Hello, church! I’m thrilled to introduce myself to you as I step into this new chapter of ministry here at TWMC. I hail from High Point, North Carolina, a town proudly known as the Furniture Capital of the World. My roots run deep with Springfield Friends Meeting, a Quaker church established by my ancestors in 1773. For many years I served as a Quaker pastor, though I’ve been “on loan” to the United Methodist Church until recently when I joined the Global Methodist Church as an elder and deacon.
My educational journey took me from Appalachian State University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science — Go Mountaineers! — to Liberty Theological Seminary for my Master of Divinity. I furthered my studies at George Fox Evangelical Seminary, where I completed a Doctor of Ministry in Leadership and Global Perspectives, with classes in London, Cape Town and Hong Kong.
Family is a cornerstone of my life. I’m married to Christopher Harbuck, a true Shreveport native who could use your prayers as he adjusts to our new home! Chris has two wonderful children, Palmer and Kit, both of whom are married, and Kit and his wife recently blessed us with our first grandson, Hank. Our son, Mackenson, whom we adopted from Haiti, has moved to The Woodlands with us, and we couldn’t be more grateful. And let’s not forget Molly, our beloved black lab who truly holds our hearts.
My call to ministry came at a young age, when I felt a profound and personal connection to God at just eight years old. Although I initially pursued a career in political science, my passion for mission work never waned. After a period of inner conflict, and a whole lot of prayer, I decided to follow God’s calling and devote myself to ministry full time. This led me to serve at four beautiful churches while keeping my global mission passion alive, mainly in Haiti.
At TWMC, I am eager to immerse myself in the rich history of missions and collaborate with all of you to continue growing our ministry. I’m especially looking forward to serving with you all at our two Serve It Up Saturdays, September 28 and October 5. Fifteen of our beloved Local Ministry Partners will be ready to receive volunteers for the day. Past opportunities have included assembling breakfast bags for Meals on Wheels, back-to-school shopping for local school students, serving meals in the park, and building with Habitat for Humanity. We’ll have something for all ages, all skills and all servant hearts.
I’m looking forward to getting to know each of you and serving with you on this great adventure!
ANSWER THE CALL
by Rev. Chris McLain, Pastor of Caring and Adults 55+ Ministry
Take some time and read Matthew 11:20-30.
It’s a wonderful view into the fullness of Jesus’ expectation for us as well as what He offers the world. First is a section where Jesus denounces the towns where He performed many miracles. He speaks in broad swaths about how Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum have missed the opportunity to see and know Jesus as God’s Son.
He moves on to say that only the Father and Son know one another unless one of them decides to include us. Jesus is harkening back to the reality that He has given individuals in each of those communities “front row seats” to the miracles of God, yet they have not believed.
Finally, He cries out, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. … For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Over the next 2,000 years, Jesus has continued to cry out to the living. He urges us to hear His gentle and humble heart and continues to warn us that there is a cost to not receiving this gift.
Jesus is not passive about His proclamation, so I encourage you not to be passive about your decision to follow Him. According to the displays in Target, Home Depot and Hobby Lobby, we are sprinting into the holidays, so start thinking about how you might answer the call to serve your neighbor!
The Goldenaires
The Goldenaires, our senior adult choir (55+), gather for rehearsal and fellowship every week. They love singing both sacred and secular songs that they perform at churches, retirement homes and other community functions. Rehearsal is in the music suite at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. No audition is required. Just show up!
For more information, contact director Louise Kramer louise.kramer917@gmail.com
Our Astros fans had a great time at the August Astros vs. Boston Red Sox game at Minute Maid Park!
2025 TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES
JOURNEYS OF PAUL (March)
Join Mark and Nycki Sorensen for Journeys of Paul, an inspiring and beautiful 13-day tour through Greece, March 30–April 12, 2025. Visit Greece, including a four-day Greek Isle cruise, as you follow in the footsteps of Paul.
TROPICAL
COSTA RICA (September)
Registration deadline is March 8, 2025. Final payment due July 17, 2025.
