 In This Week's E-pistle, You Will Find:
This Week's Service: Easter Sunday |
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| DUCC Bulletin/Hymns April 5 2026 |
Jody, Dan & Claire's Office Hours This Week
 | For The Week of March 29: Monday: 10-3pm, Dan Tuesday: 3-7pm, Jody Wednesday: 10-2pm, Dan Thursday: 1-8pm, Jody & Dan Friday: 10-3pm, Jody Claire's Office Hours: Tuesday: 10-4pm Wednesday: 10-4:30pm Thursday: 10-4:30pm (work from home) Friday: 10-4pm Please note, Jody and Dan will respond to emails during office hours. If you get an email asking for money from Jody or Dan, this is a scam. Do not reply. Reminder: if you need to see Dan or Jody, please make an appointment with them. At times they are in Douglas but not at the office. Please call to schedule an appointment: Jody: 616-706-3549; Dan: 616-828-2293; Office: 269-857-2085 |
Good Friday Service at DUCC, Tonight at 7pm
Photo by Andres F. Uran on Unsplash
Easter Lily Memorials & Honors
On Easter Sunday, our Chancel will be filled with white lilies, each one holding the memory of our loved ones. We honored:
Pappa, Mamma, Mom, Dad, Aunt Margie, Balei Chinski. Gale Goldman, Phil & Louise Gilmer. Laird J. Stuart, Bryant & Bernice Kirkland. Renee Good, Alex Pretti, Florence Raywood,
Dr. Michael Condron, Robert Black, Glen W. & MaryLee Trenary, Dee Dooley, Katie Wittonberg, Cindy Gerrans, Emma & James Brady, William & Margaret Clark, Tom & Vera Fahlstrom,
Ann Fahlstrom, Our DUCC family, Shirley Silvis, Terry Haaksma, Bud & Jane Charvat,
Susan Hayes, Kelly & Joe Marth, Nancy Grib, Gertrude Marguerite, William Tuleja,
Joan & Fred Hamlin, Rick Hamlin, Alan Gibson, George & Aileen Stannis.
Pappa, Mamma, Mom, Dad, Aunt Margie, Balei Chinski. Gale Goldman, Phil & Louise Gilmer. Laird J. Stuart, Bryant & Bernice Kirkland. Renee Good, Alex Pretti, Florence Raywood,
Dr. Michael Condron, Robert Black, Glen W. & MaryLee Trenary, Dee Dooley, Katie Wittonberg, Cindy Gerrans, Emma & James Brady, William & Margaret Clark, Tom & Vera Fahlstrom,
Ann Fahlstrom, Our DUCC family, Shirley Silvis, Terry Haaksma, Bud & Jane Charvat,
Susan Hayes, Kelly & Joe Marth, Nancy Grib, Gertrude Marguerite, William Tuleja,
Joan & Fred Hamlin, Rick Hamlin, Alan Gibson, George & Aileen Stannis.
Inquirers? New Members? Let's Get You Ready!
Dates: Sunday, April 12, 26 and May 10
Photo by Getty Images on Unsplash
Sundays April 12, 26 and May 10 for those who are interested in becoming a member of Douglas UCC or who just want more information, please join us for these informative sessions on The United Church of Christ, Progressive Christianity, and Membership in Douglas UCC. Please sign up on the Welcome Card in the seat rack, or email Jody of your interest.
Exploring the World's Wisdom Traditions
Only a Few Spots Left!
Photo by Preston Browning on Unsplash
Sunday Pancake Breakfast, April 19
No Second Sunday Luncheon in April
All are Invited to the Pancake Breakfast
Sunday, April 19 after the Service
In the Friendship Hall
Sunday, April 19 after the Service
In the Friendship Hall
Thank you, once again, to our church member, John Willming and his team of volunteers, for facilitating the breakfast. It is always a fun way to celebrate together!
Please, fuel our flapjack mission...Donations being accepted to cover costs.
*Note, No Second Sunday Luncheon in April
Please, fuel our flapjack mission...Donations being accepted to cover costs.
*Note, No Second Sunday Luncheon in April
Creation Justice Team - Book Read
Night Magic by Leigh Ann Henion
Photo by Harshit Suryawanshi on Unsplash
On Sunday, April 19 at 2 pm
the Saugatuck Douglas District Library
There will be a book discussion. The book is called Night Magic and it is described as Adventures among glowworms, moon gardens and other marvels of the dark.
