12 New Year's Resolutions for 2026 at Church of the Pines
As we begin a new year, many of us think about resolutions—ways we hope to grow, connect, and live with greater purpose.
At Church of the Pines, we believe faith is something we live out together. For 2026, we invite you to consider these 12 simple, life-giving resolutions—one for each month—that can deepen your connection with God, strengthen relationships, and help you feel more at home in our church community.
You don't have to do them all. Start with one. Try another when you're ready. There's a place for you here.
Resolutions for 2026
1. Worship regularly – Make space to gather, reflect, and be renewed.
2. Stay connected – Read the Weekly Update and follow Church of the Pines online.
3. Build friendships – Join a group, potluck, or fellowship gathering.
4. Serve with purpose – Use your gifts to help others.
5 Practice gratitude – Notice and name God's blessings each day.
6. Grow spiritually – Try a devotional, Bible study, or prayer practice.
7. Invite someone – Extend a personal invitation to worship or an event.
8. Care for others – Check in on someone who may need encouragement.
9. Give generously – Support the ministries that make a difference.
10. Learn our story – Discover the history and mission of Church of the Pines.
11. Reach beyond our walls – Be part of our community outreach and mission work.
12. Share your faith story – Let others know how God is at work in your life.
Throughout the next few weeks, we'll highlight each of the resolutions, sharing ideas, stories, and simple ways to put it into practice. Which one speaks to you today?
Resolution #12 for 2026: Share Your Faith Story
Let others know how God is at work in your life.
Every person has a story—and your story matters.
You don't need perfect words or a dramatic moment. Sometimes sharing your faith is as simple as saying:
"God has been with me."
"This church has helped me."
"I found hope again."
When we share even a small piece of our journey, we remind others that they are not alone—and that God is still at work.
This week, we invite you to take one simple step:
Encourage someone with a kind word
Share what you're grateful for
Tell someone what Church of the Pines means to you
Post or comment something that reflects your faith
Your story may be exactly what someone else needs to hear.
There's a place for you here.
Let others know how God is at work in your life.
Every person has a story—and your story matters.
You don't need perfect words or a dramatic moment. Sometimes sharing your faith is as simple as saying:
"God has been with me."
"This church has helped me."
"I found hope again."
When we share even a small piece of our journey, we remind others that they are not alone—and that God is still at work.
This week, we invite you to take one simple step:
Encourage someone with a kind word
Share what you're grateful for
Tell someone what Church of the Pines means to you
Post or comment something that reflects your faith
Your story may be exactly what someone else needs to hear.
There's a place for you here.
Resolution #11 for 2026: Reach Beyond Our Walls
Be part of our community outreach and mission work.
Church is not only a place we gather—it's a mission we live. When we reach beyond our walls, we carry Christ's love into our community in real and practical ways. This is one of the most powerful ways faith becomes visible.
Why reaching beyond our walls matters
Jesus consistently reached out to people who were hungry, hurting, lonely, overlooked, or struggling. When we serve others, we do more than meet needs—we reflect God's heart. Outreach reminds us that our faith is not meant to stay private or contained. It's meant to overflow into the world around us with compassion, generosity, and hope.
What outreach looks like at Church of the Pines
At Church of the Pines, outreach and mission work can take many forms. It might include:
Supporting local neighbors through food security efforts
Donating or volunteering for community programs and service projects
Helping with special mission collections and seasonal outreach initiatives
Participating in hands-on projects that bless individuals and families
Every act of outreach—large or small—matters. And every person can play a part.
How mission work shapes our lives
Outreach changes us. It opens our eyes, expands our compassion, and gives deeper meaning to our worship and spiritual growth. When we reach beyond ourselves, we discover joy in serving, gratitude in giving, and a stronger connection to the purpose God has for us as a church.
Reflective question
Where might God be calling me to serve—right here in our community?
Invitation to participate
This week, we invite you to take one step beyond our walls:
Volunteer
Donate
Join an outreach project
Pray for our mission efforts
Look for one way to bless a neighbor in need
Together, we can make a difference—and we can share Christ's love in ways that truly matter.
