ADULTS 55+ MONTHLY OUTLOOK
HAPPY ADVENT AND MERRY CHRISTMAS
by Rev. Chris McLain, Pastor of Caring and Adults 55+ Ministry
In December of 2024, I shared with you the third stanza of “Comfort Comfort Ye My People.” This year I’d like to share the third stanza of “Lift Up Your Heads, Ye Mighty Gates.” Who knows? This might become a thing.
Redeemer, come, with us abide; Our hearts to Thee we open wide. Let us Thy inner presence feel; Thy grace and love in us reveal.
The words of author Georg Weissel were first published in 1642. This occurred after his death in 1635. He had around 20 hymns published and left a legacy of faithful service and wisdom. He lived most of his life during the time and under the influence of the historical and deadly, Thirty Years’ War.
How often do our souls long for an encounter with the divine during life’s difficult seasons of politics, war, pandemic or famine? Likewise, what about when our souls are experiencing the spiritual struggles of restlessness, depression, apathy or even sinfulness?
The prophet Isaiah shares about “The One” who will sit on David’s throne. Jesus arrives and all of those difficulties shrink into the background:
Disappointment with God – The One is “Wonderful” Anxious life? – In the One you have a “Counselor” Feeling powerless? – The One is the “Mighty God” Crummy Parents? – Experience an “Everlasting Father” War-worn community? – All hail the “Prince of Peace”
Weissel’s cry for an encounter with the divine is our cry too! And so we, like him, ask Christ to “abide” in our “open hearts” so that we may “feel” His presence. Therefore “grace and love” may be “revealed” in us. Just like Weissel, many didn’t fully understand the impact of Jesus’ work until after His death.
We get to participate in the glorious work of shouting it from the mountaintops that Jesus, the Christ is born! I hope you will join my family in doing this holy work of allowing the embodiment of love, grace and salvation transform our lives and our world alike. So, let’s make sure our voices are heard today, and not seven years after our death.
Happy Advent, and Merry Christmas from my family to yours!
An Interview With a Living Legacy – In Her Own Words
Save the Date
Spend time with Mary Jones and you will be treated to humor, history and heartwarming stories of adventure, all grounded in unshakable faith which she says is key to a meaningful life. Mary is 101 delightful years old. Born in 1924 in Schuylkill, Pennsylvania, she was one of the few women at the time to attend college. Encouraged by her father, she made the decision to go to Syracuse University to study business. Summer jobs during the war included making parachutes and folding underwear for soldiers. Later, a favorite job was working as a radio copywriter at station WPPA, “1360 on the dial” in Pottsville, Pennsylvania in the days before television.
Of her successful marriage of 71 years to her husband Don, Mary says, “Neither one of us knew how to be quiet.” Both were “doers” which is a key, she says, to longevity. She is proud of all her husband accomplished. As a wife, mother, First Lady of St. Petersburg, Florida, and business partner, she was by his side through it all. Mary says there never was an event that didn’t turn out to be special. She and Don welcomed two children from Cuba into their family during the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Raised in the church, Mary fondly recalls a Sunday School teacher who asked, “Are you living right with the Lord?” That question still impacts her life today.
Another key to longevity? Be a procrastinator! Leave things on your to-do list. She hasn’t yet checked all the boxes.
CARING AND ADULT OUTREACH
Join us in bringing the love and compassion of Jesus and His church to five Woodlands-area senior living communities through weekly worship services, communion, Bible study, prayer, and ministries of healing. You can also bring that same love to our more than 100 members who are 90 years and older through a one-onone relationship by joining our 90+ Outreach. If you feel called to serve in this way, contact Rev. David Lindwall at dlindwall@twmc.org or Debbie Russell, Lay Volunteer Coordinator at drussell@twmc.org
ESP GATHERING
Our ESP Adult 55+ Ministry met for an afternoon of food and fellowship.
WOODLANDS SPOTLIGHT
Monday, December 1 | 11:15 a.m. | Wesley Hall
Join us as we kick off the Christmas season with a festive Country Christmas performance with Nobody’s Fool!
Enjoy a heartwarming set from this talented group of musicians, featuring lead vocalist Kelley Peters, who captivated Houston theater audiences in her unforgettable role as Patsy Cline. Don’t miss this joyful holiday celebration.
