Naples UCC Family,

"Do not be afraid." These words can be found in the Bible (Old Testament and New) a total of 366 times. It was these words Jesus spoke to Simon Peter following a miraculous catch of fish. That we might have faith in the face of fear seems to be of critical importance to God.

I would argue that the kind of fear that Simon Peter experienced in the story of the miraculous catch was: Having just experienced the mystery of Christ, what if I follow Christ's call and it all works out? At times, we fear that something might not work. At other times, as in the case of Christ calling Simon Peter, we fear what might happen if it all does work.  

What if I get involved in something, and it ends up working? What if I go on a date, and it all works out? What if I join a church, I really like it, and then it works to the point that they ask me to serve on a committee? What if I pursue something new, and become successful at it? What if the idea I have for my business works out to the point that I have to resource it? What if I volunteer in my retirement, and it all works out to the point that they ask me to give even more time?

Jesus showed up for Peter in a way that helped Peter overcome his fear. May Jesus do the same for us. I look forward to sharing more on this topic in a sermon on Sunday entitled "What If It All Works..." from Luke 5: 1-11.

In Christ,

Pastor Mark

P.S. I look forward to being with all of you this Sunday at 12:15 p.m. for our Annual Meeting. 2024 proved to be a remarkable year worth celebrating. May our ministry and mission continue to thrive as we set our course for 2025!

Worship Service at 9 AM & 11 AM

Sunday, February 9, 2025

Join us on Sunday as Rev. Dr. Mark Williams will preach his sermon titled What If It All Works... based on Luke 5: 1-11

Join in person or online!

Last Monday marked the completion of the first two weeks of our 2025 Stewardship campaign, and once again, you surpassed expectations! Thank you! We received 256 pledges, well beyond halfway and on the path to our goal of 500.

Let’s continue to fuel the energy and the light, as we now aim to reach 350 pledges by the end of our Annual Meeting. Please mail or carry your Pledge Card to church, or make your pledge online at NaplesUCC.org/donate. Pledge Cards can be found in the pews. For those who opted in for Giving Envelopes, they are available for pick-up in the Narthex this Sunday. Thank you for your faithful generosity and for keeping the light of Naples UCC alive and thriving!

Sunday, February 9, 2025, 12:15 PM, Sanctuary

Please make plans to attend the Annual Meeting of the membership of NUCC this Sunday, February 9, 2025, at 12:15 p.m., immediately after the second service in the Sanctuary.  This is an important meeting of the congregation to elect officers and board and committee chairs and members for the next year and adopt the 2025 budget.  Materials for the Annual Meeting were sent by email on January 21. Those members unable to attend the Annual Meeting in person will be able to participate through a secure Zoom webinar.  Links were sent by email this past 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 services and should be turned in to the church office or handed to a Deacon on or before the meeting on Sunday morning.

Sunday, February 9, 10:15 AM, N-207

Join John Bachman as he interviews fellow NUCC member Alan Van Egmond about his service under 8 presidents, with leadership roles in Congress and U.S. agencies around the world. From 10:15 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. in Nelson Hall, room 207. If you are planning to attend the 11 a.m. worship service, come early at 10:15 a.m. to hear the presentation!

The students of Taste of Immokalee will be selling their snack bundles in the Gathering Place on Super Bowl Sunday, February 9. This student-created and student-operated corporation will be offering two types of snack bundles featuring two varieties of their brand of salsas, chips, and optional cinnamon pecans. Prices are $30 and $40. Stop by, meet the students, and stock up with game treats!

This Sunday, Before Each Service, Under the Portico

The Bargain Box will hold a special focused donation drive this Sunday. We are looking for gently loved sweaters and jackets. A table will be set up under the portico, and we ask that donations be dropped off before and after both services. If you have any questions you may reach out to our Bargain Box manager, Sandy Goldstein, at (239)262-3802. We are grateful to all who contributed to our previous drive!

Join us today at 2 p.m. in Nelson Hall, room 101. We will have a shortened support meeting, and then we'll be making Valentine's Day cards! Caregiver's Support Group meets every other Friday year-round to provide support for those who are caring for a loved one. We also welcome those who have been a caregiver or anticipate being one. We encourage you to bring a friend who might benefit from it. Church membership is not a requirement. All discussions are kept private within the group. For more information, please contact Joan Millon at joanmillon6@gmail.com.

Saturday, February 8, 9 AM - 4 PM, N-207

Join others for an all-day retreat exploring the longing for wholeness in the midst of life that is so often a mixture of sorrow, loneliness, friendships, family, estrangements, joy and uncertainty. Ginny Gilmore and Rev. Katherine Mulhern will lead us as we reflect on the journey toward wholeness, seeking our own inner wisdom.

