Naples UCC Family,

On Sunday during worship at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., members of the Festival Singers, the Honeytown Bluegrass Band, and the Naples UCC choir will be teaming up for an awesome worship service! Theologically speaking, the music genre of bluegrass proves to be enormously interesting. Originating in the Appalachian Mountains, bluegrass music comes from a place of poverty. It is music inspired by the least of these. It is as honest as it is rebellious as it is prophetic.

On Sunday, in true bluegrass spirit, we'll focus our attention on the story of the Canaanite woman, the outsider living on the margins who dared to recorrect Jesus. The woman's bravery was scandalous, but not nearly as scandalous as Jesus's willingness to be corrected. Yes, Jesus allowed himself to be re-directed by one of the least of these. A woman. A gentile. A poor person.

What if listening to the voices of those below us, voices on the margins, voices crying out, hurting voices—what if their guidance can re-direct us into some of the deepest places of God's love...

I look forward to sharing more on Sunday in a sermon entitled "Sacred Crumbs" from Matthew 15: 21-28.

See You Sunday!

Pastor Mark

P.S. Don't forget your cans for Cans for Communion!

January 31 at 7 PM | Sanctuary

Naples UCC is in for a special musical treat! Under the leadership of Director Kevin Fenton, the Festival Singers of Florida will be performing on January 31 at 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary. Providing community performances of the highest quality, the Festival Singers of Florida are dedicated to engaging and inspiring through impassioned singing, while expanding awareness and appreciation of the choral arts. Their featured work will be “The World Beloved: A Bluegrass Mass.”

Sunday, February 1, 2026

Rev. Dr. Mark Williams

“Sacred Crumbs”

 Matthew 15: 21-28

February 1 at 9 & 11 AM | Portico

Our Cans for Communion collection of non perishable food will continue in February. This month’s collection will focus on macaroni and cheese and canned vegetables; however, all donations are welcome. The items collected will be packaged by volunteers at Grace Place and distributed to their students 2 times per month. Grace Place is looking forward to our continued support! Feel free to do some bulk or weekly BOGO shopping, or donate directly from your pantry. Please check those expiration dates as well. Thanks to all for your participation.

February 1 at 4 PM | Enright Home

Our first event of 2026 is Sunday, February 1 at 4 p.m., hosted by Tom and Linda Enright at their condo in Arielle at Pelican Marsh. Enter Pelican Marsh from Airport Pulling Road or US 41/Tamiami Trail, proceed along Pelican Marsh Blvd, and turn into Arielle. The address is Unit #2504, Building #2125. There is plenty of guest parking by the pool area. At the gatehouse, let them know you are attending a church function hosted by the Enrights. Feel free to bring an appetizer or sweet to share and the beverage of your choice. Enjoy live music, trivia, great food, and lots of fun! We look forward to seeing you. 

Meet & Greet | February 7 at 9 AM | Gathering Place

Candidating Sermon | February 8 at 9 & 11 AM | Sanctuary

Join us in the Gathering Place on Saturday, February 7, from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. to share a cup of coffee and meet the candidate for Minister for Congregational Care. Then, plan to come to a service on Sunday, February 8, to hear her candidating sermon and stay for the annual meeting to vote on calling her to serve Naples UCC. Information about the candidate will be distributed to members by e-mail next week. You won’t want to miss this important event in the life of our church!

February 8 at 12:15 PM | Sanctuary

Please make plans to attend the Annual Meeting of the membership of Naples UCC on Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 12:15 p.m., immediately after the second service in the Sanctuary. This is an important meeting of the congregation to not only elect officers and board and committee chairs and members and adopt the 2026 budget, but also to vote on the candidate for Minister for Congregational Care. General materials for the Annual Meeting were sent by email last week. Those members unable to attend the Annual Meeting in person will be able to participate through a secure Zoom webinar. Links for the Zoom webinar as well as information on the candidate for Associate Minister will be sent by email next week. Proxy forms were included in the email with the Annual Meeting materials for those unable to participate in person or by Zoom. Proxy forms are also available from the Deacons at Sunday services. A second Proxy form will be available shortly before the meeting, once we distribute information on the candidate for Associate Minister, if you wish to direct a vote as to the candidate. Please be sure to turn in completed proxy forms to the church office or hand them to a Deacon on a Sunday morning prior to the meeting. 