Join us for a trip preview meeting on Sunday, September 29, in B203.
CHRISTMAS ON THE DANUBE (December)
Registration deadline is November 27, 2024. Final payment due August 5, 2025.
View itineraries at twmc.org/adults55
UPCOMING DAY TRIPS
THE UNITED STATES ARMY FIELD BAND AND SOLDIERS’ CHORUS
Tuesday, October 22 | 7:30 p.m.*
Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Join us for an evening of special music performed by The United States Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus from Washington D.C. This group travels all over the nation and abroad performing a diverse range of music. This is a free event with limited seating. *Meeting time at the Pavilion is 6:30 p.m.
INTERNATIONAL QUILT FESTIVAL
Thursday, October 31
Depart TWMC at 9:00 a.m.
George R. Brown Convention Center
Join us for a fun day at the 50th anniversary edition of the International Quilt Festival in Houston. Take a class or just browse the exhibition hall. We have two rented vans for this event and have limited seating. The cost is $24 for the bus fare or $40 for the bus fare and festival entrance fee. The registration deadline is Thursday, October 17.
Register for these events at twmc.org/adults55
We went to Hemi Hideout, a 21,000 square foot venue stuffed with muscle cars, neon signs and Americana memorabilia. We had a wonderful lunch at Brookwood café.
Celebration 90-year-old and Older Celebration
In August we celebrated our 90-year-old and older members. We treated the honorees with a Hawaiian-themed lunch and tropical music.
out
of this world
Our Special Needs Prom was out of this world! Promgoers ate dinner with astronaut ice cream for dessert all before our local special needs’ band, Skittles, invited everyone onto the dance floor. Loving care was given to make this prom welcoming with sensory spaces, games and space-themed activities that reminded all of the God who hung the stars in the sky and knows each one by name!
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.
MAH JONGG GAME DAY
Thursday, October 3 and 17 | 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, October 4 - Monument Inn Friday, October 18 - Escalante’s Check our webpage for activities.
THE GATHERING PLACE
Monday, October 7 | 10:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Join us this month for a baseball theme. 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, October 7 | 7:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Join us this month for “Great Places to Photograph in Texas” by freelance photographer Greg Disch. Greg highlights many lesser-known destinations as well as the famous icon locations for photography and will highlight photos from around Texas.
ADULT GAME NIGHT
Friday, October 11 | 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, October 15 | Noon | Allen Parlor
Join us this month to review The Scent Keeper by Erica Bauermeister. In November we will review The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi. For more information contact Libby Heintz at 936.271.7660 or Kathy Wisenbaker at wisenbaker@sbcglobal.net
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY MEETING
Friday, October 25 | 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
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
*NEW* CASUAL BRIDGE
Fridays | 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. | Location TBD
Come and be part of a fun, social bridge group once or twice a month depending on the group. We need at least eight participants to start a group at church. This will be casual bridge for those who just want to play bridge. Some bridge knowledge is necessary. For more information contact Betty Gibson 832.654.3335.
FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS
Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays* | 9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
All levels of fitness welcome. No registration required.
*On the first Monday of each month, we meet in Hayes Hall.
MEN’S BOOK STUDY
2nd and 4th 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
*NEW* TWMC BOWLING FUN LEAGUE
2nd 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
CLASS NEWS
WOODLANDS LUNCH BUNCH
Tuesday, October 8 | 11:00 a.m. | Fieldings Wood Grill
The Friendship Class is meeting at Fieldings Wood Grill, 1699 Research Forest Drive, The Woodlands 77380. All are welcome. To make a reservation call Dee Megee at 281.793.6622 by Monday, October 7.
FRIENDSHIP CLASS MANNA BAG PROJECT
Thursday, October 17 | 2:00 p.m. | Allen Parlor
The Friendship Class comes together to assemble snack bags for the 1960 Hope Center.
