Happy Mother’s Day from Twin Valley Alliance Church
Today, we thank God for the beautiful gift of mothers, grandmothers, spiritual mothers, and every woman who has loved, prayed, sacrificed, encouraged, and pointed others toward Jesus.

Your love is often seen in the quiet places: the prayers whispered late at night, the tears no one else sees, the strength you carry when others are leaning on you, and the faithfulness you show day after day.

Scripture reminds us:

“Her children rise up and call her blessed…”

— Proverbs 31:28

“She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”

— Proverbs 31:25

“As a mother comforts her child, so will I comfort you…”

— Isaiah 66:13
To every mother celebrating with joy, to every mother carrying a heavy heart, to those missing their mother today, and to those who have loved children as their own, we want you to know: you are seen, you are loved, and you are deeply appreciated.

May the Lord bless you, strengthen you, and remind you today that your love, your prayers, and your faithfulness matter more than words can say.

From all of us at Twin Valley Alliance Church,

Happy Mother’s Day.

This past Monday evening, Twin Valley Alliance Church and our Youth Group had the wonderful privilege of being invited to play basketball with the athletes of the Schuylkill County Special Olympics Team at the Schuylkill County IU 29.

What took place that evening was so much more than a game.

Yes, there was basketball. There were passes, shots, cheers, laughter, and plenty of smiles. But there was also something deeper happening on that court. There was encouragement. There was friendship. There was joy. There was community. There was love.

Our Youth Group had a great time playing alongside the Special Olympics athletes, while members of Twin Valley Alliance Church cheered everyone on from the sidelines. Every clap, every high-five, every smile, and every word of encouragement helped remind each athlete that they were seen, valued, and celebrated.

We were also especially blessed to support Heather Hunter and Amelia Noble, who are both connected to Twin Valley Alliance Church, the TVA Youth Group, and The Gate Kids Ministry, along with Bella Clark, who is also part of The Gate Kids Ministry. All Three are Special Olympics Athletes of the Schuylkill County Special Olympics Team.

Heather’s mother, Lorie, is also a very special part of our church family. She is known and appreciated for the wonderful treats she brings to Youth Group and for faithfully serving at the registration and check-in table for The Gate Kids Ministry.

Nights like this remind us that ministry does not only happen inside the walls of the church. Sometimes ministry happens on a basketball court. Sometimes it looks like cheering from the sidelines. Sometimes it looks like a young person choosing to serve, encourage, and make someone else feel included.

God’s Word reminds us:

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:11

That is exactly what this evening was about. It was about building one another up. It was about sharing the love of Christ in a simple but powerful way. It was about helping others experience joy, belonging, and purpose.
Jesus also said:

“Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

— Matthew 25:40

When we take time to love, serve, include, and encourage others, we are not just doing something kind. We are serving the Lord. We are showing people that they matter to God and that they matter to us.

This night was more than a basketball game. It was a beautiful reminder that every person has value, every life has purpose, and every opportunity to love someone in Jesus’ name matters.

Thank you to the Schuylkill County Special Olympics Team for inviting us and allowing Twin Valley Alliance Church to be part of such a special evening. We were truly blessed, and we look forward to doing it again.

Twin Valley Alliance Church wishes to extend our deepest sympathy and heartfelt prayers to the family of Woody Artz as they grieve his passing.

During a time like this, words can feel small compared to the weight of loss. Yet we want Woody’s family to know that they are not walking through this valley alone. Their brothers and sisters in Christ are praying for them, asking the Lord to surround them with His loving arms, comfort their hearts, and strengthen them with His perfect peace.

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
— Psalm 34:18

Today, we pause to honor Woody’s life, give thanks for the years God gave him, and remember the impact he had on his family, church, and community.
A Celebration of Woody Artz’s Life

Woody Artz was born in Harrisburg on Tuesday, August 19, 1941, a son of the late Leroy and Annabelle Long Artz. He was a 1959 graduate of the former Williamstown High School.
Woody was a longtime retired employee of AMP Inc. in Williamstown, where he worked as a tool and die repairman.

He was a member of Twin Valley Alliance Church in Williamstown, the Williamstown American Legion, and the Lucky Dozen Hunting Club.