Last Sunday marked the completion of the first week of our 2026 Stewardship campaign, and once again, the church surpassed expectations! We received over 200 pledges and like gifts, well beyond our goal of 100 for the week. Let’s continue to cultivate the seeds of goodness at Naples UCC as we aim to reach our goal of 650 participants by March 8. Please mail or carry your estimate of giving to church, or make your pledge online at NaplesUCC.org/donate. Pledge cards can be found in the pews and in the Narthex. Thank you for your joyful generosity that is growing God’s love through Naples UCC!

February 2 at 1 PM | N-104

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 - 3 p.m. in Nelson Hall. Free, and all are always welcome!

February 3 at 10 AM | N-104

Please join us for our monthly WISE meeting (Welcoming, Inclusive, Supportive, and Engaged) on Tuesday, February 3, at 10:00 a.m. in Nelson Hall. We welcome anyone who would like to share the mental health experiences of their family or community—and those who simply wish to listen as others share their stories. Our group supports one another through sharing, prayer and learning as we seek to become more informed about the mental health crisis in today’s world through book studies and professional speakers. We are lifted up by our time together and invite you to join us. In addition, at 11:00 a.m. join us for our Educational Programming featuring Dr. Emily Williams, Psychiatrist. She will speak on ADD and other associated

conditions. All are welcome to attend this session.

February 3 at 1 PM | Parlor

Please join us in the parlor as we faithfully 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 additional info.

February 3 at 7 PM | McSpadden Hall

“There’s No Giving Up on Democracy” will be presented by Howard Simon, former Florida ACLU Executive Director, on Tuesday, February 3 at 7 p.m. in McSpadden Hall. This Justice Committee program is co-sponsored by the Interfaith Alliance of SWFL. Currently a consultant working with nonprofits,

Simon’s 40-year ACLU career included litigation in the federal courts in Florida that led to the overturning of the ban on same sex marriage, preceding the ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court; numerous legislation challenging efforts by Florida officials to restrict the right to vote; and many other controversies involving separation of church and state and freedom of speech. A Q&A

will follow his presentation on ways individuals can help protect our democracy.

February 4 at 7:30 AM | Harry Chapin

Join Naples UCC volunteers for a fun day and help a worthy cause at the same time. This food bank packing shift is from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Please register at https://www.volgistics.com/appform/754780826 or sign up in the

Gathering Place on Sundays. For more information contact Mike Conrad, at mikeconrad21@gmail.com.

February 4

9 AM in N-207 | 1 PM in N-103

Join Pastor Mark for a 7-week Bible Study on the Seven Signs in John’s Gospel. You won’t want to miss this interesting study discussing the seven different miraculous events or “signs” that Jesus performs. Please bring your favorite Bible and an open mind. We will study John 6:16-21 “Walking on Water”.

February 4 at 10:30 AM | N-101

Men’s New Chapters meets regularly on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. throughout the program season. The group is reviewing Holy Envy by Barbara Brown Taylor. All men are welcome! Contact Rich Kirschner for details or for the Zoom link if you are unable to attend in person at rdkirschner@gmail.com.

February 5 at 10 AM | N-207

Please join us on February 5 at 10 a.m. in Nelson 207 for a lively discussion about what it means for us as a church to respond to the needs of the poor. Regardless of participation in the COPE workshop, all are welcome to join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities to minister to the least of these

in our community.

February 6 at 2 PM | N-101

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. For more info, contact Joan Millon at joanmillon6@gmail.com.

SPLASH & Special Events – Splash will be taking a break from our regular schedule for now but stay tuned for upcoming special events we are planning in the months ahead! Our first event will be FEBRUARY 18 at the Il Primo Pizza Restaurant in Golden Gate. We are invited to participate in a fundraising event in support of the Watts family, sponsored by Anwyn’s elementary school. Mark your calendars and join us at Il Primo for a pizza dinner on February 18. More information coming!

