by Rev. Margarita McCarthy Pastor of Caring and Prayer Ministry
Blessings and Greetings, Friends!
I’m so excited to share with you about our upcoming Prayer and Worship Conference –Beholding Him. It will be a powerful weekend of prayer and worship with Allen Hood and Bristol House Worship on the evening of Friday, May 1st and the morning of Saturday, May 2nd at the Harvest Worship Center.
So often when we think about prayer or worship, we focus our attention on ourselves. What do I need to do in order to draw close to God? How should I worship? However, the starting point for prayer and worship is not a question about what or about how I need to do it, but about WHO!
Who is this God that I’m worshipping and praying to, and who am I before Him?
We are so grateful to have Allen Hood, founder of Excellencies of Christ, lead us as we explore our beautiful God and who we are before Him.
We have been invited into a pre-existing fellowship of divine love with God the Father, Jesus our Redeemer, and in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. It’s in this beautiful Triune relationship where we discover our identity and our belovedness, as well as our strength.
Join us as we walk through the Book of Revelation, where the Apostle John invites us to explore this beautiful God. It’s in our beholding of God that we discover our own beauty and the glorious intimacy we’ve been invited into.
The conference includes three sessions, times of worship, a shared fellowship lunch, and opportunities for deeper intimacy through prayer and worshipful responsive times.
Come see who God is and who we are before Him. This is the place where true worship arises and prayer begins.
I hope you’ll prayerfully consider joining us for a powerful weekend as we draw closer to God through His Word, intimate prayer, and worship. For more information and to register, go to twmc.org/prayerconference.
Until then, I’m so grateful for all the ways you love our church family so well through your presence, prayers and support! I look forward to seeing you there!
NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER
Thursday, May 7 | Noon | Robb Chapel
NOTHING IN ALL OF CREATION...NOT EVEN SPRINKLER HEADS
by Rev. Chris McLain, Pastor of Caring and Adults
55+ Ministry
May always brings the worst kind of yardwork — sprinkler maintenance. A first-world concern for sure, but still an epic game of chess. You’ve got to check the controller, the schedule, the heads, the lines, and then the pressure. But it never fails; there is always one sprinkler head that has been damaged. Sometimes, it’s bicycle roadkill; the children did it by accident. Other times, the huge tree root presses the head against the sidewalk. Or the blame is on the basic yard work of mowing, edging and aerating in the off-season.
Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection is in our rearview, and many Christians start to settle back into old rhythms. Evil tries to get us to slide into our pre-resurrection mindset. Maybe it was a sin crafted in your youth, or a temptation that spanned years before it reared its head, or an unintentional harm you caused while “just trying to help.”
Paul knows there are going to be seasonal changes. In Romans, he points back to Christ’s triumph when he says, “[W]e are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (8:37-39).
That’s Good News, friends!
The work of Jesus on the cross does not diminish over time!
Seasons will change, sprinkler heads may burst, but the work of Christ in the resurrection is eternal!
Caring and Prayer Ministry is hosting the 75th annual National Day of Prayer. We will unite our hearts around the theme “Glorify God Among the Nations — Seeking Him in All Generations”, from 1 Chronicles 16:24, as we pray for and lift our local, state and national leaders before God’s throne of grace, seeking Christ’s heart of renewal and revival for our nation.
An Interview with a Living Legacy –In Their Own Words
Virginia (Ginger) Bowling was born February 8, 1934, in Tyler, Texas. Her father was an artisan pastry baker, and her mother raised the children while caring for the farm animals. Her father later relocated the family to several Texas towns, including Frog Pond, Crosbyton and Floydada, where he established his bakeries.
Though her father did not care for church, Ginger’s mother took the children when she was able. At age 10 or 11, Ginger decided for herself that she wanted to be baptized.
After graduating from high school, Ginger attended Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas, where she became involved in a Presbyterian church. Pastor Rogan and his wife regularly opened their home to college students for Wednesday evening vespers and Bible study. Ginger deeply cherished this time of fellowship and studying Scripture. It was also during these gatherings that she met her future husband, Jerry Bowling.
After graduating, Ginger and Jerry were married. Jerry, an aeronautical engineer, worked for Boeing, NASA and several other companies. His career took them around the world, including extended stays in China and the Middle East, where he contributed to static firing testing for manned space flight.
One of Ginger’s favorite roles was working as an executive secretary at Aerogenic with NASA in Sacramento, California.
Ginger and Jerry have two children and two grandsons. On one memorable visit to Paris, France, Ginger joyfully jumped on a trampoline with her grandchildren.