Be part of our community outreach and mission work.
Church is not only a place we gather—it's a mission we live. When we reach beyond our walls, we carry Christ's love into our community in real and practical ways. This is one of the most powerful ways faith becomes visible.
Why reaching beyond our walls matters
Jesus consistently reached out to people who were hungry, hurting, lonely, overlooked, or struggling. When we serve others, we do more than meet needs—we reflect God's heart. Outreach reminds us that our faith is not meant to stay private or contained. It's meant to overflow into the world around us with compassion, generosity, and hope.
What outreach looks like at Church of the Pines
At Church of the Pines, outreach and mission work can take many forms. It might include:
Supporting local neighbors through food security efforts
Donating or volunteering for community programs and service projects
Helping with special mission collections and seasonal outreach initiatives
Participating in hands-on projects that bless individuals and families
Every act of outreach—large or small—matters. And every person can play a part.
How mission work shapes our lives
Outreach changes us. It opens our eyes, expands our compassion, and gives deeper meaning to our worship and spiritual growth. When we reach beyond ourselves, we discover joy in serving, gratitude in giving, and a stronger connection to the purpose God has for us as a church.
Reflective question
Where might God be calling me to serve—right here in our community?
Invitation to participate
This week, we invite you to take one step beyond our walls:
Volunteer
Donate
Join an outreach project
Pray for our mission efforts
Look for one way to bless a neighbor in need
Together, we can make a difference—and we can share Christ's love in ways that truly matter.
Resolution #10 for 2026: Learn Our Story
Discover the history and mission of Church of the Pines.
Every church has a story—and when we learn it, we begin to understand something deeper: why we're here, what we're called to do, and how God has been faithful through the years.
Learning the story of Church of the Pines helps us feel connected—not only to one another, but to the mission God is still shaping in and through us today.
Why learning our story matters
When we know where we've been, we better understand where we are going. The story of Church of the Pines includes faith, friendship, worship, service, and God's ongoing presence in this community. It reminds us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves—and that our church is built on a foundation of love, perseverance, and hope.
What it looks like to learn our story at Church of the Pines
Learning our story can be simple, meaningful, and even fun. You might:
Ask someone who has been part of the church for many years about its history.
Learn more about our mission and values.
Discover how our ministries have grown and changed over time.
Listen for stories of how this church has helped people through different seasons of life.
Pay attention to the ways Church of the Pines continues to live out Christ's love today.
Sometimes the best way to learn our story is to spend time with people and hear what this church has meant to them.
How learning our story shapes our lives.
When we learn our church's story, our sense of belonging grows. We realize we are part of a living mission—and we're invited to carry it forward. It helps us see our church not just as a place we attend, but as a community we help build… together.
Ask yourself: What is one thing I'd like to learn about the story, mission, or people of Church of the Pines?
This week, we invite you to take one small step to learn our story:
Ask someone, "How did you first come to Church of the Pines?"
Learn something new about our mission.
Take time to notice how God is at work in our church today.
Whether you've been here for decades or you're brand new—your place in the story matters.
Discover the history and mission of Church of the Pines.
Every church has a story—and when we learn it, we begin to understand something deeper: why we're here, what we're called to do, and how God has been faithful through the years.
Learning the story of Church of the Pines helps us feel connected—not only to one another, but to the mission God is still shaping in and through us today.
Why learning our story matters
When we know where we've been, we better understand where we are going. The story of Church of the Pines includes faith, friendship, worship, service, and God's ongoing presence in this community. It reminds us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves—and that our church is built on a foundation of love, perseverance, and hope.
What it looks like to learn our story at Church of the Pines
Learning our story can be simple, meaningful, and even fun. You might:
Ask someone who has been part of the church for many years about its history.
Learn more about our mission and values.
Discover how our ministries have grown and changed over time.
Listen for stories of how this church has helped people through different seasons of life.
Pay attention to the ways Church of the Pines continues to live out Christ's love today.
Sometimes the best way to learn our story is to spend time with people and hear what this church has meant to them.
How learning our story shapes our lives.
