BE A STAR AT THE CONNECTION POINT! A SIMPLE WAY TO SERVE, ONCE A MONTH
by Deb King Connections Director
If you’ve been part of The Woodlands Methodist Church for many years, you already know how meaningful a warm welcome can be. You’ve experienced it yourself—and now you have a beautiful opportunity to offer it to others through Connecting Ministries, specifically at the Connection Point Information Desk.
Connection Point is often the very first stop for guests and members alike. It’s where questions are answered, directions are given, and reassurance is offered with a smile. It’s also where people quietly begin to feel, “I belong here.”
Serving at the Connection Point Information Desk is intentionally designed to be simple, joyful, and well-supported. Team members—whom we affectionately call Stars—serve just once a month for approximately 1½ hours. When you arrive for your shift, you’re never left to wonder what to do. A clear, easy-toread summary of the most common questions is provided, so you feel prepared and confident from the start.
This role isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being a warm, welcoming presence. You’ll guide guests to the right place, help members find what they’re looking for, and reflect the heart of Christ through kindness and hospitality. If you enjoy conversation, listening, and helping others feel at ease, this ministry may be a perfect fit.
Many of our long-term members discover that serving at Connection Point is a life-giving way to stay connected—to the church, to people, and to God’s ongoing work in our community. It’s meaningful without being overwhelming, relational without being demanding.
Scripture reminds us, “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling” (1 Peter 4:9). If you sense that hospitality is one of your spiritual gifts—or simply something that brings you joy— we would love for you to join the Connection Point Stars.
Your smile, your presence, and your faithfulness can make all the difference. Come shine with us.
Contact Deb King, your Connections Director, at 281.297.5963
GREETINGS FRIENDS!
A GIFT AND A LETTER
by Rev. Chris McLain, Pastor of Caring and Adults 55+ Ministry
Every year it’s the same joke. My wife says: “What are you getting me for Valentine’s Day” to which my reply is. “I am your Valentine’s Day gift.” Her eyes roll, my panic sets in, and I consider which blanket is the warmest for sleeping on the couch in February.
In 2 Corinthians 3: 2-3, Paul says to the church in Corinth. “You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone… You are a letter from Christ… written with the Spirit of the Living God.”
Paul is ever ready to celebrate who the readers have become, the good which they have done, and the Author of it all. First, he proclaims the people in the Corinthian church are “the letter” that is being “read by everyone.” Secondly, he gives credit to the power of the “Spirit of the Living God.” The point is this. The testimony of God’s love is not relegated only to our actions.
• Paul says you are the correspondence
• You are the story.
• In Ephesians Paul says you are God’s “masterpiece.” (2:10)
During this month it’s also a great reminder your worth or calling is not predicated on your earthly, marital status. The Holy Spirit has made you into a “competent minister of a new covenant [of love].” (vs.6) Therefore, never forget the work for which the Holy Spirit has prepared you. He has called you to be “read by everyone,” and this means your very presence may be a gift to those who are pershing or need good news. So, all in all, maybe my answer to my wife was more biblical than I thought...
I have some really, really good news that also comes with some changes. From 2024-2025 we saw an increase from 1179 to 1473 different individuals participate in our Adults 55+ programs, activities, and resourcing events. We want to continue being strong stewards of the resources with which God has blessed us. So, there are two notable changes that are on the horizon. First, there is going to be a new format for the newsletter! We’ve heard your comments and are excited to share the larger print and a refrigerator-friendly calendar! Secondly, we will continue having the newsletter digitally on our webpage and sharing it via email two to three times a month. However, beginning March 1, we will no longer be mailing the newsletter in mass.
An Interview with a Living Legacy – In Their Own Words
Born in Houston on January 22, 1927, Ruby Hoose was raised 45 miles north of the Mexican border in the small town of Carrizo Springs, Texas. Life was simple, fun, and happy. Everyone knew each other, and she rode her horse to school. “Church was the major part of our lives growing up. We went all day Sundays, Wednesday nights, and attended every activity the church had.” Her father quietly helped others and influenced the family with faith lessons. Her mother made sure they always prayed and invited the preacher to Sunday dinner after she served as their Sunday School teacher.
