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Naples UCC Family,
What a joy we have coming our way this Sunday in worship! Our special worship this Sunday at 10 AM will be a Service of Installation for our new Associate Minister of Congregational Care Rev. Sonja Phillips. I am so grateful to serve God alongside Sonja. Sonja’s kindness, dedication, positivity, sense of humor, and empathetic habitus has already been a blessing to me and to all of us! Following our worship service, all are invited to a special reception for Pastor Sonja and her husband Rev. Dave Phillips in the Gathering Space.
We’ll celebrate Sonja’s call on Sunday while also reflecting on our own call. In a congregational church, every single person is a minister. We are a “priesthood of believers” (I Peter 2:5). As Sonja’s lives out her call in our midst, may we live out our call in her midst—loving, growing, and serving.
See You Sunday!
Pastor Mark
| | Bargain Box Pricing at Naples UCC | | TODAY & OCTOBER 30, 10:00 AM | MCSPADDEN HALL | | |
Join us for a hands-on Bargain Box volunteer opportunity! We’re inviting church members to help price and tag donated items before they make their way to the Bargain Box. Volunteers will work together to sort through donations, determine appropriate prices, and place price tags on items so they are ready for shoppers.
It’s a simple but important part of preparing donations for the store—and a great way to connect with others while helping support the many community organizations that benefit from the Bargain Box.
| | To sign up please click on the button below, or contact George De La Roche. | | Caregivers Support Group - Guest Speaker | | TODAY, 2:00 PM | NELSON HALL 103 | | We will welcome Karen Rodino from the Alzheimer’s Support Network of Naples for a special program. Karen will provide Emergency Plan Packets for caregivers to complete at home. These can be invaluable if you unexpectedly find yourself unable to care for your loved one for a day, a week, or longer. She will also provide a File of Life for everyone to place on their refrigerator, giving paramedics important information in case of an emergency. Remember, the Alzheimer’s Support Network is available to anyone caring for a loved one with a debilitating disease. Please contact Joan if you have any questions. | | |
Sunday, October 18, 2026
10:00 AM
Rev. Dr. Mark Williams
"Look to the Heart"
I Samuel 16: 1-12
Rev. Sonja Phillips's Installment
| | Bargain Box Focus Donation Drive | THIS SUNDAY, 9:00 AM | PORTICO | Join us before the worship service for our monthly Focus Drive on October 18 at 9:00 a.m. We are deeply grateful for your steadfast support and the many ways our community helps us thrive. For October we are collecting Kitchenware & Dining, Small Appliances, Home Decor & Accent Furnishings, Linens & Home Textiles. Please bring your items to the drop-off table located in the Portico. We are also looking for volunteers to join our team—we would love your help! Thank you for your continued generosity. | | Rev. Sonja Phillips's Installation | | THIS SUNDAY, 10:00 AM | SANCTUARY | | | | Join us as we celebrate the installation of Rev. Sonja Phillips as our Minister of Congregational Care. This special service is a joyful celebration of her ministry and the gifts she brings to the Naples UCC community. Following the service, be part of a special fellowship time with cake in the Gathering Place! | | |
If you prefer to pledge or give online, please click on the button below. Questions about your estimated giving?
Please contact the church office at (239) 261 - 5469.
| | All Saints' Sunday Submissions | | SUBMIT DATES BY MONDAY, OCTOBER 26 | In recognition of All Saints’ Sunday, Naples UCC is requesting submission of those who passed away since All Saints’ Sunday 2025. Please call the Church office at (239) 261-5469 or email Samantha Santarosa with your submissions by clicking the button below. These names will appear in the bulletin on Sunday, November 1. We thank you in advance for your submissions by Monday, October 26. | | |
OCTOBER 19, 1:00 PM | NELSON HALL 104
OCTOBER 20, 2:00 PM | NELSON HALL 101
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Challenge your mind, one tile at a time! Mahjong is the perfect blend of fun and focus, and now there are two opportunities each week to play.
Join us on Mondays from 1:00–3:00 p.m. in Nelson Hall 104 and Tuesdays from 2:00–4:00 p.m. in Nelson Hall 101.
Whether you’re a regular player or looking for a new way to spend an afternoon, come join the fun. Free, and all are welcome!
| | | Pastor Sonja's Book Study and Discussion | | OCTOBER 19, 1:00 PM | NELSON HALL 207 | | | | |
This six week book study and discussion, Stretch Out Your Hand: Exploring Healing Prayer by Tilda Norbert and Robert D. Webber, offers practical ways for us to consider the varieties of God’s healing love for individuals, institutions, and communities. The book provides an honest examination of the many difficult questions about prayer and the role of faith in healing. Through exercises and stories, we will be reintroduced to Jesus’ healing ministry and to his vision of the church as a healing community. The book is available for purchase on Amazon. Can’t join in person? Join us remotely.
