Messenger is here!

October 15, 2026

This week's release at a glance:

• Pastor’s Message
• Celebrating Our Glory to God Hymnal
• September 21 Session Meeting Highlights
• Fall Senior Dinner
• Calling All Youngish Adults
• Anne Arundel Connecting Together
• Langton Green Farm
• Support the SPAN Turkey Trot
• In-Home Gatherings with Pastor Ashley
• A Broadway Afternoon: From Golden Classics to Today
• The Carols of Christmas
• Holiday Bazaar Updates
• Woods is Offering a Drop-In Program
• Medical Professional Volunteers Needed
  

Pastor's Message

Reformation Sunday is coming! We celebrate the Protestant Reformation at Woods on the last Sunday of October, which is October 25 this year (not this coming Sunday, but the Sunday after). We designate the last Sunday of October as Reformation Sunday because it is the Sunday before October 31, the date on which Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses about how to reform the church onto the door of Wittenberg Cathedral in 1516, which is generally acknowledged as the event that started the Protestant Reformation. Presbyterianism, of course, is part of the Reformed tradition, which began in the second wave of the Reformation when John Calvin led the Reformation in the city-state of Geneva and developed a distinctive tradition of theology, worship, and church governance that continues to this day in denominations around the world.

The fall of 2026 is also the 40th anniversary of the writing of the Confession of Belhar, which is also the newest addition to the Presbyterian Church (USA)’s Book of Confessions, which are the theological standards of the denomination. The Belhar Confession was written by South African Reformed church leaders specifically to challenge Christians who argued that apartheid was both sanctioned and inspired by God. In the process, though, they articulated a vision of the church that combines theological commitments to unity, justice, and reconciliation that are steeped in the Biblical witness, which was a challenging vision for everyone in South Africa at the time and speaks profoundly to our own context in the midst of the hyper-polarization of both Christianity and U.S. politics today. I studied with some of the primary authors of Belhar during my time in South Africa and was a member of the PC(USA) General Assembly Special Committee to consider adding Belhar to our Book of Confessions back in the early 2010s, so I’m offering a special “Lunch and Learn” about the Belhar Confession on Sunday, October 25, from 12:30–1:30PM. Lunch will be provided, and it will be a great bridge between morning worship and our special “Broadway Afternoon” concert that begins at 2PM, so I hope you will join me then.

We will also be celebrating Reformation Sunday by continuing some time-honored traditions in our congregation. First, we will be joined by the Chesapeake Caledonian Pipes and Drums, who will begin both worship services with a festive bagpipe processional (you can find out more about them elsewhere in this edition of the Messenger). This is in homage to the fact that Presbyterianism originally came to the United States mostly through Scottish immigrants. John Knox had led the Protestant Reformation in Scotland after studying in Geneva with John Calvin, resulting in Presbyterianism becoming the state church there in 1560.Peace and blessings,

Second, on Reformation Sunday we present our third-grade children with their own Bibles during worship. Again, this is connected to the Reformation’s emphasis on “Scripture alone!” as the standard for Christian life, faith, and worship, and that the regular personal study of Scripture by every Christian is both a right and a spiritual responsibility. It is also one of the ways in which we, as a congregation, fulfill our vows at every baptism “to teach, guide, and nurture this child in their journey of faith as a follower of Jesus Christ.”

Finally, in acknowledgement of the anniversaries of both the Reformation and the Confession of Belhar, we will be incorporating a special opening liturgy for worship at both services on October 25. It was written by the World Council of Reformed Churches, which is the international communion for all Reformed denominations, and so it is a way of both honoring and participating in that larger international Reformed community. Members of our youth group will be leading us in that liturgy, which will be a special blessing.

So: there are many interesting opportunities to celebrate and learn more about the enduring importance of the Reformation on Sunday, October 25, and I hope you will join me for as many of them as you are able!

—Pastor JC

Church News

Celebrating Our Glory to God Hymnal

Our purple hymnbook was published in September 2013. It features 853 hymns, psalms, and spiritual songs. It includes songs from six continents, 35 African American/Gospel hymns, Taizé chants, and it has multiple languages. It also weighs 2 pounds 3.5 ounces. In celebration of its 13th birthday, other than the introit, the music this Sunday at 9:30AM are all selections from our hymnal. A huge round of applause for our purple musical sidekick!

Calling All Youngish Adults

Back from college? New to the area? Looking for your people? Let’s get the gang back together! We’re gathering young adults, ages 21–late 30s together to reconnect, meet new people, and dream about what the future of Young Adults at Woods could look like. Join us and Pastor Ashley for dinner and fellowship at Vida Taco Bar (Severna Park location) on Thursday, October 22, 6PM.

Know someone who should be here? Pass this along and invite them! RSVP online, or email or text Pastor Ashley to RSVP at ABrown@woodschurch.org or 512.210.9330.

Fall Senior Dinner

The Woods Church Deacons are hosting our annual Fall Senior Dinner on Friday, November 6, 5:30PM. This year's dinner will feature a performance from Theater in the Park's cast of Annie Jr.!

