"Through the Study Window"
The Newsletter of Peru Community Church |
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August has always felt like a threshold.
The long days of summer are still with us, gardens are overflowing, children squeeze the last adventures out of vacation, and yet there is a quiet awareness that a new season is approaching. Churches feel it too. Fall ministries are beginning to take shape, calendars are filling, and we start asking what God—or perhaps better, what the Spirit of Love—is inviting us to become next.
One of the gifts of process theology is that it reminds us that faith is never static. We are never finished. The church is never finished. Creation itself is always unfolding.
Too often we imagine that faith means preserving everything exactly as it has always been. But the biblical story tells a different story. Abraham leaves home. Moses leads people into the unknown. The prophets challenge comfortable assumptions. Jesus continually invites people beyond the boundaries they thought were permanent. The Holy Spirit keeps pushing the church outward into wider circles of compassion and inclusion.
Perhaps that is what it means to follow Christ: not clinging to certainty, but remaining open to transformation.
The good news is that we do not make this journey alone. God is not a distant ruler pulling strings from heaven. Instead, God is present in every moment, gently calling us toward greater love, deeper justice, richer relationships, and more abundant life. Every conversation, every act of kindness, every courageous decision becomes an opportunity to participate with God in creating a more beautiful world.
That invitation shapes much of what lies ahead for Peru Community Church.
In August we will begin our campaign to purchase a new Allen Organ. While an organ is certainly an instrument, it is much more than that. It is a tool for worship, a way for generations to sing together, and an investment in the future of this congregation. Music has always been one of the ways the Spirit gathers people, heals hearts, and gives voice to hope. We are grateful for the generous commitments that have already been made and look forward to inviting the entire congregation to participate in this shared vision.
We are also beginning conversations about restarting our children's ministry. The world has changed dramatically, and ministry with children cannot simply return to what it was years ago. This is an opportunity to dream together about creating something welcoming, engaging, and meaningful for today's families. Likewise, our Mission, Outreach, and Social Justice Team will begin planning opportunities for the coming year, seeking new ways to embody Christ's love in our community and beyond.
These are not simply programs. They are expressions of who we are becoming.
Every season asks us a question. This August, perhaps the question is this: How is Love inviting us to grow?
Maybe that growth looks like volunteering for a new ministry. Maybe it means making a financial gift that reflects your hope for the future. Maybe it means welcoming someone new, offering forgiveness, standing with those who are marginalized, or simply showing up with an open heart.
Faith is not about arriving at a destination. It is about responding, day after day, to the invitation that Love places before us.
Thank you for the many ways you continue to make Peru Community Church a community of compassion, curiosity, and courage. Together we are discovering that the church is not merely preserving the past; it is participating in God's ongoing creation of a more loving and just world.
We look forward to seeing where the Spirit leads us in the months ahead.
Grace and peace, Phil Richards and Leigh LcCaffrey
Pastors |
| ZOOM Log-In Information for Sunday Morning Worship |
| Click HERE In case the link isn't working, use the information below. |
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| Meeting ID: 884 4689 4229 |
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Join Us for Worship This August at Peru Community Church
There is something special about August.
It is a month of transition. Summer is still in full bloom, yet hints of autumn begin to appear. Gardens are flourishing, families are making the most of vacations, and many of us find ourselves reflecting on where we've been and where life is leading us next. It is a season that invites us to pause, breathe deeply, and reconnect with what matters most.
We invite you to make worship part of your August.
At Peru Community Church, we gather each Sunday at 9:00 a.m. to celebrate the presence of God in our lives, encourage one another, ask meaningful questions, and discover how the teachings of Jesus continue to inspire lives of compassion, justice, and hope.
Whether you have attended church your entire life, have been away for many years, or have never walked through the doors of a church before, you are welcome here. You don't have to have all the answers. You don't have to believe exactly like everyone else. We believe faith is a journey, not a destination, and we grow best when we learn, worship, and serve together.
Our worship is rooted in the Christian tradition while engaging the questions and challenges of today's world. We seek to create a community where everyone is valued, diversity is celebrated, and love is put into action. We believe God's work is still unfolding among us, inviting us to become more compassionate neighbors, more courageous advocates for justice, and more faithful caretakers of creation.
Each Sunday includes inspiring music, thoughtful Scripture, relevant and engaging sermons, prayer, and opportunities to connect with others in a warm and welcoming community. We hope you'll leave encouraged, challenged, and reminded that you are deeply loved and that your life has purpose.
August is also an exciting time in the life of Peru Community Church. We are launching our campaign to purchase a new Allen Organ that will enrich worship for generations to come.
We are gathering people to dream about the future of our children's ministry, exploring fresh ways to nurture faith in today's families. We are also planning new opportunities for mission, outreach, and social justice as we seek to share Christ's love beyond the walls of our church.
