June 2026 News !

Pastor’s Page

Hi All:

June brings longer days, warmer sunshine, and a gentle reminder that life moves in seasons. Some seasons are full of joy and laughter, while others bring uncertainty and waiting. But through every season, one truth remains the same, God is always walking with us.

Summer often invites us to slow down a little, to sit on the porch, enjoy the beauty of  His creation, and take a breath. And in those quiet moments, we may hear God whisper, “I’m still here.”

In Isaiah 41:10, God says:
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.”

That promise is for sunny days and stormy ones alike.

As we step into June, may we keep walking faithfully, loving generously, and trusting completely, even when we don’t know what’s around the corner.

God asks us to help those in need because caring for others reflects His own heart of love, mercy, and compassion. Throughout Scripture, we are reminded that when we feed the hungry, comfort the hurting, and lift up the weak, we are serving Christ Himself (Matthew 25:35–40). Helping others is not simply an act of kindness—it is an act of faith and obedience. God blesses us not only for our own benefit, but so we can be a blessing to others. When we reach out with open hands and loving hearts, we become living examples of God’s grace in a world that desperately needs hope.

And let us not forget Fathers Day.    This is the day, we give thanks for the fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, mentors, and faithful men who have reflected God’s love through strength, guidance, patience, and prayer. Just as our Heavenly Father cares for His children with endless grace, earthly fathers are called to lead with love, wisdom, and compassion. Today we honor the men who have taught us to stand strong in faith, laugh in difficult times, lend a helping hand, and trust in God’s promises. May God bless all fathers and father figures today, strengthen those carrying heavy burdens, comfort those missing their fathers, and remind us all that we are forever held in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father. “The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him.” – Proverbs 20:7

This month, remember:

God is already in the days ahead.
Rest is holy too.
Laughter is good medicine.
Kindness costs nothing but means everything.
A simple invitation can change someone’s life—bring a friend to church!

June Prayer

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of a new month and the beauty of summer’s beginning.

As the days grow brighter, brighten our hearts with Your love.
Refresh our spirits when we grow weary.
Guide our church family in faith, unity, and joy.

Bless those who are traveling this summer.
Watch over our children, our families, and our community.
Bring comfort to those who are hurting, healing to those who are sick, and peace to those carrying heavy burdens.

Help us to be Your hands and feet—sharing kindness, hope, and grace wherever we go.

And Lord, if possible, help the church air conditioning survive another summer.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

May your June be filled with sunshine, laughter, peace, and moments that remind you God is near.

And may your coffee be strong, your hymns joyful, and your pastor’s sermon just the right length.

Here are some dad jokes for Fathers Day.

The pastor asked, “Who wants to go to heaven?”
Everyone stood except one dad.
The pastor asked, “Don’t you want to go to heaven?”
Dad replied, “Sure… just not this afternoon!”

Why do fathers take an extra pair of socks when they go golfing?
In case they get a hole in one!

What’s the most spiritual dad phrase?
“Ask your mother.”

Ok they might not be the best, but it’s one way to end this page.

Happy Father’s Day. Be safe

God Bless,

Rev. Carmen

• Please know that due to the HIPPA laws, the church will not know if you or a loved one are hospitalized or sick. You will only get a visit if you notify us.  Please contact Rev. Carmen 203-598-2984

• Sandy Ramponi,  Outreach Chairman sends "Caring Cards" to    people who experience loss, are hospitalized, etc.  If you know of someone who would like to receive a card please contact Sandy  at 860-417-3416 or email her at momramponi@yahoo.com 

 • Stories, artwork, photos, and other newsletter input is welcome and encouraged…please send to ucc.oakville@gmail.com or to Joe LeClair on any Sunday.  We are on Facebook.  Please be sure to "like" our page. https://www.facebook.com/Union-Congregational-Churchof-Oakville-CT-588659578254820

Ladies Aide 

The ladies have been busy this past month organizing our new closet off the stage (the area formerly used by New Hope). We are so excited to have this new area to store all of our things - and there are a lot of things!

Our pop up store has exceeded our wildest dreams. Thank you to all who have purchased and/or donated. Keep looking as we add and change items on a regular basis. Rumor has it that something exciting is happening in July. Stay tuned!!

Ladies Aide meets the first Sunday of the month after our worship service.  Please come to our June 7th meeting as we have something important to discuss.