Pastor’s Pondering

Dear friends,

I hope you are enjoying this beautiful North Country summer. We are once again blessed with refreshing, cool days—a gift from God. Summer is a special season that invites us to slow down, rest, and renew both body and spirit.

This quieter time is a chance to grow—not only in our gardens, but in our faith, relationships, and well-being. I encourage you to spend time with God in simple ways: read Scripture or Christian books like The Life and Teaching of Jesus Christ by James Stewart, pray outdoors, or take quiet walks in nature. Let creation remind you of God’s presence.

Summer also gives us space to nurture relationships. Whether it’s a backyard BBQ, a campfire, or a meal with friends, these moments become meaningful when shared in love and faith.

In my own life, I’ve been walking the golf course each morning with my husband—a small rhythm that helps me stay active and grounded. I’m also looking forward to our church Picnic on Thursday, August 7 at 5:30 p.m. Please join us for food, games, swimming, and fellowship!

As we continue through this season, may your summer be filled with faith, joy, and love. And may the seeds we plant now bear fruit in the months to come.

With love and blessings,
Pastor Sarah Lee

August 2025 Schedule of Events

HOLY COMMUNION: Join us for the Lord’s Supper during worship on Sunday, August 3. All are welcome at Christ’s Table.

SESSION MEETING: Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 4:00 P.M.

BACKPACK PROGRAM: We’re continuing our support of the Backpack program to help local children prepare for the new school year. Starting today, you may place donated school supplies in front of the sanctuary by August 24. Thank you for your generous support!

STONE CHURCH PICNIC: All are welcome-invite friends and family!

Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 5:30 P.M.

Location: Rev. Sarah Lee’s Backyard-Watertown, NY 13601

RSVP: 315-788-8286 (Pastor Lee)

Detail: Enjoy hamburgers, hot dogs, delicious Korean dishes, and many more!

You’re welcome to bring a dish to share. Swimming pool available for those who’d like to take a dip.

Games, prizes, and a great time for ALL!

FLOWER SIGN-UP CHART: If you want to present flowers in our sanctuary, please place the $ 16 fee in a yellow envelop and put it in the offering plate or bring it to the church office. Don’t forget to include the Sunday date (check flower sign-up chart) you are requesting.Welcome Our New Member, Kelly Strader!

USE OF CHURCH

Northern Blend Chorus: Mondays August 4, 11, 18, and 25, from 6:45 to 9:45 PM.

Quilters Group: Saturday, August 9, from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

May God bless her journey of faith among us as we grow together in worship, fellowship and service!

Welcome our New Member, Kelly Strader!

May God bless her journey of faith among us as we grow together in worship, fellowship, and service!

August 2025 Anniversary

Dan& Joanne Woodward- August 8

Pastoral Care

If you or someone you know would appreciate a visit or need support, please feel free to reach out.  We’re here for you, and it would be a privilege to connect with you. To arrange a visit, please contact the church office (315-788-5630) or Pastor Sarah Lee: Call/Text: 315-788-8286 

Ruling Elders on the Session

Class of 2026

Linda Rohde

Class of 2027

Roxanne Young

Bob Siver

Class of 2028

Maxine Perkins

Chris Dear

Jeannie Greenwood

August 2025 Lectionary

August 3

Semicontinuous:  

Hosea 11:1-11 and

Psalm 107:1-9, 43;

Complementary:

Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14, 2:18-23 and Psalm 49:1-12;

Colossians 3:1-11;

Luke 12:13-21

August 10

Semicontinuous:

Isaiah 1::1, 10-20 and 

Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23;

Complementary: Genesis 15:1-6 and Psalm 33:12-22;

Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16;

Luke 12:12:32-40

August 17

Semicontinuous:   Isaiah 5:1-7 and Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19;

Complementary:

Jeremiah 23:23-29 and

Psalm 82; Hebrews 11:29-12:2;

Luke 12:49-56

August 24

Semicontinuous:

Jeremiah 1:4-10 and

Psalm 71:1-6;

Complementary: Isaiah 58:9b-14

and Psalm 103:1-8;

Hebrews 12:18-29;

Luke 13:10-17

August 31

Semicontinuous:

Jeremiah 2:4-13 and

Psalm 81:1, 10-16;

Complementary: 

Proverbs 25:6-7 Psalm 112;

Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16;

Luke 14:1, 7-14