Those who have received an emailed invitation are kindly asked to RSVP by October 23 by calling the front desk at 410.647.2550 or emailing Lauren Lohff at llohff@woodschurch.org to ensure we have enough food and seating for all!

Anne Arundel Connecting Together

Our Outreach and Service partner, Anne Arundel Connecting Together (ACT), is hosting a Candidate Action for an Affordable Maryland event with the Maryland Just Power Alliance. The event will take place on Sunday, October 18, 2:45–4:30PM, at First Baptist Church of Guilford (7504 Oakland Mills Rd, Columbia, MD). The event will allow Anne Arundel County residents to discuss the causes and challenges important to them. Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman and Secretary of Housing Jake Day have confirmed their attendance and other election candidates have been invited.

You can learn more about the event here: https://www.actaaco.org/events/statewide-action.

Support the SPAN Turkey Trot

It is that time of year for SPAN's Turkey Trot! This year's 5k and 1-mile walk will be on Saturday, November 7, at Kinder Farm Park! This is SPAN's primary annual fundraiser to meet the extremely high levels of need for emergency food and financial assistance. Not interested in running? You can always sign up for the 1 mile fun walk, sign up as a sponsor of the event or donate to SPAN directly!

Langton Green Farm

Did you know that every Saturday, our partners at Langton Green have fresh produce available for sale? Your purchase of farm fresh vegetables helps support educational and professional opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Until the end of the growing season, you can purchase vegetables from 10AM–2PM, at 844-846 Generals Highway, Millersville, MD 21108. Reach out to 410.923.3830 with any questions!

In-Home Gatherings with Pastor Ashley

A number of people are hosting small groups of people in their homes to meet for conversation with Pastor Ashley so that she and we can get to know each other better. If you are interested in attending one, please email apnc@woodschurch.org or call the Church Office at 410.647.2550 and we'll connect you with a gathering that works for your schedule.

Holiday Bazaar Pet Lovers Station

Mark your calendars for our Holiday Bazaar on Saturday, November 21! Look for the Pet Lovers Station in Fellowship Hall. You’ll find gifts for pets and the people who love and care for them. Find a special gift for your pet sitter, dogwalker, and your dog, bird, cat or other beloved animal!

Holiday Nut Orders

Fall has arrived, and it’s time to place your holiday nut orders! Don’t miss out on your seasonal favorites. You can download the order form at woodschurch.org or pick one up at the Welcome Desk. Return your completed form to Woods Church by mail or drop it off at the Office with your check made out to Woods Church (note “Nut Order” on the memo line).

If you have any questions, please contact Kay Mitchell at 410.757.7103.

A Broadway Afternoon: From Golden Classics to Today

Come and join us for a fun-filled, Broadway Afternoon on Sunday, October 25, 2PM! The concert features renowned singers - Andrew Fowler (Tenor), Jennifer Cooper (Alto), Shouvik Mondle (Baritone), Tabitha Popernack (Soprano), David Merrill (Tenor), and pianist Sandy Daelemans. We’ll take you on a journey through some of the most beloved musical theater songs ever written! From West Side Story, to Cats, Phantom of the Opera, to Pippin there is something for everyone!

This event is free, but registration is required, please register at www.woodstix.org. For more information email David Merrill at dmerrill@woodschurch.org.

(Original concert concept created by Shouvik Mondle)

The Carols of Christmas: A Contemplative Christmas Concert with Harp, Choir and Dance

Join us on Friday & Saturday, December 4 & 5, 7PM, for our annual Christmas concert, The Carols of Christmas. Through the angelic sounds of the harp—and the light of flickering candles—this concert is about reflection and finding peace. Accompanied only by the harp, we will spend an hour bringing beloved carols to life, through solos, duets, choral anthems, and dance, including our main piece, A Ceremony of Carols, by Benjamin Britten.

We kindly ask that you register for this free concert at www.wooodstix.org. For questions, please email David Merrill at dmerrill@woodschurch.org.

Children's News

Woods' Drop-In Program on School Early-Release Days

Looking for a meaningful and fun option on public school early-release days? Our Drop-In program offers Christian Formation activities from 1–5PM.



Children will enjoy a snack, large-motor play, engaging small-group activities from 3–4:30PM. Workspace is available for parents who wish to “work from home” after drop-off. The cost is $10 per child.

Available on select two-hour early dismissal days by AACPS. Registration for October 13 and December 8 will open on September 21.

Youth News

Education & Small Groups

Weekly Bible Study

Lead Pastor JC Austin and our Associate Pastor Ashley Brown 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.

Church Family News

Medical Professional Volunteers Needed

Woods is looking for members who are either physicians, physician's assistants, nurses, nurse practitioners, anyone in the medical field, who would be willing to note their presence in a particular worship service or church event (musical production, etc.)—in the event there is a medical emergency—and would be able to help assist until the EMTs arrive.

A notebook and sign will be placed in the Narthex just outside the Sanctuary (to be monitored by the head usher) for the above person(s) to note their name, cell phone number, and presence in the service or particular event being held in the Sanctuary.

Email Jason Jackson at jjackson@woodschurch.org for more information.

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.



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.

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!