Ruby attended the University of Houston, and her husband was a pilot in World War 2. They were married 65 years and had 2 daughters, 7 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren. Ruby recalls the impact of World War 2. “Although I saw so many of my classmates not return, it also created a purpose and pride in what we each could do for our country. We were united behind a common goal.” She was glad to see The Civil Rights Movement bring equality closer. The moon landing was beyond belief, especially for someone who rode her horse to school. The biggest change was computer technology, from cranking her phone to call her grandmother to cell phones and robotic advances.
Living with the faith and values learned from regular church attendance, plus quality time with extended family filled with music and laughter are what Ruby attributes to a long life well-lived.
Save the Date
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 dutch-treat lunch to follow.
WOODFOREST SPOTLIGHT
Monday, February 23 | 11:00 a.m.
WF Gym
Join us for a sweet and soulful afternoon filled with timeless love songs performed by the beloved band Nobody’s Fool, featuring the enchanting vocals of Kelly Peters. This special performance highlights the unique bond between father and daughter duo Tommy and Kelly Peters, whose voices blend in rich, heartfelt harmonies. Their natural connection and shared love of music create a warm, moving experience that’s sure to charm and delight everyone. The cost of this event is $12 per person.
WOODLANDS SPOTLIGHT
Wednesday, March 4 | 11:15 a.m.
Wesley Hall
Yelba’s Variety Band is back by popular demand with an energetic and crowdpleasing ABBA tribute! Join us for a fun, upbeat sing-along celebrating the iconic hits of the legendary 1970s band. Don’t miss this joyful afternoon filled with nostalgia, great music, and plenty of fun. The cost of this event is $12 per person.
LECTIO DIVINA
This Lenten Season, join us for Lectio Divina a Contemplative Prayer Time as we walk with Jesus through the Gospel of Luke on Wednesdays, February 25 through March 25, at noon in Robb Chapel. We will be partnering with Women’s Ministry using their Lenten Devotional Walking with Jesus. We will journey through the Book of Luke passages using Lectio Divina, which is a time of holy reflection, spending time together in God’s Word, praying and ending with Holy Communion each week as we walk with Jesus to the cross and on to Easter. We hope you’ll join us. Find more information at twmc.org/caring
Register for these events at twmc.org/adults55
Save the Date for a New Adult Fitness Class!
Beginning January 26 | Every Monday and Friday 9:30 a.m. | Gathering Room | Creekside
Our Adults 55+ exercise classes are among the best in the community! Led by certified instructors, these sessions provide a welcoming, supportive environment for all fitness levels. Enjoy muscle toning,trength training, and stretching using hand weights, resistance bands, and chairs. Modifications are available to suit your needs. Please wear comfortable clothing and tennis shoes. No registration required. Find more information at twmc.org/fitness
Christmas on the Danube
Fitness Kick-off Events
Fresh off the boat we find ourselves full of memories! Friends from the Woodlands and Woodforest campuses headed to Germany and Austria this past December. We even had some friends travel with us who attend Stonebridge Church in the Woodlands. Cold mornings, warm mugs, historical tours, and laughter are all memorialized in our communal photo app! We realized that an extra, bond has been formed with those of us who went on the trip, and we feel more connected as the Body of Christ. We hope you will join us for our next adventures in Italy (September ’26) and Scotland. (September ‘27).
In January, we kicked off the new year with a renewed and intentional focus on reaching people for Jesus while also emphasizing the importance of good health. We believe God calls us to enjoy life to the fullest while caring for ourselves in every way — spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically. With this holistic approach in mind, we provide opportunities for growth and wellness through a variety of fitness classes offered every day of the week across our three campuses, creating space for our community to grow stronger in both faith and health together. We hope you’ll join us!
COME PLAY MAH JONGG WITH US!
Whether you’re a seasoned player or brand new to the game, we have two exciting opportunities each month for you to gather, play, and connect with fellow Mah Jongg enthusiasts. We use the National Mah Jongg League card and rules, and our welcoming instructors are always happy to help you learn the ropes or brush up on your skills!
Mah Jongg Mondays
Join us on the second and fourth Monday of every month from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM in Hayes Hall. It’s the perfect way to start your week—with laughter, learning, and lively games! Contact Alex Lumpee.
Mah Jongg Game Day
Can’t make Mondays? No problem! Come play on the first and third Thursday of the month from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM in Room B204. It’s a fantastic afternoon break full of strategy, fun, and friendship. Contact Glenda Hudson.