Sundays – We are so happy to have families with young children in our midst! Regular Sunday morning activities for children 4 years and older take place during the 9:00 a.m. worship service. Children are encouraged to come forward for the Children’s Message, then go to Sunday School with Ms. Jeanne. Coloring activities and worship resources are available on the family table in the Narthex. Please reach out to the church office if you have any questions or would like more information about upcoming events.

Nursery Care – Nursery care for infants through 4 years old is available each Sunday morning beginning at 8:30 a.m. in Nelson Hall, room 203.

Time for Children – Early in the worship service, children are invited forward for a special message designed to connect the theme of worship to their lives in an age-appropriate way. Afterward, children Pre-K through 5th Grade are invited to attend Sunday School with Ms. Jeanne for engaging lessons and activities in Nelson Hall, Room 202. All children are welcome whether visitors or members. 

Youth Sunday School – Students 6-12th grade are invited to meet each Sunday morning at 10:15 a.m. in Nelson Hall room 200 for our Sunday morning gathering. Come enjoy fellowship time with friends as we explore discipleship and what it means to follow Jesus today.

The Watts family is very thankful for the continued prayers and loving support for their daughter, Anwyn, who is enduring a major medical challenge. If you would like to send Anwyn a card or a note of encouragement, you may mail it to:

Nicklaus Children’s Hospital       

3100 SW 62nd Ave

Miami, FL 33155

Room #3008 PICU

Sunday, February 8, 2026

Candidate for Minister for Congregational Care

“Salt and Light for Everyone”

Matthew 5: 13-16

The 2026 Tuesday at Twilight Concert series continues with a quartet of: Judy Christy, oboe, Zach DePue, violin, John Marcy, cello and Dr. Alexandra Carlson, piano. The featured work will be Quartet for Oboe, Violin, Cello and Piano, H.315 by Bohuslav. Click the button below or call the church office to purchase tickets!

Join members and friends for fellowship, prayer, and walking in nature. The Walk and Wonder group eagerly welcomes family members, friends, and especially newcomers to the Naples UCC community. On Wednesday, February 11 enjoy a walk along Seagate beach and the boardwalk that

leads to the Naples Grande. Meet in the church parking lot at 8:30 a.m. Anticipate our return to church by 10:00 a.m. Contact Merrill Noble at

mwnoble56@gmail.com if you have questions or plan to attend for the first

time.

The Board of Mission and Outreach (BOMO) is pleased to inform the congregation that it has approved a grant of $18,620 to provide emergency support to 4 families in Immokalee affected by recent detentions and/or deportations. Nineteen-year old Ingrid is now in charge of her three younger siblings (10, 8 and 5) while her mother is being detained in Texas; the mother’s hearing is not until the end of March. Naples UCC is helping Ingrid pay for the rent of half of a trailer that she and her siblings are living in. Ingrid earns money by cleaning hotel rooms and sends money to her mother, when she is able, to pay for blankets and phone calls. Naples UCC is working through the Redlands Christian Migrant Association (RCMA), a long-time mission partner, to ensure the funds are disbursed in a safe and timely manner. To date, 8 of the families enrolled with RCMA have been affected by detention and/or deportation and thus far, Naples UCC, is able to support 4 of them. For more information, please contact Susan Pezzullo, BOMO chair (suspezzullo@gmail.com) or Loralee LeBoeuf, BOMO vice-chair (lalwal48@gmail.com).

February 12 at 8 AM | Solomon's Castle

On February 12, we have reserved twenty seats for Trendy Tours Trip to Solomon’s Castle/Royal Lipizzaners. First up will be a unique attraction that showcases the creativity of Howard Solomon. Lunch will be provided and the tour will continue to the training center of the Royal Lipizzaner Stallions. Cost is $169.00 per person. To purchase tickets please contact Maria DeMarco at Maria@TrendyToursFlorida.com or Diane Myers at 410-507-2063.

RSVP & Payment Deadline by: February 3, 2026

February 12 at 4 PM | N-104

The Membership and Growth Committee has been developing and presenting a new member orientation for the past two and a half years. We are excited to now open this presentation to all church members on a limited, sign-up basis.