The library has extra copies so you can check out one and come to the discussion. You can come whether or not you have read the book. Just good to connect with other people who are learning about life in the night. All are Welcome!
the Saugatuck Douglas District Library
There will be a book discussion. The book is called Night Magic and it is described as Adventures among glowworms, moon gardens and other marvels of the dark.
The library has extra copies so you can check out one and come to the discussion. You can come whether or not you have read the book. Just good to connect with other people who are learning about life in the night. All are Welcome!
Bring Back the Night: Dark Sky Week in Saugatuck - Douglas
On April 12, our Sunday service will feature a message from Pastor Jody about the night.
In our culture, darkness has a bad reputation. Yet without it, we wouldn’t see the stars. Darkness is also essential for rest and good health. And when we pass through dark times, the light on the other side can seem even brighter. During this Easter season, we’re reminded that the tomb came before the promise of new life. Join us on April 12 as Pastor Jody reflects on these powerful and hopeful truths.
Then, between April 13 and 20, the Saugatuck–Douglas Friends of the Night Sky invite you to Dark Sky Week—a celebration of the beauty and importance of natural night skies. Come whether you’re curious, creative, or simply enjoy being outdoors.
It begins Monday at the Visitor Center in Douglas with a Photography Talk at 3:30 PM, where you’ll learn how to capture the magic of the night sky. That evening, return for the Awareness Expo (6:30–8:30). This drop-in event features exhibits, local experts, and practical ideas for improving outdoor lighting. Discover how artificial light at night affects wildlife and our well-being—and how small changes can make a difference.
On Wednesday (8:30–11:00 at Hemlock Crossing), experience the universe firsthand at a Stargazing Night. On Thursday at 9:00 PM, join a Night Hike at the Outdoor Discovery Center. We wrap up Sunday (2:00 PM at the library) with a Book Discussion of Night Magic.
Come to one event or all—step outside, look up, and rediscover the night.
In our culture, darkness has a bad reputation. Yet without it, we wouldn’t see the stars. Darkness is also essential for rest and good health. And when we pass through dark times, the light on the other side can seem even brighter. During this Easter season, we’re reminded that the tomb came before the promise of new life. Join us on April 12 as Pastor Jody reflects on these powerful and hopeful truths.
Then, between April 13 and 20, the Saugatuck–Douglas Friends of the Night Sky invite you to Dark Sky Week—a celebration of the beauty and importance of natural night skies. Come whether you’re curious, creative, or simply enjoy being outdoors.
It begins Monday at the Visitor Center in Douglas with a Photography Talk at 3:30 PM, where you’ll learn how to capture the magic of the night sky. That evening, return for the Awareness Expo (6:30–8:30). This drop-in event features exhibits, local experts, and practical ideas for improving outdoor lighting. Discover how artificial light at night affects wildlife and our well-being—and how small changes can make a difference.
On Wednesday (8:30–11:00 at Hemlock Crossing), experience the universe firsthand at a Stargazing Night. On Thursday at 9:00 PM, join a Night Hike at the Outdoor Discovery Center. We wrap up Sunday (2:00 PM at the library) with a Book Discussion of Night Magic.
Come to one event or all—step outside, look up, and rediscover the night.
Friends of Christian Neighbors Spring Benefit
Save the Date, Sunday, May 3
Please mark your calendars for Sunday May 3, 2026
1-3 PM at the Saugatuck Yacht Club.
A $75 donation (or more), per person, is requested.
All proceeds benefit Christian Neighbors (501c3).
1-3 PM at the Saugatuck Yacht Club.
A $75 donation (or more), per person, is requested.
All proceeds benefit Christian Neighbors (501c3).
This year, the annual fundraiser for Christian Neighbors is coordinated by our Douglas UCC, in cooperation with several local churches. We are still looking for volunteers on the committee to plan and/or staff the event; logistics, food, publicity, sponsorships, etc... One or two meetings a month is all it takes. Attending the Benefit without volunteering is very important also!
For all payments: please write in memo line: "2026 Spring Benefit".
Checks can be written to "Christian Neighbors" at the event, or mailed ahead of time to: DUCC PO Box 19 Douglas, MI 49406.
If interested, please contact Bert Hallewas by email below, or 248-462-9345.
For all payments: please write in memo line: "2026 Spring Benefit".
Checks can be written to "Christian Neighbors" at the event, or mailed ahead of time to: DUCC PO Box 19 Douglas, MI 49406.
If interested, please contact Bert Hallewas by email below, or 248-462-9345.
