Messenger | September 30, 2026
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September 30, 2026
This week's release at a glance:
- Pastor’s Message
- World Communion Offering
- In-Home Gatherings with Pastor Ashley
- Noah’s Ark Blessing of the Animals Service
- Woods Young Adults
- Volunteer with Drink at the Well
- Picnic Table & Bench Orders
- Fall Flower Workshop
- A Broadway Afternoon: From Golden Classsics to Today
- Sancti Spíritus Reaches Milestone
- Shoot Hoops with our Woods Basketball Group
- Holiday Bazaar Updates
- Fall Costume Party & Parade
- Woods is Offering a Drop-In Program
- Music Ministry Notes
- Remembering Barb Lynn
Pastor's Message
The first Sunday in October is celebrated by many different Christian denominations as World Communion Sunday. We observe World Communion Sunday as a way of lifting up Christian unity and the commonality of our faith in Christ that transcends the differences of nation, culture, and language without erasing them, so we experience unity in Christ without being forced into uniformity.
One of the great things about World Communion Sunday is that it is not an observance that came from some grand international ecumenical gathering or council; it originated as a grassroots observance in a local Presbyterian congregation. The senior pastor of the Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh had served as Moderator of the General Assembly, which requires extensive national and international travel to represent the General Assembly among Presbyterians and our ecumenical partners. He became convinced that the church needed to be more intentional about promoting Christian unity across national, cultural, and denominational boundaries. So, the Shadyside congregation simply began to celebrate World Communion Sunday on their own. Within a few years, others had picked up the practice, and then it was encouraged by the Presbyterian Church’s General Assembly. It finally really took off when the National Council of Churches heard about it and adopted it as an observance for all its member denominations.
So this Sunday we will observe World Communion Sunday right here in Severna Park, like thousands of other congregations across this country and around the world. And that in itself is important, because ironically, the sacrament of Communion is one of the most divisive issues in ecumenical Christianity. Denominations and theological traditions not only disagree on various aspects of the practice, but exclude each other from sharing in leadership or even just participating. So World Communion Sunday is an affirmation that what unites us is greater than what divides us, which is always worth remembering.
Also, this Sunday we are also having our annual Blessing of the Animals Service, which we now do every year but hasn’t been a part of Presbyterian worship until the last few decades. But it is a wonderful way not only to celebrate the gift of God’s creation, but the special bonds of love and service between people and their animal companions. Ours will take place this Sunday at 1 pm, so: go home after worship, collect your animal friends, and join in the service on the front steps of the church!
Peace and blessings,
—Pastor JC
Church News
World Communion Offering
On World Communion Sunday, October 4, the PC(USA) special offering for World Communion will be collected. This is one of three annual special offerings, which go above and beyond by enabling the church to promote the Peace of Christ, addressing systems of injustice across the world. With its singular focus on reconciling God’s people around the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, this offering supports the PC(USA)’s initiatives in racial justice, gender justice, peacemaking, global witness, and ecumenical and interfaith relations.
You can give through our website and select”World Communion” from the drop-down menu.
Home Communion
Woods Church will offer Home Communion on Sunday, October 4, following our 9:30AM Traditional service.
If you would like to be included or know of anyone in the congregation who might enjoy having Communion brought to their home, please contact Lauren Lohff at 410.647.2550 or llohff@woodschurch.org.
Drink at the Well
Our Outreach and Service partner, Drink at the Well, is hosting an information session this Saturday, October 3, for individuals interested in volunteering with the organization.You can learn about existing projects, their mission, community impact, and how to support women survivors. Make sure you RSVP online!
Noah’s Ark Blessing of the Animals Service
Pet owners and animal lovers are all invited to attend our annual Noah’s Ark Blessing of the Animals service on Sunday, October 4, 1PM, at the front of the church.
Any questions? Email noahsark@woodschurch.org.
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.
Woods Young 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! Email or text Pastor Ashley to RSVP at ABrown@woodschurch.org or 512.210.9330.