These are more than programs—they are signs of a congregation looking toward the future with hope. We believe the church is at its best when it is growing, learning, serving, and welcoming new people into the journey.
If you've been thinking about returning to church, wondering if there is a place where your questions are welcomed, or simply looking for a community that values authenticity, kindness, and hope, we invite you to join us this August.
Come by yourself or bring your family. Invite a friend or neighbor. Wear whatever makes you comfortable. There is no dress code and no expectation that you have everything figured out. Just come with an open heart.
There is a place for you at Peru Community Church. Join us every Sunday in August at 9:00 a.m.
Together, we'll worship, learn, laugh, sing, pray, and discover anew how God's love is still transforming lives and communities. We look forward to welcoming you. |
PRAYER LIST
Abbie Breen; Rob Butts; Carol; Katie Davis; Denise; Patricia & Eric Duquette; Nancy Fegan; Dan Ferris; Jerry;
Susanne & Eucky Jones; Bonnie Mahnk; Howard Newton; Pam; Roy Perry; Evelyn Rinella; Sherrie & Julia;
Anne Stevensen; Jane Way
Our prayers and sympathy to Deanne Price and family on the sudden passing of her brother Jim on July 18th.
Our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of Sandy Lashua who passed away July 9th. A private burial in God's Acre Cemetery on Sunday, August 23rd at 2 pm will be followed by a public celebration of her life in the Peru Community Church Fellowship Center.
All who knew and loved her are warmly invited to come and share in remembering a life well and joyfully lived.
Pray for those struggling with addiction and physical, mental and spiritual health.
Pray for those who teach, guide, care for, and help our children.
Pray for our military, law enforcement, first responders and medical personnel.
Pray for our church, our members, and our pastors.
Please contact the office if you would like to add a name to the prayer list. Thank you! |
| Bible Readings for August 2026 - Lectionary Year A |
10th Sunday/Pentecost 8/2/26
Genesis 32:22-31
Psalm 17:1-7, 15
Romans 9:1-5
Matthew 14:13-21 |
| 11th Sunday/Pentecost 8/9/26
Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28
Psalm 105:1-6, 16-22, 45
Romans 10:5-15
Matthew 14:22-33 |
| 12th Sunday/Pentecost 8/16/26
Genesis 45:1-15
Psalm 133
Romans 11:1-2, 29-32
Matthew 15:21-28 |
| 13th Sunday/Pentecost 8/23/26
Exodus1:8 - 2:10
Psalm 124
Romans 12:1-8
Matthew 16:13-20 |
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14th Sunday/Pentecost 8/30/26
Exodus 3:1-15
Psalm 105:1-6, 23-26, 45
Romans 12:9-21
Matthew 16:21-28 |
Welcome Visitors Cards
You may notice the green “Welcome Visitors” card in the pews. If you are new or visiting, would like to be added to our mailing list, or need to update your contact information, please fill one out and place it in the offering plate. |
Church Banner Sponsorship Opportunity
The Altar Team is seeking sponsors for the banners shown below.
Each banner costs $150 and may be dedicated in honor of or in memory of a loved one. A commemorative tag is included with each banner, allowing the honored individual's name(s) to be displayed.
These banners are the same high quality as those currently hanging in our sanctuary and will enhance our worship space for years to come.
If you would like to sponsor a banner or have any questions, please contact:
Dee Davis – (518) 569-8085
Dianne Miller – (518) 643-2165
Thank you for considering this meaningful way to beautify our sanctuary while honoring someone special. |
Help Shape the Future of Children's & Youth Ministry!
Do you have a passion for helping children and young people grow in faith? Whether you're a parent, grandparent, teacher, mentor, or simply someone who cares about the next generation, you're invited to join us for a planning meeting as we begin envisioning a vibrant children's and youth ministry at Peru Community Church.
Wednesday, August 5th • 6:30 pm
Come share your ideas, dreams, and gifts as we explore ways to nurture faith, build community, and create meaningful opportunities for children and youth. Everyone is welcome, and your voice is important as we begin this exciting new chapter together.
Let Amanda in the Church office know that you are interested! |
Men’s Breakfast at Rulfs on August 10th!