Woody was an avid golfer whose love for the game remained a constant throughout his life. In his younger years, he enjoyed the outdoors, especially hunting, and he was an accomplished archer. He could often be found walking through Williamstown, always stopping at Stoney Park to make sure it was looking its best as its unofficial groundskeeper.

Above all else, Woody’s family was his world.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Yvonne Charney Artz; his three children, Evan Artz and his wife Kathy of Halifax, Quinn Artz and his wife Barb of St. Clair, and Shain de Manincor and her husband Joe of Hershey; four grandchildren, Jacob and Ben Artz, and Collin and Deanna de Manincor; his sister, Yvonne Frantz of Williamstown; as well as nieces and nephews.

Memorial Service Information

A memorial service for Woody Artz will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Twin Valley Alliance Church, Williamstown, with Pastor Joel McGarvey officiating.
Visitation will be held from 10:00–11:00 AM at the church.
A luncheon and time of fellowship will immediately follow in the church social hall.
Woody will be laid to rest privately in the Methodist Cemetery in Williamstown.


In Memory of Woody

In lieu of flowers, donations in Woody’s memory may be made to:
Twin Valley Alliance Church
9781 State Route 209
Williamstown, PA 17098


As a church family, we give thanks for Woody’s life and continue to lift up his family in prayer, trusting in the hope we have through Jesus Christ.

 What a beautiful morning at Twin Valley Alliance Church!

Today we gathered for our annual Sunrise Service, led by Pastor Joel McGarvey, and it was truly a blessing from start to finish. We were able to worship outside as the rain held off—such a gift from God!

After the service, we enjoyed a wonderful time of fellowship and great food together, celebrating not just community, but the incredible hope we have in Christ.

As we reflected on all that Jesus endured on the cross, we were reminded of the greatest truth of all…

He is risen!

He is no longer a baby in a manger—He is our risen King who rules and reigns forever!

Here are a few pictures from our Sunrise Service & Sunrise Breakfast

 Welcome to Twin Valley Alliance Church — You’re Invited This Easter!

No matter where you’re coming from or where you’ve been, you are welcome here. This Easter, come experience hope, joy, and new life as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus!

 EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE

7:00 AM – 7:30 AM

A powerful time of worship as we proclaim He is Risen!
 EASTER BREAKFAST

Immediately following the sunrise service
Join us downstairs in our Social Hall for food and fellowship!

SUNDAY SCHOOL | 9:00 AM
Classes for all ages:
Adults – Main Sanctuary
Men’s Study – Back right entrance
Kids & Youth (Pre-K–12th) – Downstairs

COFFEE & FELLOWSHIP | 9:45–10:00 AM
Stop by the Welcome Center, grab a coffee, and connect!

 EASTER WORSHIP SERVICE | 10:15 AM
Celebrate the victory of Jesus with powerful worship and a life-giving message

 Children’s Church (Grades 1–4) available before the message

 WATCH LIVE

Our service will be live streamed by our Online Ministry! Watch on:
• Church App (search Twin Valley Alliance Church)
• Apple & Android phones
• Apple & Android tablets & Amazon Fire tablets
• Apple TV app, Fire TV app, and Roku channel
• Our website: twinvalleyalliancechurch.com
• Facebook Live & our YouTube channel

 Please Note:
There will be NO Youth Group (6 PM) and NO Evening Service (7 PM) this week due to Easter activities.

 9781 State Route 209, Lykens, PA 17098
Come as you are. Bring your family. Invite a friend.

We can’t wait to celebrate Easter with you!

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Twin Valley Alliance Church would like to apologize for not having a livestream of our Sunday morning worship service last week. Due to several members of our technical team being out of the area and our Online Ministry Director being very ill, we were unable to broadcast the service.

We’re grateful for your understanding and are happy to share that we will be live again this coming Sunday morning at 10:15 a.m. We look forward to worshiping with you!

This morning here at Twin Valley Alliance it has come to our attention that there is a problem with our main livestream provider. We broadcast through Restream using our Livestream Studio at Subsplash, and they are currently investigating the disruption. Both their team and ours are working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.