Ginger loved the Lord deeply. Her Bible is well used, filled with underlined passages, and she faithfully wore a cherished cross necklace given to her by her husband.
It is fitting that Ginger passed away on Palm Sunday — a day that reflects her desire to celebrate her Savior.
Written by Linda Allen and Anita Combs, Congregational Care Members 90+ Team
Save the Date
WOODLANDS SPOTLIGHT
Friday, May 1 | 11:15 a.m. | Wesley Hall
Join us for a lively afternoon of music and Derby day fun! Jim Sloan and his trio will play uplifting bluegrass gospel as we celebrate the Kentucky Derby. Take a photo with Nine the horse from Henry’s Home H & H Sanctuary. Dress in your Derby best — ladies, wear your fascinators, and gentlemen, your fedoras. Tickets are $12 per person.
BEAUTIFUL, THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL
Sunday, May 24 | 2:00 p.m. show
Theatre Under The Stars
Depart TWMC at 12:30 p.m.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical is a jukebox musical that chronicles the life and career of legendary singer-songwriter Carole King. It follows her personal and professional journey, from her early years as a young songwriter in New York City to her rise as a groundbreaking solo artist, while showcasing many of her iconic songs.
The cost of this event is $90 (includes transportation and theater ticket).
HOUSTON ASTROS VS. PITTSBURGH PIRATES
Thursday, June 4 | 7:10 p.m. Game
Daikin Park | Depart TWMC at 5:00 p.m.
The cost is $90 per person, which includes transportation and a ticket to the game.
BYE BYE BIRDIE
Sunday, July 12 | 2:00 p.m.
Crighton Theatre, Conroe
Bye Bye Birdie is a comedic musical set in the late 1950s that follows rock star Conrad Birdie’s draft into the Army, sparking a publicity stunt that unleashes comic chaos in a small town. The cost of this event is $23 per person. This is a meet-usthere-event. Dinner after the show is dutch.
Register for these events at twmc.org/adults55
Be a Star at the Connection Point —
A Simple Way to Serve, Once a Month
If you’ve been part of The Woodlands Methodist Church for 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 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 as though they belong.
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 once a month for approximately 90 minutes. When you arrive for your shift, you’re never left wondering what to do. A clear, easy-to-read 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 the 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 at 281.297.5963.
Midweek Prayer Invitation
We had a wonderful turnout for our weekly Lenten Lectio Divina contemplative prayer services. While the Lenten series has come to an end, our time in God’s presence continues.
We invite you to join us every Wednesday at noon in Robb Chapel on The Woodlands Campus for our Midweek Prayer Room. This is an opportunity to pause in the middle of the week to worship God, listen to His Word, and be guided in Spiritled prayer. We’ll take a break in May but begin again on June 3.
Fredericksburg and The Empty Cross
We had a wonderful time on our trip to Fredericksburg. We enjoyed great food and fellowship and a beautiful time of worship at The Empty Cross.
Fit for Life Fitness 9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall Craft Circle
10:00 a.m. | Loft
Golden Connection
7:00 p.m. | Creekside
WF Fit for Life
8:30 a.m. | Fit for Life
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate
WF Fit for Life
8:30 a.m. | Fit for Life
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate
Men’s Book
10:00 a.m. | Room
WF Fit for Life
8:30 a.m. | Fit for Life
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate
WF Fit for Life
8:30 a.m. | Fit for Life
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate
Men’s Book
10:00 a.m. | Room
ADULTS 55+
*Creekside Campus *ALL Campuses
Life Fitness
WF Gym
Life Fitness
Aldersgate Hall
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
National Day of Prayer Noon | Robb Chapel Mah Jongg
2:00 p.m. | Room B204
Golden Connection
7:00 p.m. | Creekside
Tea Around Town Depart From TWMC
WF Fit for Life Fitness
8:30 a.m. | WF Gym
Life Fitness
WF Gym
Life Fitness
Aldersgate Hall
Book Study Room B203
Life Fitness
WF Gym
Life Fitness
Aldersgate Hall
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
WF Lunch Bunch
11:00 a.m. | Papa’s on the Lake
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
11:00 a.m. | WF Campus
Mah Jongg
2:00 p.m. | Room B204
Golden Connection
7:00 p.m. | Creekside
Life Fitness
WF Gym
Life Fitness
Aldersgate Hall
Book Study Room B203
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
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Fit for Life Fitness
9:30 a.m. | Creekside
Caregivers Support
11:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
Spotlight
11:15 a.m. | Wesley Hall
Game Night
6:00 p.m. | Creekside
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Fit for Life Fitness
9:30 a.m. | Creekside
Low Vision Support Group
10:00 a.m. a.m. | Hayes Hall
Single Life Widows
11:30 a.m. | Monty’s Lighthouse
Montgomery Lunch Bunch
11:30 a.m. | Vernon’s Kuntry Katfish
Casual Bridge
12:30 p.m. | B107
Adult Game Night
6:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Fit for Life Fitness
9:30 a.m. | Creekside
Caregivers Support
11:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Fit for Life Fitness
9:30 a.m. | Creekside
Prayer Shawl Ministry
10:00 a.m. | Allen Parlor
Single Life Widows
11:30 a.m. | Adriatic Cafe
WF Game Night
6:00 p.m. | WF Classroom
Fit for Life Fitness
9:00 a.m. | Aldersgate Hall
Fit for Life Fitness
9:30 a.m. | Creekside
THE WOODLANDS CAMPUS
WOODLANDS LUNCH BUNCH
Tuesday, May 12 | 11:00 a.m. | B’LVD Cafe
B’LVD Cafe is located at 32309 FM 2978, Magnolia. All are welcome. To make a reservation, call Dee Megee at 281.793.6622 by Monday, May 11.
