August 2026 Newsletter
Rector First United Methodist Church
Following Jesus
Dear Friends,
As I write this, I have been with you for just over a month, and I continue to be grateful for the warm welcome you have shown me. From the wonderful luncheon, to the smiles, conversations, and words of encouragement each week, you have made me feel at home. Thank you for opening your hearts and your church to me. It has been a joy getting to know you, and I look forward to the months and years of ministry we will share together.
One of the greatest joys of beginning at a new church is discovering where God is already at work. I have seen a congregation that loves one another, values worship, and cares deeply for this community. Those are wonderful foundations on which to build. My prayer is that together we will continue growing as disciples of Jesus Christ and finding new ways to share His love with Rector and the surrounding communities.
Throughout the month of August, our worship services will be connected through a sermon series titled “Following Jesus.” Each week we will walk through Matthew’s Gospel and consider what it means to be a disciple in today’s world. Following Jesus is more than believing certain truths. It is a daily journey of trusting Him, learning from Him, and allowing Him to shape our lives.
Our series includes:
August 2
More Than Enough
Matthew 14:13-21
Jesus reminds us that what seems impossible in our hands becomes more than enough in God’s hands.
August 9
Walking Through the Storm
Matthew 14:22-33
Life brings storms to every one of us, but Christ meets us in the middle of the storm and calls us to trust Him.
August 16
A Faith That Would Not Let Go
Matthew 15:21-28
The persistent faith of a determined woman reminds us that God welcomes those who continue seeking Him with hopeful hearts.
August 23
The Question That Changes Everything
Matthew 16:13-20
Jesus asks His disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” It remains the most important question we will ever answer.
August 30
The Cost and Joy of Following Jesus
Matthew 16:21-28
Discipleship is not always easy, but there is no greater adventure than walking in the footsteps of Christ.
I invite you to join us each Sunday as we take this journey together. Even if you have attended church your whole life, there is always something new to discover as we follow Jesus more closely.
As summer begins to give way to a new school year, let us remember to pray for students, teachers, administrators, school staff, and families. A new school year brings excitement, opportunities, and challenges. May our church continue to be a place where children, youth, and families know they are loved, supported, and encouraged.
I also encourage each of us to think about one simple question this month: Who can I invite? A personal invitation is often the reason someone walks through the church doors for the first time. Invite a friend, neighbor, coworker, or family member to worship with you. You never know how God may use a simple invitation to change a life.
Thank you again for allowing me to serve as your pastor. I am excited about what God has in store for Rector First United Methodist Church. Together, let us continue to worship faithfully, serve joyfully, love generously, and follow Jesus wherever He leads.
Grace and Peace,
Rev. Dr. Candace Barron