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Naples UCC Family,
Some years back, I read a very interesting book entitled The American Miracle written by a Yale scholar named Michael Medved. The book began by offering the reader an opportunity to reflect on an exceedingly odd fact. Three of the first four American presidents died on the 4th of July. What are the chances? Was this a coincidence or a God-incidence? Medved chose not to ignore this oddity, but rather to explore what it might mean...
In many ways, the oddity does seem to communicate that the 4th of July is about that which is selfless, if not sacrificial. America was made possible and continues to be possible thanks to those who serve, who sacrifice, who give of themselves to help make our communal life together peaceful and fruitful as we strive collectively for the common good. As Medved puts it, “The oddity ought not to mean chauvinistic superiority, swagger, or xenophobia. Instead, the oddity encourages a sense of responsibility, humility, and gratitude.”
As I celebrate America tomorrow, I do so remembering what it is that makes America special in my eyes—America is special because of citizens who serve, who give back, who volunteer, who look beyond themselves to strengthen their communities, and who always keep extending the circle wider. The best of America is its selfless spirit.
Wishing you and your families a safe and joyous 4th of July,
Pastor Mark
| | JULY 3 | INDEPENDENCE DAY | | Please note that the church office will be closed today, July 3, in observance of Independence Day. We wish you a safe and joyful holiday weekend as you celebrate with family and friends. We look forward to seeing you for worship on Sunday. | | JULY 5, 10:00 AM | SANCTUARY | | Come join us this Sunday for worship that will include Holy Communion and some very special patriotic music. Invite your friends and family to come on this holiday weekend! | | |
Sunday, July 5, 2026
10:00 AM
Rev. Dr. Mark Williams
"With Whom Are You Yoked?"
Matthew 11: 25-30
| | JULY 6, 1:00 PM | MCSPADDEN HALL | | |
Challenge your mind, one tile at a time. Mahjong is the perfect blend of fun and focus. Join us for Mahjong on Mondays from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at the McSpadden Hall.
Free, and all are always welcome!
| | | Please join us as we prayerfully knit and crochet beautiful prayer shawls and lap blankets for those who need a warm hug from God. Lessons & supplies are available or bring your own project to work on. Everyone is welcome to participate in this caring ministry. Contact Janet Goodhart at (610) 420-7196 for questions. | | JULY 10, 2:00 PM | PARLOR | | | | The Caregiver’s Support Group meets every other Friday year-round to support those caring for loved ones. Whether you’re a caregiver, a past or future one, or seeking resources, all are welcome. Church membership is not required, and discussions remain private. Bring a friend who may benefit! For more info, contact Joan Millon at joanmillon6@gmail.com. | | |
Sundays – We are so happy to have families with young children in our midst! During the worship service, children are invited forward for a Children’s Message. Coloring activities and worship resources are available each week on the family table in the Narthex.
Nursery Care – Nursery care for infants through age 4 is available beginning at 9:30 a.m. in The Wiggle Room (a temporary location due to Nelson Hall renovations). Please ask a deacon for directions.
Youth Sunday School — Our Youth Sunday School program will resume on August 9 with a special Backpack Blessing and the launch of our new Sunday morning camp experience, Snowball Mountain Challenge!
Children and youth can look forward to a fun-filled season of faith, friendship, music, games, hands-on activities, and engaging Bible lessons designed to help them grow in their relationship with God. Throughout the fall, participants will explore themes of courage, kindness, teamwork, and trust as they journey through this exciting new program together.
We can’t wait to welcome everyone back in August for another wonderful year of learning, laughter, and spiritual growth!
| | 3906 Tamiami Trl E, Naples, FL 34112 | | |
As the season winds down, our mission is still going strong—and we need your help. The Bargain Box is seeking volunteers on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays.
Volunteer Opportunities:
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Hospitality & Cashiering: Be the face of the shop! Welcome customers and manage the register.
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Donation Transport: Help move donations from the Naples UCC shed to the Bargain Box.
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Curation & Sorting: Help us inspect, organize, and prep incoming donations.
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Display & Merchandising: Get creative! Help stage and style items to make the sales floor shine.
Donations Needed: Each donation helps transform generosity into meaningful support for our community.
Sign up: Reach out to George De La Roche by clicking the link below or calling him at 239-262-3802. In person sign ups at the Gathering Place with Samantha Santarosa. We’d love to have you on the team!
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Sunday, July 12, 2026
Rev. Sonja Phillips
"Regenerative Hope"
Isaiah 55: 10-13
| | JULY 13, 4:00 PM | TACOS & TEQUILA CANTINA | |
Join Naples UCC friends and family at this month’s Social Soirée to Tacos & Tequila Cantina, located in the Pavilion Shopping Center at 8971 Tamiami Trail North, Naples, FL at 4:00 p.m. This gathering is a great place to have fun & fellowship after a busy day!
Please sign up online by clicking the link below or in person at the Gathering Place by July 12, or call the church office at (239) 261-5469 with any questions. Hope to see you there!
| | Anwyn Watts Fundraiser Dinner | | JULY 19, 6:00 PM | MCSPADDEN HALL | | |
Join us on Sunday, July 19, at 6:00 p.m. at Naples UCC for a special dinner celebrating Anwyn Watts’ remarkable recovery following brain surgery.
Enjoy a meal inspired by Anwyn’s favorite foods, prepared by David Bogin and Jimmy Borden, along with a raffle featuring items donated by church members and local businesses. A $25 cash donation at the door is suggested, and all proceeds from the dinner and raffle will benefit the Watts family.
Reservations are required—please RSVP by clicking the button below or in person with Samantha Santarosa at the Gathering Place. For more information, call the church office at 239-261-5469.
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Nelson Hall Renovations Underway | | |
As many of you know, renovations to Nelson Hall are currently underway. During this exciting improvement project, several programs and activities have been temporarily relocated.
Please be sure to check the location of your program or event before attending, and watch church communications for updates. Thank you for your patience and flexibility as as we complete these important improvements.
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Chancel Flower Dedication | | |
We have available dates for our Chancel Flower Dedications! A wonderful opportunity to celebrate, honor, or remember a loved one. We will feature your message in the Sunday bulletin and on our livestream.
For up-to-date availability, or if you have any questions, please contact Sara Both, at sara@naplesucc.org, or call (239)261-5469. We hope you will participate in this thoughtful tradition!
| | Did you know that you can donate an anthem in memory or in honor of a loved one? Every time the anthem is sung, the dedication will appear with the anthem in the bulletin. To learn more about donating an anthem, please contact our Director of Music, Dr. Becky Weese-Rumpf by email at becky@naplesucc.org. It is the gift that keeps on giving! | | |
To view all our upcoming events and ways to connect,
visit our online calendar here.
| | 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday | | |
Mission Statement: To love God and all our neighbors as God loves us.
Open and Affirming • Mission-Driven • Powerful Worship • Continuing Generosity • Caring Ministry • Hospitable Fellowship
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