Activities will include engaging poetry and scripture, art and walking meditation, journaling, and small group conversations. The focal idea of the retreat is to find our own wisdom, which will show us our own path toward wholeness when we do the work of integrating our inner and outer lives. Activities will be structured to explore that. No assignments ahead of time! Bring a journal and email Ginny if you want to come! 

We need a count for lunch! EMAIL GINNY

On Sunday, February 16, Naples UCC will offer a special opportunity for those wishing to become members of our church. A public joining will take place during the 9:00 a.m. service, with a private joining offered at 8:30 a.m. You may join as a full member or as an associate member (for those who wish to maintain membership in a northern church).

If you’re interested in joining or have any questions, please contact our Membership Coordinator, Chelsea Godwin, at Chelsea@Naplesucc.org or call the church office at 239-261-5469. You can also sign up with Chelsea in the Gathering Place this Sunday. Please RSVP by Tuesday, February 11.

Sunday, March 2, Noon, N-104

We will hold a Prospective Member Brunch immediately following the 11:00 a.m. service only in Nelson Hall, room 104. This is an opportunity to meet our Senior Minister, hear about our theology, and ask any questions you may have. Sign up in the Gathering Place this Sunday!

Thursday, February 13, 9 AM, N-207

Come join Rev. Dr. Mark Williams for an engaging discussion of the thought-provoking book, Embodying Forgiveness: A Theological Analysis by Greg Jones, which will both deepen us and challenge us. Dr. Greg Jones will be our next distinguished speaker on February 16. Don't miss the opportunity to engage with his book prior to his visit!

Sunday, February 16, 9 & 11 AM, Sanctuary | 3 PM, McSpadden Hall

Join us for a powerful day of worship and learning with Rev. Dr. Greg Jones, President of Belmont University and a renowned theologian, author, and thought leader. During worship, Dr. Jones will share his message, “Life in the Spirit,” exploring the transformative power of forgiveness.

At 3 p.m. in McSpadden Hall, he will present a lecture, “Embodying Forgiveness,” delving into the profound impact of forgiveness on our lives and communities. Known for his work in forgiveness, Christian ministry, and pastoral leadership, Dr. Jones brings unparalleled insights and inspiration. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with one of today’s most influential voices in faith and leadership!

 Sunday, February 16 • 9 & 11 AM 

Rev. Dr. Greg Jones preaching

Galatians 5: 16-26

Life In the Spirit

Suzanne Kirton, flute

Wednesdays, from January 8 to March 26, 9 AM & 1 PM, N-207

Pastor Mark is leading a 12-week Bible study on Jesus’s Sermon on the Mount in Matthew’s gospel (Matthew 5-7), emphasizing its meaningful, countercultural, and prophetic message.

Join us for our next session this Wednesday. The study aims to evoke astonishment and challenge participants. Discussions will be open-minded, welcoming diverse interpretations. All you need to bring with you is your favorite Bible and an open heart.



(Please note that at this time the March 5, 1:00 p.m. session will be in N-101.)

Wednesday, February 12, 8:30 AM

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, February 12, 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.

Monday, February 24, 2 PM, N-207

Continuing its 15th year, the NUCC Book Club is open to all NUCC members and friends. The Book Club will meet on Monday, February 24 at 2:00 p.m. in person in N-207 and via Zoom. Our exciting read this month is The Women by Kristin Hannah. Newcomers are always welcome, even if you haven’t read the book. 

(Zoom ID: 838 2027 0433 | Password: book) 

Monday, February 24, 6:30 PM Arrival

Join NUCC volunteers in creating a memorable evening while interacting with Youth Haven kids. On Monday 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. Join us on Monday, February 24!

(Youth Haven, 5867 Whitaker Rd, Naples, FL)

Wednesday, February 26, 5 PM, Gathering Place

Join us for the inaugural ROCK-tail party! Dr. Maria Roca and Jenna Pick from the Roots of Compassion & Kindness (ROCK) Center at Florida Gulf Coast University will lead reflections and discussions to align our heads and hearts as we begin the Lenten season.



Special Mock/ROCK-tails include:

• Loving Lavender Lemonade • Cranberry Lime Compassionate Coolers • Kindness Kiwi Refresher • Honeydew Melon Humility Spritzer • Elderberry Empathy Elixir • Forgiveness Fizz

Tuesday, March 18, 3:30 PM, Sanctuary

A Forum on Building Resilience: Join us for an enlightening community forum as we delve into the profound impact of hurricanes on our quality of life and local economy and the unprecedented challenges facing our coastal community. All are welcome. Attendance is free. Register by March 11.

Click REGISTER to register your attendance to this free program in the Naples UCC Sanctuary. All are welcome!

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