Upcoming Events at UPUMC
School of Essential Wisdom Summer Sessions
June 18, July 9, August 6 | 11 am
Join us this summer for the School of Essential Wisdom’s Summer Session! Meeting once a month from June through August, followed by a catered lunch, this series offers engaging speakers and thought-provoking topics. This summer’s sessions include Almas Muscatwalla presenting “Pluralism in the Quran – The Key Messages, Fred Dobbs speaking on “Thinking about Thinking,” and Tony Pederson sharing “Memories of Bishop Hardt and the Civil Rights Movement in Beaumont.”
Youth Lock-In
August 7-8
Get ready for a fun-filled night with friends at our overnight youth lock-in for ages 6th grade through 12th grade. Join us for games, food, worship, movies and more! Bring a friend and let us know you're coming by registering at upumc.org/lockin. We can’t wait to see you there! For more information, contact Rev. Colin Craft at ccraft@upumc.org.
Guest Coffee with the Pastors
August 16 | 9:45 AM
Whether you're new to UPUMC or simply want to learn more about our church, you're invited to Coffee with the Pastors on Sunday, August 16th, at 9:45 am. This informal gathering is a great opportunity to meet our Senior and Executive Pastors, learn more about University Park UMC and the Methodist tradition, ask questions, and discover ways to get connected. Everyone is welcome! If you have questions, please contact Christy Baker at cbaker@upumc.org.
Parents' Night Out
August 14 | 5-7 PM
Mark your calendars for Friday, August 14th, from 5 - 7 pm for our first Parents' Night Out of the new school year. As the summer winds down and back-to-school season approaches, treat yourself to a break to grab dinner, tackle school shopping, or simply enjoy a quiet evening. Kids will have a blast participating in games, crafts, and pizza. It's the perfect way to kick off August and celebrate the coming school year together! Register now at www.upumc.org/pno. For more information, contact Ellie Ford at eford@upumc.org.
Back to School Blessings Sunday
August 16 | 8:45 & 11 AM
A new school year brings new beginnings. Join us on Sunday, August 16th, as we pray for everyone involved in our children's back-to-school lives, including teachers, school staff, coaches, caregivers, administrators, and families, during a special Blessing of the Backpacks in worship. Bring your backpack as we ask God's guidance, protection, and encouragement for the year ahead. Invite a friend, and let's begin this year grounded in faith, hope, and the love of Christ
Confirmation Class of 2027
- Confirmation orientation meeting: Sunday, August 23rd at 10 AM in the Youth Center (Parent & youth meeting)
- Confirmation start date: Sunday, August 30th
- Confirmation Retreat at Bridgeport Friday, September 25th-Sunday, September 27th.
- Meetings are once a month during the Sunday School hour (8:45 - 9:45 am)
Caminio de Santiago Pilgrimage 2027 | Registration
Registration is now open for the 2027 Camino de Santiago Pilgrimage! Join us for an unforgettable journey of faith, reflection, community, and adventure as we walk one of the world's most meaningful pilgrimage routes. Whether you are seeking spiritual growth, deeper connections, or a unique travel experience, the Camino offers a life-changing opportunity. Reserve your spot today through the registration link below.
REGISTER FOR THE CAMINO PILGRIMAGE HERE
A Word from Pastor Joe Podcast
Join Rev. Dr. Joe Stobaugh each week as he shares reflections from his weekly column—now available in podcast form so you can listen anytime, anywhere. Each episode offers thoughtful insights on faith, community, and everyday life, helping you stay connected and inspired throughout your week.
UPUMC Youth Events
Check out our weekly youth schedule of events HERE.
UPUMC Sunday Podcast
Tune into UPUMC's sermon podcast for a dose of spiritual wisdom on the go! Each week, the previous Sunday's sermon will be available so you can listen whether you're commuting, exercising, or chilling at home. Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Podbean.
LOGIN TO PODBEAN HERE: https://upumc.podbean.com/
UPUMC Substack
Missed Pastor Joe's Sunday sermon or the weekly A Word from Pastor Joe email? Don’t worry—you can still stay inspired all week long through Substack . Each week, Dr. Joe Stobaugh shares a heartfelt message along with a full transcript of his sermon—perfect for listening on the go, reflecting during the week, or catching up if you weren’t able to join us in worship. It’s an easy and meaningful way to stay rooted in faith, no matter where you are.
Follow UPUMC on Substack and find reflections that connect faith to everyday life.
SUBSCRIBE TO UPUMC'S SUBSTACK HERE
Words to the Wise, Senior Life Newsletter
Our Senior Life Ministries is brimming with vibrant activities and opportunities designed to keep you engaged, learning, and growing through every stage of life. Thanks to UPUMC member Maryam Mathis, you can stay in the loop with her thoughtfully crafted “Words to the Wise” newsletter — available to read online anytime! From upcoming events to heartfelt insights from fellow church members, there’s always something to uplift and inspire. Don’t miss out — click HERE to explore the latest edition!
Brown Bag Book Club
Wednesdays | 12pm-1pm | Room 105
Calling all book lovers! You're invited to bring your lunch and enjoy great conversation about Barbara Brown Taylor's "Always A Guest: Speaking of Faith Far From Home." The meetings are from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. in room 105. For more information, contact Linda Taylor at lataylor_tx@yahoo.com.
Yoga
In-Person Mat Classes
Tuesdays | 11 AM - 12 PM | Activity Center or Parlor
Zoom Classes
Tuesday Chair Yoga | 9:30 - 10:15 AM
Thursday Mat Yoga | 9 - 10 AM
Join Cherry Fowler and friends as they practice yoga each week. The first class is free, and it is $10/class for in-person or Zoom classes after. If you have any questions, want to join, or need the Zoom link, please get in touch with Cherry Fowler.
