by Rev. Chris McLain, Pastor of Caring and Adults 55+ Ministry
The final stanza of the great hymn Comfort, Comfort Ye My People is as follows:
O make straight what long was crooked, Make the rougher places plain; Let your hearts be true and humble, As befits his holy reign. For the glory of the Lord Now o’er earth is shed abroad; And all flesh shall see the token That his word is never broken.
Given the turmoil that persists in our world and in our hearts from day to day, we still have a great need for Jesus to arrive.
As we stand on our tiptoes to peer into the dank and dingy manger where the Son of God rests, we then recognize we have a need for Him to take hold of our fleshly ways. As we make our way to the front and our feet sit flatly on the floor, we all of a sudden feel the need to kneel. Upon doing so, we see Jesus. Even in His newborn, infant state, from out of the straw, Jesus peers deeply into our eyes and calls us to the path of truth and humility and the words of Jeremiah 23 ring in your ear:
“I myself, [the Lord] will gather the remnant of my flock out of all the countries where I have driven them and will bring them back to their pasture, where they will be fruitful and increase in number. I will place shepherds over them who will tend them, and they will no longer be afraid or terrified, nor will any be missing.” (vs.3-4)
How often do we pridefully travel the crooked path only to realize that it is not the way Jesus has called us to? For some, it is a challenge to our sedentary, comfortable life. Jesus calls us to be people of action, stepping out in faith to use our gifts. For others, it is a call to slow down and listen intently to the Holy Spirit. Also, there are those to whom God is saying, “Feast, on my word.” He is calling you back to the pasture and to seek the kingdom’s ways of living.
Advent is a time where we refocus on God’s incredible provision by zooming out thousands of years and seeing God’s plan of salvation made manifest — a plan that assures us that we will not need to live a terrified or fearful life and we won’t be counted as the “missing.” Instead, we will be counted among the found.
You and I have once again been offered a gift — the gift to start again, to walk in the light and acknowledge our missteps. We are being given the gift to proclaim the final words of this hymn not only through our voices in worship but also through actions that affirm our belief in God’s holy plan “that his word is never broken.”
Happy Advent and Merry Christmas from the McLains!
CELEBRATE THE SEASON
Christmas is a season filled with joy — from the gatherings to the gifts, from the lights to the music. But the true joy of Christmas is Jesus. Let’s embrace that joy and let it fill our hearts, our homes and our communities.
This Christmas, celebrate the joy of the season with us at The Woodlands Methodist Church on our four campuses in The Woodlands, Woodforest, Montgomery and Creekside. “Let every heart prepare Him room” as we rejoice in God’s gift to us all — Jesus.
We offer a variety of services to meet the needs of the community.
• Family Christmas service
• Special needs family worship
• Traditional candlelight worship
• Casual/contemporary candlelight worship
• A special service for those who are grieving
Services are in person and online. Scan the QR code for a full schedule of services and events.
We spent nine beautiful days in Ireland. Some of the highlights included St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College in Dublin to view the Book of Kells, the House of Waterford, the Blarney Castle, and the Gallarus oratory on the Dingle peninsula. We visited the Ennis Friary, Kylemore Abbey in Connemara and the Cliffs of Moher.
TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES 2025
TROPICAL COSTA RICA
September
Registration deadline: March 8, 2025
Final payment due: July 17, 2025
View itineraries at twmc.org/adults55
CHRISTMAS ON THE DANUBE
December
Registration deadline: November 27, 2024
Final payment due: August 5, 2025
A TEXAS CAROL PART DEUX
Sunday, December 1
Depart TWMC 12:30 p.m. | 2:00 p.m. show
Join us for a fun afternoon at the A.D. Players Theater with East Texas’ favorite family and a zany look into how the holidays can bring families together. The cost is $70 per person (includes ticket and bus fare). Dinner after the show is dutch.
CARING MINISTRY EVENTS
CHRISTMAS WITHOUT THEM
Sunday, December 22 | 6:00 p.m. | Robb Chapel
Worship with others mourning a loved one at Christmas Without Them. This special service is designed for those who have experienced a loss during the past year. Holy Communion will be served.
LOSS OF SPOUSE SEMINAR
Sunday, January 5 | 2:00 p.m. | Woodforest Classroom
Tuesday, January 14 | 1:00 p.m. | Jones Library
People who are widowed haven’t just lost a loved one — they’ve lost an entire lifestyle. To prepare for Grief Share support group, attend this two-hour seminar. Registration required.
2025 GRIEF SHARE SUPPORT GROUP
Sundays | 3:00 p.m. | Beginning January 5
Mondays | 6:00 p.m. | Beginning January 6
Tuesdays| 1:00 p.m. | Beginning January 21
Tuesdays | 6:00 p.m. | Beginning January 21
Grief Share Support Group is a 13-week small group experience that navigates the challenges of grief. This course explains both the spiritual and practical issues of grief and suggests specific strategies to guide you back to fullness of life. Grief Share Group Cost: $20. Scholarships are available. Register for these groups online.
US Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus
We attended the U.S. Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus for an evening of outstanding music honoring the armed services.
SPOTLIGHT
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8
11:15 a.m. | Wesley Hall
Join us in kicking off the New Year with a special performance by Bennie Wheels as Johnny Cash. Bennie tours the U.S. performing as Johnny Cash. The cost of this special performance is $15 per person. Register for this event online.
WOODLANDS SPOTLIGHT
In October we hosted Doc Holiday and Friends for a jazz set. We were blessed by the beautiful music by Doc and this talented band.
