 Photo by Mike Erskine on Unsplash This Week In the E-Pistle, You Will Find...
This Week's Service: Sixth Sunday of Easter |
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| DUCC Bulletin/Hymn May 10, 2026 |
Jody, Dan & Claire's Office Hours This Week
 | For The Week of May 10: Tuesday: 4-8pm, Jody & Dan Wednesday: 3- 7:30pm, Dan Thursday: 3-8pm, 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 |
Inquirers? New Members? Let's Get You Ready!
Dates: Sunday, May 17 *Note New Date
Photo by Getty Images on Unsplash
Sunday May 17 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.
Second Sunday Luncheon, This Sunday!
Please, Join Us!
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Second Sunday Luncheon
May 10 after service
Friendship Hall
All are welcome!
May 10 after service
Friendship Hall
All are welcome!
Please join us as we encourage one another over good food and conversation. Bring
what you are able (entrees, salads, desserts, bread, etc.). If you can't bring anything,
please bring yourself and a friend. Thank you to everyone who helps make our Luncheons go smoothly. If you are interested in helping with set up, clean up, or to provide food for the
luncheons, please email Kelly Jacobsma.
what you are able (entrees, salads, desserts, bread, etc.). If you can't bring anything,
please bring yourself and a friend. Thank you to everyone who helps make our Luncheons go smoothly. If you are interested in helping with set up, clean up, or to provide food for the
luncheons, please email Kelly Jacobsma.
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.
Two Sunday Services, Begins May 31!
All Are Welcome!
Second Sunday Service from May 31 – Sept 6
8:15 and 10:15 with Coffee Hour between
8:15 and 10:15 with Coffee Hour between
Douglas United Church of Christ has prayerfully considered adding a second worship service for the summer season. This conversation arises out of gratitude for the vibrant, welcoming
community we have become—and a desire to steward that growth faithfully.
Our goals are to open the doors to visitors and guests while continuing our care for our current
members. When guests walk through the doors we imagine they are met with extravagant
welcome and genuine connection. This spirit is a hallmark of our congregation and a reflection
of our shared ministry.
At the same time, our current worship service is often at or near capacity. Seating can be
limited—particularly for families, couples, or small groups wishing to sit together—and this can
unintentionally create barriers for newcomers and longtime participants alike.
Being at or near maximum capacity limits our ability to grow, to welcome, and to respond to the movement of the Spirit among us. We want to continue to invite deeper participation in the life of the church—providing meaningful opportunities for people to grow in faith, love, and
community.
DUCC has successfully offered two worship services in the past. Given our current level of
participation we revisited that idea with a team of ten volunteer congregants and church leaders.
This discernment was not simply about numbers or logistics. It is about hospitality,
sustainability, and faithfulness—creating space where all who seek community, meaning, and
God’s love can gather, worship, and belong.
Our Coffee Hour will continue between the services, a place for expanding that warm welcome
to friends and guests alike!
We are excited to see what new opportunities will emerge from this new offering!
Ad Hoc Team: Carol Rice, Virginia Stuart, Paul Lucas, Barb Lucier, Bill Briggs, Barb Witt,
Jody Betten, Jan DeVries, Peter Black, Mike VerMerris, Jeff Spangler
community we have become—and a desire to steward that growth faithfully.
Our goals are to open the doors to visitors and guests while continuing our care for our current
members. When guests walk through the doors we imagine they are met with extravagant
welcome and genuine connection. This spirit is a hallmark of our congregation and a reflection
of our shared ministry.
At the same time, our current worship service is often at or near capacity. Seating can be
limited—particularly for families, couples, or small groups wishing to sit together—and this can
unintentionally create barriers for newcomers and longtime participants alike.
Being at or near maximum capacity limits our ability to grow, to welcome, and to respond to the movement of the Spirit among us. We want to continue to invite deeper participation in the life of the church—providing meaningful opportunities for people to grow in faith, love, and
community.
DUCC has successfully offered two worship services in the past. Given our current level of
participation we revisited that idea with a team of ten volunteer congregants and church leaders.
This discernment was not simply about numbers or logistics. It is about hospitality,
sustainability, and faithfulness—creating space where all who seek community, meaning, and
God’s love can gather, worship, and belong.
Our Coffee Hour will continue between the services, a place for expanding that warm welcome
to friends and guests alike!
We are excited to see what new opportunities will emerge from this new offering!
