First United Methodist Church Bonita Springs Newsletter

First Bonita

Serving Bonita Springs for Over 100 Years

11.6.26

'Tis Almost the Season

Earlier this week I met with our District Superintendent, Rev. Dr. Debbie Allen, where I had the chance to gush about First Bonita in a more effective one-on-one setting than our recent Charge Conference. And gush I did, because I continue to be excited about who we are, what God is doing through us, and what lies ahead for First United Methodist of Bonita Springs.

I also admitted to her – as many of you have heard me say – that I still don’t quite get “season”.

I don’t dislike it, and of course I understand it mechanically, but it’s still so new to me, and such a shift in our congregation and community that it still makes me a bit dizzy even as I’m about to enter my third go-round of it.

But even acknowledging there are elements of season that mess with my equilibrium, I hope you know the overwhelming experience I have of it is gratitude.

I am so, so grateful for every person that makes up the Body of Christ that is First Bonita. For the discipleship you live out in your prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness that support the communion and ministry of our congregation.

And while some are not with us geographically year-round, I hope you know that those of us that are experience the ongoing connection of your support and participation and that you are no less a part of this holy family.

Some have already found themselves back in South West Florida, some are making their way, and some will join us later this month, next, or not until 2027. But to those who are here, to those who won’t be for a while, and to those who braved yet another Florida summer, I say: let’s enjoy the cooler weather, and let’s strap in for season. Let’s gear up for Thanksgiving, for Advent and Christmas, and a new year. And most of all: let’s celebrate that we get to spend it together.

Thanks be to God!

Rev. Ben Richards

Sunday Worship

Join us on Sundays in-person or online! Click here to join us on November 1. We'd love to have you worship with us!

UWF & Rummage Sale

The annual Rummage Sale will be held Saturday, November 14 from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Household items are welcomed as donations, though no clothing or furniture. Your items can be dropped off before church this Sunday at the storage shed behind the fellowship hall.

Setup for the sale will take place Friday, November 13 beginning at 9:00 AM and going until we are finished pricing and displaying. Lunch will be provided. We could use some strong gentlemen to help us carry the items to the hall.

Sign up sheets will be at the back of the church this Sunday. Thank you for your donations and your help. This is the first fundraiser for the Summer Reserve Fund of 2027.

The next United Women in Faith meeting is Monday, November 16 at 1:00 PM. Refreshments will be provided. All women who attend our church are invited, and we are looking forward to seeing you there.

Christmas Food Collection

For several years First Bonita has collected food donations to support other area ministries' food distribution around the holidays. This year we are trying something new, something a little different, and we're excited to share that with you and invite you to participate.

Beginning this Sunday, we will collect the following food items that will then be distributed to our more immediate community, largely through our December Community Breakfast. We believe our ongoing ministry and connections will enable us to serve one another and our neighbors in this way.

Because we will be handling not just the collection but also the organization and distribution, this year we are also asking the donations be made from a more specific list of items. If you would like to contribute, we would be grateful to receive donations of the following:

Canned vegetables
Pinto beans (canned or dry)
Canned meats
Jalepeños
Maseca corn flor
Rice
Ramen noodles

Updates

Bible Study:

Our Bible Study will not meet the remaining weeks of November, resuming on Wednesday, December 2. Facilitated by Rev. Ben Richards, this small group is open to all that would like to explore their faith by reading scripture together.

Meals of Hope:

Meals of Hope distributes food at First Bonita every other week on Tuesdays from 1:00 to 4:00 PM. If you or someone you know would like to participate as a volunteer, their next distribution is on November 10. Food distribution is available from 2:00 to 4:00 PM.

Prayer and Care:

Our prayer team meets every other week, Fridays at 9:30 AM on Zoom or in the sanctuary. The next meeting is today, November 6. Cards to submit prayer requests are in the back of the Sanctuary. Need to add or keep someone on the list? Send their name to prayer@fumcbonita.org. All information and last names will be kept confidential.

Altar Flowers:

If you would like to honor family, friends, or loved ones for an anniversary, birthday, or memorial, contact the church office for details.

Prayer Requests

Bob K

The family of Donice

Kenn & Joyce

Holly R

Harvey D

Ninetta

Timothy R

Barbara

Dee Dee