“Therefore, stop worrying about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”– Matthew 6:34 (CEB)
As we enter into this new year of 2025, let me share an observation that amazes me: We are obsessed with the future! Our society is transfixed by our need to know what the future holds. It is estimated that Americans spend hundreds of millions of dollars every year on everything from palm interpreters and tarot-card readers to psychics and fortune tellers and other so-called mediums — all in an effort to ease our fears and anxieties over what lies ahead of us.
It’s hard to believe this year marks the 25th anniversary of Y2K, the time when the world prepared itself to cross over into the year 2000. There were gloomy forecasts saying that the world would be plunged into an abyss of uncivilized madness and that all our computers would crash, rendering catastrophic consequences. It certainly didn’t come to that, but it speaks to the fact that the future can be frightening because we just don’t know anything about what it holds. I love this quote by Augustine: “God will never allow us to see the future or what He has in store for us, because if we knew it would bring prosperity, we would be careless; if we knew it would bring hard times or adversity, we would spend our lives trying to get away from it.”
In many places throughout the New Testament, Jesus speaks to our neverending desire to know about the future, and it would do us well to hear once again His words of assurance that can be a soothing balm to our uneasy and restless souls at the beginning of this year. In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus acknowledges that the future holds a vast amount of uncertainties, and each new day will bring its share of uncharted and inexplicable events that will cause us to worry. However, this doesn’t mean that our lives are left to the whims of chance or fate. The only certainty in this world of insecurities and doubts is to know who governs and holds the future — and it is none other than God! The future holds God, and God holds the future.
The most exciting moment in Daniel Defoe’s novel Robinson Crusoe is when Crusoe realizes he is not alone. Someone else is on that island with him. And so, it is with faith and confidence that we step into tomorrow knowing that there is no path, no journey, no place we can go that God hasn’t already been.
As we cross into this year of new beginnings, let me remind you that we are not alone — God is with us! He is here to help us handle one trouble at a time, one unpredictable day after another, knowing that He will be with us in all our tomorrows. Our God walks with us every step of the way!
HEAVY LIFTING
by Rev. Chris McLain, Pastor of Caring and Adults 55+ Ministry
The time has come for the shift. My social media algorithm is about to change. I know it’s coming, but I’ll still be frustrated when it does.
For those of you not familiar with the emerging science of marketing, our phones and systems track what we buy, where we go, and whom we interact with. In doing so, marketing algorithms go into effect during certain seasons. For me, the algorithm knows my affections for Dr. Pepper, hunting, theology, dad jokes and fishing. But in January, as we think about starting the year fresh, fitness gear is at the top of the marketing list no matter your preferences.
This brings to mind the parable of the persistent widow In Luke 18. In the parable, Jesus tells of a widow who refuses to give up her plea for justice. Day after day, she wears down an unjust judge until he relents. She is persistent in her pursuit of justice.
We are on the backside of a tough year. Elections have occurred. Hard conversations shared. Deep passions have been expressed. No matter how you voted or whether “your candidate” was victorious, it’s time to do the heavy lifting of justice.
SERVE TEAMS
You have been uniquely purposed and placed at The Woodlands Methodist Church to make a difference in the lives of others, from welcoming guests to serving Communion to visiting and caring for those in need. Be part of what God is doing through our church by joining a serve team. For information on volunteering, visit twmc.org/serve
Looking into a new year, I hope that you will budget for justice. Set aside time, money, resources and energy to make a positive impact in the world. There are activities to help solve injustices. Volunteer with the Gathering Place to serve those with memory struggles. Support Family Promise as they help those who are trying to get back on their feet. Serve meals to those in need at CHOP. You don’t need a strong back, just a strong faith to do the heavy lifting of the gospel.
The end of the parable finds Jesus persisting: “I tell you, [God] will see that they get justice and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” The only way the algorithm is going to change is if I change the input, and the only way justice is made manifest in the world is if we do something different. Let’s. Get. Lifting.
SPOTLIGHT
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8
11:15 a.m. | Wesley Hall
Join us in kicking off the New Year with a special performance by U.S.-touring performer Bennie Wheels as Johnny Cash. The cost of this special performance is $15 per person. Register online.
WOODFOREST SPOTLIGHT
We hosted the Kelley Peters Duo at our Woodforest gathering in November.
Save the Date
CONGREGATIONAL CARE MINISTRY TRAINING
Sundays, January 19 and 26 | 2:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
If you would like to serve by visiting our church members in the hospital or long-term care facilities. Register for the Congregational Care Ministry training. Registration required.
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
Mondays | 6:00 p.m. | Beginning January 6
Tuesdays| 1:00 p.m. | Beginning January 21
Tuesdays | 6:00 p.m. | Beginning January 21
Wednesdays | 6:00 p.m. | Beginning January 22
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.
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
2nd and 4th Thursdays | 1:00 p.m. Woodforest Gym
TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES
In December the Goldenaires visited 17 different facilities spreading holiday cheer with beautiful Christmas music.
Final payment due:
Join us for a showing of the heartwarming, and fantastical story of Edward Bloom in the musical Big Fish. Dinner after the show will be dutch. The cost is $15 per person.
WELCOME OUR NEW GATHERING PLACE LEADERS
If you have spent time with our Gathering Place ministry, you will not be surprised that Jana Jordan and Nancy Watts have stepped up to be our new lay leaders for this special program. Please welcome Jana and Nancy when you see them at church.
