Pastor’s Page

Hi All:

May is a beautiful reminder that God is always at work, even when we don’t see it right away. Just like flowers bloom in their time, so does our faith.

In Galatians 6:9, we are encouraged:
“Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Sometimes life feels like planting seeds in hard ground. We pray, we serve, we love— and we wonder if anything is happening. But God is faithful. Growth is happening beneath the surface.  Let’s keep planting kindness, watering our faith, and trusting God for the harvest.

This month, we pause to honor and celebrate the incredible gift of mothers and all who nurture, guide, and love with a mother’s heart.

Motherhood comes in many forms, biological mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, foster mothers, spiritual mothers, and those who lovingly care for others as their own. Each reflects a glimpse of God’s compassion and care.

In Proverbs 31:28, we read:
“Her children arise and call her blessed.”

Today, we say thank you, for the prayers whispered late at night, the strength shown in hard times, the love given without condition, and the faith that keeps families grounded.

As many of you know we are trying new things in our church service. On April 12, 2026, we tried something new, an upbeat Country gospel song. I am looking for feedback on what you all thought and when and how often we should do them.

 Fun & Funny Church Facts

• The average person will sing about 10,000 hymns in their lifetime, but still somehow flip to the wrong page at least half the time!

• The phrase “Amen” is often the most honest part of the sermon, because that’s when people wake up!

• Studies show people sit in the same pew every week and get slightly uncomfortable if someone else is in “their seat”.

• Church coffee has two settings:
    “Not strong enough” or “I can now see Jesus clearly”

• The shortest prayer ever prayed in church:
    “Lord, let this sermon be short.”
  (Don’t worry… we’re still working on that one)

Words of Encouragement

• Keep showing up—even when it’s hard

• Keep praying—even when answers feel delayed

• Keep loving—even when it’s not returned

Because God is still working.

Closing Thought

May your faith grow strong, your heart stay light, and your coffee be just strong enough to get you through the sermon

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 month moving our supplies out of the kitchen and up from the boiler room. We are currently organizing our new space off the stage.

We have also been busy weaving our mats for the homeless. One has been completed and another will soon be started. The dates we will be working in May will be announced during Sunday’s worship service. 

Our pop-up store is very popular! We keep adding new merchandise! Our latest addition is evening gowns suitable for proms. If you know someone in need of a dress come check us out. Also, if you have any small tag sale items you’d like to donate, we’d be happy to have them. 

Our next monthly meeting will be May 3rd following our worship service. All are welcome.