The Woodlands Camera Club
Monday, February 2 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Aldersgate Hall
We encourage guests to join our monthly meetings. At our meetings we have various speakers to discuss styles of photography, techniques, the business of photography, photographic equipment and services. We also have a monthly Mini Contest and a Share & Learn Slideshow as well as time for field trips and workshop updates, and socializing. Check out the Camera Club at thewoodlandscameraclub.org
Tuesday, February 10 | 11:00 a.m. | Panicafe Panicafe located at 30420 FM 2978 The Woodlands. All are welcome. To make a reservation call Dee Megee at 281.793.6622 by Monday, February 9.
WOODFOREST CAMPUS
WOODFOREST LUNCH BUNCH
Thursday, February 12 | 11:00 a.m. | Akashi
Craving Chinese or Japanese food? Join us at Akashi Asian Bistro & Sushi bar. This restaurant is located at 15250 TX-105, Montgomery. To make a reservation contact Roberta Duncan at 713.775.3030 no later than Monday, Febraury 9.
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Monday, Febraury 16 | 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
MONTGOMERY CAMPUS
MONTGOMERY LUNCH BUNCH
Friday, February 13 | 11:30 a.m. | Napoli’s Italian
Join us for authentic Italian. This restaurant is located at 20873 Eva St, Montgomery. To make a reservation contact Donna Carr at 936.443.6748 or Sally Tinsman at 936.499.9687 by Monday, February 9..
WALDEN WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY AND FELLOWSHIP AT THE HOME OF DEE FERRIS
Women of the Church at Montgomery are invited to join Linda Bench and others for Bible study and fellowship every Monday evening. Currently, the group is studying Finding I Am by Lysa TerKeurst All women are welcome. The group meets at the home of Dee Ferris, 3713 Poets Ct, Montgomery. For more information contact Linda Bench at 281.536.2652.
CREEKSIDE CAMPUS
GOLDEN AGE GATHERING
Tuesdays | 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Wednesdays | 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Join us on Tuesdays and Wednesdays for fellowship and a time for learning. For more information contact Anna Vargas anna@connexsteps.org.
Nobody’s Fool Band
TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES
DISCOVER SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA AND BAVARIA April 2026 *SOLD OUT*
Highlights of the Douro with
Spain
We spent seven wonderful nights aboard the Riviera Rose touring Portugal and Spain.
View itineraries at twmc.org/adults55
DISCOVER AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY June 2026
TUSCANY, LAKE MAGGIORE, ITALIAN RIVIERA September 2026
This tour takes place April 22–May 1, 2026. There is a posttour extension of three nights in Vienna.
SCOTLAND September, 2027
this unforgettable nine-day guided journey invites you to explore the beauty, history, and charm of Scotland. Along the way, you’ll enjoy thoughtfully planned stops in iconic destinations such as Edinburgh and Glasgow, take in the breathtaking scenery of Loch Lomond, and experience a memorable cruise on the legendary Loch Ness.
A preview meeting is scheduled for March. Stay tuned for more information.
This is a nine day guided tour, tracing the story of the nation’s rise on a journey through Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Washington D.C.
Final payment due: March 10, 2026
This is a nine-day guided tour with an optional two-night Turin and Piedmont Wine Country pre-tour extension. Experience the romance of Italy’s lakes region, the colorful coast of the Italian Riviera and the rolling hills of Tuscany. Highlights include Lake Maggiore, Isola Bella Palace and Garden, Stresa Parma, Italian Riviera, Cinque Terre, Lucca, Tuscan villa stay, Florence and the Chianti countryside.
Registration deadline: March 12, 2026
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-on-one relationship by joining our 90+ Outreach. If you feel called to serve in this way. Training is required. Contact Rev. David Lindwall at dlindwall@twmc.org or Debbie Russell Lay Volunteer Coordinator at drussell@twmc.org
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP
Join the Low Vision Support Group on Friday, February 13 at 10:00 a.m. in 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
Pastor-Led Lunchtime Series
Tuesdays, beginning February 3 | Noon Aldersgate Hall
Join us for our Lenten series with Dr. Ed Robb and Rev. Dr. Jeff Olive Jonah: Grace In The Deep
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Fridays, February 6 and 20 | 11:00 a.m. | Otterbein 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.
COMPUTER SUPPORT MINISTRY
If you need computer support, contact Jerry Barney at 915.373.3707 or jbarney177@gmail.com
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
GO DIGITAL!
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!