Thank You Rev. Marty for the Silent Retreat
Photo by Melissa Cassar on Unsplash
Thank you Rev. Marty for your Guidance and inspiration during the Silence Retreat
Nomination Committee Update
An Invitation to Shared Leadership
At our Mid-Year Congregational Meeting, DUCC affirmed a desire to move toward a more transparent and intentional process for identifying Church Council leadership. In response, a Nominating Committee has been formed to guide this effort in a spirit of prayerful discernment and shared ministry.
The Nominating Committee includes:
At-Large members of Church Council play an important role in our shared leadership model. They serve as connectors—helping strengthen communication between committees, Council, and the congregation, while participating in the ongoing work of guiding our church’s mission.
This is an exciting time in the life of DUCC as we continue to grow as a shared leadership community.
If you feel a nudge—or even a quiet curiosity—about serving in this way, we warmly invite you to reach out to any member of the Nominating Committee. We would welcome a conversation with you as you explore whether this might be a place where your gifts and sense of calling could serve the life of our church.
We look forward to this journey of discernment together.
The Nominating Committee includes:
- Wayne Titus (Chair, Council Representative)
- Bernice Lopata (Council Representative)
- Linda Page - McWebb (Congregational Representative)
- Barbara Lucier (Congregational Representative)
At-Large members of Church Council play an important role in our shared leadership model. They serve as connectors—helping strengthen communication between committees, Council, and the congregation, while participating in the ongoing work of guiding our church’s mission.
This is an exciting time in the life of DUCC as we continue to grow as a shared leadership community.
If you feel a nudge—or even a quiet curiosity—about serving in this way, we warmly invite you to reach out to any member of the Nominating Committee. We would welcome a conversation with you as you explore whether this might be a place where your gifts and sense of calling could serve the life of our church.
We look forward to this journey of discernment together.
Listening Ear: Do You Need to Be Heard?
Photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash
Our listeners are available at the Retreat House
In Person, or by Phone
Thursday afternoons from 1 to 3 pm.
In Person, or by Phone
Thursday afternoons from 1 to 3 pm.
Our Listening Ear service has been a great help to our congregation during a tumultuous time, and so, after a successful trial period, this highly trained team of empathic folks --
Paul Burdick, Mike Valdez, and Doug Sipsma -- will be continuing the service.
Their premise is, everyone goes through rough patches in life. Sometimes stress can feel overwhelming. Talking to a caring human helps in so many, sometimes immeasurable, sometimes mystical ways.
P. Burdick @ 616-856-1372, M. Valdez @ 616-990-1126, D. Sipsma @ 269-998-5112
Paul Burdick, Mike Valdez, and Doug Sipsma -- will be continuing the service.
Their premise is, everyone goes through rough patches in life. Sometimes stress can feel overwhelming. Talking to a caring human helps in so many, sometimes immeasurable, sometimes mystical ways.
P. Burdick @ 616-856-1372, M. Valdez @ 616-990-1126, D. Sipsma @ 269-998-5112
Coffee Hour Volunteers Needed
Photo by Cindy Fernandez on Unsplash
New remote sign up method for DUCC coffee hour volunteers.
The coffee committee is hoping to get more volunteers involved in staffing the coffee hour after Sunday services. Making coffee takes only about 10-15 minutes of your time prior to church, or helping with the cleanup can take about 30 minutes. Once or twice a year, or as often as you'd like, helps to avoid burnout of the current volunteers.
You will be paired with a "buddy" to show you the ropes (and the coffee grinds!).
And now you can sign up remotely, from anywhere at any time. Easy peasy!
Many hands make light work. For any questions, please email Bert Hallewas
To sign up (or just to "look at") the remote sign up sheet, please click below, or use the QR code:
The coffee committee is hoping to get more volunteers involved in staffing the coffee hour after Sunday services. Making coffee takes only about 10-15 minutes of your time prior to church, or helping with the cleanup can take about 30 minutes. Once or twice a year, or as often as you'd like, helps to avoid burnout of the current volunteers.
You will be paired with a "buddy" to show you the ropes (and the coffee grinds!).
And now you can sign up remotely, from anywhere at any time. Easy peasy!
Many hands make light work. For any questions, please email Bert Hallewas
To sign up (or just to "look at") the remote sign up sheet, please click below, or use the QR code:
Taking Pictures at DUCC Event?
