Adults 55+ Monthly Outlook: November 2023

A SEASON OF GRATITUDE

by Rev. Margarita McCarthy, Pastor of Caring and Prayer Ministry

When the pandemic started, I was going through a personally difficult emotional season in my life. With everything shut down, I was forced to face my thoughts and feelings and pour them out to God. One morning, the Holy Spirit led me to 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

It is hard to give thanks when you are going through a difficult trial or a painful season of loss. But gratitude is the Christian’s response to a kind, gracious, generous, good and loving God. Gratitude is the response to grace!

Ann Lamont got it right when she wrote in her book Help, Thanks and Wow that “saying thanks is always our first response when we recognize that God has helped us.” It was in that season that I began a gratitude journal. Every day, my daughter and I would write down three things we were thankful for. I still keep that gratitude journal, giving thanks to how God’s grace shows up in my life.

This is similar to Paul’s exhortation and to John Wesley’s third mark of a disciple of Jesus Christ. Wesley believed the third mark of a Methodist was characterized by a heart of gratitude to God. This is what Wesley practiced in his own prayer life each Saturday. After praying the previous six days in relation to the two great commandments (love God, love others) and the spirit of surrender that attends them, Wesley used Saturday to look at all the ways his life had been lived in relation to God’s grace, both big and small. Then he would make a list to express his gratitude for God’s providences in his life for that week. In a sense, Wesley kept a gratitude journal!

As I continue the practice of keeping a gratitude journal, I notice that God expands the space in my heart to see His goodness, grace and love all around me through the Holy Spirit. My gratitude then becomes a prayer of praise for who God is and all He is doing in my heart and life.

Our culture is quick to jump from Halloween to Christmas, squeezing out the season of Thanksgiving. As believers in Jesus Christ, let’s reclaim this season and take time this month to cultivate an attitude of gratitude to God for all His goodness, love and grace.

When we approach life with a spirit of gratitude, we are better able to view the challenges of life as God-opportunities to grow our faith and make us more like Jesus.

One of the easiest ways to cultivate an attitude of gratitude is by keeping a prayer journal. Or you could keep a gratitude jar, inviting the whole family to write something they are grateful for that day on a small piece of paper and drop it in the jar.

How will you cultivate a heart of gratitude in this season? What blessings can you thank God for today? Where do thanksgiving and prayer intersect in your own life?

TRULY THANKFUL

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

One year, when I was younger obviously, I spent Thanksgiving with my girlfriend’s family, who were not practicing Christians. Before the meal they all went around the table and shared three things for which they were thankful. Over the years, I have seen this practice occur through my family, and others, who claim to be Christian families.

Unfortunately, the answers are usually the same: “I am thankful for my family and friends, my health, this food.” I even heard of a family where one of the young ladies said she was thankful for the cute boy across the street.

If Jesus gets mentioned at all, He is usually an afterthought. As a last effort we often add, “But, of course, Jesus because without Jesus I wouldn’t have any of those things.”

Philippians 3:20-21 reminds us:

“Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like his glorious body, by the power that enables him even to subject all things to himself.”

Take some time before Thanksgiving to write an answer to the question “What are you thankful for?” that reflects your heavenly citizenship and focus. Keep it short but make it your witness. Take a walk or go to the library. Write one sentence that would make someone wrestling with the struggles of this world — your children, grandchildren, spouse — reconsider the love of Jesus. Who knows, maybe we won’t just claim to be a Christian family. We will actually look like one too!

90 and Older Celebration

Prime Timers

In September we honored 34 of our 90 and older members and their families. John Wood shared a special poem that he wrote, the Goldenaires performed, and Dr. Mark Lewis offered a sweet devotion.

ALASKA LAND AND CRUISE 2023

Twenty-two members made the trek to Alaska in September. They took a ride on the Sternwheeler Discovery and toured Denali National Park. Once aboard the ship, they cruised past Hubbard Glacier and through Glacier Bay. They toured Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. They saw moose, whales, salmon and the Northern Lights.

