January 2026
1st Thursday Connect
Join us on January 8 for the first 1st Thursday Connect of 2026! January 8 happens to be “Joygerm Day,” and we are going to celebrate! A dinner of fun foods will be provided, and we will also enjoy teaching from the book of Mark and joygerm activities.
January 8, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Dinner provided
New Life Church West Linn, downstairs
Please RSVP for January’s 1st Thursday Connect at newlifenw.com/westlinn/women.
We have been reading Mark for the months of November and December and will read Ruth in January. Come to 1st Thursday to receive a personal reading plan and Side by Side Bible reading questions to use with a friend throughout the month. Reading plans can also be found online and in the church lobby.
Ask someone older or younger, a neighbor, a co-worker, someone you’d like to get to know, or a good friend to partner with you in reading God’s word Side by Side this month. You set the time and place. Or, join a group that meets Sunday mornings at 10:45 in the lower fireside room with Amy Crooks. No preparation is necessary; come whenever you can.
You don’t need to be participating in the monthly Bible reading to join us at 1st Thursday Connect. All are welcome, and each month stands alone, so if you miss one, join us next time!
Share the Joy
Here is a link to the reflection video from Share the Joy. “One Starry Night” was created by Gay Haugen and Amy Crooks for this event. Thank you to all who served, attended, brought friends, and made Share the Joy a special time.
Memorize
It’s not too late to join in and memorize James this year. What a great way to start 2026! The book of James can be memorized in one year or less simply by working on 2 or 3 verses a week, with several weeks built in for review. You can access the file on the website and print and make your own memorization booklet or pick up a packet at 1st Thursday on January 8.
Links
Below are links to articles, books, podcasts, and music that might be of interest or help on various topics. Resources are curated but may not always reflect the views of New Life Church. Enjoy!
Joshua, Judges, Ruth—a Spotify playlist to accompany our reading this month.
Your Church is the Community Center—some great ideas @ EFCA.org.
Missing the Mark—by Tom Burke.