"Through the Study Window"
The Newsletter of Peru Community Church |
From Our Pastors Finding Hope & Purpose Together |
Dear Friends,
July invites us into a season of sunlight, gatherings, and opportunities to slow down long enough to notice the goodness around us. As people of faith, we know that God's presence is not limited to Sunday mornings or sacred spaces. God meets us in backyard conversations, community celebrations, family meals, and quiet moments of reflection.
This summer, we are thinking about what it means to be a community of hope in a world that often feels divided, uncertain, and weary. Every day we encounter stories that can leave us discouraged. Yet the message of Jesus continues to call us toward a different way of living—a way marked by compassion, justice, mercy, and love.
Jesus consistently reached across barriers, welcomed those on the margins, and challenged people to see one another as neighbors rather than strangers. That calling remains as relevant today as it was two thousand years ago. As followers of Christ, we are invited to create spaces where all people are valued, heard, and embraced as beloved children of God.
The apostle Paul reminds us that "the only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love" (Galatians 5:6). Our faith is most visible not in what we say but in how we live: how we care for one another, how we respond to those in need, and how we work toward a more compassionate and just world.
This month, we encourage us to look for small but meaningful ways to embody Christ's love. Check in on a neighbor. Support a local organization serving vulnerable people. Reach out to someone who may be lonely. Listen deeply to someone whose experiences differ from your own. These simple acts can become powerful expressions of God's grace.
As a congregation, we continue to grow not because we have all the answers, but because we are committed to walking this journey together. We celebrate the diversity of gifts, perspectives, and experiences that strengthen our community. We trust that God is still speaking, still guiding, and still calling us forward.
Wherever this summer takes you, may you find moments of rest, renewal, and wonder. May you experience God's presence in unexpected places. And may you be inspired to share hope, kindness, and love with everyone you encounter.
Thank you for being part of this faith community and for all the ways you help make our church a place of welcome, healing, and transformation.
Grace and peace, Rev. Phil Richards and Rev. Leigh McCaffrey |
| 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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Worship Themes for July & August
Join Us for Worship This summer, we invite you to join us for worship as we explore the teachings and ministry of Jesus through the Gospel of Matthew. Together, we will discover stories of hope, abundance, courage, and welcome that speak to the challenges and opportunities of our lives today. Whether you are a longtime member, a first-time visitor, or someone seeking a place to belong, you are welcome here. Come as you are to experience inspiring music, meaningful reflection, heartfelt prayer, and a community committed to growing in faith, compassion, and justice. We look forward to sharing this journey with you as we celebrate God's presence among us and discover anew what it means to follow the way of Christ. July–August Summer Theme: "Discovering the Kin-dom of God" Throughout these weeks, Jesus teaches through parables, miracles, and encounters that reveal God's vision for a world shaped by grace, justice, belonging, and hope. As we gather for worship, we are invited to grow in faith, deepen our compassion, and participate in God's transforming work.
Click HERE for a more detailed description of each weeks sermon focus. |
Sunday, July 5: Freedom to Follow Gospel Focus: Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30
Sunday, July 12: Seeds of Possibility Gospel Focus: Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23
Sunday, July 19: Living with Grace and Mystery Gospel Focus: Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43
Sunday, July 26: Hidden Treasures Gospel Focus: Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52 |
| Sunday, August 2: Enough for Everyone Gospel Focus: Matthew 14:13-21
Sunday, August 9: Faith in the Storm Gospel Focus: Matthew 14:22-33
Sunday, August 16: A Wider Welcome Gospel Focus: Matthew 15:21-28
Sunday, August 23: Called and Claimed Gospel Focus: Matthew 16:13-20
Sunday, August 30: Setting Our Minds on God's Ways Gospel Focus: Matthew 16:21-28 |
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PRAYER LIST
Howard Bell; Abbie Breen; Rob Butts; Carol; Katie Davis; Denise; Nancy Fegan; Dan Ferris; Jerry;
Susanne & Eucky Jones; Sandy Lashua; Bonnie Mahnk; Howard Newton; Pam; Roy Perry; Evelyn Rinella;
Sherrie & Julia; Anne Stevensen; Jane Way; Thomas Wetterling
Our prayers and sympathy to the family and friends of Debbie Bell who passed away on June 24th.
Also to the family and friends of Bob Svenson who passed away on June 16th.