When we learn our church's story, our sense of belonging grows. We realize we are part of a living mission—and we're invited to carry it forward. It helps us see our church not just as a place we attend, but as a community we help build… together.
Ask yourself: What is one thing I'd like to learn about the story, mission, or people of Church of the Pines?
This week, we invite you to take one small step to learn our story:
Ask someone, "How did you first come to Church of the Pines?"
Learn something new about our mission.
Take time to notice how God is at work in our church today.
Whether you've been here for decades or you're brand new—your place in the story matters.
Resolution #9 for 2026: Give Generously
Support the ministries that make a difference.
Generosity is one of the most beautiful expressions of faith. When we give, we participate in God's work—helping meet needs, strengthen ministry, and extend love beyond ourselves. Giving isn't only about money; it's about the posture of the heart. It's about trusting God, caring for others, and sharing what we have.
Why generosity matters
Generosity reminds us that everything we have is a gift from God. When we give, we live with open hands instead of clenched fists. We choose compassion over fear, gratitude over scarcity, and mission over comfort. Generosity makes a difference in real lives—feeding neighbors, supporting ministries, and creating a church where hope can grow.
What generosity looks like at Church of the Pines
At Church of the Pines, your giving supports so much more than a building. It supports ministry and mission, including:
Worship and spiritual growth
Caring ministries that support one another
Community outreach and service projects
Special mission efforts like Change for Hunger, food security support, and partnerships that help meet local needs
Church programs, gatherings, and opportunities for connection
Every gift—large or small—helps the church continue to serve faithfully and love generously.
How generosity shapes our lives
Giving changes us. It stretches our faith, strengthens our trust, and helps us live with purpose. Generosity creates joy because it connects us to something meaningful. It reminds us that we are part of a bigger story—and our gifts truly matter.
What is one way I can practice generosity this week—with my resources, my time, or my heart?
This week, we invite you to take one generous step:
Give in worship
Support a mission outreach effort
Share what you have with someone in need
Offer your time or gifts to help a ministry flourish
Thank you for being part of a church that gives with love and serves with purpose.
Support the ministries that make a difference.
Generosity is one of the most beautiful expressions of faith. When we give, we participate in God's work—helping meet needs, strengthen ministry, and extend love beyond ourselves. Giving isn't only about money; it's about the posture of the heart. It's about trusting God, caring for others, and sharing what we have.
Why generosity matters
Generosity reminds us that everything we have is a gift from God. When we give, we live with open hands instead of clenched fists. We choose compassion over fear, gratitude over scarcity, and mission over comfort. Generosity makes a difference in real lives—feeding neighbors, supporting ministries, and creating a church where hope can grow.
What generosity looks like at Church of the Pines
At Church of the Pines, your giving supports so much more than a building. It supports ministry and mission, including:
Worship and spiritual growth
Caring ministries that support one another
Community outreach and service projects
Special mission efforts like Change for Hunger, food security support, and partnerships that help meet local needs
Church programs, gatherings, and opportunities for connection
Every gift—large or small—helps the church continue to serve faithfully and love generously.
How generosity shapes our lives
Giving changes us. It stretches our faith, strengthens our trust, and helps us live with purpose. Generosity creates joy because it connects us to something meaningful. It reminds us that we are part of a bigger story—and our gifts truly matter.
What is one way I can practice generosity this week—with my resources, my time, or my heart?
This week, we invite you to take one generous step:
Give in worship
Support a mission outreach effort
Share what you have with someone in need
Offer your time or gifts to help a ministry flourish
Thank you for being part of a church that gives with love and serves with purpose.
Resolution #8 for 2026: Care for Others
Check in on someone who may need encouragement.
One of the simplest ways to live out our faith is to care for the people around us—especially those who may be quietly struggling. Encouragement doesn't have to be big or complicated. Often, it's the small acts of compassion that make the biggest difference.
Why caring for others matters
Life can feel heavy at times. People carry grief, stress, loneliness, health concerns, or worry—and many carry it silently. When we choose to care, we become a reflection of God's love. A simple check-in can remind someone: "You are not alone. You are seen. You matter."
