Naples UCC Family,

One of the great miracles of the Easter story is God's desire to meet us in our pain and grief. Mary stood outside the tomb crying, only to later receive reassurance from the presence of the resurrected Christ: "Woman, why are you crying?"

We share much in common with Mary on Easter. We weep. We weep for many reasons. We weep over the loss of loved ones who we miss—especially on holidays. We weep over the ways of our world that are so painful to watch on television. We weep over broken relationships. We weep over failed plans and failed dreams. And when we weep, the temptation is to believe that Jesus is absent. But the powerful truth of the Easter story is that, much like Mary, tears and darkness actually lead us into Christ's presence. As N.T. Wright once observed, "Tears are the lens through which we see angels and Jesus."

This Easter Sunday, may the same God who moved in the brokenness of Mary's heart move in the brokenness of our own hearts. Come all who are weeping...

In Christ,

Pastor Mark 

Join us this Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025

Sunrise Service at Clam Pass

Rev. Dr. Mark Williams | 7 AM

It Starts In the Dark

John 20: 1-18



Sanctuary Worship

Rev. Dr. Mark Williams | 9 & 11 AM

The Gardener

John 20: 1-18

Join in person or online!

Celebrate Easter morning with us for a Sunrise Service at Clam Pass Beach, starting at 7 a.m. Parking is free at the Clam Pass parking lot. Trams will be available to shuttle attendees to the beach beginning at 6 a.m. Some seating will be provided, but to ensure you have a comfortable place to sit, we encourage you to bring your favorite folding chair. This beloved tradition is a meaningful way to begin Easter morning—arrive early, take in the beauty of the rising sun, and prepare your heart for a truly inspiring service.

Attend either Easter Worship service, 9 or 11 a.m., both featuring inspiring music with brass, strings, and percussion. All are welcome!

Kids in PreK and Elementary are invited to an Easter Egg Hunt at 10:15 a.m.—bring a basket or use one of ours. No Confirmation class on Easter, as students will attend worship. We look forward to celebrating this sacred season with you!

We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us in person throughout our Lenten Wednesday Worship series. During Lent, we reflected on the spiritual virtues that shape our faith and draw us closer to God and one another. If you missed a service or would like to revisit one, we invite you to listen anytime and share the experience with a friend. Simply click on the episode you'd like to hear, and enjoy these powerful reflections at your own pace.

Humility

Compassion

Kindness

Empathy

Forgiveness

Love



The Caregiver’s Support Group meets every other Friday year-round to support those caring for loved ones. Join us today at 2 p.m. in Nelson Hall, room 101, as we proudly celebrate our 9th year of helping caregivers with a little party. Whether you’re a caregiver, a past or future one, or seeking resources, all are welcome. Church membership is not required, and discussions remain private. Bring a friend who may benefit! For more info, contact Joan Millon at joanmillon6@gmail.com.

Join us again on Friday, May 2, as Kelly Rose, Director of Life, Home & Health in Bonita Springs, will speak to us about their medical and non-medical health home care services.

In the spirit of Easter, we ask that you prayerfully consider supporting this lovely family, among others, who arrived in the U.S. in early 2025, just before federal support for refugees was suspended. The father is actively seeking employment, and once school begins in the fall, the mother also plans to work. Their five-year-old daughter will be enrolled in school, and they hope to find daycare for their 15-month-old daughter. They are eager to build a life here in Southwest Florida and need our love and support to help them get on their feet.



On Easter morning, you may give an offering during the service or send a check to the church office. Please be sure to write “Refugee Fund” in the memo line.

To donate now, click the button below.

Make Naples UCC your spiritual home away from home!

If you're here in Naples for the season but also belong to a church "up north," we invite you to become an associate member of Naples UCC! This special membership allows you to stay connected and engaged in both faith communities. As an associate member, you’ll have the same voting and participation privileges as any other member of our church family.

Ready to join our church family? On Sunday, May 11, there will be an opportunity to become a member and deepen your connection with our warm and welcoming congregation.

For any questions on membership, please contact our Membership Coordinator, Chelsea Godwin, at Chelsea@naplesucc.org or (239) 261-5469.

Thank you for your generous gifts toward the electrical system of the organ! Because of your support, we are already halfway to our goal of $148,000.00. Your contributions are making a real difference, and I couldn’t be more grateful. If you’d still like to give, donations can be made by sending a check to the church with "Organ Fund" in the memo line, or you can give online. Wow—what a fantastic way to celebrate my 65th birthday! Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

With gratitude,

Dr. Becky

As one of the world's leading climate scientists, Katharine Hayhoe has wrestled with the reality of climate change and still managed to share a message of hope through her popular books and television appearances. As an evangelical Christian, Hayhoe frequently speaks to a wide range of faith audiences. Join with the National UCC on April 26 at 2 p.m. ET to hear her deliver the Jim Antal Keynote lecture as part of this year's UCC Earth Summit.

To Register go to: Webinar Registration - Zoom

The Environment Subcommittee at Naples UCC thanks you for your interest!

Sunday, April 27, 2025 • 9 & 11 AM

Rev. Dr. Mark Williams

The Case for Community

John 20: 19-31

Cantabile from FGCU

Dr. Bryan Ijames, conductor

Ingrid Carlson and Emir Bilen, soloists



Spring is here, and whether you go north soon or stay for the summer, the Bargain Box continues to need your gently used clothing and quality household items. Bring donations—including from friends and neighbors—to a special intake at the church portico before either service on Sunday, April 27. (The shed remains open for drop-offs anytime.)

Your generous donations keep our mission thriving! Thank you for supporting Care, Connection, and Community Outreach!

Looking for ways to make a difference? Our Board of Mission and Outreach partners with many local organizations to offer a variety of volunteer opportunities.

Youth Haven Game Night!

Monday, April 28, 6:30 - 8 PM, Youth Haven

Join NUCC volunteers in creating a memorable evening while interacting with Youth Haven kids. On Monday from 7 to 8 p.m.; please arrive at 6:30 p.m. Run children’s games with Youth Haven kids. Sign up in the Gathering Place on Sunday or contact Michele Carney. Join us on Monday, April 28! (Youth Haven, 5867 Whitaker Rd, Naples, FL)

Habitat for Humanity Build Day

Saturday, May 3, 8 AM - 12 PM, Majestic Place

Come join fellow NUCC members for a purposeful and fun day. No experience is needed, and all abilities are welcome! Come Saturday, May 3 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. First time volunteers, please register at https://vhub.at/nucc/ or sign up in the Gathering Place on Sundays. For more information contact Judy Varty. (Majestic Place Community, 10405 Majestic Circle, Naples, FL)

NUCC is organizing a mission trip to Guatemala from October 12-19 with spots for eight people. Priority goes to first-time travelers, with past participants welcome to participate if space allows.  The NUCC team will install stoves and support Guatemalan children and families through educational and intercultural activities. Interested? Email Susan Pezzullo. Don’t miss out on this meaningful opportunity to serve and learn.

To view all our upcoming events and ways to connect,

visit our online calendar here.

8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday



Mission Statement: To love God and all our neighbors as God loves us.

Open and Affirming • Mission-Driven • Powerful Worship • Continuing Generosity

Caring Ministry• Hospitable Fellowship