Want people to know about the fun we have, the meaningful events we provide, the community you love? Share your photos! After a DUCC event, text appropriate photos to Greggie Gerrans @ 616-218-9679
Prayer Requests
Virginia Stuart; Family of Alan Gibson (Kirsten Stannis's Father); Adelle Van Daalen and the Family of Jay Van Daalen; Charlene Burdick (Paul Burdick's mother); Orie Hawkes; Elinor Hite
(Virginia Stuart’s sister); Dave Lawson; Christine Kerney; Ann and Jim Hopkins; Ruth Fahlstrom (Tom Fahlstrom’s daughter); Mikey (friend of Ruth Fahlstrom) Mary Westenbroek; Eric Cooley (Jo Cooley's brother); Ian Blumer (C. Blumer's nephew); Lakeview UCC
(Virginia Stuart’s sister); Dave Lawson; Christine Kerney; Ann and Jim Hopkins; Ruth Fahlstrom (Tom Fahlstrom’s daughter); Mikey (friend of Ruth Fahlstrom) Mary Westenbroek; Eric Cooley (Jo Cooley's brother); Ian Blumer (C. Blumer's nephew); Lakeview UCC
Birthday's & Anniversary's This Week
BIRTHDAYS
April 8: Jim McHugh
April 10: Jack Ridl
Birthday and Anniversary cards are a great way we can reach out to one another. If you wish to mail a card to one of our church members, addresses can be found in our Church Directory.
April 8: Jim McHugh
April 10: Jack Ridl
Birthday and Anniversary cards are a great way we can reach out to one another. If you wish to mail a card to one of our church members, addresses can be found in our Church Directory.
Easy Way to Change Your Contribution
Photo by Micheile Henderson on Unsplash
New (Easy) options to change your current contribution to DUCC
In response to input we have received from members and friends, we are offering new ways to change your contributions.
In response to input we have received from members and friends, we are offering new ways to change your contributions.
- You can e-mail Bill Briggs for information regarding your current contribution amount and/or request that your current contribution be changed.
- There are now forms and envelopes on the table just inside the door of the Friendship Hall that can be completed and placed in the collection plate to request changes. We will be happy to take care of it for you!
- You can use the simple fillable form below and forward to Bill Briggs.
| DUCC Contribution Change Form |
Financial Stewardship
March 29 In-Person Attendance : 77
March 29 Total Views for worship videos: 92
Weekly Offerings: $2,170
Weekly Budget: $4,615
Weekly to Budget: - $2,444
One Great Hour of Sharing: $177
Thank you!!
Your generous giving allows us to sustain our church community
and our mission of service in the world.
March 29 Total Views for worship videos: 92
Weekly Offerings: $2,170
Weekly Budget: $4,615
Weekly to Budget: - $2,444
One Great Hour of Sharing: $177
Thank you!!
Your generous giving allows us to sustain our church community
and our mission of service in the world.
Last Weeks Service: Palm and Passion Sunday
Thoughts on the Donkey
Last Sunday Holy Week began. In Protestant and Catholic traditions, Holy Week rises above all
other weeks of the year. The week of Christmas might lead the way for retail spending, but Holy Week gives the richest detail of Jesus’ last days. Last Sunday (Palm/Passion Sunday) began with Jesus’ celebrated entry into Jerusalem. Pastor Dan shared some thoughts about the donkey! The service ended looking ahead to the last week of Jesus’ life. Click on the buttons below to watch the full service, or the message.
If you desire to dig deeper into Holy Week, Pastor Dan suggested reading a passage each day.
A blessed Holy Week to you!
Monday, John 12:1-11 (Mary anoints Jesus’ feet)
Tuesday, John 13:21-38 (Judas’s betrayal predicted)
Wednesday, Matthew 26:14-25 (Judas agrees to betray Jesus)
Holy Thursday, John 13:1-15 (Washing of the disciples’ feet)
Good Friday, John 18:1-19:42
Holy Saturday, Psalm 31:1-4
Easter Sunday, John:1-18
other weeks of the year. The week of Christmas might lead the way for retail spending, but Holy Week gives the richest detail of Jesus’ last days. Last Sunday (Palm/Passion Sunday) began with Jesus’ celebrated entry into Jerusalem. Pastor Dan shared some thoughts about the donkey! The service ended looking ahead to the last week of Jesus’ life. Click on the buttons below to watch the full service, or the message.
If you desire to dig deeper into Holy Week, Pastor Dan suggested reading a passage each day.
A blessed Holy Week to you!
