Memorial Presbyterian Church

06/01/2026

Memorial Matters – Newborn Parenting Support Group

In this week’s Memorial Matters video, we learn about the partnership among MPC’s Faith Community Nurse, Midland County Department of Public Health, and MyMichigan Health for their shared support of the Newborn Parenting Support Group that meets every Thursday from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. in the Parlor:
https://youtu.be/pMwrrCkh0tc

Midland Newborn Parent Support Group
Midland County Department of Public Health
MyMichigan Health

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06/01/2026

Building Community Together

After Chapel Lane Presbyterian Church’s closure, the building and part of the land were purchased by Creative 360. In a coordinated effort among MPC, Midland County Habitat for Humanity, and the City of Midland, the remaining property was sold to Habitat to build affordable housing. Andrew Koehlinger is the Operations Manager for Habitat and says, “This partnership reflects a commitment to helping families build safe, stable futures while strengthening the broader community.”

Habitat recently broke ground for the first of three houses on this property. A two-bedroom dwelling is being tailored to the new home owner’s special needs. Her parents happen to live across the street, and her father has been happily helping in the building process as well. Andrew shares, “Building trades students recently completed the second home at the Greater Michigan Construction Academy, and Habitat plans to move it into place later this summer. This fall, the students will construct a third house that will go on the plot – the 100th home Habitat has built in the community since its founding in 1988. Of equal significance, the address of this milestone home will be 100 Wanetah Drive.”

On Women Build Wednesdays, females are empowered to do construction in this typically male-dominated field. Before working alongside volunteer tradespeople, helpers are given instructions and a safety talk. On May 20, Pastor Wally Mayton (pictured) offered a blessing over the workers, neighbors, and recipient of the home. Save the date for Helping Hearts & Hands joining Habitat at “Rock the Block” in Coleman on July 14–16. Andrew says, “Habitat’s mission is to put God’s love into action by bringing people together to build homes, community, and hope. When communities build together, they do more than build houses; they help create a stronger future for families and the places they call home.” For more information, visit www.midlandhabitat.org.

Midland County Habitat for Humanity

05/31/2026

May 31, 2026 Contemporary Service at Memorial Presbyterian Church

05/28/2026

Book Recommendation from MPC’s Greenhoe Library

The Correspondent
by Virginia Evans

The Correspondent by Virginia Evans tells a beautiful story about Sybil Van Antwerp, a divorced lawyer, mother, and committed letter writer to family members, friends, troubled teen son of her former colleague, customer service workers, and best-selling authors who write back to her. She testifies to the satisfaction of handwritten letters by offering advice to novices: be sure to ask questions and answer any inquiries from your writing partner. However, there are letters to a mystery person in which she pours out her heart but never sends them.

This debut novel creates a captivating story of Sybil, a 73-year-old who is cranky, self-centered, critical, yet sensitive and compassionate. She is forced to face her past, her choices, and the secrets she has kept. Through her letters, the reader discovers revelations that explain the fortress she has created that have led to separation and despair. Relationships with family members are hanging on by a thread. She is losing her eyesight and will eventually not be able to drive. Two senior men are pursuing her. A stranger sends a threatening letter to her, exploding her entire life. This catalyst allows her to move forward, despite the pain and grief. One reviewer said that this gem of a novel combines the serious with humor and is perfect for book club discussions.

One last thought: I wonder if anyone has written to a letter to Virginia Evans inquiring about her inspiration for this incredible epistolary novel.

– Randi K.

All recommended books are read and reviewed by our library board members, and they are available to borrow from our library. The Greenhoe Library and Children’s Rainbow Library are open when the church is open.

Check us out for your summer reading!

05/27/2026

Memorial Matters – Deacons’ Grief Ministry

In this week’s Memorial Matters video, we learn more about our Deacon-led Grief Ministry. They send a four-part booklet series to MPC members who have lost a loved one.