During the orientation, we will cover:

• A brief overview of the United Church of Christ and Naples UCC history

• How Naples UCC is governed, including the corporation and church leadership

• An introduction to our Boards, Committees, Ministries, and social groups

• A guided tour of our campus, including history and fun facts

• Time for questions and discussion

Refreshments and snacks will be served. Space is limited, so please sign up with Samantha Santarosa in the Gathering Place.

February 15 at 9 & 11 AM | Portico

Join us for our monthly focus drive on February 15 at 9 and 11 a.m. Naples UCC will collect donations before each service. For February 15, we are collecting women’s and men’s boutique clothing. Please bring your donations to the drop-off table in the Portico. As our season ramps up, we’re grateful for your generous donations and we could use your help!

Join the team!

We’re looking for in‑store volunteers, especially cashiers, on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays to:

• Assist customers and support cashier operations

• Lift, organize, and sort donations

• Help prepare and stage items for sale

We also welcome donations that help us continue serving our customers and community. Your support—whether time or items—keeps the store running and ensures resources reach those who need them. If you have a few hours and a

willing heart, we’d love to have you on our team and deeply appreciate any donations you can offer.

February 15 at 9 AM & 11 AM

The Membership Committee and Pastor Mark are excited to host Bring a Friend Sunday on February 15! This joyful Sunday is always a favorite, featuring lively, upbeat, Louisiana jazz music that sets a welcoming tone. Pastor Mark will share a special message, and the celebration will continue afterward in the Gathering Place with fellowship and connection.

For those members planning to bring a friend, please sign up with Samantha in the Gathering Place or contact her at samantha@naplesucc.org. This will allow us time to have name tags prepared at the Welcome Stations under the portico. There will also be plenty of “special treats” for everyone in the Gathering Place!

February 15 at 12:15 PM | N-104

A time for visitors to learn, ask questions, and meet our ministers. The Meet and Greet takes place following the 11:00 a.m. service in Nelson Hall, room 104. Enjoy refreshments. Sign up with Samantha in the Gathering Place or contact her at samantha@naplesucc.org.

February 17 at 3:30 PM | N-207

Join the Environment Committee at a presentation of Breaking their Silence.

The filmmaker, Kerry David, and her dedicated crew pursue a passion that

takes them around the globe to meet the courageous women of Africa

and Asia living on the front lines of this silent war. An unlikely group of

heroes are rising up to do all they can to prevent and reverse these terrible

offenses against the planet. Doing dangerous, physically exhausting, and

emotionally demanding work, these women display humor, resilience, and

compassion while risking everything to prevent Africa’s most vulnerable

animals from becoming extinct. The documentary is 1 hour and 55 minutes.

February 22 at 11 AM

We will have both private and public joining on Sunday, February 22. Private joining will occur at 10:30 a.m. and public joining will occur during the 11:00 a.m. service. Those wishing to retain their membership in a northern church are invited to join as Associate Members. For additional information, see Samantha in the Gathering Place or contact her at samantha@naplesucc.org.

February 18 at 12 PM | Sanctuary

Join us for Ash Wednesday as we begin our series during the season of Lent. Rev. Dr. Mark Williams and Music Director Dr. Becky Weese-Rumpf will lead a special noontime worship entitled “Lessons on Faith, Service, and Justice from the Prophets.” Following Ash Wednesday, Lent Worship on Wednesday will be weekly at noon in the Sanctuary. This year’s series is inspired by Richard Rohr’s book The Tears of Things: Prophetic Wisdom for an Age of Outrage. Following each service, come gather with Pastor Mark and the NUCC Justice committee in Nelson Hall for a brown-bag lunch discussion on the topic for the day.

February 27 at 1:30 - 4 PM | Portico

Join us at Naples UCC for a blood drive and help make a life-saving impact in our community. A single donation can save up to three lives! Donors are asked to please eat beforehand, hydrate with water, and bring a photo ID. To sign up or for more information, contact Bob at 239-631-9771 or robertmorsesr@icloud.com. We hope you’ll join us in sharing the gift of life.

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