Dear Friends,

Pennies, nickels, dimes and quarters... these were the coins of our childhood. Coke bottles were redeemable at two cents apiece. A wagon full would buy a week's worth of candy. A phone call was 10 cents. A soda was 25 cents. The hamburger was only 50 cents. Having coins in your pocket meant you were “flush”. When we were penniless, we would pull out cushions from the living room sofa and look for change. However, the best prospect for finding coins was to search the pockets of our dad's trousers.

Coins are no longer the treasures they used to be. In fact, most stores won't accept pennies anymore. They’re not worth the time it takes to sort them out and count them. This Sunday the sermon is built upon the story of two of the smallest, most meager coins ever minted. They were “leptons” --- the two coins referenced in the story of the “Widow’s Mite.” The value of a lepton was estimated to be what a day laborer would earn in six minutes of work. However, these two leptons preach a story about the generosity of an unknown, unnamed woman whose offering has never been forgotten.

She is observed by Jesus to give her last two coins... all she has, into the offering box of the temple treasury. Jesus watches her small contribution and her quiet disappearance into the crowd. He is moved by her giving. I am as well. But what she has done raises many questions in my mind. If she, a poor widow, is desperate for money to live on then she had every right to keep these coins for her own use. The temple did not need her insignificant coins. Yet giving the coins meant something deep and powerful to her. With the giving of these gifts, we may presume that she has exhausted her last resources and that whatever future she has will be short lived and sorrowful. And yet, without any expectation of recognition, gain or benefit, she parts with her last treasure.

Obviously, something extraordinary is happening. Jesus finds himself extolling her actions. I can only wonder if he identifies with her. Does this story forecast his own sacrifice? And I wonder if we are to explore, through such stories, how we live and how we give, and what indeed is the most precious gift we bring to our walk of faith. 

In Christ’s Peace

Pastor Jim

P.S. - The story continues this Sunday in our morning services. Join us in person or online! 

Sunday, November 16, 2025

Rev. Jim Moseley

"Chinkle, Chinkle, Chinkle...Plink Plink"

Scripture: Luke 21: 1-4

NOVEMBER 16, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM | MCSPADDEN HALL

The Board of Mission and Outreach’s “fund-a-need” Holiday Mission Gift

Market supports the work of NUCC’s mission partners. Meet our partners,

learn about their important work, shop their “fund-a-need” options and

receive beautiful gift cards for your loved ones. Connect with representatives

from Grace Place, Habitat for Humanity, Harry Chapin Food Bank,

The Housing Alliance, Immokalee Fair Housing Alliance, People for

Guatemala, STARability, Warrior Homes and Youth Haven. Complete

your holiday gift list by “Giving the Gift of Mission” or you may choose to

make a donation. Come, celebrate the holidays with friends, enjoy yummy

food and learn more about NUCC’s important mission work.

Our wonderful Angel Tree will be in the Narthex again on November 16 as well as the following two Sundays. The gifts will go to the babies and families who participate in the Baby Basics program here at NUCC plus the teen parenting program at Immokalee and Collier County schools. Stop by and pick up an Angel. It will have the gender and age of a child as well as a gift suggestion. Gifts should be wrapped with the Angel attached to the outside and returned to the church on or before November 30. Donations will also be gratefully accepted (cash, credit card, or check) for a grocery gift certificate to accompany the gift. Checks can be made out to "Naples UCC" with "Angel Tree" in the memo line. Thank you in advance for your support. 

Tiffany Knight

Communications Specialist

Join us in welcoming Tiffany Knight to the Naples UCC team as our new Communications Specialist! Tiffany brings creativity, enthusiasm, and a passion for storytelling to our community. With a background in journalism and experience in marketing and communications, Tiffany is dedicated to sharing the voices, mission, and spirit of our church through meaningful and engaging content.