Deacons also support the free eight-part Grief Recovery Group that is offered every summer and winter. The group is open to those who are experiencing any type or stage of grief – including death, job loss, divorce, health issues, caregiving, and other issues and losses. Facilitator Nan Spence, RN, LPC, MA Th, from Catholic Family Services, leads discussions on the nature of the grief process, recognizing and validating losses, coping with anger and depression, handling holidays and anniversaries, grieving and one’s relationship with God, dealing with guilt and forgiveness, and redefining self.

The next Grief Recovery Group takes place on Wednesdays from June 3 to July 22 from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. in the Parlor. Register through the office at [email protected] or 989-835-6759.

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05/26/2026

Tuesday Talk by the Rev. Wally Mayton:
Climbing the Mountain

When the affairs of life press upon us, it becomes likely that we may seek refuge or escape. Physical change and distance from our routines, when chosen, tend to renew and refresh us. We welcome the return of a perspective that allows us to appreciate and enjoy the seasons of our lives.

During Jesus’ ministries on earth, he moved toward his goal of establishing the Kingdom of God on earth purposefully. Crowds pressed upon to receive healing and direction. Their cries were loud and profound. Some expressed desperation. Others shouted praise and thanksgiving. Many desired to draw close in order to hear and to receive his gifts of peace and hope. Often within the Gospel message, Jesus acts to redeem and to revive God’s Spirit of love within the earthly setting surrounding him. In the midst of his faith journey, he found time to retreat to restore his mind and heart to God’s purpose for him.

These instances of dismissing into the hills to be alone with God seem significant to our understanding of discipleship. We too struggle with our capacity to follow Christ obediently and faithfully. It is in these moments of hesitation that we may want to find our place and time with God.

The Apostle Paul in his call to create and sustain God’s Spirit through the Church, often finds his rest within the fellowship of followers who shared his vision. His example is relevant to us today. The earthly challenges we face are great. We may be glad that our seasons of spiritual retreat may be individual or corporate. We gather in worship and service to proclaim God’s promise. It is said: Christ in us, for us, and among us. Jesus invites us to his mountaintop within his Church.

Prayer: Direct me to the mountain both to find rest and to receive the strength and comfort of your Spirit. Thank you for the witness of retreat that inspires and welcomes us into your embrace. Amen.

Photo: Walker renews in spirit in sight of new mountain vistas.

05/25/2026

Singing with Tenacity

Henry Potts (pictured) grew up at MPC and shares his worship time between MPC with mother Ashley Potts and Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church with father Mark Potts. As a sophomore at H. H. Dow High School, Henry plays clarinet for DH Symphonic Band; sings in DH Choir; performed in "Singin’ in the Rain" and "Mary Poppins"; and is in Rotary Interact Club, German Club, and National Honor Society. Henry recently took up the alphorn as “a joke gone too far” with his dad – and found himself enjoying online lessons via a teacher in the Swiss Alps.

Singing tenor with Chancel Choir for the first time, Henry is one of six Student Scholars this year. He thanks Music & Arts Director Megan Dastick and fellow scholar Evie Schramm for encouraging him to apply to this special program that enables talented high school and college students to contribute to Music Ministry in exchange for a stipend toward musical pursuits. Henry is using his funds for private clarinet lessons but says, “The real payment is getting to sing with Chancel Choir. I like high school choir, but this is different because we blend with more mature voices. And when you mess up – because you’re going to mess up – I don’t feel bad because everyone is supportive and pushes you to do better. I became comfortable learning from mistakes and growing from that. Plus my music comprehension has improved so much.” Megan says, “Henry has been a delight to welcome to the choir. It brings us joy to share in fellowship and musicality with him. It was my hope that he would enjoy being a part of our community as much as we enjoy connecting with him.”

From sitting with the congregation as a boy, Henry now has a different view with Chancel Choir. He says, “I like being a part of the larger worship service, conveying music instead of being more of a recipient. I also think I embrace the sermon a little better! Or that could just be my age.” No matter where life takes him, Henry is certain he’ll always pursue music. Visit www.mempres.org/student-scholar for more information on the program.

05/24/2026

Vespers – Erin & Collin Whitfield