Ad Hoc Team: Carol Rice, Virginia Stuart, Paul Lucas, Barb Lucier, Bill Briggs, Barb Witt,
Jody Betten, Jan DeVries, Peter Black, Mike VerMerris, Jeff Spangler
Creation Justice - Friends of the Dark Sky
Join Our Church/Community Google Group
With the leadership of Chris Clark, and the support of the Creation Justice Team, 5 events were part of the Dark Sky Week. This special week takes place all over the world. The champion organization is International Dark Sky based in Tucson. Darksky.org. Today, a special Google group set up by Chris to include both people from our church and people from the community called, Friends of the Dark Sky, has 43 names. If you would like to join this group, see Chris Clark. Thanks everyone for a very successful week. Betsy York, Chair
Art Show This Weekend at Capizzo Studio Featuring DUCC Members
From May 8 to the 16, the Saugatuck Douglas Art Club will host their 5th Annual Members Gallery Show and Art Sale. Many church members will have pieces to view and/or buy. The art will be at Capizzo Studio at 3279 Blue Star Hwy, just north of the roundabout. The Gallery is generally open from noon to 5 or 7 (times vary by day). Check out the website below and look under Member Show and Sale for specific hours. Enjoy the show.
May is Cereal Drive Month
Feeding Kids through the Summer
Photo by Haley Owens on Unsplash
You can drop off cereal in the foyer of the Friendship Hall during the month of May, as we collect cereal for Christian Neighbors and Ladders of Hope (two organizations we support at Douglas UCC). In partnership with the Allegan County Food Pantry Collaborative (ACFPC), our local food banks are collecting cereal throughout area communities to provide additional food for children during summer break.
Why? Because hunger doesn't take a summer vacation, and cereal is a nutritious, vitamin-rich food that needs no preparation, is easily stored, and is well-liked by children. Thank you for helping make summer cereal a blessing for so many.
You are invited to drop off boxes of cereal in the foyer of the Friendship Hall. You are also able to scan the QR codes above to find other drop sites, and/or donate online.
Why? Because hunger doesn't take a summer vacation, and cereal is a nutritious, vitamin-rich food that needs no preparation, is easily stored, and is well-liked by children. Thank you for helping make summer cereal a blessing for so many.
You are invited to drop off boxes of cereal in the foyer of the Friendship Hall. You are also able to scan the QR codes above to find other drop sites, and/or donate online.
Listening Ear: Do You Need to Be Heard?
Note A Few Updates to Our Listening Ear Team
Photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash
Our listener is 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.
A few changes have occurred in our Listening Ear service. Pat Denner, Mike Valdez & Paul Burdick have stepped down to focus on new adventures. We are pleased to announce that Doug Sipsma will continue in his role for holding space for others.
The Listening Ear 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.
Doug Sipsma @ 269-998-5112
The Listening Ear 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.
Doug Sipsma @ 269-998-5112
Prayer Requests
Jenny O'Neal (friend of Laurie VanDenBelt & Shirley Lawson); Martha Longpre Dooley (Anne Dooley's mother); 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);
Lowell First Congregational UCC
Mary Westenbroek; Eric Cooley (Jo Cooley's brother); Ian Blumer (C. Blumer's nephew);
Lowell First Congregational UCC
Birthday's & Anniversary's This Week
BIRTHDAYS
May 10: Scott Blasco
May 11: Debra Carr
ANNIVERSARIES
May 11: Jim & Vickie Austhof
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.
May 10: Scott Blasco
May 11: Debra Carr
ANNIVERSARIES
May 11: Jim & Vickie Austhof
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.
Financial Stewardship
May 3 In-Person Attendance : 77
May 3 Total Views for worship videos: 79
Weekly Offerings: $3,155
Weekly Budget: $4,615
Weekly to Budget: -$1,459
Thank you!!
Your generous giving allows us to sustain our church community
and our mission of service in the world.
May 3 Total Views for worship videos: 79
Weekly Offerings: $3,155
Weekly Budget: $4,615
Weekly to Budget: -$1,459
Thank you!!
Your generous giving allows us to sustain our church community
and our mission of service in the world.
Last Weeks Service: Fifth Sunday of Easter
God's Roomy House
Photo by Dan Plasman
They are called clobber texts—verses and passages in the Bible that some readers use to defend their position on any number of topics. These “go to” passages might be about homosexuality, the subservient role of women in marriage, even what make a nation Christian. Last Sunday Pastor Dan examined a passage in the fourteenth chapter of John which if interpreted one way, seems to suggest that Jesus and the worship of him is not just one way to “get to heaven” but indeed the only way to get there. Pastor Dan had doubts . . . and he shared them with us last Sunday.
Church Calendar
Photo by Samuel Regan on Unsplash
THANK YOUs
Thanks to All Who Supported
Friends of Christian Neighbors Spring Benefit!
You did it!
A big thank you to the many DUCC members that helped to make the 2026 Friends of Christian Neighbors Spring Benefit a huge success. The event raised over $26,000 so far!
The Friends committee consisted of members from five of our local churches, and DUCC members were very well represented in all areas of the fundraiser; planning, publicity, buffet food items, and staffing the buffet, bar, donations thermometer, clean up, and of course the financial contributions!