THE WOODLANDS CAMPUS
*NEW* COMMUNITY OUTREACH
We offer worship services and Holy Communion at assisted living communities at the following locations: The Village, The Conservatory, Avanti and The Forum. If you would like to join us, contact Rev. David Lindwall at dlindwall@twmc.org or Karen Williams at aggiemom43@hotmail.com
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
Monday, December 2 | 10:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Join us this month for a Christmas celebration. The Gathering Place is a ministry for adults who have mild to moderate dementia. If you would like to volunteer your time, contact Pam Baker at 832.381.4514.
WOODLANDS CAMERA CLUB
Monday, December 2 | 7:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Join the The Woodlands Camera Club for our Christmas Celebration. The Woodlands Men’s Chorus will be performing and Kathy Adams Clark will be discussing photographic creativity. She will discuss how elements can enhance a photograph. This program is designed for photographers of all levels.
MAH JONGG GAME DAY
Thursdays, December 5 and 19 | 2:00 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.
SINGLE LIFE WIDOWS
Friday, December 13 - Christmas Party
Check our webpage for activities.
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY MEETING
Friday, December 13 | 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
PEGGY’S BOOK CLUB
Tuesday, December 17 | Noon | Allen Parlor
Join us this month for a holiday celebration. For more information contact Libby Heintz at 936.271.7660 or Kathy Wisenbaker at wisenbaker@sbcglobal.net
*NEW* CASUAL BRIDGE
First Friday of Every Month | 1:00 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
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. For more information contact Ed Wandling at 281.788.9880 or Louise Kramer at louise.kramer917@gmail.com
FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays | 9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Fitness is taking a break beginning Monday, December 23 – Friday, January 3. Join us for our kickoff event on Monday, January 6.
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. For more information about this group, contact Jerry Barney at 281.826.3232 or jbarney177@gmail.com
*Only meeting on December 11 this month.
*NEW* TWMC BOWLING FUN LEAGUE
Second Monday Night of Each Month
7:00 p.m. | Bowlero
Wear your holiday shirt! 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 281.455.9073.
ADULT GAME NIGHT
Second Friday of Each Month
We are taking a break this month. We’ll see you in the new year. For more information, contact Karen Freeman at 858.204.0012.
CLASS NEWS
WOODLANDS LUNCH BUNCH
Tuesday, December 10 | 11:00 a.m. | Shanghai Bistro
The Friendship Class is meeting at Shanghai Bistro, 4223 Research Forest Drve. All are welcome. To make a reservation call Dee Megee at 281.793.6622 by Monday, December 9
FRIENDSHIP CLASS MANNA BAG PROJECT
Thursday, December 19 | 2:00 p.m. | Allen Parlor
The Friendship Class comes together to assemble snack bags for the 1960 Hope Center.
SPOTLIGHT
Monday, December 2 | 11:15 a.m. | Wesley Hall
We are hosting professional artist Diane Bertrand-Goldsmith for a holiday set with our SpiritWind Band. The cost is $12 per person. Registration deadline is Wednesday, November 27. Register for this event online.
WOODFOREST CAMPUS
WOODFOREST LUNCH BUNCH
Thursday, December 12 | 11:00 a.m. | Los Cucos
Join us for Mexican food at Los Cucos in Pine Center. To make a reservation contact Roberta Duncan at 713.775.3030 no later than Monday, December 9.
WOODFOREST BOOK CLUB
Thursday, December 19 | 11:30 a.m. | WF Campus
In December we will make our 2025 selections. For more information contact Diane Oakley at 936.701.8067
ADULT GAME NIGHT
Fourth Friday of Each Month
We are taking a break this month. We’ll see you in January. For more information contact Debbie Griffing 979.236.1654
FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS
Tuesdays and Thursdays | 8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fitness is taking a break beginning Monday, December 23–Friday, January 3. Join us for our kickoff event on Tuesday, January 7.
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Mondays, December 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 contact Angela Street at 281.723.6819.
Prayer Shawl Ministry Meeting 10:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
Montgomery Lunch Bunch 11:30 a.m. | Phil’s Road House
Single Life Widows
Christmas Party at TWMC
WF Fit for Life Fitness
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Messiah Sing-Along
5:00 p.m. | Sanctuary
WF Caregivers Support Group
10:00 a.m. | WF Classroom
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Christmas Without Them
6:00 p.m. | Robb Chapel
TWMC CLOSED
Peggy’s Book Club Noon | Allen Parlor TWMC CLOSED
Midweek Prayer Room
Noon | Robb Chapel
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym WF Book Club 11:30 a.m. | WF Campus Mah Jongg 2:00 p.m. | B204
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Caregivers Support 11:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
TWMC CLOSED
TWMC CLOSED
JANUARY
MERRY CHRISTMAS
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
Tuesdays | 9:30 a.m. | Loft Building
THE WOODFOREST CAMPUS
Second and Fourth Thursdays 1:00 p.m. | Woodforest Gym
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
Friday, December 13 | 11:30 a.m.
Phil’s Road House
To make a reservation contact Donna Carr at 936.443.6748 or Sally Tinsman at 936.499.9687 by Monday, December 9.
RESOURCE CORNER
PRAYER AND CARE 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.
CONGREGATIONAL CARE MINISTRY TRAINING
Sundays, January 19 and 26 | 2:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall If you would like to be a member of our Congregational Care team, please register for this training online.
Contact Caring Ministry:
The Woodlands Methodist Church | 281.297.5900
The Church at Woodforest | 281.822.8182 The Church at Montgomery | 281.297.5900
GO DIGITAL!
ADULTS 55+
The Woodlands Methodist Church 2200 Lake Woodlands Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Fridays, December 6 and 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
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. 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!