If you lose access to the service while using our app, please try one of our other viewing options, including Roku TV, Fire TV, Apple TV apps, our YouTube channel, or Facebook Live. Just search for Twin Valley Alliance Church on any of these platforms.
We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

We’re Back This Sunday, March 1st, at Twin Valley Alliance Church! Just a friendly reminder that Kids Breakfast, Sunday School, Children’s Church, Van Ministry, and Youth Group all resume at their regular scheduled times — including Youth Group!

The painting downstairs looks fantastic, and we can’t wait for the kids to see it! More than that, we’ve truly missed spending time with your kiddos just as much as they’ve missed being part of our Kids Ministries.

We’re excited to welcome everyone back and jump into another great week of growing together! 

As we continue painting and refreshing our church facility, there will be no Sunday Kids Breakfast, Sunday School, Children’s Church, Youth Group, or The Gate Kids Ministry.

We’re excited to improve our space — and while the walls are getting a fresh coat of paint, we encourage families to use this time intentionally at home. Gather together. Pray together. Open God’s Word together. Lean into meaningful conversations that strengthen faith and family.

“And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children…” — Deuteronomy 6:6–7

Our  Child & Youth Sunday Programs, including Kids Breakfast, Sunday School, Children's Church, and Youth Group, will resume Sunday, March 1st. The Gate Kids Ministry will resume on Thursday, March 5th.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we care for and improve our church home. We look forward to welcoming all of our kids and teens back very soon!

This evening at Twin Valley Alliance Church, our Christmas Eve candlelight service was a beautiful time of worship and fellowship as we celebrated the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let’s remember, the baby boy in the manger is now our King!
 We were also treated to a stunning violin solo of "O Holy Night" by Jessie Solidy. What a blessed nigh

 This morning at Twin Valley Alliance Church, we had the joy of having our wonderful graduates—Casey, Asher, Cody, and Malachi—light the Advent candles!  Let's keep them in our prayers as they spend time with their families during Christmas break. May they find refreshment and joy before heading back to college!

Men & Women’s Breakfast Recap

This morning at Twin Valley Alliance Church, we gathered for our monthly Men and Women’s Breakfast—and what a great time it was!

Everyone enjoyed a delicious spread of biscuits and gravy, bacon, sausage, and eggs, along with rich fellowship and meaningful conversation.

Each month, after breakfast, we spend time in God’s Word—usually breaking into men’s and women’s groups for a short devotional.

 Women’s Devotional:
Lisa Soliday shared from Proverbs 3:5–6, reminding us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.” She encouraged the women to fully trust God, invite Him into every area of life, and let Him direct their steps—even when the path ahead isn’t clear.

Men’s Devotional:
Pastor Joel led the men through Psalm 1, a powerful reminder of the two paths we can take in life: the way of the righteous and the way of the wicked. He emphasized the importance of who we listen to, what voices shape our thoughts, and how we root ourselves in God’s Word.
Just as Psalm 1 describes a tree planted by streams of water, men were challenged to stay firmly grounded in God’s truth, so their lives produce lasting fruit and stand strong through every season.

We’re thankful for another meaningful morning of food, fellowship, and spiritual growth together!

With heavy hearts, we grieve the devastating events that unfolded yesterday in North Codorus Township. Three Northern York County Regional Police officers—Detective Sergeant Cody Becker (39), Detective Mark Baker (53), and Detective Isaiah Emenheiser (43)—lost their lives in the line of duty. Two more officers were wounded, and the suspect, Matthew James Ruth (24), also lost his life during the encounter.

Our prayers are with:

• The families and loved ones of the fallen officers.
• The wounded officers and their medical teams.
• The entire law enforcement community who daily face great danger to serve and protect.
• And yes, even with the family of the perpetrator, who are now also facing a different kind of grief, pain, and confusion.

In moments like this, we are reminded that only God sees the full picture, and only He can bring light into such deep darkness.
A Word from Scripture

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
— Psalm 34:18

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.”
— Romans 12:21

“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.”
— Psalm 103:8

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
— John 15:13

How We Respond as the Body of Christ
In the face of heartbreak and injustice, our faith calls us to:

• Pray earnestly for all who mourn—officers’ families, wounded survivors, and even the family of the young man who caused this tragedy.
• Stand together in unity, bearing one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2).
• Pursue peace, even in the valley of the shadow of death (Psalm 23).
• Reject hatred, and instead reflect Christ’s mercy—even when it’s hardest.