Meeting ID: 85125620759
Passcode: FALLBOOK
| | OCTOBER 19, 3:00 PM | MCSPADDEN | | |
Join us for our monthly movies, featuring films with a religious or spiritual focus! October’s featured film is "I Can Only Imagine" (2018). The film follows Bart Millard from a difficult childhood with a distant father to finding hope, faith, and his voice through music. Inspired by real events, it explores themes of family, forgiveness, redemption, and faith, with heartfelt performances by the MercyMe band. Starring Dennis Quaid.
Popcorn and cool drinks will be provided free of charge. Please join us for an afternoon of fellowship and film!
| | | OCTOBER 20, 1:00 PM | PARLOR | | | | 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 for questions. | | Pastor Mark's Bible Study | | OCTOBER 21, 9:00 AM | NELSON HALL 207 | | | | Join Pastor Mark for a fall Bible study exploring the Letters of John and what they teach us about loving God and our neighbors. John celebrates those who “walk the truth,” living in ways that reflect God’s character. Together, we’ll consider how God’s love is more than an idea—it is a virtue we are called to practice in our daily lives. | | Men's New Chapters Spirituality Group | | OCTOBER 21, 10:30 AM | NELSON HALL 103 | |
Men’s New Chapters resumes meeting weekly on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. This study, conversation, and fellowship group offers an opportunity to explore life, faith, and the human experience together.This month, the group will read and discuss How to Be Free by Epictetus.
Join us for thoughtful conversation about our human condition and journeys of faith. Coffee and snacks will be available at 10 a.m. For more information, contact Rev. Rich Kirschner.
| | | Sundays – We are so happy to have families with young children in our midst! 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 Nelson Hall 203. Please ask a deacon for directions. | |
Children's Sunday School – Join us in worship for the Children’s Message. Children then join Ms. Jeanne in Nelson Hall 201 for a program on Gratitude, following Psalm 107.
Youth Sunday School – Sunday morning gatherings for students 6-12th grade in Nelson Hall 201 after worship. We will gather for fellowship and to discuss our growing faith. Join us for “Echo the Story”, an opportunity to explore the Christian story so far.
| A Gift of Love for Nicklaus Children's Hospital | | Our heartfelt thanks to Janet Goodhart, the Prayer Shawl Ministry, and the many friends who lovingly created more than 60 newborn hats for Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. This special gift celebrates Anwyn Watts’ recovery and expresses our deep gratitude for the exceptional care she received following her traumatic brain injury this past year. We are grateful to everyone who shared their time, creativity, and love to bring warmth and comfort to other families at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. | | |
OCTOBER 24, 8:00 AM | LAS PALMAS
4170 BROKEN BACK RD. NAPLES, FL 34119
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Join fellow Naples UCC members for a purposeful and fun day. No experience is needed and all abilities welcome! First time volunteers, please register by clicking the button below or sign up in the Gathering Place on Sundays.
To volunteer or for more information: Contact Judy Varty at 440-725-7720.
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Sunday, October 25, 2026
Rev. Dr. Mark Williams
"God's Handiwork"
Ephesians 2:10
Music Gift Fund Sunday!
| | Two Worship Services Every Sunday! | | STARTING SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25 | | There’s more room for everyone to gather, connect, and grow in faith! We’re returning to two worship services every Sunday at 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. Whether you’re a longtime member or visiting for the first time, there’s a place for you here. Come as you are, bring a friend, and join us for meaningful worship and warm fellowship! | | OCTOBER 25, 9 & 11 AM | SANCTUARY | | |
Join us for Music Gift Fund Sunday, a joyful and entertaining celebration led by our talented choir section leaders. Your support directly funds our gifted musicians who enrich our worship. To contribute, please call the church office or click the button below.
Your generosity helps make every Sunday worship service a rich and inspiring experience at Naples United Church of Christ.