A Naples native and graduate of West Virginia University, she is delighted to be rooted once again in the community she loves. When she’s not crafting messages for Naples UCC, Tiffany enjoys the beach, music, and time with her family. Tiffany is always happy to help with any communication needs — whether you have questions about the Bulletin or E-Blast, or would like support with marketing materials.

So be sure to say hi to Tiffany the next time you are in the Church office!

Norice Rasmussen

Interim Director of Financial Operations

Norice joins Naples UCC as Interim Director of Financial Operations. Recently retired, she lives on her family’s Centennial farm in Greenville, Michigan with her husband, Lee. They have two adult children—both proud Michigan State grads. Go Green!

An avid traveler and outdoor enthusiast, Norice has hiked Machu Picchu, explored Iceland and Alaska, and visited many U.S. national parks. She started running at 55 and now enjoys 5Ks, half-marathons, and triathlons, but biking remains her favorite way to stay active.

With a long career in leadership and finance across manufacturing and nonprofits, Norice brings valuable expertise to Naples UCC. She’ll oversee financial operations, assist with giving income, and answer questions about estate or donor-advised fund gifts. Norice will only be with Naples UCC till the end of the year, as she has come out of retirement to help out during our time of transition.

Be sure to say hello when you see her in the office!

Calling all Baby Boomers (born ~1946–64) and Boomer Wannabes! Everyone

is welcome to join us for an evening of fun, fellowship, live music, and trivia

before the holidays. Come enjoy Happy Hour on Sunday, November 16 at 4:00 p.m., hosted by Deb and Bob Marini at Village Walk, 3484 Donoso Ct, Naples 34109. (At the gate, simply say you're with the Marini church group.) You’re invited to bring an appetizer or sweet to share and your own beverage. Please RSVP to 617-721-7920.

If you missed hearing Paul Hiltz, CEO of NCH Health Systems, and Jamie Ulmer, CEO of Healthcare Network, speak about the challenges of providing healthcare services when Medicaid is being cut, Medicare reimbursements are changing, and ICE is deporting healthcare workers, you can watch the video below.  

This Monday, November 17, at 1 p.m. in Nelson 207. Please come to the final session of Pastor Jim’s study of Christ’s Insights on Poverty. The prompt this week is “Now what?” NUCC hopes you have enjoyed this study and walked away with a greater understanding of poverty and what Jesus really said about the poor and formed an idea how you feel.

Join Ordained Minister Susan Baller-Shepard as she shares her gift, guiding us in the final spiritual writing workshop. We will learn, in a supportive environment, engage in writing prompts, work on writing characters, and watch how sentences surprise us. This will be the last class of the four-week series. Beginners encouraged to attend on Tuesday, November 18 at 10 a.m in N-101!

Please join us 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 on Tuesday, November 18 at 1 p.m in the parlor.



Contact Janet Goodhart at (610) 420-7196 for questions. 

Sir David Attenborough, a conservationist and biologist, narrates this fascinating documentary experiencing our planet's natural beauty and examining how climate change impacts all living creatures. From frightening sharks to long spinal sea urchins, ninety percent of marine creatures live in coastal waters. Environmentalists are sounding the alarm that these habitats are a battle that we must win! Join us for the screening on Tuesday, November 18 at 4 p.m. in N-207, presented by the Environment Subcommittee.

Wednesday, November 19 at 4:30 PM | Beverly Hall

Join us for a meaningful gathering to explore the connection between gratitude and compassion in the spirit of Thanksgiving. The Roots of Compassion & Kindness (ROCK) Center from FGCU will guide us in reflection and conversation sharing how these values show up in our lives and across different faith traditions. All are welcome to participate in this space for mutual community, learning, and reflection. Consider attending the Church Thanksgiving dinner that will be served in McSpadden Hall following the program. Be sure to click the link below or sign up in the Gathering Place if you plan to attend.