LATE MORNING START

For our September gathering, Late Morning Start hosted Doc Holiday and Friends. Rev. Cabe Matthews gave the devotion, and our friends from The Church at Montgomery joined us.

WOODFOREST BINGO NIGHT

In September, Woodforest Women’s Ministry sponsored their annual bingo night. Doc Holiday called (sang) the bingo numbers, and the team served popcorn and homemade cake balls for dessert.

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. Draw near to God to be refreshed.

PRIME TIMERS

Wednesday, November 1 | 11:15 a.m. | Wesley Hall

Join us for an afternoon of lively piano music from Tyler Lewis and Josh Herod with Two Tones Dueling Pianos. You won’t want to miss this talented duo. Cost of lunch is $12. Register online or, if you need help registering, contact Teri Rossi at 281.297.5935 *We are collecting pantry items for Interfaith Pantry.

MAH JONGG GAME DAY

Thursdays, November 2 and 16 | 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 card and rules. Teachers will be available to assist. For more information, contact Glenda Hudson at 281.367.9155. Register online.

SINGLE LIFE WIDOWS

Join us for these November activities:

Friday, November 3 — Christmas Store Tour and Lunch

Friday, November 17 — Friendsgiving

Register for these events online.

ALL SAINTS REMEMBRANCE

Sunday, November 5 | 8:00 a.m. | Grace Garden

Join us in Grace Garden to remember those who have gone before us.

THE GATHERING PLACE

Monday, November 6 | 10:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Join us for a patriotic-themed gathering at The Gathering Place, a ministry for adults who have been diagnosed with early to moderate dementia. The Gathering Place provides an opportunity for caregivers to find 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 with this special ministry, please contact Pam Baker at 832.381.4514.

THE WOODLANDS CAMERA CLUB

Monday, November 6 | 7:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Join The Woodlands Camera Club as Hector Astorga presents “Becoming a Better Nature Photographer.” Hector is manager of Santa Clara Ranch in South Texas, where they host wildlife photographers from all over the globe. Everyone is welcome!

SINGLES 55+

Friday, November 10 | 11:00 a.m. | Cinemark Theater

Join us for a movie and lunch. Journey to Bethlehem is a live-action Christmas musical that tells the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus. Register online.

ADULT GAME NIGHT

Friday, November 10 | 6:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall

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

SHEPHERD CARE APPRECIATION LUNCHEON

Thursday, November 16 | 11:00 a.m. | Jones Library

Join us for our annual luncheon to honor faithful Shepherds!

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY MEETING

Friday, November 17 | 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, November 21 | Noon | Allen Parlor

Join us this month to review And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. In December we will discuss next year’s selections. For more information, contact Libby Heintz at 936.271.7660 or Kathy Wisenbaker at wisenbaker@sbcglobal.net

MEN’S BOOK STUDY

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

Join us for a discussion on Philip Yancey’s The Jesus I Never Knew. 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, our adult choir, is the perfect way for you to spread joy through singing. No audition is required. For more information, contact Ed Wandling at 281.788.9880

ADULTS 55+ FITNESS

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

LINE DANCING

Line dancing is taking a break until January 2024. Stay tuned for the next session’s dates and registration link.

CLASS NEWS

WOODLANDS LUNCH BUNCH

Tuesday, November 14 | 11:00 a.m. | Uli’s Kitchen

The Friendship Class is meeting at Uli’s Kitchen. Uli’s Kitchen features authentic Mexican food. This restaurant is located at 8021 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands 77382. All are welcome. To make a reservation call Dee Megee at 281.793.6622 by Monday, November 13.

FRIENDSHIP CLASS MANNA BAG PROJECT

Thursday, November 16 | 2:00 p.m. | Allen Parlor

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

WOODFOREST CAMPUS

WOODFOREST LUNCH BUNCH

Thursday, November 9 | 11:00 a.m. | Eden Café

Join us for homestyle cooking at Eden Café, located at 33418 Egypt Lane, Magnolia 77354. To make a reservation contact Roberta Duncan at 713.775.3030 no later than Monday, November 6.