Start your week with good food and great conversation! Join us for a relaxed and welcoming Men’s Breakfast at Rulfs on the second Monday of every month at 7:30 a.m. It’s a chance to connect, share stories, and enjoy some time together—no agenda, just community. Whether you come every time or it’s your first visit, you’re invited. Pull up a chair and join us! All are welcome. |
Upcoming Meetings/Events in August
8/5: Christian Ed Planning meeting 6:30 pm (Office) 8/10: Men's Breakfast at Rulfs 7:30 am 8/10: Music Ministry Mailing Party 10:30 am (Office) 8/12: Knit Wits meeting at Fellowship Center 1:30 pm 8/12: Church Council Meeting 7 pm (Office) 8/14: Plattsburgh Cares 10:30 am St. Joe's Outreach 8/17: Worship Team 10:30 am (Office) 8/17: Congregational Care Team 11:45 am (Office) 8/18: Visiting Valehaven 2 pm (Valehaven Home) 8/24: Mission Team 10:30 am (Office) |
| Upcoming Meetings/Events in September
9/7: Labor Day - Office Closed 9/9: Church Council Meeting 7 pm (Office) 9/10: Ruining Lunch Returns Plattsburgh UMC 11:45 am 9/12: Granny's Attic Drop - Off Begins 9/13: Open Table Returns 5:30 pm (Chapel) 9/14: Men's Breakfast 7:30 am at Rulfs 9/15: Visiting Valehaven 2 pm (Valehaven Home) 9/18 & 9/19: PUMC Book Sale & BBQ 9/26: Fall 2026 Granny's Attic Sale!! |
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| Dates and/or times subject to change. |
| Our next Food Bag Packing Project will be Friday, August 14th at 10:30am at St. Joseph's Outreach Center, 1349 Military Turnpike, Plattsburgh. What's involved? Volunteers unload food from cars (that come from the warehouse space we use) and "the closet" at St. Joe's.
We set out all the food on tables, assemble bags, then break down boxes and load bags into cars at the end. We are usually done in about an hour. The bags are then delivered to the Plattsburgh Public Library, the hospital social workers' office, and area motels that work with the Department of Social Services (DSS) to house folks in need of shelter.
The food bags were designed to meet the emergency food needs in a motel room setting.The bags also include a small toiletry kit containing shampoo, body wash (soap), toothbrush and toothpaste. We have been blessed with willing volunteers each time - with huge thanks to the July 12th Bag Crew for the 200 bags they packed. |
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Or email Amanda in the office. |
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This is what JCEO has requested for August,
bring your donations to Church or Fellowship Hall. |
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Men’s Gathering at Meron’s
Not an early bird, or do you work a shift and can't attend the Men's monthly Breakfast? Join Pastor Phil for good conversation, connection, and community at Meron’s on Wednesday,August 26th at 4:30 p.m.
You’re invited to gather for a meaningful and relaxed time of fellowship, conversation, and connection. Whether you come every time or this is your first visit, there’s a place for you at the table.
We’ll share stories, laughter, and thoughtful conversation about life and faith in a welcoming, informal setting. No preparation needed—just bring yourself and, if you’d like, invite a friend to join you.
In a busy world, this is a chance to slow down, build relationships, and enjoy good company together. We hope to see you there! |
| Knit Wits Items Sent or Delivered in July |
Peru JCEO
- 1 cocoon & hat set
- 7 hat & mittens sets
- 4 pairs of child's socks
- 1 small child's hat
Thank you to all who have worked on all of these items! |
| Warm Up America (Texas)
- 14 7x9 squares for blankets
- 5 children's hat & mitten sets
- 1 Ladies Hat & mitten set
- 1 baby blanket
- 2 pairs of children's socks
- 1 adult hat & mittens set
- 2 child's hat & mittens sets
- 1 small child's hat
- 1 Ladies hat & scarf set |
| Pine Ridge Reservation (South Dakota)
- 1 Ladies Hat & Scarf set - 4 Child's hat & mittens set
- 2 pair child's socks
- 1 child size car seat blanket
If you are interested in working with the Knit Wits, see Carol Gallagher or Mary Jo Juneau. |
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Help Shape Our Mission & Social Justice Ministry
Do you have a passion for making a difference in our community and our world? Are you interested in helping our church live out its faith through service, compassion, advocacy, and justice?
You are invited to join us as we begin planning and organizing a Mission & Social Justice Ministry Team on Monday, August 24th, at 10:30 am
This gathering is open to everyone—whether you've been involved in mission work for years or are simply curious about how you can make a difference. Together we'll dream, share ideas, identify priorities, and begin building a ministry that reflects our commitment to love our neighbors through acts of compassion, justice, and service.
Come lend your voice, your ideas, and your heart. We hope you'll join us as we imagine what God can do through us as we serve our community and work for a more just and compassionate world.
Mission & Social Justice Ministry Team Planning Meeting
Monday, August 24th at 10:30 am
Everyone is welcome!
Let Amanda in the Church office know that you are interested! |
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| Open Table Returns in September! |
Visit the Calendar page on our website to see what is happening in the coming months.
Visit our Giving page to support the missions and operations of Peru Community Church. |
Are you interested in meeting with one or both of the pastors?
They invite you to reach out to them by phone call, text, or email. Their contact information is listed below. |
Steve Woodruff - Virtual Organist
Bea Parks - Joint Choir Director
Steve Vogl - Joint Bell Ensemble Director |
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| Mooers UMC 8 am; Three Steeples UMC 9 am; Peru Community Church 9 am; Plattsburgh UMC 10:15 am; Saranac UMC 11:15 am |
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