Messenger is here!

August 5, 2026

This week's release at a glance:

• Pastor’s Message
• Neurodiversity and Inclusivity in the Local Church
• Sing with Our Family Summer Choir
• Americana 250: A Pianorama
• Youth Fro-Yo Socials
• Confirmation Class Sign-ups
• Pop-Up Programs for Kids
• Woman’s Priscilla Circle Bible Study
• Support Sancti Spíritus
• Woods Softball Game vs. College Parkway Baptist
• Tech Volunteers Needed
• Lost & Found
  

Pastor's Message

Friends,

My brother Pete is visiting this week from Los Angeles. His annual visit always involves at least one extra large Ledo’s pizza; multiple meals with the various aunts, uncles, cousins and neighbors; and a hike on one of our local trails. Looking at the entirety of our plans for him, I have to be conscious of leaving time for us all to simply rest and decompress, reflect on our blessings, and share moments of our lives together.

In the middle of our busy weeks, I pray you find moments to breathe. We are programmed to expect and adhere to demanding schedules, to “maximize our utility,” and make the most of our time—even at the expense of our well-being. When we are pulled from all directions, we can remember that God asks only for our hearts. We can trust in the promise of Philippians 4:7— that God's peace, which surpasses all human understanding, will guard our hearts and minds today. We do not have to carry the weight of the world alone; we walk this journey together as a community of grace. Let us take a moment today to rest in God's quiet love and restore our souls.

I look forward to joining you on Sunday as we gather to worship our Comforter God, share the joys and concerns in our lives, and support one another together as a community.

Peace and blessings to you and yours.

—Sarah Wilson, Interim Pastoral Associate

P.S.: Pete sends his love.

Church News

Neurodiversity and Inclusivity in the Local Church

Save the date, Sunday, August 30, 11AM, for a learning opportunity with our own Kat Green, titled Neurodiversity and Inclusivity in the Local Church.

A more just, faithful, and compassionate church and world will seek to include typical and atypical neurodiverse folks. As understanding evolves in the educational and social systems of our world, the church must evolve and transform the ways diversity is welcomed, embraced, and included in the life of the church and the mission of church. How will we nurture communities of faith and equip leadership in ways that are accessible and meaningful for post global pandemic traumatized demographic?

This class is for adults and interested youth.

Family Summer Choir

Are you around over the summer and interested in singing? Then come on by and sing with us! The Family Summer Choir will be singing on Sundays, August 16 & September 6. We will meet at 8:45AM in the Sanctuary Choir Loft and learn the piece that morning. Not to worry all, the tunes are recognizable, and a quick learn!

If you have any questions, please email David Merrill at dmerrill@woodschurch.org. Looking forward to hearing you sing!

Americana 250: A Pianorama

On Sunday, September 20, 2PM, in the Sanctuary, join Junghoon Park for his piano recital, Americana 250: A Pianorama! Jung will play works by Bernstein, Beach, Horowitz, and Gershwin.

This concert is free and no ticket is required. A love offering will go to support the Woods Church music program. Questions? Please email David Merrill at dmerrill@woodschurch.org.

Support Our Bagel Ministry

Looking for a way to honor, celebrate and/or remember a family member, friend, or special event? Consider sponsoring bagels following our worship services on Sunday mornings! The cost is $100.

For more information, contact Kathie Hamlett at khamlett@woodschurch.org.

Youth News

Sign Up for Confirmation Class

Our annual Confirmation Class for 8th graders will meet every Sunday, 2–3PM, in Room 212, beginning on September 20 (parents are encouraged to attend our first class!). Sign up online!

Confirmation is a chance for a young person to examine and recommit themselves to their walk with Christ, to renew their baptismal vows (or get baptized!) and to join the church. In this class, you’ll learn more about your faith, what it means to be the Church, and how to share your faith with others!

**Taking the class is FREE this year, but our Fall "Youth Summit" retreat (October 17–18) and our May Confirmation Retreat (May 1–2) will each have an enrollment fee, and students are encouraged to attend as they are considered an important part of our year together.

Children's News

Summer Sunday School is Doing a New Thing!

Join us for immersive Bible story experiences each Sunday this summer!