We are very grateful for all the volunteer help and for being part of a remarkable community. For more information, please contact Bert Hallewas.
A big thank you to the many DUCC members that helped to make the 2026 Friends of Christian Neighbors Spring Benefit a huge success. The event raised over $26,000 so far!
The Friends committee consisted of members from five of our local churches, and DUCC members were very well represented in all areas of the fundraiser; planning, publicity, buffet food items, and staffing the buffet, bar, donations thermometer, clean up, and of course the financial contributions!
We are very grateful for all the volunteer help and for being part of a remarkable community. For more information, please contact Bert Hallewas.
Special Thanks
Bert Hallewas & Kirsten Stannis!!
We are still smiling after the incredible success of this year's Friends of Christian Neighbors Spring Benefit! While it takes a village, this year's event was steered by two absolute powerhouses: Bert Hallewas and Kirsten Stannis. Thank you both for your creativity, passion, grace under pressure, and your belief in the mission.
Kudos to Wayne Titus for Sharing his Financial Expertise!
Thank you to everyone who attended Session 5 of our Financial Literacy Series in Friendship Hall. A special thank you to Dr. Anne Petersen for co-presenting with Wayne Titus and sharing both professional insights from her work in philanthropy and meaningful personal stories about generosity, stewardship, and purpose.
Our final session will be held on Wednesday, June 3 at 6:00 PM in Friendship Hall. We hope you will join us as we conclude the series and bring together many of the important financial planning concepts we have explored throughout the program.
Our final session will be held on Wednesday, June 3 at 6:00 PM in Friendship Hall. We hope you will join us as we conclude the series and bring together many of the important financial planning concepts we have explored throughout the program.
Many Thanks to Pat Denner, Michael Valdez & Paul Burdick for Creating a Safe Harbor!
We would like to express our appreciation to Pat Denner, Michael Valdez & Paul Burdick for their time in the Listening Ear services. While they are stepping down as part of the Listening Ear team. The comfort and clarity Pat, Mike & Paul all helped others find will stay with them for a long time. They all have given this community the rarest of gifts: the gift of being truly heard. Thank you all for holding space for others when they needed it most.
UNIITED CHURCH OF CHRIST NEWS
Photo by Doncoombez on Unsplash
Lowell UCC - May 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 Lowell UCC
The Grand West Association Council of the Michigan Conference UCC
facilitates a prayer circle for all our churches.
Thank you for keeping Lowell UCC
CLASSES
Qigong, Tuesdays at 3pm - Friendship Hall
Tea Time Afterwards at 4pm
Photo by Enzo Sanches 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.
AROUND TOWN
Soul Collage, This Saturday, May 9
The Story of Hands
Carsie Blanton, Singer/Songwriter/Activist
Kicks off tour in Saugatuck, May 12
Your Support Matters: All profit will directly support Todos Bienvenidos providing legal aid, emergency financial assistance, food, sanctuary, and housing support. Carsie Blanton and local musicians are donating their time and talent to help us turn fear into hope and show that Southwest Michigan stands with its immigrant community.
Saugatuck HS Hosts Anne Frank Exhibit
Help Hungry Neighbors Around the World
CROP Walk, May 17
CROP Walks fight hunger locally and around the world. Even a small donation can help a Honduran family; $22 buys 500 baby fish to raise for healthy food or a source of income.
The CROP Hunger Walk has been doing this for over 50 years, and DUCC has been involved many times. This year, our team has raised its goal to $10,000. One quarter of all money raised will go directly to nearby food banks. The rest pays for projects all over the globe.
If you’d like to walk with us on May 17, contact Chris Clark.
To financially support the DUCC team click below, and hit the orange "Donate Now"
The CROP Hunger Walk has been doing this for over 50 years, and DUCC has been involved many times. This year, our team has raised its goal to $10,000. One quarter of all money raised will go directly to nearby food banks. The rest pays for projects all over the globe.
If you’d like to walk with us on May 17, contact Chris Clark.
To financially support the DUCC team click below, and hit the orange "Donate Now"
Shamanic Experience with Ruth Zwald
The 8 C's & Our Process of Centering, May 17
Can You Support Team Donovan in MS Walk for a Cure, May 30?
Each year, Team Donovan hits the road, raising money to fuel research for a cure and treatments for people with Multiple Sclerosis, like our church member Sarah Donovan. Sarah & her team invite you to walk with her, and/or support her team on their May 30 walk in Grand Rapids. It's so easy to donate online here:
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
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: May 6th and 20th
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: May 6th and 20th
No Reservations
Blue Star Barns Coffee and Bikes
3483 Blue Star Hwy
Saugatuck, Michigan 49453
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