HAPPY NEW YEAR!
As a new year begins, we step forward with hope, gratitude, and trust in what God is still doing. May this year bring deeper connection, renewed purpose, and moments that remind us we are not walking alone. Here’s to fresh beginnings and faithful steps ahead.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 4, 2026
Happy New Year! Do you make resolutions? Around 30–40% of Americans make New Year’s resolutions, setting goals for healthier bodies, better schedules, and clearer priorities. We make these resolutions because we are drawn to do better and because we love new beginnings. Yet by the time February starts, almost everyone who set a resolution has abandoned it.
Join us this week as we begin a new year and explore rhythms that build our lives around God instead of resolutions that will most likely be broken sooner rather than later. God is the God of new beginnings, so let’s start 2026 by letting Him write the stories of our lives.
MONTHLY LUNCHEON
As we step into the new year, we’d love for you to join us at our monthly luncheon. It’s a relaxed and welcoming time to share a meal, connect with others, and enjoy being together as a church family.
Whether you’re new to Woodcrest or have been here for years, this is a great way to build relationships and start the year connected. We hope you’ll pull up a chair and join us.
Help: Come early to help set up or stay after for clean-up. Feel free to bring a dessert to share!
UPDATE FROM THE FAMILY MEETING
At the family meeting on December 28, the Elder Board responded to questions regarding the Kidcrest remodeling project, including budget, planned changes, and required safety updates.
Kidcrest Remodeling Update
• Two estimates have been received for remodeling the Kidcrest spaces. Both were approximately $95,000.
• Planned updates include removing the wall between Rooms 12 and 13, adding preschool restrooms, installing security doors at both ends of the Kidcrest space, and making cosmetic improvements.
• The Elder Board will select a contractor and plans to begin work in early 2026, once plans are finalized, approved by the landlord, and permits are obtained.
Co-Pastor Search Update
• The Elder Board met with our recruiter on December 16.
• Since launching the search on October 14, the search firm has contacted over 900 candidates.
• They are currently in conversation with 8 interested candidates and following up with 19 additional candidates to gauge interest.
• The firm expects to present 4–6 qualified candidates by the end of January, after which the Elder Board will begin interviews.
• Once a candidate is selected, we anticipate the new co-pastor will travel to Columbia to be introduced to the Woodcrest family.
Our next family meeting will be held on January 25. Reach out to the Board of Directors with any questions or comments. Thank you.
WOODCREST FINANCIALS
Please download the PDF for more details. Thank you.
LAST WEEK’S INSIGHT
Last week Kelly Wright wrapped up “A Christmas for Misfits” by talking about belonging and the church as a home for misfits. Using Rudolph’s story, Jamold’s testimony, and Paul’s picture of the church as a body, she named our fears of rejection, showed why we tend to run or isolate, and invited us to see Woodcrest as a family where every “misfit” part is needed, known, and indispensable.
• We’re wired for belonging, but afraid of it
Underneath our “I’m fine” is the fear that if people really knew us, God and others would not accept us, so we run or isolate like Rudolph.
• God’s answer to isolation is a family, not a solo plan
From Genesis to Acts, God heals and grows us through relationship with Jesus and with each other, not private, independent faith.
• The church is a body where every part matters
Like Paul’s picture in 1 Corinthians 12, there are no unnecessary people here; even the “pinky toe” gifts are indispensable.
• Your misfit story is often your ministry
The very thing you think disqualifies you may be exactly what God uses as you play your part in the body of Christ.
• Belonging comes before becoming
Church is not “fix yourself, then come,” it is “you belong, and as you walk with Jesus and his people, he makes you new.”
THE TAKEAWAY
If you’ve ever felt like a misfit who is safer on your own, Jesus is inviting you to stop running, step into the family of God, and play your God-given part in a church where you truly belong.
OTHER IMPORTANT STUFF
• Check out Kidcrest, our children’s ministry HERE
• The Loop: sign up for our student ministry newsletter HERE
• Watch services at WoodcrestWorldwide.org
• Engage on Social Media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
• Download the Woodcrest App: CLICK
• Last, but definitely not least: Set up a recurring donation