What caring for others looks like at Church of the Pines
At Church of the Pines, caring for others is part of who we are. It can look like:
How caring shapes our lives
When we care for others, our hearts grow. We become more patient, more compassionate, and more aware of the needs around us. Caring also strengthens our church family—building trust, deepening relationships, and creating a community where people feel supported through every season of life.
Who might need encouragement from me this week—and what simple step can I take to reach out?
Check in on someone who may need encouragement.
One of the simplest ways to live out our faith is to care for the people around us—especially those who may be quietly struggling. Encouragement doesn't have to be big or complicated. Often, it's the small acts of compassion that make the biggest difference.
Why caring for others matters
Life can feel heavy at times. People carry grief, stress, loneliness, health concerns, or worry—and many carry it silently. When we choose to care, we become a reflection of God's love. A simple check-in can remind someone: "You are not alone. You are seen. You matter."
What caring for others looks like at Church of the Pines
At Church of the Pines, caring for others is part of who we are. It can look like:
- Sending a note, card, or quick text.
- Making a phone call to say, "I'm thinking of you."
- Praying for someone and letting them know;
- Offering help—rides, meals, errands, or simply a listening ear.
- Sitting with someone at worship or reaching out to a newcomer
How caring shapes our lives
When we care for others, our hearts grow. We become more patient, more compassionate, and more aware of the needs around us. Caring also strengthens our church family—building trust, deepening relationships, and creating a community where people feel supported through every season of life.
Who might need encouragement from me this week—and what simple step can I take to reach out?
Resolution #7 for 2026: Invite Someone
Extend a personal invitation to worship or an event:
One of the simplest ways to live out our faith is to share it—gently, personally, and sincerely. An invitation may feel like a small thing, but it can be a meaningful moment of encouragement and connection for someone else.
Why inviting someone matters:
Many people are searching for hope, community, and a place where they feel welcomed. Sometimes the difference between "I might go" and "I will go" is as simple as an invitation from someone they trust.
An invitation says:
"You matter. You're welcome. You don't have to do life alone."
What inviting looks like at Church of the Pines:
Inviting someone doesn't have to be complicated. It can be as simple as:
"Would you like to come to worship with me this Sunday?"
"Our church is friendly and welcoming—want to join me?"
"There's a potluck/program/coffee time—come with me!"
Sharing a Church of the Pines Facebook post and saying, "This made me think of you."
Inviting someone to an event, even if they aren't sure about worship yet.
You don't need the perfect words. A warm invitation is enough.
How inviting shapes our lives:
When we invite someone, we are practicing hospitality and courage. We're making space at the table—space for someone to be seen, included, and encouraged. We also deepen our own faith by stepping out of our comfort zone and trusting God to work through something as simple as an invitation.
Who might be encouraged by a simple invitation this week?
This week, we invite you to choose one person and make one invitation:
Invite them to worship.
Invite them to a church gathering.
Invite them to follow Church of the Pines online.
You never know what someone may be carrying—or how much they may need a place of peace, love, and belonging.
There's a place for them here… and there's a place for you, too.
Extend a personal invitation to worship or an event:
One of the simplest ways to live out our faith is to share it—gently, personally, and sincerely. An invitation may feel like a small thing, but it can be a meaningful moment of encouragement and connection for someone else.
Why inviting someone matters:
Many people are searching for hope, community, and a place where they feel welcomed. Sometimes the difference between "I might go" and "I will go" is as simple as an invitation from someone they trust.
An invitation says:
"You matter. You're welcome. You don't have to do life alone."
What inviting looks like at Church of the Pines:
Inviting someone doesn't have to be complicated. It can be as simple as:
"Would you like to come to worship with me this Sunday?"
"Our church is friendly and welcoming—want to join me?"
"There's a potluck/program/coffee time—come with me!"
Sharing a Church of the Pines Facebook post and saying, "This made me think of you."
Inviting someone to an event, even if they aren't sure about worship yet.
You don't need the perfect words. A warm invitation is enough.