Join us for NUCC’s Thanksgiving dinner on November 19 at 5:30 p.m. following the Interfaith celebration event. There will be music, fellowship and gratitude for all we have been given! Registration is required by November 16 to manage the food reservations, so please click the link below to RSVP or do so by signing up in the Gathering Place. Cost is $20.00 per person and checks can be made out to Naples UCC, memo - Thanksgiving Dinner. Cash is accepted at the door. Children 12 and under are free. Donations will be accepted.

We look forward to the fellowship & fun to come! For questions, call the church office at (239) 261-5469. 

On Wednesday, November 19 at 9 a.m. join Pastor Mark for the last Bible study on the Book of James. James offers us a glimpse of what authentic, embodied, real faith for everyday people might look like. Come to discuss & debate. This Bible study will not be dogmatic, but will always be open to a wide spectrum of opinions and interpretations. Bring your favorite Bible and an open mind. During this session we will discuss “That Which Awaits,” James 5: 12-20.

This year marks the 250th anniversary of America’s struggle for independence, providing the foundation for a group discussion and exploring the pre- and post-war influence of religion in the establishment of the United States. Two key resources will ground this last discussion; Thomas Tweed’s book “Religion in the Lands that Became America” and Ken Burn’s 6-part series, “THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION”, documentary (premiering 11/16-11/21 on PBS). Join Allison McCarthy and Rich Kirschner on Thursday, November 20, as they facilitate the final intriguing discussion on our country’s founding history.

Please join us on Thursday, November 20!

1:00-2:30 p.m. in Nelson Hall, room 101.

Join us for the third and last session in this series of Women's Stories, formerly Women engage. Women’s Stories promotes lively discussions with a focus on the stories and experiences of inspiring women to enlighten, encourage, and evoke conversation. This 3-week series is guided by one woman’s story - Isabel Allende - told through her book, The Soul of A Woman (2021), and an interview with the Los Angeles Times, “Isabel Allende isn’t passing the feminist torch - she’s sharing it” by Rigoberto Gonzalez (Feb 24, 2021) and a TED talk, “How to Live Passionately - No Matter your Age (Sept 3, 2014).” 

The readings and Ted Talk provide one woman's shared experience presented in three different formats. Choose the format(s) that works best for you or just join us to enjoy the discussion and fellowship. The three resources will be used to guide each weekly discussion but the conversation will follow the interests and comments of the group. This is a unique opportunity to connect with other women in our church community, gather together to listen and engage through shared experiences. Please join us in person or via Zoom:

Women's Stories will pick up again in January with another three-week series. Check the bulletin and e-blasts for more information!

Naples UCC’s Justice Committee will be having coffee & conversation with Scott Harshbarger on Friday, November 21 at 10 a.m. in N-103. Scott returns to NUCC to lead the conversation “How the Rule of Law Protects the Vulnerable.” Scott has had a long and successful public service career as a civil rights attorney, public defender, district attorney and attorney general. He is also co-founder and chair of the board of Lawyers Defending American Democracy (LDA.org).

His consumer and public protections initiatives include, among others, initiatives against urban and family violence, public corruption, white collar crime and insurance and health care fraud. Scott currently serves as Senior counsel in the litigation and nonprofit departments of Casner & Edwards in Boston. For further details about Scott’s distinguished career go to www.casneredwards.com/attorneys/scott-harshbarger. Coffee will be served!

As many people are now returning to Naples for the season, this is an ideal opportunity to invite a friend or neighbor to an NUCC event. Check your copy of NEXT for an event they might enjoy. Perhaps a mission, educational or music related opportunity. Or, invite them to a service where they will discover exceptional music, powerful preaching and meaningful worship.

SPLASH! – On Wednesdays! Snacks will be available in Nelson Hall from 3:30–4:00 p.m. as we welcome arriving families, followed by program time from 4:00–5:00 p.m.

Nursery Care – Nursery care for infants through 4 years old is available each Sunday morning beginning at 9:30 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.