Jana writes, “I love all the opportunities to get involved in our community that The Woodlands Methodist Church offers. When I learned about the Gathering Place, I wanted to be a part of this ministry that serves individuals and families dealing with Alzheimer’s. It’s very personal to me because my mother had the disease, and my sister has it now. I have been volunteering for a year and I’ve seen the joy it brings our care partners and the support it gives the care givers. I’m grateful this program is available for our church members and our community.”
Nancy said, “After volunteering at a Gathering Place program for more than 10 years, I joined The Woodlands Methodist Church Gathering 2 1/2 years ago. I am devoted to this program that brings smiles to Alzheimer’s patients and provides a little respite for their caregivers. I’m looking forward to working with Jana Jordan to continue this great monthly program.”
A FOND FAREWELL TO NATALIE BENSON AND PAM BAKER
Natalie Benson and Pam Baker have done one of the most difficult things to do in a ministry: raise up new leaders. Natalie and Pam have served four years consecutively for our Gathering Place ministry. They even served their clients with craft bags and treats during the Covid-19 pandemic. Natalie and Pam are not completely walking away from volunteering. Be sure to say thank you to these superstars when you see them in the hallway.
In December we spent the afternoon at the A.D. Players theater in Houston watching this Christmas dramedy and had a wonderful meal at Pappasito’s Cantina.
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 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
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 281.455.9073
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.
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. In December the group visited 17 different facilities spreading holiday cheer with beautiful Christmas 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 a study of J.I. Packer’s Knowing God. 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 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
THE GATHERING PLACE
Monday, January 6 | 10:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Join us this month for a New Year celebration. 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
WOODLANDS CAMERA CLUB
Monday, January 6 | 7:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
The Woodlands Camera Club will welcome retired HPD Homicide Detective Wayne Wendel who has photographed all 254 county courthouses in Texas. Prepare to immerse yourself in Texas history and learn how to photograph courthouses or any type of architecture. This program is designed for photographers of all levels.
MAH JONGG GAME DAY
Thursdays, January 9 and 23* | 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.
*Please note date changes for January.
ADULT GAME NIGHT
Friday, January 10 | 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, January 21 | Noon | Allen Parlor
Stay tuned for the 2025 selections. For more information contact Libby Heintz at 936.271.7660 or Kathy Wisenbaker at wisenbaker@sbcglobal.net
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY MEETING
Friday, January 24 | 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
Beginning on Monday, January 6, our Fit for Life Fitness classes will meet five days a week! Same great instructors and exercises, two additional times a week. We hope to see you there.
SINGLE LIFE WIDOWS
Check our webpage for activities.
CLASS NEWS
WOODLANDS LUNCH BUNCH
Tuesday, January 14 | 11:00 a.m. | Postino
The Friendship Class is meeting at Postino, 2925 Hughes Landing Blvd. All are welcome. To make a reservation call Dee Megee at 281.793.6622 by Monday, January 13
FRIENDSHIP CLASS MANNA BAG PROJECT
Thursday, January 16 | 2:00 p.m. | Allen Parlor
The Friendship Class comes together to assemble snack bags for the 1960 Hope Center.
FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS KICKOFF EVENT
THE WOODLANDS CAMPUS
Monday, January 6 | 9:00 a.m. | Hayes Hall
WOODFOREST CAMPUS
Tuesday, January 7 | 8:30 a.m. | Woodforest Gym
WOODFOREST CAMPUS
WOODFOREST LUNCH BUNCH
Thursday, January 9 | 11:00 a.m. | Eden Cafe
Join us for a home cooked meal at Eden Cafe. To make a reservation contact Roberta Duncan at 713.775.3030 no later than Monday, January 6.
WOODFOREST BOOK CLUB
Thursday, January 16 | 11:30 a.m. | WF Campus
In January we are reviewing The Measure by Niki Erlick and if you would like to read ahead, in February we will review No Two Persons by Erica Bauermeister. For more information contact Diane Oakley at 936.701.8067
ADULT GAME NIGHT
Friday, January 24 | 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.
FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS
Monday - Friday | 8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Beginning Tuesday, January 7, our Fit for Life Fitness classes will meet five days a week! We hope to see you there.
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Monday, January 6* | 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. *Please note this group will only meet once this month.
Prayer Shawl Ministry Meeting 10:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
WF Game Night
6:00 p.m. | WF Worship
FEBRUARY
CCM Training
2:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Midweek Prayer Room
Noon | Robb Chapel
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
TWMC CLOSED
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, January 10 | 11:30 a.m.
Ransom’s Steakhouse
To make a reservation contact Donna Carr at 936.443.6748 or Sally Tinsman at 936.499.9687 by Monday, January 6.
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 10:00 a.m.(English) and 12:30 p.m. (Spanish).
WHATSAPP CLASS
Tuesdays | 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Youth Room
The Gold Connection Ministry invites you to join us to learn more about WhatsApp. This class is taught in Spanish only.
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
FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS KICKOFF
THE WOODLANDS CAMPUS
Monday, January 6 | 9:00 a.m. | Hayes Hall
WOODFOREST CAMPUS
Tuesday, January 7 | 8:30 a.m. | Woodforest Gym
We are hosting Laura Brimer, clinical dietician and founder of MakeWell Nutrition. Join us as we learn some practical nutrition tips to help us feel better in the new year.
ADULTS 55+
The Woodlands Methodist Church 2200 Lake Woodlands Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP Fridays, January 3 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 Teri Rossi at 281.297.5935
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.
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!
