IN THIS WEEK’S UPDATE
• Joyride
• No Soup for You…just donuts
• Family Weekend in Auditorium
• Elders' Update Recap
• Last Week's Insights
SUNDAY, JULY 5, 2026
As we celebrate Independence Day, we give thanks for the freedom we enjoy as a nation. Yet Scripture reminds us that there is an even deeper freedom found in Jesus, a freedom that fills our hearts with lasting joy.
This Sunday, we will explore the fruit of the Spirit, joy, and discover how the Holy Spirit produces a joy that is not dependent on circumstances, but rooted in God's presence and promises.
COMMUNITY LUNCHEON 🍩
There will be no Community Luncheon in July as many of our wonderful volunteers and staff will be away enjoying summer vacations with family and friends.
We'll miss gathering around the table this month, but we look forward to sharing another meal together when our monthly luncheons return in August.
But never fear! We'll have donuts in the coffee area at 9AM. Swing by, enjoy a doughnut, and chat somebody up.
KIDCREST UPDATE FOR JULY 5
Holiday weekends often mean summer travel for many of our families, volunteers, and staff. To give our amazing Kidcrest team a well-deserved break, our elementary-aged children will join the youth and adults in the worship service on Sunday, July 5.
We love these family-style Sundays because they give children the opportunity to experience worship alongside the broader church family. The message will be appropriate for all ages.
Kidcrest will still be open for our preschool friends.
RECAP OF UPDATE FROM THE ELDERS ON 06/28/26
Total income for the month of May was $62,044 and total expenses were $65,535, resulting in expenses exceeding income by $3,490 for the month. Despite May's shortfall, year-to-date giving exceeds expenses by $12,872.
In the search for a co-pastor, the Elder Board has completed three initial interviews, two in-depth interviews, and one in-person campus visit and interview since April. The elders have identified a candidate who has the communication skills, leadership experience, and alignment with Woodcrest's values to be a strong fit for the position. An offer has been made, and we are in conversation with our preferred candidate about joining our staff. If an agreement is not reached, our recruiting firm will present additional candidates for consideration, and we will continue the search process.
The Elder Board received two bids on Friday (and an additional bid on Tuesday) for the Kidcrest remodeling project. After reviewing the bids with our project manager, we expect to select a contractor soon and begin work with the goal of completing the project by September 1.
LAST SUNDAY'S INSIGHTS
Matt Gordon wrapped up our journey through Philippians by tracing the letter from beginning to end, showing how Paul calls believers to anchor their identity in Christ, pursue unity with one another, and press on with joy no matter the circumstances. From prison, Paul reminded the Philippian church that the Christian life is not built on comfort or achievement, but on a deep confidence in Jesus and a community that reflects His love.
Highlights
• Our primary identity is found in Christ, not in our accomplishments, careers, relationships, or personal successes. Everything else is secondary.
• The church is called to become a true family, carrying one another in love and putting the needs of others ahead of our own.
• The gospel is not "Jesus plus something else." Salvation is a gift of grace, and spiritual growth flows from what Christ has already accomplished.
• Following Jesus means pressing on. We leave behind both past failures and past successes as we continue growing toward the life God has prepared for us.
• Christian unity requires humility. Paul points to Jesus, who willingly laid aside His rights, served others, and gave His life as the ultimate example to follow.
• Joy, peace, contentment, and gentleness become powerful witnesses in an anxious world. As we stand firm together, we shine like stars and point others toward Christ.
Takeaway
The Christian life is not about earning God's approval. It is about living from the grace we've already received in Christ. As we keep our eyes on Jesus, serve one another with humility, and press on together, we become the kind of church that reflects His love and invites others into His family.
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