God calls us to be disciples of Jesus, building community through
service and fellowship and sharing the love of Christ with all.
“The United Methodist Church of Westford is an open and welcoming community of Christian
Faith. Without any exceptions, we welcome anyone who seeks to love and to serve God.” Learn More
The Israelites have come a long way. They have crossed the Red Sea, experienced God's provision in the wilderness, and arrived at Mount Sinai. But when Moses stays on the mountain longer than expected, the people become anxious. God seems far away, and they begin to wonder what will happen next.
When we cannot see or sense God's presence, we may reach for something tangible, practical, immediate, and easy to control. The Israelites create a golden calf, hoping it will give them the security and direction they need. The golden calf is more than a story about ancient idolatry. It reminds us of our own tendency to create substitutes when God seems absent - something we can see, hold, and depend on for a quick answer.
The story then takes an unexpected turn. God becomes angry with the people and tells Moses that they will be destroyed. Moses intercedes for them, reminding God of the covenant and the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Israel. Moses asks God to have mercy on the people. God hears Moses’ intercession and responds with mercy, sparing the people from destruction. Even in this moment of fear and failure, the relationship between God and God's people continues.
So the question for us is: What do we reach for when God seems far away? What do we turn to for security, control, or quick answers? Faith means learning to pause, remember God's faithfulness, and trust the God who is present even when the way forward seems vague and unclear. This Sunday, we are invited to take some time to reflect on what our own false substitutes might be when we feel anxious, afraid, or doubtful. What do we reach for when we cannot see the way forward? And how might we learn to wait, remember, and trust God instead?
Exodus 32:1-14
October 11, 2026
Pastor Jinyong
Special Music
Adult Choir
Join us in-person every Sunday at 9:30 am or online.
We celebrate Laity Sunday on October 18, honoring the ministry and gifts of the laity. Laity Sunday is an opportunity to recognize and encourage the many ways our lay members serve and lead in the life of the church.
College Care Packages Ministry
With the help of our Youth Group, we will be sending out late October college care packages so that our congregation can have a tangible way to encourage and support young adults from our church family who are away at college. Donated items are due to the church by the 9:30 am Worship Service on Sunday, October 25! See e-News for more details
November 1, 2026
Remembering the Faithful Departed
On All Saints’ Day we will remember the people that were saints to us in a video moment.
If you would like a dear friend or loved one to be remembered, please click the button below to provide their name(s).
Please submit by Friday, October 30.
Annual Community Harvest Supper
Saturday, November 7
Seatiing Choose from two seating times: 5:00 pm or 6:00 pm
Join us for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner that you don't have to prepare! Our Annual Community Harvest Supper includes turkey and fixings, vegetables, potatoes and gravy, topped off by assorted homemade pies.
Tickets will be available at the door on the day of the dinner.
Adults ($14.00), Children 3-12 ($7.00), and Children Under 3 (Free)
Please show your support by attending and inviting your friends and neighbors. We're building community—all are welcome!
Questions? Click here.