How inviting shapes our lives:
When we invite someone, we are practicing hospitality and courage. We're making space at the table—space for someone to be seen, included, and encouraged. We also deepen our own faith by stepping out of our comfort zone and trusting God to work through something as simple as an invitation.
Who might be encouraged by a simple invitation this week?
This week, we invite you to choose one person and make one invitation:
Invite them to worship.
Invite them to a church gathering.
Invite them to follow Church of the Pines online.
You never know what someone may be carrying—or how much they may need a place of peace, love, and belonging.
There's a place for them here… and there's a place for you, too.
Resolution #6 for 2026: Grow Spiritually
Try a devotional, Bible study, or prayer practice.
Spiritual growth doesn't happen by accident—it happens when we make space for it. Growing spiritually isn't about being "perfect" or having all the answers. It's about staying open to God, learning to listen, and taking simple steps that help faith become deeper and stronger over time.
Why spiritual growth matters
We all face seasons of stress, change, grief, uncertainty, and busyness. When our faith is being nurtured, we have something steady to hold onto. Spiritual growth helps us build trust in God, find peace in difficult times, and live with greater hope and purpose.
What spiritual growth looks like at Church of the Pines
At Church of the Pines, growing spiritually can look different for everyone. You might grow by:
How spiritual growth shapes our lives. When we grow spiritually, we begin to notice God's presence more clearly. Our hearts soften. Our faith becomes more resilient. We respond to life with more patience, compassion, courage, and trust. Over time, spiritual growth changes how we see ourselves, how we treat others, and how we live each day.
What is one simple step I can take this week to grow closer to God?
Invitation to participate. This week, we invite you to try one spiritual practice:
Read a short devotional
Pray a simple prayer each day
Join a Bible study
Spend five quiet minutes with God
No pressure—just an invitation. A little growth over time can make a big difference.
Try a devotional, Bible study, or prayer practice.
Spiritual growth doesn't happen by accident—it happens when we make space for it. Growing spiritually isn't about being "perfect" or having all the answers. It's about staying open to God, learning to listen, and taking simple steps that help faith become deeper and stronger over time.
Why spiritual growth matters
We all face seasons of stress, change, grief, uncertainty, and busyness. When our faith is being nurtured, we have something steady to hold onto. Spiritual growth helps us build trust in God, find peace in difficult times, and live with greater hope and purpose.
What spiritual growth looks like at Church of the Pines
At Church of the Pines, growing spiritually can look different for everyone. You might grow by:
- Reading a short daily devotional.
- Joining a Bible study or small group.
- Practicing prayer in a new way.
- Reflecting on Sunday's message during the week.
- Spending quiet time with God—at home, in nature, or even in the car before the day begins.
How spiritual growth shapes our lives. When we grow spiritually, we begin to notice God's presence more clearly. Our hearts soften. Our faith becomes more resilient. We respond to life with more patience, compassion, courage, and trust. Over time, spiritual growth changes how we see ourselves, how we treat others, and how we live each day.
What is one simple step I can take this week to grow closer to God?
Invitation to participate. This week, we invite you to try one spiritual practice:
Read a short devotional
Pray a simple prayer each day
Join a Bible study
Spend five quiet minutes with God
No pressure—just an invitation. A little growth over time can make a big difference.
Resolution #5 for 2026: - Practice Gratitude
Gratitude is one of the simplest spiritual practices—but it has the power to change our hearts, our outlook, and even our relationships. When we practice gratitude, we learn to see the good gifts of God more clearly… even in ordinary days.
Why gratitude matters
Gratitude reminds us that we are not alone and that God is still working in our lives. It helps us shift our focus from what's missing atowwhat'sbeen given. Gratitude doesn't ignore life's challenges—it helps us find hope and strength in the middle of them.
What gratitude looks like at Church of the Pines.
At Church of the Pines, gratitude shows up in many ways:
How gratitude shapes our lives
Practicing gratitude softens our hearts. It helps us recognize blessings we might otherwise overlook—small moments, loving people, daily provisions, and unexpected strength. Over time, gratitude grows our trust in God and helps us live with deeper peace and joy.
What is one blessing—big or small—that I can thank God for today?