WOODFOREST BOOK CLUB

Thursday, November 16 | 11:30 a.m. | WF Campus

This month we will review The Marriage Portrait by Maggie O’Farrell. In December we will choose next year’s selections. No registration required. For more information about this group, contact Diane Oakley at 936.701.8067.

LATE MORNING START

Monday, November 27 | 11:00 a.m. | WF Worship Center

Join us for a special holiday performance by SpiritWind Band. The cost of this event is $12. Register online.

ADULT GAME NIGHT

Adult Game Night is taking a break. Activities will resume in January 2024.

ADULTS 55+ FITNESS

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

LINE DANCING

Line dancing is taking a break until January 2024. Stay tuned for the next session’s dates and registration link.

SUPPORT

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP

Monday, November 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 about this group, contact Angela Street at 281.723.6819

*Green text represents events for The Woodlands Campus. Blue text represents events for the Woodforest Campus. *Maroon text represents events for all campuses.

OCTOBER

Daylight Saving Time Ends

All Saints Remembrance

8:00 a.m. | Grace Garden Clue

2:00 p.m. | Crighton Theater

p.m. | WF Classroom

Midweek Prayer Room Noon | Robb Chapel

WF Adult Fitness Basic Class

8:30 a.m. | WF Gym

International Quilt Festival

9:00 a.m. | George R. Brown

Mah Jongg

2:00 p.m. | B204

Adult Fitness Basic Class

9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

WF Craft Circle Boutique

10:00 a.m. | WF Worship

Caregivers Support Group

11:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor

Single Life Widows Christmas Store Tour and Lunch

WF

Adult Fitness Basic Class 9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Singles 55+

a.m. | Cinemark Theater

Adult Game Night 6:00 p.m. | Aldersgate

WF Craft Circle Boutique

10:00 a.m. | WF Worship

Adult Fitness Intermediate Class

9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Late Morning Start 11:00 a.m. | WF Worship

Adult Fitness Basic Class

9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Men’s Book Study Group 10:00 a.m. | C217-A

Midweek Prayer Room Noon | Robb Chapel

TWMC closed

Craft Circle Boutique

9:00 a.m. | Wesley Hall

DECEMBER

Adult Fitness Basic Class

9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall

Midweek Prayer Room Noon | Robb Chapel

UPCOMING ACTIVITIES

2024 TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES

The Best of Eastern Canada | August 2024

Join us for a trip preview meeting on Sunday, November 12, at 10:30 a.m. Location TBD.

Historic Savannah and Charleston Holiday Tour

December 2024

To view the itinerary, go to twmc.org/senior-trip

CLUE

Sunday, November 5 | 2:00 p.m. | Crighton Theatre

Join us to watch Clue the classic board game brought to life. When the lights turn off and things go bump in the night, the remaining survivors scramble to make sense of it all. Cost: $23 per person. Dinner after the show will be dutch. Register at twmc.org/timeforfun

55+

Welcometo our friends at 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.

LATE MORNING START

Monday, November 27 | 11:00 a.m. | WF Worship Center

Join us for a special holiday performance by SpiritWind Band. The cost of this event is $12. Register online.

RESOURCE CORNER

SUPPORT

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP

Friday, November 3 | 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

SURVIVING THE HOLIDAYS

Tuesday, November 7 | 1:00 p.m.

Aldersgate Hall | The Woodlands Campus

Sunday, November 12 | 2:00 p.m.

Classroom | Woodforest Campus

Our Surviving the Holidays seminar is especially for people who are grieving a loved one’s death. Register at twmc.org/caring

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

The Woodlands Methodist Church

2200 Lake Woodlands Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77380

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.

PRAYER AND CARE MINISTRY

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 at:

The Woodlands Methodist Church | 281.297.5900

The Church at Woodforest | 281.822.8182

The Church at Montgomery | 281.297.5900