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Naples UCC Family,
One of the great virtues of God is that God turns toward those who cry. Our cries are heard by a God who does not turn away from our tears but toward them. As Frederick Buechner observed, “Pay attention to the things that cause a tear in your eye or a lump in your throat for these are signs that the holy is coming near.”
On Sunday at Naples UCC, I look forward to sharing the story of a child named Ishmael who cried out for God in the wilderness. God provided hope and healing, as God does for us.
Tears are also the secret to where God is calling us to serve and to love. Who in your life this weekend is crying out? Who could benefit from a kind word or a refreshing call? Blessed are those who get involved in the tears of others. For when we do, we are most like God.
In Christ,
Pastor Mark
| | TODAY | JUNETEENTH OBSERVANCE | |
The church will be closed today, Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.
As we commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, this day offers an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing journey toward freedom, justice, and equality. We look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
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Sunday, June 21, 2026
10:00 AM
Rev. Mark Williams
"Tears Are God's Territory"
Genesis 21: 8-21
| | JUNE 21, 11:00 AM | GATHERING PLACE | | Join us as we celebrate Joyce and Jim Asmus for their 45 years of marriage, love, and commitment. Both are valued members of our church family and members of the Sanctuary Choir, and Jim also serves as our Lead Custodian. They are graciously providing this Sunday fellowship reception at the Gathering Place and invite the congregation to celebrate with them following worship. | | Missed the Teepa Snow's Aging Well Workshop? | | |
If you were unable to attend our recent Aging Well event featuring world-renowned dementia care expert Teepa Snow, we invite you to watch the workshop recording by clicking the button below.
Thank you to Naples UCC WISE for Mental Health and our Caregivers Support Group for sponsoring this meaningful educational opportunity and helping our congregation continue to learn, connect, and care for one another.
Looking for previous sessions? A second button below provides access to recordings from previous Aging Well sessions, offering valuable insights and support for caregivers, professionals, and families.
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Naples UCC Financial Results
May 2026
| | JUNE 22, 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!
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Join us on June 22 at 2:00 p.m. in the Administrative Conference Room for an engaging discussion of Peggy: A Novel by Rebecca Godfrey, completed with Leslie Jamison. This compelling historical novel traces the remarkable life of art collector Peggy Guggenheim, from her privileged New York upbringing and the loss of her father on the Titanic to her influential role in the modern art world. Everyone is welcome—even if you have not read the book!
If you are unable to come in person, join us by Zoom!
Meeting ID: 838 2027 0433
Passcode: book
| | | JUNE 26, 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. | | 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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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, June 28, 2026
Rev. Dr. Mark Williams
"Offer Cold Water"
Matthew 10: 40-42
| | Joining Sunday Opportunity | | JUNE 28, 9:30 & 10:00 AM | SANCTUARY | | |
We will welcome new members on Sunday, June 28, with both private and public joining opportunities. Private joining will take place at 9:30 a.m., followed by public joining during the 10:00 a.m. worship service. Those wishing to retain membership in another church are invited to join as Associate Members.
Can’t Join on June 28? 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!
| | 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. | |
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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