Weekly Missive
July 30, 2025
Hampstead United Methodist Church
15395 US Hwy 17 N., Hampstead, NC 28443
Dear Church Family,
What a week it’s been at Hampstead UMC!
Our halls and classrooms were filled with the laughter, questions, and energy
of almost 200 children during Vacation Bible School. They sang, played,
learned, and discovered this powerful truth again and again: we can trust
Jesus.
This Sunday, we’ll celebrate all that God has done. The children will lead us
in worship, we’ll see photos and videos from the week, and we’ll give thanks
for the many volunteers who made it all possible.
I’ll be preaching a sermon called “When Love Roars,” based on Hosea 11—a tender
and powerful reminder that even when we wander, God’s love comes after us. Like
a lion calling its young, God’s voice still roars with grace and hope.
Whether you were part of VBS or not, I hope you’ll come.
It will be a Sunday full of joy, music, and the good news that we are never
beyond the reach of God’s love.
With gratitude,
Pastor Debbie
Vacation Bible School Thank You!
What an incredible week we had at Vacation Bible School! Nearly 200 children filled our halls with laughter, curiosity, and joy as they embarked on a journey to discover God as their faithful friend and “True North.” Through engaging lessons, fun activities, and meaningful connections, our young participants learned how to trust in God’s unwavering guidance in a world that can often feel wild and confusing.
A special thank you goes to our amazing Youth Director, Jaime Alberti, whose tireless dedication and passion brought this year’s VBS to life. Jaime’s creativity, leadership, and heart for our youth made this week unforgettable, and we are grateful for her hard work and commitment.
We also extend our deepest gratitude to all the volunteers who gave their time, energy, and love to make VBS a success. From room decorations, to leading activities, or preparing snacks, your efforts created a welcoming and inspiring environment for our children. Thank you to everyone who contributed through donations, prayers, and support—your generosity made all the
difference!
Together, we’ve planted seeds of faith and friendship that will grow in the hearts of these children for years to come. Here’s to celebrating God’s faithfulness and the incredible community that made VBS 2025 a truly blessed experience!
Announcements
Blood Drive Tomorrow, Monday, August 4th the American Red Cross will be at HUMC for a blood drive, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the FLC. Visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter HAMPSTEAD to reserve your time to donate.
Staff Parish Committee We meet on Monday, August 4th at 6:30 PM in room 9.
Ice Cream Social Join us for the UWIF Ice Cream Social on Tuesday, August 12th in the FLC.
Upcoming Bible Study Mark your calendar for Thursday, September 11th! Jennipher Burns will begin a 7-week Bible study, “Luke in the Land”, at 9:00 AM in room 5/6. Books are $25.00. For more information contact Jennipher, 910-206-1903; or jennipherlove09@gmail.com.
Project AGAPE Shoebox gift deadline is September 21st! Shopping lists are in the narthex for new items for a boy or girl, packed in a 6-quart container. Include $5 per box for shipping. This ministry supports the children in Armenia with care and development. Questions? Contact Peggy Harris: littlerr1952@gmail.com, 910-520-4042.
Divorce Care HUMC invites you to our Divorce Care Support Group, starting Tuesday, September 9th, at 6:30 PM in room 9. Find healing through a 13-week, Christ-centered program with videos, confidential discussions, and personal exercises addressing topics like grief, anger, forgiveness, and brighter days. Contact Sylvia Waterston at swaterdivorcecare@outlook.com. Take the first step toward hope and healing.
HUMC Audio Visual Team Needs Volunteers!
Enhance our Sunday worship services by joining our Audio-Visual team! We welcome volunteers of all experience levels with quick, easy training provided.
Opportunities Include:
Basic: Operate sanctuary TV monitors or live stream services for ROKU and our website.
Intermediate: Adjust the sound board for clear audio during worship.
Advanced: Create ProPresenter playlists and explore further tech roles.
Serve your community, gain skills, and earn service hours for youth! All ages welcome. No experience needed! Contact Sylvia Waterston at needleworkdisc@gmail.com and join today!