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 July & August 2026 - Lectionary Year A |
6th Sunday/Pentecost 7/5/26
Genesis 24:34-38, 42-49, 58-67
Psalm 45:10-17
Romans 7:15-25
Matthew 11:16-19, 25-30 |
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7th Sunday/Pentecost 7/12/26
Genesis 25:19-34
Psalm 119:105-1129
Romans 8:1-11
Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 |
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8th Sunday/Pentecost 7/19/26
Genesis 28:10-19
Psalm 139:1-12,23-24
Romans 8:12-25
Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43
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9th Sunday/Pentecost 7/26/26
Genesis 29:15-28
Psalm 105:1-11, 45
Romans 8:26-39
Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52
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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 |
Church Banner Sponsorship Opportunity
The Altar Team is seeking sponsors to help purchase the beautiful 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.This is a text block. Use it to add text to your template. |
Men’s Breakfast at Rulfs on July 13th and 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. |
| Volunteers needed for setting-up and breaking down chairs for band members and to plan and run concession. |
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Outdoor Worship Service on Sunday, July 26th. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and invite family, friends, and neighbors to share in this meaningful summer worship experience. In the event of inclement weather, our rain date will be Sunday, August 2nd. |
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| Concert begins around 6:45 to 7 pm and will be held in the back yard of the Fellowship Center. If it rains, it will be moved into the main hall. (Bring chairs or blankets) |
| | We look forward to worshiping with you under the open sky as we give thanks for God's abundant blessings and the gift of community. |
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Upcoming Meetings/Events in July
7/8: Church Council 7 pm (Office) 7/10: Plattsburgh Cares 10:30 am (St. Joe's Outreach) 7/13: Men's Breakfast 7:30 am (Rulfs Orchard) 7/15: Strawhatters Concert Band 6:45 pm (Backyard) 7/21: Visiting Valehaven 2 pm (Valehaven Home) 7/26: Outdoor Worship 9 am (Backyard) 7/27: Monday Michigans Saranac UMC 11 am - 1:30pm 7/31: Private Party in Fellowship Hall |
| Upcoming Meetings/Events in August
8/5: Christian Ed Planning meeting 6:30 pm (Office) 8/12: Church Council Meeting 7 pm (Office) 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)
9/26: Fall 2026 Granny's Attic Sale!! |
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| Dates and/or times subject to change. |
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! |
Work Order Slips Available
If you notice a maintenance issue that needs attention and is beyond your ability or comfort level to address, please complete a Work Order Slip.
Work Order Slips are available: - At the back of the sanctuary
- On the wall near the church office door
Completed slips may be placed: - In the offering plate
- In the red folder marked "Trustees" located in Fellowship Hall
Submitting a work order helps identify and prioritize maintenance needs so that they can be addressed in a timely manner.
A special thank you to Chris Mullen for coordinating this effort and to the gentlemen who have graciously volunteered their time and talents to tackle the projects that arise. Your dedication helps keep our church buildings and grounds in good repair for all who worship and gather here. |
| Our next Food Bag Packing Project will be Friday, July 10th 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 June 12th Bag Crew for the 200 bags they packed. |
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Announcement of Congregational Meeting to be held July 12, 2026 – 10:00 am
The Council of Peru Community Church, with the permission of the District Superintendent, has called a Congregational Meeting to discuss and approve the 2026/2027 Operating Budget.
The meeting will be held on Sunday, July 12, 2026, at 10:00 am or immediately following worship.
All are welcome to attend; however, only professing members who are present in person will be eligible to vote.
We will also vote to remove from the membership rolls those individuals who were moved to inactive status in 2023. If your name appears on the list and you wish to retain your membership, please contact the church office and request that your membership be continued.
The proposed budget and list of names can be found in the back of the church, in the weekly emailed announcements and linked above. |
Bring a friend if you’d like—there’s always room at the table and all are welcome. |
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This is what JCEO has requested for July,
bring your donations to Fellowship Hall or to church! |
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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, July 22nd & 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! |
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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| Welcome to Amplify Media!
Our congregation has access to “Amplify Media” - a service that provides a wealth of material for everyone. Take advantage of this opportunity to enrich your relationship with God. There are many studies by favorite authors and about favorite topics (Old and New Testament, Women, Men, Children and Teens). There are also “live” videos running so you are able to get a taste of the different programs and studies available that you may not be initially drawn to. Here is the information needed to log in and create your account: https://my.amplifymedia.com/amplify
Access Code: CGPNKF
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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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