WOODLANDS SPOTLIGHT KICK-OFF EVENT
Monday, January 12 | 11:15 a.m. | Wesley Hall
Join us for a nostalgic musical journey with Endless Summer, the ultimate tribute to the legendary Beach Boys. Experience the iconic harmonies, infectious spirit and unforgettable sound that defined a generation.
From “Good Vibrations” and “Surfin’ USA” to “California Girls” and more, Endless Summer brings all your favorite hits to life — capturing the golden era of surf music and sunshine in every performance.
Don’t miss this feel-good celebration of classics and unforgettable music!
The cost of this event is $15 per person.
GOSPEL HOUR
Sunday, January 25 | 5:00 p.m. | Sanctuary
The Gospel Hour service features a hymn sing, special musical guests and a time of fellowship with refreshments following the service. Our January theme invites you to explore the roots of gospel music as we share some of our favorite gospel songs and hymns.
DUNHAM BIBLE MUSEUM
Monday, February 2 | Depart TWMC at 9:00 a.m.
The Dunham Bible Museum showcases an extensive collection of rare Bibles — from ancient manuscripts and illuminated medieval texts to the earliest English and American editions. Its exhibits highlight the history, preservation and lasting influence of the world’s most important book across centuries and cultures. This guided museum tour is $25 per person, with a Dutchtreat lunch to follow.
THE GREAT GATSBY, A NEW MUSICAL
Sunday, March 8 | 1:30 p.m. | Hobby Center
The Great Gatsby is a dazzling Broadway show full of energy and excitement! Inspired by F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, this Tony Award®-winning musical takes you on an unforgettable ride through love, wealth and drama — all set in the roaring, vibrant 1920s. Don’t miss this thrilling celebration of an iconic era!
Cost is $134 per person. Dinner will be Dutch after the show. Registration deadline is January 28. Tickets are non-refundable but are transferable.
The Woodlands Camera Club
Monday, December 1 | 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Aldersgate Hall
Join us Monday, December 1, for selections from The Woodlands Men’s Chorus Christmas Program and a presentation by Kathy Adams Clark, past president of the North American Nature Photography Association. Kathy and her husband, Gary Clark, have coauthored nine books, including Book of Texas Birds and Photographing Big Bend National Park.
Check out The Woodlands Camera Club at thewoodlandscameraclub.org
THE WOODLANDS METHODIST CHURCH PRESENTS: MAH JONGG FOR MISSIONS
Friday, January 23, 2026 | 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
FRANK SINATRA TRIBUTE BAND
We had a wonderful afternoon enjoying Vince King’s incredible performance of Frank Sinatra’s timeless hits!
TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES
DISCOVER SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA AND BAVARIA
April 2026 *SOLD OUT*
Final payment due: January 22, 2026
Dress: Garden Party/Dapper Casual Missions is the heartbeat of The Woodlands Methodist Church. We have so many wonderful, vetted mission partners who serve throughout the world. Love Fosters Hope is a partner who serves children in foster care in Montgomery County. We all long for a home and we know that purpose, identity and community are key in the formation of all people. Come play some Mah Jongg, participate in the door prizes, share in some wonderful food and help us raise awareness for God’s children!
Alongside our Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced tables, we’ll offer 20 seats for brand-new players during the first two hours, with coaches to guide you every step of the way.
The cost is $65 open seating or $300 for a table of four. Only 200 tickets available! Tickets are non-refundable but are transferable
COFFEE AND CAREGIVERS
Wednesday, December 10 | 2:00 p.m. | Jones Library
Many people serve as a caregiver for a loved one or may become a caregiver in the future. When those loved ones have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, caregivers experience on a daily basis the decline that robs loved ones of their memory and of the ability to live independently.
To help better understand these conditions, Dr. Ryan McDonald will lead the next session of “Coffee and Caregivers.” Dr. McDonald is a board-certified neurologist in The Woodlands whose practice areas include diagnosis and treatment of individuals with these conditions.
Among the issues he will discuss are causation, diagnosis, treatment, and what breakthroughs the future may hold, as well as how caregivers may comprehend better what is happening to their loved ones.
Bill Wayne’s baptism at The Forum Bible Study was a joyful and meaningful moment, marking a significant step in his faith journey and celebrated warmly by the entire community.