• August 9 – Music & Arts (three volunteers needed)
• August 16 – Traditional Sunday School class led by Ms. Marsha and Ms. Gale
• August 23 – Outdoor Play
• August 30 – Computers & Games
• September 6 – Labor Day Weekend Story & Stretch (wear comfy clothes)

Pop-Up Programs for Kids

Come join us at Woods for our special Pop-Up Programming Days when school is closed! We welcome children in grades K-5 to have fun and explore the Bible through interactive activities like games, art, music, and more. Lunch and two snacks will be provided for a cost of $25. Please ensure your child brings a reusable water bottle. We are excited to have your child join us at Woods!

Mission News

Support Sancti Spíritus

Cuba is currently experiencing chronic energy, food and fuel shortages with rolling blackouts for anywhere between a few hours to up to 70 hours. The country imports 66% of its total energy supply, leaving limited domestic sources and infrastructure to support more than 10 million people. Our partner church in Cuba, Sancti Spíritus, is experiencing all these shortages: electricity blackouts, food, medicines, and fuel.

Woods Church is participating with two other churches: Graceway in Florida and First Presbyterian in Springfield, Illinois, in sending supplies of medicines and food. Please continue to pray for this faithful congregation and the whole country of Cuba.

If you would like to support this service and outreach initiative, Woods is planning a trip to Sancti Spíritus, January 4–11. For more information, please contact Marty Clayton at martyclayton1973@gmail.com or Delia Edelmann at dedelmann@gmail.com.

Education & Small Groups

Weekly Bible Study

Lead Pastor JC Austin and our Interim Pastoral Associate Sarah Wilson offer a weekly Bible Study on Wednesdays, 11AM, to examine the upcoming Sunday’s scripture readings before they are presented in worship.

Join us on Zoom and gain a new understanding of scripture and enhance your worship experience.

Woman’s Priscilla Circle Bible Study

Our Bible Study starting on Tuesday, September 15, is based on Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians: “Love is patient; Love is kind.” Today, Christians participating in a wedding, an ordination, or a service of the Lord’s Supper might not realize these words about love and unity were addressed to a church in conflict.

All women are invited to join us this year as we learn about Paul’s first letter to the church in Corinth. This Bible Study explores the letter’s setting, divisions within the congregation, and ultimately, the gifts given to all through the work of Christ. Readers will be fascinated by this journey to Corinth and will explore how Paul’s timeless message of loving unity calls Christ’s followers today.

Stop by the Priscilla Circle table in Fellowship Hall to pick up our study guide, United Through Christ, Bound to Each Other by Rhonda Mawhood Lee. Books cost $14 and and will be available on Sundays, August 9, 16, & 30.

We meet on the second Tuesday of each month, beginning Tuesday, September 15, 10:15AM, in Room 212 and on Zoom. For more information or to ask questions, please contact Bev Haines at 410.551.8412.

In Our Community

Woods Softball Game vs. College Parkway Baptist

There are just a few games left in our co-ed softball season! This Sunday, August 9, 2PM, Woods Church takes the field against College Parkway Baptist at Elvaton #1.

No experience is required and you already made the team! You must bring a smile, and be at least 16 years of age by December 31. No full-time commitment is necessary.

No experience is required and you already made the team! You must be at least 16 years of age by December 31. No full-time commitment is necessary.

If you are thinking… “There’s no way I can participate... I am way out of shape...” then don't worry, you’ll fit right in! Although the GSPCCSL may sound super legit, it’s actually just a bunch of post-prime athletes working to stay young. You’ll have fun!

Interested? Contact Andrew Wiley at 443.867.8803 or wileyas1@gmail.com.

Church Family News

Tech Volunteers Needed

Easy to learn! We’re currently looking for volunteers to help with running slides and cameras during our worship services. This would be a great opportunity to support our church behind the scenes and/or pick up a new skill or two!

If you’re interested in helping or have any questions, email Eric Willner at ewillner@woodschurch.org.

Lost & Found

Eyeglasses, water bottles, and keys are some of the items regularly turned in to the Church Office. If you’ve misplaced something, please check the Lost & Found located in the sliding cabinets under the staff mailboxes. Volunteers clean out the collection at the end of each season and donate what remains.

Have faith that you and your objects will be reunited!