This week, we invite you to practice gratitude in a simple way:
Take a moment each day to notice and name one blessing—and offer a quiet prayer of thanks.
Gratitude is one of the simplest spiritual practices—but it has the power to change our hearts, our outlook, and even our relationships. When we practice gratitude, we learn to see the good gifts of God more clearly… even in ordinary days.
Why gratitude matters
Gratitude reminds us that we are not alone and that God is still working in our lives. It helps us shift our focus from what's missing atowwhat'sbeen given. Gratitude doesn't ignore life's challenges—it helps us find hope and strength in the middle of them.
What gratitude looks like at Church of the Pines.
At Church of the Pines, gratitude shows up in many ways:
- Giving thanks through worship, prayer, and music.
- Noticing the kindness of others and saying, "thank you."
- Celebrating ministry moments, service, and generosity.
- Sharing gratitude for God's presence in our community.
How gratitude shapes our lives
Practicing gratitude softens our hearts. It helps us recognize blessings we might otherwise overlook—small moments, loving people, daily provisions, and unexpected strength. Over time, gratitude grows our trust in God and helps us live with deeper peace and joy.
What is one blessing—big or small—that I can thank God for today?
This week, we invite you to practice gratitude in a simple way:
Take a moment each day to notice and name one blessing—and offer a quiet prayer of thanks.
Resolution #4 for 2026: Serve with Purpose
God has gifted every one of us in unique ways—some through kindness, some through creativity, some through service, some through listening, leadership, hospitality, prayer, or helping hands. When we serve, we don't just "do something"… we become part of what God is doing in the world.
Why serving matters:
Serving is one of the clearest ways we live out our faith. It reminds us that love is not only something we believe—it's something we practice. When we serve, we reflect the heart of Christ and help bring hope, care, and encouragement to others.
What serving looks like at Church of the Pines:
At Church of the Pines, serving can look like many things—big or small:
Helping with worship and behind-the-scenes support
Volunteering for church ministries and outreach projects
Lending a hand at special events and seasonal drives
Offering kindness and care to someone who needs it
You don't have to "do it all." Simply showing up and helping where you can is a powerful start.
How serving shapes our lives:
Serving changes us. It connects us more deeply to our church family, strengthens our sense of purpose, and reminds us that we are part of something meaningful. When we serve, we often discover new friendships—and we grow in faith as we share what we have.
This week, let's make Serve with Purpose our resolution in action.
If you're not sure where you fit, we would love to help you find a place to serve that matches your gifts.
You don't have to "o it all." Simply showing up and helping where you can is a powerful start. Some through service, some through listening, leadership, hospitality, prayer, or helping hands. When we serve, we don't just "do something"… we become part of what God is doing in the world.
God has gifted every one of us in unique ways—some through kindness, some through creativity, some through service, some through listening, leadership, hospitality, prayer, or helping hands. When we serve, we don't just "do something"… we become part of what God is doing in the world.
Why serving matters:
Serving is one of the clearest ways we live out our faith. It reminds us that love is not only something we believe—it's something we practice. When we serve, we reflect the heart of Christ and help bring hope, care, and encouragement to others.
What serving looks like at Church of the Pines:
At Church of the Pines, serving can look like many things—big or small:
Helping with worship and behind-the-scenes support
Volunteering for church ministries and outreach projects
Lending a hand at special events and seasonal drives
Offering kindness and care to someone who needs it
You don't have to "do it all." Simply showing up and helping where you can is a powerful start.
How serving shapes our lives:
Serving changes us. It connects us more deeply to our church family, strengthens our sense of purpose, and reminds us that we are part of something meaningful. When we serve, we often discover new friendships—and we grow in faith as we share what we have.
This week, let's make Serve with Purpose our resolution in action.
If you're not sure where you fit, we would love to help you find a place to serve that matches your gifts.
You don't have to "o it all." Simply showing up and helping where you can is a powerful start. Some through service, some through listening, leadership, hospitality, prayer, or helping hands. When we serve, we don't just "do something"… we become part of what God is doing in the world.