Fall Flower Workshop
The Flower Ministry invites members and friends of Woods Church to a workshop on Saturday, October 17, 9:30AM–12 PM, in the Founders Room. Space is limited to 25 participants. The cost is $25, which includes materials. Please bring garden cutters (clippers).
Register online or contact Pam Ward at 443.261.3263 or visit the church office.
Picnic Table & Bench Orders
Would you like to order a handmade picnic table or bench? We’re taking orders until Thursday, October 15.
Please return your Order Form to Beth Hadley at bbhadley@gmail.com. Questions? Call 443.668.2551.
Start Collecting Your White Elephant Donations
Save the Date for the Woods Church Annual Holiday Bazaar, Saturday, November 21, 9AM–1PM. Start gathering donations now, but please do not bring them to the Church until the week of November 15.
We are looking for new or gently used: jewelry, books, records, CD’s, DVDs, pet items, games, puzzles, artwork, toys, musical instruments, dishes, glassware, kitchen utensils, small working appliances, lamps, collectibles, holiday items, sports equipment, and linens. Items we are unable to accept include: baby strollers, children’s high-chairs, car seats, cribs, electronics, or furniture.
Questions? Email Pam Blumenthal at mblumenthal1941@gmail.com or Delia Edelmann dedelmann30@gmail.com.
Children’s Clothing Collection
Please bring in your new or gently used, outgrown children’s clothing now, then bring your family and friends for a morning of holiday shopping on the Saturday before Thanksgiving! Place your Size 2T through Youth 10 bagged donations in the BIG BLUE BIN in the Church lobby.
100% of the proceeds from the Bazaar support vetted mission partners of our church!
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)
2026 Bazaar Games & Puzzles Collection Next Sunday
Bring your new or gently used puzzles and board games to Fellowship Hall on Sunday, September 20, and get up to two free raffle tickets for a chance to win the Big Holiday Bazaar Gift Basket!
And save the date to sop on Saturday, November 21!
Sancti Spíritus Reaches Milestone
Sancti Spíritus’ Living Waters project has just reached the milestone of 6 million liters shared with the community! The first liter was poured on June 7, 2012. Woods has supported this project by purchasing many water filters over the years.
Shoot Some Hoops & Make New Friends
Looking for some fun, fellowship, and a little friendly competition? Join the Woods Basketball Group on Saturday mornings! All skill levels are welcome. Interested in joining? Come shoot some hoops and meet some new friends!
Contact Todd McDowell at toddmcdowell@gmail.com for more information.
Children's News
Fall Costume Party & Parade
Join the Woods Children’s Committee for a fun-filled evening of costumes, games, crafts, music, prizes, and treats on Thursday, October 15! Children and families are invited to celebrate the season with friends and show off their favorite costumes during our festive parade. The party will take place in the Children's Garden near the Counselling Center.
Come dressed in your favorite costume and enjoy an evening of family-friendly fall fun. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
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.
Music Notes
Join Our Choirs
Be a part of our Music Ministry at Woods! For questions about our choirs, bands, or arts offerings, email David Merrill at dmerrill@woodschurch.org.
Adult Choir
Come join us as we sing and lead worship through all styles of music. All are welcome to come and sing! We rehearse Thursday evenings at 7PM. We look forward to having you with us.
Praise Band
Do you play an instrument, sing, or just love music? Then join our Praise Band! Our Praise Band leads worship at our 11AM service, with rehearsals on Thursdays, 7PM.
Reach out to Sarah Kent with any questions at skent@woodschurch.org.
Children’s Choir | Grades 1–5
Do you have child that just loves to sing, or wants to give it a try? Then come on out to Children's Choir! It’s super fun, and the tunes are catchy and easy to learn.
SEEK Band | Grades 6–12
Do you play an instrument, enjoy singing, or just love music? Then come on out! Any youth in grades 6–12 can join our SEEK Band. The SEEK Band offers music for worship regularly, with many wonderful solo and musical opportunities.
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.
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!