SPOTLIGHT
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2 | 11:15 A.M. | WESLEY HALL COST: $12 PER PERSON
We are hosting Doc Holiday and Friends for a jazz set. Join us to hear this talented band. You might just hear some jazz hymns! Registration deadline is Thursday, September 26. Register at twmc.org/adults55
WOODFOREST CAMPUS
WOODFOREST LUNCH BUNCH
Thursday, October 10 | 11:00 a.m. | Los Cucos Mexican Cafe
Join us for Mexican food at Los Cucos, 910 Pine Market Avenue, Suite 100, Montgomery 77316. To make a reservation contact Roberta Duncan at 713.775.3030 no later than Monday, October 7.
WOODFOREST BOOK CLUB
Thursday, October 17 | 11:30 a.m. | WF Campus
Join us to review A Fatal Grace by Louise Penny. In November we will review The Women by Kristin Hannah. No registration required. For more information contact Diane Oakley at 936.701.8067
ADULT GAME NIGHT
Friday, October 25 | 6:00 p.m. | WF Worship
Join us for Mexican Train, 42 or Hand and Foot. Bring a snack to share. The cost of this event is $1 per person. For more information contact Debbie Griffing 979.236.1654
FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS
Tuesdays and Thursdays | 8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
All levels of fitness welcome. No registration required.
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Mondays, October 7 and 21 | 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
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall Spotlight 11:15 a.m. | Wesley Hall
Midweek Prayer Room Noon | Robb Chapel
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
Grandparents Raising Grands
12:30 p.m. | B107
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. | Los Cucos
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Caregivers Support 11:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
Single Life Widows
Monument Inn
MEN’S CONFERENCE
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Montgomery Lunch Bunch 11:30 a.m.
McKenzie’s Barbecue
Adult Game Night
6:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
TWMC Bowling Fun League
7:00 p.m. | Bowlero
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
WF Caregivers Support Group
10:00 a.m. | WF Classroom
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Peggy’s Book Club Noon | Allen Parlor
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
WF Book Club
11:30 a.m. | WF Campus
Grandparents Raising Grands
12:30 p.m. | B107
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
Single Life Widows Escalante’s
MEN’S CONFERENCE
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
The United States Army Field Band and Soldiers’ Chorus 7:30 p.m. | Pavilion
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
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Prayer Shawl Ministry Meeting
10:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
WF Adult Game Night
6:00 p.m. | WF Worship
Montgomery Fall Festival 6:00 p.m.
Corner of Clepper and C.B. Stewart Drive
NOVEMBER
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Estate Planning
4:00 p.m. | Jones Library
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
International Quilt Festival
Depart TWMC 9:00 a.m.
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, October 11 | 11:30 a.m.
McKenzie’s Barbecue
Join us at Burger Fresh, 804 Gladstell Road, Conroe. To make a reservation contact Donna Carr at 936.443.6748 or Sally Tinsman at 936.499.9687 by Monday, October 7.
MONTGOMERY FALL FESTIVAL
Friday, October 25 | 6:00-8:30 p.m.
Corner of Clepper and C.B. Stewart Drive
We will gather at the future home of The Church at Montgomery for food, familyfriendly fun and fellowship at the Fall Festival. We are looking for volunteers to help out at this event as well as candy donations. If you are interested, contact Jenny at jchaney@twmc.org Find more information about the Fall Festival at twmc.org/montgomery
RESOURCE CORNER
PRAYER MINISTRY
GRANDPARENTS
RAISING GRANDS
1st and 3rd Thursdays 12:30 p.m. | B107
Join us as we support each other in raising our grandchildren.
ESTATE PLANNING WORKSHOP
Tuesday, October 29 | 4:00 p.m. | Jones Library
Join Gina A. Price, a partner at Price & Price, for an Estate Planning Workshop. Gina will share valuable knowledge and advice for all who are taking steps for the future of their estate. Light refreshments provided.
Register at twmc.org/foundation
ADULTS 55+
The Woodlands Methodist Church 2200 Lake Woodlands Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380
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 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, October 4 and 18 | 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
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!