View itineraries at twmc.org/adults55
TUSCANY, LAKE MAGGIORE, ITALIAN RIVIERA
September 2026
Registration deadline: March 12, 2026
Final payment due: June 20, 2026
DISCOVER AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY
June 2026
Registration deadline: December 1, 2025
Final payment due: March 10, 2026
THE WOODLANDS CAMPUS
GOLDENAIRES CHOIR
Rehearsals every Wednesday | 2:30 p.m. | Choir Room
The Goldenaires are a 55+ adult choir who loves to share fellowship through music. For more information contact Ed Wandling at 281.788.9880 or Louise Kramer at louise. kramer917@gmail.com
CASUAL BRIDGE
First Friday of each month | 12:30 p.m. | B107
If you know a little you can come and learn a lot. For more information contact Betty Gibson at 832.654.3335 and sign up at twmc.org/adults55
TWMC BOWLING FUN LEAGUE
Second Monday of each month | 7:00 p.m. | Bowlero We bowl two games from 7:00-8:45 p.m. and warm up from 6:30–7:00 p.m. No skill required. The cost is $9 per person payable in cash on the day of the event. For more information contact Jeanette Bates at 281.455.9073
MEN’S BOOK STUDY
*Second and Fourth Wednesday | 10:00 a.m. Room C217-A
Join us for a discussion on our new study Help Is Here by Max Lucado. You are welcome to join at any time. For more information about this group, contact Jerry Barney at 915.373.3707.
*Only meeting on December 10 this month
FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS
*Monday – Friday | 9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Our Fit for Life fitness classes meet five days a week. That means more opportunities to move, stay strong and feel great — with the same amazing instructors and workouts you love.
*No classes between December 22 – January 2. Kick-off is scheduled for Monday, January 5
THE GATHERING PLACE
Monday, December 1 | 10:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Join us this month for a Merry Christmas theme. If you would like to volunteer your time, contact Jana Jordan at 281.948.0247.
ADULT GAME NIGHT
Friday, December 12 | 6:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Bring your favorite game or play Mexican Train. Bring a dish to share and $1. For more information contact Karen Freeman at 858.204.0012.
PEGGY’S BOOK CLUB
Tuesday, December 16 | Noon | Allen Parlor
Join us in December for a holiday party. For more information about Peggy’s Book Club, contact Libby Heintz at 936.271.7660 or Kathy Wisenbaker at wisenbaker@sbcglobal.net
SINGLE LIFE WIDOWS
Check twmc.org/gatherincommunity for current activities and to register.
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY MEETING
Friday, December 12 | 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
CLASS NEWS
WOODLANDS LUNCH BUNCH
Tuesday, December 9 | 11:00 a.m. | Panicafé
The Friendship Class is meeting at Panicafé, located at 30420 FM 2978 Ste 160, The Woodlands. All are welcome. To make a reservation call Dee Megee at 281.793.6622 by Monday, December 8.
FRIENDSHIP CLASS MANNA BAGS MISSION PROJECT
Third Thursday | 2:00 p.m. | Allen Parlor
Each month, Friendship Class members assemble 100 manna bags for the homeless, distributed through the 1960 Hope Center to provide weekend food support when hot meals aren’t available. All are welcome to join this meaningful mission!
WOODFOREST CAMPUS
WOODFOREST LUNCH BUNCH
Thursday, December 11 | 11:00 a.m.
Good Charlie’s Seafood Kitchen
Join us for a seafood lunch at Good Charlie’s Seafood Kitchen. This restaurant is located at 545 Woodland Square Blvd, Conroe. To make a reservation contact Roberta Duncan at 713.775.3030 no later than Monday, December 8.
WOODFOREST BOOK CLUB
Thursday, December 18 | 11:30 a.m. | WF Classroom
Join us in December for a holiday party. No registration required. For more information about this group, contact Diane Oakley at 936.701.8067.
ADULT GAME NIGHT
We are taking a break. We’ll see you in January. For more information contact Debbie Griffing at 979.236.1654
FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS
*Tuesday – Thursday | 8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Enjoy the same great instructors and energizing exercises — now with even more chances to stay active and healthy!
*No classes between December 22 – January 2. Kickoff is scheduled for Tuesday, January 6.
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Mondays, December 1 and 15 | 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 about this group, contact Angela Street at 281.723.6819.