Resolution #3 for 2026: Build Friendships
Faith grows best in community—and one of the most meaningful ways to experience church is through relationships.
Why building friendships matters
We were never meant to walk this journey alone. Friendships offer encouragement, laughter, shared stories, and support during both joyful and challenging seasons. When we build friendships within our church community, faith becomes personal, lived, and shared.
What building friendships looks like at Church of the Pines
At Church of the Pines, friendships grow naturally when we spend time together. You’re invited to:
Join a small group or ministry
Attend a potluck or shared meal
Take part in a fellowship gathering
Sit with someone new at worship or stay a few minutes longer to visit.
You don’t have to know everyone—or anyone—to begin. Simply showing up is enough.
How friendships shape our lives
Friendships deepen our sense of belonging and remind us that we matter. They help turn a place into a community and a church into a family. Over time, these relationships become sources of strength, joy, and spiritual growth.
As you consider this resolution, ask yourself:
Where might God be inviting me to take a small step toward connection and friendship?
Invitation to participate
We invite you to make building friendships one of your resolutions for 2026.
Join a group. Come to a potluck. Attend a fellowship gathering. Say hello. Pull up a chair.
Faith grows best in community—and one of the most meaningful ways to experience church is through relationships.
Why building friendships matters
We were never meant to walk this journey alone. Friendships offer encouragement, laughter, shared stories, and support during both joyful and challenging seasons. When we build friendships within our church community, faith becomes personal, lived, and shared.
What building friendships looks like at Church of the Pines
At Church of the Pines, friendships grow naturally when we spend time together. You’re invited to:
Join a small group or ministry
Attend a potluck or shared meal
Take part in a fellowship gathering
Sit with someone new at worship or stay a few minutes longer to visit.
You don’t have to know everyone—or anyone—to begin. Simply showing up is enough.
How friendships shape our lives
Friendships deepen our sense of belonging and remind us that we matter. They help turn a place into a community and a church into a family. Over time, these relationships become sources of strength, joy, and spiritual growth.
As you consider this resolution, ask yourself:
Where might God be inviting me to take a small step toward connection and friendship?
Invitation to participate
We invite you to make building friendships one of your resolutions for 2026.
Join a group. Come to a potluck. Attend a fellowship gathering. Say hello. Pull up a chair.
The second Resolution for 2026 is to Stay Connected.
One of the simplest—and most meaningful—ways to grow in faith and community is to stay connected.
Why staying connected matters:
Connection helps us feel grounded, informed, and included. When we stay connected, we're reminded that we are part of something larger than ourselves—a faith community that supports, encourages, and walks alongside one another through every season of life. Staying connected helps us know where God is at work and how we can be part of it.
At Church of the Pines, there are many ways to stay connected—whether you attend worship every week or join us when you're able:
• Reading the Weekly Update to stay informed about worship, events, and ministry opportunities
• Following Church of the Pines on Facebook for inspiration, photos, and reminders
• Watching worship online when you can't attend in person
• Reading the Pine Chips newsletter
• Participating in emails, announcements, and special updates
Staying connected helps ensure you don't miss opportunities to worship, serve, grow, and connect with others.
How staying connected shapes our lives:
When we stay connected, faith becomes part of our everyday lives—not just something we experience on Sunday mornings. We're encouraged by stories of generosity, reminded of upcoming gatherings, and invited to respond to needs in our community. Staying connected keeps us be engaged, informed, and spiritually nourished throughout the week.
As you think about the week ahead, ask yourself:
How might staying more connected help me feel more engaged, encouraged, and involved in my church community?
We invite you to make staying connected one of your resolutions for 2026.
• Read the Weekly Update
• Follow Church of the Pines online
• Share posts you find meaningful
• Reach out when you have questions or ideas
Every connection—big or small—helps strengthen our church community.
There's a place for you here.
One of the simplest—and most meaningful—ways to grow in faith and community is to stay connected.
Why staying connected matters:
Connection helps us feel grounded, informed, and included. When we stay connected, we're reminded that we are part of something larger than ourselves—a faith community that supports, encourages, and walks alongside one another through every season of life. Staying connected helps us know where God is at work and how we can be part of it.