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Video Tribute Honoring Dr. Becky's
25 Years of Service at Naples UCC
| | OCTOBER 25, 5:30 PM | MCSPADDEN HALL | On Sunday, October 25, at 10:15 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. in Gates Chapel, everyone is invited to enjoy a special video tribute honoring Dr. Becky’s anniversary. The 8-minute video will feature current and former choir members, and musicians along with staff and a few surprises! Many thanks to our section leaders, choir members, and Music Committee for their time and effort in creating this heartfelt tribute. | | OCTOBER 25, 5:30 PM | MCSPADDEN HALL | | | | Willkommen! Grab your lederhosen—or simply bring your appetite—and join us for Naples UCC’s first-ever Oktoberfest! Enjoy an evening of traditional German food, music, fellowship, and plenty of fun as we celebrate friendship, community, and a little German Gemütlichkeit right here at Naples UCC! | | |
Tickets: Adults: $28 per person Children under 12: $10 per person
Please make your reservation early and include payment with your sign-up. We hope you’ll join us for this special evening of good food, good friends, and good fellowship!
| | OCTOBER 26, 2:00 PM | NELSON HALL 104/ZOOM | | |
Join us for a lively and engaging discussion about Kingmaker by Sonia Purnell, led by Kate Butler. Come share your thoughts, hear different perspectives, and enjoy good conversation with fellow book lovers. Everyone is welcome, even if you haven’t read the book!
Meeting ID: 838 2027 0433 Passcode: book
| | | OCTOBER 26, 6:30 PM | MCSPADDEN HALL | | | | Naples UCC volunteers create a memorable evening while interacting with the Youth Haven kids. Volunteers assist with running children’s games throughout the evening. If you would like to volunteer, contact Michele Carney by clicking in the button below or register in the Gathering Place on Sunday. Michele will contact you about volunteer opportunities and training. | | OCTOBER 27, 5:00 PM | MCSPADDEN HALL | | |
Get ready for an evening of Bingo, laughter, and plenty of fun! Enjoy classic Bingo along with festive holiday patterns, plus popcorn, snacks, and drinks. Free and open to everyone of all ages!
Bring your family and friends and join us for a fun-filled night of fellowship and holiday cheer!
| | | OCTOBER 28, 8:30 AM | PELICAN MARSH GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB | | | | Join us for a fun day on the course at Pelican Marsh Golf and Country Club on Wednesday, October 28, with an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start! $68.60 per person includes 18 holes of golf and a cart. Special thanks to John Barnes for making this possible! Sign up in the Gathering Place on Sundays or contact John or Ron by text, email, carrier pigeon, or whatever works best for you! | | OCTOBER 28, 8:30 AM | PELICAN BAY BERM | | 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, October 28 we will kick off Walk and Wonder’s 6th season with a walk along the Pelican Bay Berm beginning at the Naples Grande. We will walk to the Butterfly Garden near the Commons Tram station. Meet in the church parking lot at 8:30 am. Anticipate our return to the church by 10:00. Contact Merrill Noble by clicking the button below if you have questions or plan to attend for the first time. | | | Pastor Mark's Seasonal Book Discussions | | OCTOBER 29, 9:00 AM | NELSON HALL 207 | | | | Join Pastor Mark for a thoughtful and engaging discussion of The False White Gospel by Jim Wallis. Together, we’ll explore the book’s challenging questions about faith, race, and Christianity’s role in shaping a more just and compassionate society. Come ready to share your thoughts, listen to different perspectives, and engage in meaningful conversation. Everyone is welcome! | | OCTOBER 30, 2:00 PM | PARLOR | | |
The Caregivers 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.
| | | NOVEMBER 1, 8:30 AM | PORTICO | | | | Naples UCC’s monthly “Cans for Communion” food collection supports the children and families of the Grace Place community in Golden Gate. We will be accepting nonperishable food donations but these are the most needed items: Individual healthy snacks (i.e. granola bars, trail mix, graham crackers, skinny pop, fruit pouches and Gerber Puffs). These will be collected before each service on Communion Sunday—the first Sunday of every month. Your generous contributions help provide food and other essential support to families in our community. Volunteers are needed to help unload donations from arriving cars and sort the food for collection by Grace Place for Children and Families. To volunteer, please sign up by contacting Kate Butler at 410-303-6102 or email her clicking the button below. | | All Saint's Memorial Service | | NOVEMBER 1, 10:15 AM | MEMORIAL GARDEN | | Join us on Sunday, November 1, at 10:15 a.m. in the Memorial Garden for a remembrance ceremony between services. The names of members who have passed away since last All Saints’ Sunday will be read aloud as we honor their lives and remember them together. | | Steeple Fellowship Brunch | | NOVEMBER 1, 10:15 AM | MCSPADDEN HALL | | |
The Development Committee invites all members of the Steeple Fellowship to a brunch in McSpadden Hall on Sunday, November 1 at 10:15 a.m.(between worship services).
We look forward to gathering the fellowship together to say thank you and update everyone on the Naples UCC Endowment and other giving initiatives.
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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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