AUGUST 2026
 

Grace.  God’s amazing grace has been the topic at the Tuesday morning Bible Study and the following is being shared with us in this August newsletter: 

 

Good and gracious God, because I am challenged to show grace, I now remember those who have shown grace to me:  

• Pastors, spiritual mentors, and those who have shared your love with me

• Teachers who have helped shape my understanding of the world

• Parents, friends and family who have cared for me

• Co-workers , coaches and colleagues who have invested in me

Thank you for surrounding me with your grace through the people you place in my life.  Amen

 

You are saved by God’s grace because of your faith.  This salvation is God’s gift.  It’s not something you possessed.  It’s not something you did that you can be proud of.  (Ephesians 2: 8-9)

 

Reflection-

At the heart of the Christian faith is the idea that God has saved us without us in any way deserving it.  “This is not your own doing….so that no one may boast,” the Apostle Paul bluntly tells us.  (Ephesians 2:9)  Christians are not supposed to be people who go around with their chests puffed out, striding about in self-assurance and self-satisfaction.  We have not earned forgiveness for our mistakes by our wit or our charm.  God has given it by grace.  We have not, by our wisdom, brought healing to the places we have caused harm.  God has done it by grace.  We have not secured the promises of eternal life by our valor.  God has given them by grace.  We have not turned mourning into dancing by our strength or brought joy out of despair by our cleverness.  God has done it by grace.

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The only possible response to all of this is gratitude.  A humble heart is one that is thankful.  Give thanks for the big and small ways you have experienced the unmerited favor of God today.  Remember that God loves you without end.  Amen.

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Open hearts. . . Open minds. . . Open doors. . .
The people of the United Methodist Church

OUR MISSION:
Together We Celebrate, Grow and Serve;
Celebrating God’s Grace,
Growing in Faith,
Serving God and Neighbor

 

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AUGUST MISSION: 

Little Tiger Care Closet
(Southern Columbia Area School District)

 

During the month of August we will be collecting the following items that are
needed to help stock the Little Tiger Care Closet at SCASD. 
There will be a tote in the social hall for donations!  

 

• Individually wrapped snacks: 
  Goldfish, pretzels and any other healthier options

 

• Reusable water bottles

 

• Mac and cheese cups

 

• Knit hats and gloves

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Elysburg Food Pantry

The Food Pantry is open Thursdays from 10-11:30 a.m.
All donations are appreciated!

June 19- July 23
the Food Pantry served:

182 families and 388 individuals

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Children’s Talk

Sunday, August 9, 
during the worship service!
 

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Blessing of Backpacks

Sunday, August 9th, we will have the blessing of backpacks during the worship service!
Please have your child bring their backpack to the service!

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June Mission Update:

Thanks to your generosity, we collected and donated a total of 66 stuffed animals for Father’s Hope! These stuffed animals will be sent along on mission trips and given out to children in orphanages and schools. Thank you for donating!

 

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Rotary E-Cycling Day

The Elysburg Rotary Club is holding its annual Electronic E-Cycle on Saturday, August 22 from 10-12 at
Elysburg Presbyterian Church,
320 West Valley Ave., Elysburg. 

Bring your old computers, smartphones, Ipads, routers, printers, CD players, radios, etc.  We also accept flat screen TVs for a $20 fee.

 

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Please share your “Attitude of Gratitude”! 
You can email, leave a note, call the office, etc.

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“We are grateful for the guest speakers who have blessed us with their messages the past two months!”

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Many Thanks!

A big thank you to all who contributed to VBS this year through your time, prayers and contributions!  VBS was a great success and thanks to your help, we were able to share the good news with 9 children who attended this year!

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Looking Ahead-

Our annual Kick-Off Breakfast will take place on Sunday, September 13th, following the
worship service!  More details will follow in the September newsletter!

 

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World Vision

Our sponsored child, Pheap, who we have sponsored for the past three years, 

is turning 16 on August 27! 
 

Please remember him and his family in your prayers as they celebrate this
milestone birthday!


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Back to School Prayer

Lord, thank You for caring so deeply for our children — and their children — that You inspire us to intercede for them. Thank You for Your grace and mercy, for Your provision and protection. Thank You for watching over our children when they’re away from us, and for influencing the hearts and minds of those who guide and teach them each day. Lord, we ask that You train them up in the way they should go — and guide us to be faithful in prayer as You shape their path. We give You all the glory.
In Jesus’ name, Amen. 
(nationaldayofprayer.org)

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