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Naples UCC Family,
If you’re a congregant “up north,” you’ll note that those of us down here in Naples are hot! The summer temperatures have set in, and we are grateful for the afternoon thundershowers that cool us off. Nothing beats a cold glass of ice-water this time of year…
It is that analogy of “cold water” to which we turn our attention this Sunday in worship. Jesus asked his disciples to offer cold water to those who are thirsty (Matthew 10: 40-42). Whereas Jesus’s teaching could be interpreted literally, I sense Jesus was being a bit more than just literal. To be sure, life can be exhausting. We sweat through much—from doctor’s appointments to conflict to issues of unfairness. Thanks be to God for the life-giving water that God provides.
As followers of God, what would it mean to partner with God to provide refreshment to those who are sweating through the challenges of life? A cold glass of water? An act of kindness? A small favor? Our faith teaches us to offer cold water to those who are exhausted on the journey. Who do you know in your life who is sweating today for any reason? How might you offer to them cold water? I look forward to sharing more on this topic in my message on Sunday…
Also on Sunday, we will re-affirm our Open and Affirming covenant together, and we’ll receive another group of new members who have planned to join our fellowship!
Pastor Mark
| | | | 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. | | |
Sunday, June 28, 2026
10:00 AM
Rev. Mark Williams
"Offer Cold Water"
Matthew 10: 40-42
| | JUNE 28, 10:00 AM | SANCTUARY | | |
We will welcome new members on Sunday, June 28, with both private and public joining opportunities. Public joining will take place during the 10:00 a.m. worship service. Those wishing to retain membership in another church are invited to join as Associate Members.
Join Naples UCC Anytime!
While the Membership & Growth Committee will be on hiatus during July, we would be happy to connect with you and help you begin the membership process. For more information about memberships, contact Samantha Santarosa in the Gathering Place or email her at samantha@naplesucc.org. We look forward to welcoming you into the Naples UCC family!
| | JUNE 29, 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!
| | | JULY 3 | INDEPENDENCE DAY | Please note that the church office will be closed on Friday, 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. | |
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 — Activities will resume on August 9 with the Backpack Blessing and the start of our new Sunday morning camp, Snowball Mountain Challenge!
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Sunday, July 5, 2026
Rev. Dr. Mark Williams
"Set Free"
Matthew 11: 25-30
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Independence Day Worship
| | JULY 5, 10:00 AM | SANCTUARY | | Come join us next 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! | | 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!
| | 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 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. 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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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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