. To make a reservation call Dee Megee at 281.793.6622 by Monday, April 8.

FRIENDSHIP CLASS MANNA BAG PROJECT

Thursday, April 18 | 2:00 p.m. | Allen Parlor

The Friendship Class comes together to assemble snack bags for the 1960 Hope Center.

SPOTLIGHT

MONDAY, APRIL 22 | 11:00 A.M. | WOODFOREST WORSHIP COST: $12 PER PERSON

Spotlight is at our Woodforest Campus this month. We are hosting the S.L.E.D. Barbershop Quartet. This group is well known in Houston and the surrounding area. Registration deadline is Friday, April 19

Register at twmc.org/adults55

WOODFOREST CAMPUS

WOODFOREST LUNCH BUNCH

Thursday, April 11 | 11:00 a.m. | Joe’s Italian

Joe’s Italian is a family owned and operated local favorite located at 1604 N Frazier Street, Conroe 77301. To make a reservation contact Roberta Duncan at 713.775.3030 no later than Monday, April 8.

WOODFOREST BOOK CLUB

Thursday, April 18 | 11:30 a.m. | WF Campus

Join us to review The Mystery of Mrs. Christie by Marie Benedict. In May we will review Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See. No registration required. For more information about this group, contact Diane Oakley at 936.701.8067

*The

MARCH

TWMC Closed Easter Monday

The Gathering Place

10:00 a.m. | Jones Library

WF Fit for Life Fitness

8:30 a.m. | WF Gym

WF Line Dancing

11:00 a.m. | WF Gym

Dueling Pianos

1:00 p.m.

Two Tones Piano Bar

Fit for Life Fitness

9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Shepherd Care Quarterly Meeting

10:00 a.m. | Jones Library

Fit for Life Fitness

9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Men’s Book Study

10:00 a.m. | C217-A

Midweek Prayer Room Noon | Robb Chapel

WF Fit for Life Fitness

8:30 a.m. | WF Gym

Loss of Spouse 1:00 p.m. | Jones Library

Mah Jongg 2:00 p.m. | B204

WF Fit for Life Fitness

8:30 a.m. | WF Gym

WF Lunch Bunch

11:00 a.m. | Joe’s Italian

Fit for Life Fitness

9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Caregivers Support Group

11:00 a.m. | Otterbein

Single Life Widows

Sakekawa

Fit for Life Fitness

9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Adult Game Night

6:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall

WF Fit for Life Fitness

8:30 a.m. | WF Gym

Fit for Life Fitness

Library and Gardens Tour

Fit for Life Fitness

Buddy Holly

2:00 p.m. | Crighton Theatre

| WF Classroom

Fit for Life Fitness

9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall Spotlight

11:00 a.m. | WF Worship

9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Midweek Prayer Room Noon | Robb Chapel

Departs TWMC at 9:00 a.m.

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

Fit for Life Fitness

Fit for Life Fitness

9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Men’s Book Study

10:00 a.m. | C217-A

Midweek Prayer Room Noon | Robb Chapel

WF Fit for Life Fitness

8:30 a.m. | WF Gym

9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Prayer Shawl Ministry Meeting

10:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor

Single Life Widows

Movie and Toasted Yolk

Adult Game Night

6:00 p.m. | WF Worship Prayer Conference

9:00 a.m. | Harvest Worship

The Woodlands Camera Club 10:00 a.m. | Zoom

Fit for Life Fitness

9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Men’s Night

6:30 p.m.

Harvest Worship Center

WOODFOREST CAMPUS

ADULT GAME NIGHT

Friday, April 26 | 6:00 p.m. | WF Worship

We have added Mah Jongg to our game night lineup! Join us for Mexican Train, 42 or Hand and Foot. Bring a snack to share. The cost of this event is $1 per person. No registration required. For more information contact Teri Rossi at 281.297.5935

FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS

Tuesdays and Thursdays | 8:30 a.m. | WF Gym

All levels of fitness welcome. No registration required.

WELCOME to our friends from 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

Tuesday, April 9 | 11:30 a.m. | El Bosque Mexican Restaurant

To make a reservation contact Donna Carr at 936.443.6748 or Sally Tinsman at 936.499.9687 by Monday, April 8.

LINE DANCING

Tuesdays | 11:00 a.m. | WF Gym

The Line Dancing started a new session on Tuesday, March 12, and will go through April 29. The cost of this class is $10 for an eight-week session. Register online.

SUPPORT

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP

Monday, April 15 | 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 WOODLANDS METHODIST CHURCH

ADULTS 55+

The Woodlands Methodist Church 2200 Lake Woodlands Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77380

RESOURCE CORNER

Thursday, April 4 | 1:00 p.m. |

PRAYER MINISTRY

If you or your family would like prayer, prayer teams are available after each of the services, or you can contact Dylan Meeker with our Prayer Ministry at 281.466.8661

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

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.

SUPPORT

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP

Friday, April 5 | 11:00 a.m. | Otterbein B106*

Friday, April 19 | 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. *Note room change.

COMPUTER SUPPORT MINISTRY

If you need computer support, contact Jerry Barney at 281.826.3232 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.

SHEPHERD CARE

Shepherd Care is a ministry of friendship for our members who are in local nursing homes or private residences. Shepherds and new Lambs are always welcome. 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.

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!

LOSS OF SPOUSE

Jones Library Register online.