Monday, John 12:1-11 (Mary anoints Jesus’ feet)
Tuesday, John 13:21-38 (Judas’s betrayal predicted)
Wednesday, Matthew 26:14-25 (Judas agrees to betray Jesus)
Holy Thursday, John 13:1-15 (Washing of the disciples’ feet)
Good Friday, John 18:1-19:42
Holy Saturday, Psalm 31:1-4
Easter Sunday, John:1-18
Church Calendar
Photo by Samuel Regan-Asante on Unsplash
UNIITED CHURCH OF CHRIST NEWS
Thank You DUCC for Walking on Sunday!
Special Kudos to Anne Dooley for Planning!
Grand West Association Prayer Circle
Photo by Martin Bennie on Unsplash
Lakeview UCC - April Church of the Month
The Grand West Association Council of the Michigan Conference UCC
facilitates a prayer circle for all our churches.
Thank you for keeping Lakeview UCC
The Grand West Association Council of the Michigan Conference UCC
facilitates a prayer circle for all our churches.
Thank you for keeping Lakeview UCC
CLASSES
Qigong, Tuesdays at 3pm - Friendship Hall
Tea Time Afterwards at 4pm
Photo by Sajad Nori on Unsplash
Qigong Winter Class
Tuesdays, 3pm - 4 pm
Followed by Tea/Chat 4 - 5pm
Friendship Hall
Led by Kat VanHammen
Tuesdays, 3pm - 4 pm
Followed by Tea/Chat 4 - 5pm
Friendship Hall
Led by Kat VanHammen
Qigong is a wonderful, 5,000 year-old practice from China, very much like Tai Chi.
It involves simple movements that build strength, flexibility, balance and well being.
It also employs visualization, breath, and mindfulness to integrate the body, mind, and spirit
and develop our felt sense of Interbeing. Class is one hour long and involves both sitting and standing practice although it can be done sitting if needed. There is a requested donation of $10 per class but for those of you on limited incomes, any amount will be gratefully received.
It involves simple movements that build strength, flexibility, balance and well being.
It also employs visualization, breath, and mindfulness to integrate the body, mind, and spirit
and develop our felt sense of Interbeing. Class is one hour long and involves both sitting and standing practice although it can be done sitting if needed. There is a requested donation of $10 per class but for those of you on limited incomes, any amount will be gratefully received.
Financial Literacy Series
Next Session This Wednesday, May 6
Next session is on Wednesday, May 6 2026
In the Friendship Hall
January through June (not April)
It’s not too late to join in and become financially wiser! Invite a friend, if you like.
Sign up for one or all of them in the Friendship Hall.
Wayne can send you preparatory information.
In the Friendship Hall
January through June (not April)
It’s not too late to join in and become financially wiser! Invite a friend, if you like.
Sign up for one or all of them in the Friendship Hall.
Wayne can send you preparatory information.
AROUND TOWN
DUCC's Afghan Family is Growing
A Used SUV is Needed
Photo by Karson Chan on Unsplash
A Used SUV is Needed. DUCC’s Afghan Family is a growing family of 6 and they have
an immediate need for a larger vehicle than their Prius. If you are considering selling a
used SUV at a reasonable price, they would be grateful to be considered. If you can
assist, please contact Bob (312-636-7657) or Louise (847-800-4236) Kenny. Thank
you.
an immediate need for a larger vehicle than their Prius. If you are considering selling a
used SUV at a reasonable price, they would be grateful to be considered. If you can
assist, please contact Bob (312-636-7657) or Louise (847-800-4236) Kenny. Thank
you.
Stand in Protest
Photo by Alex Radelich on Unsplash
The protests against Huizenga and the Trump administration continue each Friday from
12-1 pm at 170 College Ave., the corner of College and 7th in Holland. We need more to demonstrate, so please come join us as we continue to bring attention to the wrong doing going on in our country. Looking forward to seeing you there.
12-1 pm at 170 College Ave., the corner of College and 7th in Holland. We need more to demonstrate, so please come join us as we continue to bring attention to the wrong doing going on in our country. Looking forward to seeing you there.
Men's Coffee and Conversation
DUCC MEN, JOIN US!
Men's Coffee & Conversation
1st and 3rd Wednesday @ 10am
New Dates: April 1st and 15th
No Reservations
Blue Star Barns Coffee and Bikes
3483 Blue Star Hwy
Saugatuck, Michigan 49453
Men's Coffee & Conversation
1st and 3rd Wednesday @ 10am
New Dates: April 1st and 15th
No Reservations
Blue Star Barns Coffee and Bikes
3483 Blue Star Hwy
Saugatuck, Michigan 49453
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