At Church of the Pines, there are many ways to stay connected—whether you attend worship every week or join us when you're able:
• Reading the Weekly Update to stay informed about worship, events, and ministry opportunities
• Following Church of the Pines on Facebook for inspiration, photos, and reminders
• Watching worship online when you can't attend in person
• Reading the Pine Chips newsletter
• Participating in emails, announcements, and special updates
Staying connected helps ensure you don't miss opportunities to worship, serve, grow, and connect with others.
How staying connected shapes our lives:
When we stay connected, faith becomes part of our everyday lives—not just something we experience on Sunday mornings. We're encouraged by stories of generosity, reminded of upcoming gatherings, and invited to respond to needs in our community. Staying connected keeps us be engaged, informed, and spiritually nourished throughout the week.
As you think about the week ahead, ask yourself:
How might staying more connected help me feel more engaged, encouraged, and involved in my church community?
We invite you to make staying connected one of your resolutions for 2026.
• Read the Weekly Update
• Follow Church of the Pines online
• Share posts you find meaningful
• Reach out when you have questions or ideas
Every connection—big or small—helps strengthen our church community.
There's a place for you here.
Resolution #1 for 2026: Worship Regularly
As we begin a new year, our first resolution invites us back to the heart of our faith: gathering in worship.
Why worship matters
Worship is more than something we attend—it's a rhythm that shapes our lives. When we gather to worship, we pause from the noise and busyness of the week and intentionally place ourselves in God's presence. Through scripture, prayer, music, and reflection, we are reminded who we are, whose we are, and how deeply we are loved. Worship centers us, renews our hope, and helps us begin again.
What worship looks like at Church of the Pines
At Church of the Pines, worship is welcoming, meaningful, and rooted in grace. We gather as a community—longtime members, guests, families, friends, and neighbors—each bringing our stories and our questions. Worship includes thoughtful preaching, heartfelt music, prayer, scripture, and moments of quiet reflection. Whether you come every week or are returning after some time away, you are always welcome here.
How worship shapes our lives
Regular worship grounds us in faith and strengthens us for daily life. It reminds us that we do not walk alone. Over time, worship shapes how we love, serve, forgive, and hope. It gives us language for gratitude in joyful seasons and comfort in difficult ones. Worship helps us carry God's presence with us into our homes, workplaces, and community.
As you begin this new year, ask yourself:
How might making space for worship shape my life, my relationships, and my sense of purpose in 2026?
Join us this Sunday
We invite you to make worship part of your rhythm this year. Join us this Sunday at Church of the Pines as we gather to pray, sing, listen, and grow together. Come as you are—there is a place for you here.
As we begin a new year, our first resolution invites us back to the heart of our faith: gathering in worship.
Why worship matters
Worship is more than something we attend—it's a rhythm that shapes our lives. When we gather to worship, we pause from the noise and busyness of the week and intentionally place ourselves in God's presence. Through scripture, prayer, music, and reflection, we are reminded who we are, whose we are, and how deeply we are loved. Worship centers us, renews our hope, and helps us begin again.
What worship looks like at Church of the Pines
At Church of the Pines, worship is welcoming, meaningful, and rooted in grace. We gather as a community—longtime members, guests, families, friends, and neighbors—each bringing our stories and our questions. Worship includes thoughtful preaching, heartfelt music, prayer, scripture, and moments of quiet reflection. Whether you come every week or are returning after some time away, you are always welcome here.
How worship shapes our lives
Regular worship grounds us in faith and strengthens us for daily life. It reminds us that we do not walk alone. Over time, worship shapes how we love, serve, forgive, and hope. It gives us language for gratitude in joyful seasons and comfort in difficult ones. Worship helps us carry God's presence with us into our homes, workplaces, and community.
As you begin this new year, ask yourself:
How might making space for worship shape my life, my relationships, and my sense of purpose in 2026?
Join us this Sunday
We invite you to make worship part of your rhythm this year. Join us this Sunday at Church of the Pines as we gather to pray, sing, listen, and grow together. Come as you are—there is a place for you here.