Sunday, November 23, 2025

Rev. Dr. Mark Williams 

"A Posture of Gratitude"

Scripture: Psalm 100

Join CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Collier County Rev. Lisa Lefkow, who will be interviewed by Rev. Dr. Mark Williams as part of a special edition of our “30 Good Minutes” series on Sunday, November 23 at 10:15 a.m. The quest for more affordable housing in Collier County continues to evolve, and Rev. Lefkow plans to update us all on current issues, trends, and plans in our community. This event is sponsored by our Justice Committee.

Mondays at 1 PM | Nelson Hall

This month’s book will be “Finding Margaret Fuller” by Allison Pataki. The discussion will be led by Kate Butler and Candy Nordland. Anyone is welcome, even if you have not read the book! Join us on Monday, November 24 at 2 p.m. in N-104.

Join Zoom Meeting

Meeting ID: 838 2027 0433

Passcode: book

Interfaith Alliance of Southwest Florida will be hosting this year’s Interfaith Thanksgiving Service at Christus Victor Lutheran Church on Monday, November 24 at 7 p.m. Please see their website for further details at https://swflinterfaith.org/programs%2Fevents.

Join NUCC volunteers in creating a memorable evening while interacting

with Youth Haven kids. On Monday, November 24 from 7 to 8 p.m. Please arrive at 6:30 p.m. Run children’s games with Youth Haven kids. Sign up in the Gathering Place on Sunday or contact Michele Carney, at mcarney@

shcmg.com. (Youth Haven, 5867 Whitaker Rd, Naples, FL)

Join NUCC members for a fun afternoon and help serve families in need. Come Friday, December 5 from 12:30 to 4:00 p.m. Help with setup, food distribution and clean up. Sign up in the Gathering Place on Sunday or contact Sara Morgan, at saramorgan644@gmail.com.

(Grace Place, 4300 21st Ave SW, Naples, FL)

Led by retired minister and NUCC member Rich Kirschner, this men’s group explores current events and their impact on daily life through thoughtful, engaging discussion. The group meets Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. in Nelson Hall, room 101, and via Zoom. Contact Rich Kirschner for details and or a Zoom link at rdkirschner@gmail.com. The upcoming book study is “Miracles and Wonder” by Elaine Pagels. Please check the calendar or weekly bulletins for future details.

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 NUCC community. On Wednesday, November 26 enjoy the variety of walkways and picturesque views of the Gordon River at Baker Park. The Park is located at, 50 Riverside Cir, Naples, 34102, just north of downtown Naples. Park in the upper parking lot. The group will be at the top of the stairs between the two playgrounds at 8:30 am. Anticipate our return to the parking lot by 10:00. Contact Merrill Noble at mwnoble56@gmail.com if you have questions, plan to attend for the first time or would like to carpool from the church.

Join us for a brief town hall on Sunday, November 30 at 10:15 a.m. in N-207, where the search committee will share updates on the minister search process. They will provide a summary of progress and goals as they work to interview candidates for our new Associate Minister of Congregational Care.

Let’s make it official! Join us December 14. You may join either publicly or privately. Those wishing to retain a membership in a northern church are invited to join as an Associate Member. Public joining will occur during the 11:00 a.m. service. For additional information, find Samantha Santarosa in the Gathering Place on Sunday morning or email her at samantha@naplesucc.org.

At Naples UCC, we offer an Associate Membership for our seasonal visitors who wish to also retain their membership in a Northern church. Our Associate Membership offers all the same rights and privileges as our full membership. We have Joining Sundays each month during season. You may join either publicly or privately. For more information, see Samantha in the Gathering Place or email her at samantha@naplesucc.org.

Are you looking for a meaningful way to serve your church family? We are inviting volunteers to help usher or greet at the Narthex doors. This is a wonderful opportunity to extend a warm welcome to all who enter and be a part of creating a spirit of hospitality in our worship space. Whether you’re a longtime member or new to the congregation, your presence and smile can make a big difference! 

If you’re interested, please contact: 

Roger Terry –rogerterry1@gmail.com

Jennifer Rainey – raineyjmd@yahoo.com

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