KIdshope USA: Making a difference in woodbury
For more than 15 years, we have partnered with Kids Hope USA to provide the gift of mentorship to students at Woodbury Elementary School. A KHUSA mentor offers one hour each week to one student in need of emotional, social, and academic support beyond what s/he normally receives in the classroom and at home. Staff and parents repeatedly share that the 1:1 attention and investment of a caring adult improves attitude, focus, performance, and confidence. One hour from you each week can change the trajectory of a student’s life right here in our community! We’re currently recruiting mentors, prayer partners, and help with special events. Is God nudging you? Email KHUSA@fiveoakschurch.org, put “KHUSA” on your connect card, or visit us in the commons today.
Serving kids in our community - KidsHope USA Director Role
Are you looking to use your gift of Leadership in a new, challenging, and impactful way? Five Oaks is looking for a new Director for our Kids Hope USA partnership with Woodbury Elementary School. As the director of this program, you will impact the lives of 25-30 students, build up and encourage the staff at Woodbury Elementary, and empower 50+ Five Oakers to demonstrate the love of Jesus in the lives of these students and their families. This is a strong program with a strong leadership team in need of a new director, starting in the 2027-2028 school year. Dave Baar is leading the team for the 2026-2027 school year, and he will be available to mentor the new director to ensure a smooth transition. If God is nudging you to explore this further, please reach out. You can email Dave Baar at dbaar@fiveoakschurch.org, or just put Kids Hope Director on your connect card this weekend.
Story of God classes : Last call to register for fall sessions
Ever wondered how the whole Bible fits together? The Story of God class walks you through Scripture's big picture—from creation to new creation—in an approachable way for anyone, whether you're just exploring faith or have followed Jesus for years. Over eight weekly sessions of about an hour each, you'll discover the one story God has been telling all along. Fall classes begin in September—we'd love to have you join us. Find a class and register here. Email Kelsey Vang with questions.
Curious about the trip to Belize? Come to the info meeting this Sunday
What would it look like to spend a week visiting families in Belize, providing life-changing water filters, and sharing the hope we’ve found in Jesus? We’re recruiting for a short-term mission trip to Belize with Filter of Hope, January 9–15, 2027. This trip is open to singles, couples, parents, kids (middle school or older), and seniors. Want more info? Come to our info session on September 20 at 10:15 am in Room 105. Questions? Email Dave Baar, impact@fiveoakschurch.org.
Fifth graders: invite your friends for a night of fun
Fifth graders, join us Friday, October 2, from 6:30–8:00 pm at church for a fall night of games, snacks, and hanging out. Bring a friend from school, sports, or the neighborhood! Next year means a big step for fifth graders as they join Student Ministry. Building friendships now can make that transition a whole lot easier—and more fun. Sign up here.
Take the next step in your family's faith journey
Whether your child is ready to take the step of baptism or you're looking to intentionally dedicate your family to raising your child to know and follow Jesus, we'd love to walk alongside you. Join us for our Student Baptism Class (Grades 6–12) on Saturday, September 26 at 4:00 pm, our Kids Baptism Class on Sunday, September 20 at 10:45 am, or our Family Dedication Class for parents on Sunday, September 20 at 9:00 am. These classes are designed to help families understand the significance of these important faith milestones and prepare for the journey ahead.
Hearts and hammers: A few spots remain!
A home in need of repair can feel overwhelming. On September 26, we’ll partner with Hearts & Hammers to help a local homeowner restore their home’s exterior. One project, many hands, and great fellowship. The workday runs 7:45 am–2:30 pm with lunch provided. Open to adults and kids 12+ with and adult; no special skills required. Come for the whole day or whatever time you can give. All the details and registration can be found here.
Build a family culture of healthy conversation
Talking with kids about sex and sexuality can feel awkward, but healthy conversations don’t have to be a one-time, cumbersome effort. Raising Sexually Healthy Kids is a video course from PureDesire Ministries designed to help parents create a safe, open environment where these conversations can happen naturally and continue as kids grow. Designed for parents of toddlers through high school and beyond, the course features experts, speakers, and other parents offering practical guidance. Choose from two sessions: Sundays, September 27–November 15 at 9 am or Thursdays, October 29–November 19 at 6 pm. Visit our website to learn more and register. Questions? Email Mindy at mwissink@fiveoakschurch.org.
Drive season coming soon!
In the coming months, we’ll introduce you to several local Impact partners who serve different groups of our neighbors in need. We’ll conduct a concurrent supply drive for each organization to help meet the needs of the people they are serving. Each drive offers an opportunity to reflect on our neighbors' diverse needs and opens the door to conversations with family and friends about Jesus’ call to love our neighbors.
Make plans now to bring clean water and the gospel to Belize
Five Oaks is recruiting for a short-term mission trip to Belize with Filter of Hope, January 9–15, 2027. Together, we’ll visit families, provide life-changing water filters, and share the hope we’ve found in Jesus. This trip is open to singles, couples, parents and kids (middle school or older), or seniors. If you're looking for an opportunity to make a lasting impact on people's lives and also grow in your own faith, please consider joining this team. Deadline for sign-up is October 1. Cost: $1,800 per person, all-inclusive. Interested, have questions, or just want to stay in the loop? Email Dave Baar at impact@fiveoakschurch.org.
Recovery can start today
Guys, are you struggling with sexual brokenness in your life? Has it impacted your marriage, job, or relationships? You can begin your recovery with a trusted group of men on the same journey. Weekly homework assignments will allow you to dig deep and make sense of how your life experiences have brought you to where you are now. You will develop the tools necessary to come to a place where real change is possible. The group meets weekly for approximately nine months. Next group starts Mondays at 7 pm in late September or early October. Please email puredesiremen@fiveoaks.church to receive a confidential call from one of our leaders and learn how to sign up.
Save the date: Annual congregational meeting
Mark your calendar now to join us on Sunday, November 15, at 4 pm, for our annual congregational meeting. We’ll have a short business meeting followed by a time of fellowship and food. Child care will be provided. More details to follow.
Community News
Walk or run for hope
Mental illness and suicide touch more lives than we often realize. The Together It Gets Better 5K brings our community together to remember those affected, support those who are struggling, and remind one another that no one has to face these challenges alone. Join the Suicide Prevention Collaborative for its 15th Annual Together It Gets Better 5K on Saturday, September 19, at 9:30 am at Colby Lake Park. Along with the 5K, a resource fair will offer practical information for understanding mental health, supporting those who are struggling, and helping individuals and families impacted by suicide loss. Walk or run, bring a friend, and help spread a message of hope and compassion throughout our community. Register here for the 5K.