WOODFOREST CAMPUS
WOODFOREST LUNCH BUNCH
Thursday, May 14 | 11:00 a.m. | Papa’s On The Lake
Join us at Papa’s On The Lake for great food by the water. This restaurant is located at 14632 TX-105, Montgomery. To make a reservation, contact Roberta Duncan at 713.775.3030 no later than Monday, May 11
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Monday, May 4 and 18 | 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, May 8 | 11:30 a.m. | Vernon’s Kuntry Katfish
Join us for home-style cooking at this family owned restaurant. This restaurant is located at 5901 W Davis St, Conroe. To make a reservation contact Donna Carr at 936.443.6748 or Sally Tinsman at 936.499.9687 by Monday, May 4.
WALDEN WOMEN’S GROUP
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 | 7:00 p.m.
Join us for fellowship and a time of learning. For more information, contact Anna Vargas at anna@connexsteps.org
Spreading Easter Joy
Alongside the Heritage Girls, Debbie Russell joyfully led an incredible team of 40 volunteers to deliver 100 Easter lilies to our members who are 90 years and older. We are deeply grateful for her leadership and for everyone who helped share such kindness and care.
Woodlands Camera Club
Monday, May 4 | 7:00 p.m. | Aldersgate Hall
From sunrise in New York City to sunset in Yosemite, explore the beauty, culture, and everyday life of America through stunning images of landscapes, architecture, and people. Pat and Sylvia Tucker bring their journeys to life in a music-set video from their extensive photo archive.
Special Blessings Family Worship
Individuals and families with special needs followed Jesus on the journey through Holy Week during our Special Needs Family Worship Service. From Palm Sunday to Passover, Good Friday to Easter, a lot can happen in one week. We also enjoyed a Family Fellowship Easter Dinner and scavenger hunt!
TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES
DISCOVER AMERICA’S 250TH ANNIVERSARY
June 2026
This is a nine-day guided tour, tracing the story of the nation through Boston, New York, Philadelphia and Washington D.C.
Discover America documentation meeting is scheduled for Thursday, May 28 at 1:00 pm in Jones Library.
SCOTLAND
September 2027
View itineraries at twmc.org/adults55
TUSCANY, LAKE MAGGIORE, ITALIAN RIVIERA
September 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, a Tuscan villa stay, Florence and the Chianti countryside.
This unforgettable nine-day guided journey explores 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.
For more information go to https://gomegatravel.com/group-tours
SUMMER GRIEF SHARE
Tuesdays, Beginning June 2
5:30 – 7:00 p.m. | Room B201
This 13-week course explains both the spiritual and practical aspects of grief and helps guide you back to a full life.
The cost of this course is $20.
Register for Summer Grief Share at twmc.org/help
*New* Game Night at Creekside
First Fridays | 6:00 p.m. | Gathering Room
Feel free to bring your favorite game and invite a friend — everyone is welcome. For more information, contact Vicki Judice at 832.444.1492.
FIT FOR LIFE FITNESS CLASS
Every Monday and Friday | 9:30 a.m.
Worship Space | Creekside Campus
Our Adults 55+ fitness 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, strength 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.
LOW VISION SUPPORT GROUP
Join the Low Vision Support Group on Friday, May 8 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 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 them, 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
prayer and care
SUPPORT
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP
Fridays, May 1 and 15 | 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.
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. You can also contact John to volunteer.
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
Save a tree. Sign up for our e-newsletter or pick up a copy at any Connection Point. Photos will be shared on the Adults 55+ Facebook page. Like us on Facebook.