DECEMBER
*The Woodlands Campus *Woodforest Campus *Montgomery Campus *Creekside Campus *ALL Campuses
SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
NOVEMBER
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Hayes Hall
Gathering Place
10:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall Spotlight
11:15 a.m. | Wesley Hall
WF Caregivers Support
10:00 a.m. | WF Classroom
Walden Women’s Bible Study
6:00 p.m. | 3713 Poets Ct
Woodlands Camera Club
7:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Mah Jongg Mondays
9:30 a.m. | Hayes Hall
Walden Women’s Bible Study
6:00 p.m. | 3713 Poets Ct
TWMC Bowling Fun League
7:00 p.m. | Bowlero
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Golden Connection
10:00 a.m. | Creekside
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Golden Connection
10:00 a.m. | Creekside
Woodlands Lunch Bunch
11:00 a.m. | Panicafe
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Midweek Prayer
Noon | Robb Chapel
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Men’s Book Study
10:00 a.m. | Room C217-A
Midweek Prayer
Noon | Robb Chapel
Coffee and Caregivers
2:00 p.m. | Jones Library
WF Fit for Life Fitness
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
WF Caregivers Support
10:00 a.m. | WF Classroom
Walden Women’s Bible Study
6:00 p.m. | 3713 Poets Ct
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Golden Connection
10:00 a.m. | Creekside
Peggy’s Book Club Noon | Allen Parlor
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Midweek Prayer
Noon | Robb Chapel
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Golden Connection
7:00 p.m. | Creekside
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
WF Lunch Bunch
11:00 a.m.
Good Charlie’s Seafood
Mah Jongg
2:00 p.m. | B204
Golden Connection 7:00 p.m. | Creekside
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
WF Book Club
11:30 a.m. | WF Campus
Mah Jongg 2:00 p.m. | B204
Golden Connection
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Caregivers Support
11:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
Casual Bridge
12:30 p.m. | Room B107
Single Life Widows Check Website
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Low Vision Support Group
10:00 a.m. | Hayes Hall
Prayer Shawl Ministry
10:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
Montgomery Lunch Bunch
11:30 a.m. | Phil’s Roadhouse Adult Game Night
6:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Caregivers Support
11:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
Single Life Widows Check website
Mah Jongg Mondays
9:30 a.m. | Hayes Hall
Golden Connection
7:00 p.m. | Creekside Merry Christmas! TWMC Closed Christmas Without Them
6:00 p.m. | Robb Chapel
Walden Women’s Bible Study
6:00 p.m. | 3713 Poets Ct
10:00 a. m. | Creekside
New Year’s Eve
TWMC Closed
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, December 12 | 11:30 a.m. | Phil’s Roadhouse & Grill
To make a reservation contact Donna Carr at 936.443.6748 or Sally Tinsman at 936.499.9687 by Monday, December 8.
WALDEN WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY AND FELLOWSHIP
Mondays | 6:00 p.m.
This group meets at the home of Dee Ferris, 3713 Poets Ct, Montgomery 77356. For more information contact Linda Bench at 281.536.2652.
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP
Friday, December 12 | 10:00 a.m. | Hayes Hall
This group welcomes those who are blind or experiencing vision loss, as well as caregivers seeking support and shared insights. For more information go to twmc.org/support-groups
RESOURCE CORNER
prayer and care
PRAYER MINISTRY
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 Woodlands Methodist Church | 281.297.5900
The Church at Woodforest | 281.822.8182
The Church at Montgomery | 281.297.5900
Covenant Church at Creekside | 832.510.4823
Email | caringministries@twmc.org
SERVE IT UP AVANTI
In October, our Senior Living Team rolled up their sleeves to wash wheelchairs and the community van at Avanti!
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Fridays, December 5 and 19 | 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.
CHRISTMAS WITHOUT THEM
Sunday, December 21 | 6:00 p.m. | Robb Chapel
Join others who are mourning the loss of a loved one at our “Christmas Without Them” service. This special gathering is for anyone who has experienced a loss during the past year. Holy Communion will be served.
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. If you would like to volunteer for this ministry, contact John Cunningham.
CONSECRATED HOLY COMMUNION ELEMENTS
Caring Ministry offers 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.
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!
The Woodlands Methodist Church 2200 Lake Woodlands Drive The Woodlands, Texas 77380
THE WOODLANDS METHODIST CHURCH ADULTS 55+