This Sunday at FWUMC: World Communion, Directory Photos, and New Series

Dear Church Family,

This Sunday we join with Christians around the globe in celebrating World Communion Sunday. In the United Methodist tradition, this is a day to remember that the Lord’s table stretches across cultures, languages, and continents. To honor this, we invite you to bring a cloth or textile that represents your family’s history or culture to lay near our communion table as a sign of God’s beautiful diversity.

We also begin a brand-new worship series called “Together.” Over the coming weeks, we’ll walk through the book of Exodus, reflecting on where God has led us this past year and dreaming boldly about our present-future as a faith community. Together, we’ll ask what it means to create a place where heaven and earth meet.

➡️ Missed last week’s sermon? You can watch it here: FWUMC YouTube Sermon

➡️ Here’s the Rev. Jesse Jackson clip from Sesame Street that I referenced: Watch on YouTube

October Highlights

• Directory Photos & Cookbook Recipes

Each Sunday in October, immediately after worship until noon, we’ll be taking updated photos for our church directory—no sign-up needed. Alongside this, we’re collecting your favorite recipes to include in a church family cookbook. Bring a recipe card to share and help us capture the flavor of our community!

• Sacred Stained Glass Stories

As part of this season, we’re inviting you to share photos and short stories of sacred stained-glass windows that have been meaningful in your life. These will help us reflect together on how beauty and light have shaped our faith.

• Blessing of the Animals – October 12th

Bring your pets, large or small, for a blessing following worship. It’s one of our favorite traditions as we celebrate the goodness of all God’s creatures.

Looking Ahead

• All-Church Conference – Coming in November

Rev. Katie Klosterman will preside as we gather to review the business of the church and look toward the year ahead. This is an important time of discernment and accountability in our life together, and all are welcome to attend.

I’m excited for this season of generosity, connection, and renewal at FWUMC. May we step forward in courage and hope, trusting that God is guiding us as we walk together in faith and reach out in love.

Grace and peace,

Pastor DJ

Directory Photos & Cookbook Recipes

As part of this season, we’re refreshing our church directory—and adding some joy along the way!

• Free Photo Sessions: Every Sunday in October, 11:00–12:30 in the church office. Bring whoever you call family—no sign-ups needed.

• Cookbook Recipes: Share your favorite recipe to be included in our new directory/cookbook.

• Updates: Sandy S. will also be available to update names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.

If you’d like to make a donation toward printing costs, extra gifts will go toward our sanctuary renewal efforts (monitors, cameras, and technology updates).

A Word About Sabbatical

I am grateful to share that the Church Board has approved my sabbatical leave, which will begin on January 12, 2026, and conclude on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026. This sacred time of rest, renewal, and reflection will allow me to return refreshed for the next chapter of ministry with you. During this season, Pastor Caleb will serve as Pastor-in-Charge, supported by our staff and guest preachers. More details will be shared in the months ahead.

Mark Your Calendars

Come ready to celebrate, receive your commitment card, update your directory photo, and share your favorite recipe. Together, we are walking in faith and reaching out in love.

🌸 New Women’s Bible Study — Claiming Hope

Starting October 6!

• When: 1st and 3rd Sundays, 11:30–12:45

• Where: Lori L’s House

• What: A women’s Bible study reflecting on the Sunday sermon and scripture. Pastor DJ will provide a few bulletin questions each week as a springboard for conversation.

• Why: To build community and connection as we walk with Jesus.

Bring a snack and join us! See Lori or contact the church office for details.