Let us be a people who shine the light of Christ in times of sorrow, and who trust that He is still at work, even now.

In Christ's grace and love,

Twin Valley Alliance Church

We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Charlie Kirk. Our hearts are heavy, and we lift his family, friends, and all those grieving into the arms of our Lord.

Charlie boldly defended freedom of speech and never wavered in his convictions. Though some tried to mislabel him, he was not a racist or a bigot. Instead, he dedicated his life to making a huge impact on countless lives, especially among the next generation.

His passing is a sobering reminder that we must not be silent. Evil prevails when good people say and do nothing. As followers of Christ, we are called to speak the truth in love — even when the truth is hard to hear — because true love warns, corrects, and points people back to God.

"Speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of His body, the church." – Ephesians 4:15

"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." – Romans 12:21

Let us honor Charlie’s legacy by courageously standing for what is right, loving people enough to be honest with them, and always walking in the Spirit. May God’s presence bring comfort, courage, and strength in this difficult time.

"The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." – Psalm 34:18

The Gate Kids Ministry is coming back soon!
 
To help us better prepare and serve your family, we kindly request that you register your children online using the link below or through our Church App.


 Register Here

✅ Even if you’ve registered in the past, we kindly ask you to register again. This helps us cut down on paperwork and makes everything run smoothly so we can focus on what matters most—ministering to your kids!

 Or register in our Church App: CLICK HERE to download

Tap Connect at the bottom

Select The Gate Ministry (after creating your profile in the app by clicking on the profile icon within the app). By creating a profile, you will be able to access all the great features of our Church app. You don't want to miss out.)


Parents, we’re so excited for another amazing year of The Gate Kids Ministry starting next month at Twin Valley Alliance Church!


✨ What is The Gate?
A fun, Christ-centered kids ministry for Pre-K through High School, happening every Thursday night during the school year from 5:30–7:00 PM.

Here’s what to expect each week:
 Dinner – A warm, home-cooked meal served by our amazing volunteers.
 Worship – High-energy, engaging, and uplifting in the church sanctuary.
Bible Lesson – Creative teaching to spark curiosity and grow faith.
Small Groups – Age-specific learning led by trained youth leaders (with at least two leaders per group).
 Van Ministry – Safe rides home for kids enrolled in our van program.

 Your child’s safety is our priority! Every leader has up-to-date PA State Police & Child Abuse Clearances, and all our policies are designed to protect and care for your kids.

? At The Gate, everyone is welcome—whoever you are, wherever you’re from.
We can’t wait to grow together this year!

Twin Valley Alliance Church wishes to express to the family of "Kenneth Zimmerman.”  our greatest sympathy as you cope with the passing of Ken. Our hearts and prayers go out to you and your family during what must be the most trying times. At this challenging time in your lives, We realize that words may seem empty as you are grieving the loss of Ken. However, we believe it is essential that you know that your brothers and sisters in Christ are praying that God will surround you in His loving arms and that His peace will be your strength.

Below is a small celebration of Kenneth Zimmerman's Life

Kenneth C. Zimmerman, 92, of Lykens, went home to be with the Lord on July 6, 2025. He was the son of the late Harry and Bertha Moyer Zimmerman and brother of the late James Zimmerman, all of Williamstown. Ken was a graduate of Williamstown High School and the Temple University School of Pharmacy in Philadelphia.

Ken worked as a pharmacist and retired from the former Deibler's Drug Store, Lykens. In his earlier years, he proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy. He was a veteran of the Korean War, a member of the Williamstown American Legion, and a devoted member of Twin Valley Alliance Church in Williamstown, where he served as a Sunday school teacher and mentor to the youth.

Ken enjoyed studying rocks and gems, spending time at yard sales and flea markets, collecting antiques, and he had a fondness for elephants.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Beverly; sons, Reginald (Christine) and Kurt (Susan), both of Delaware; stepchildren, James Bopp (Tamara), Lora Kerwin (Joe), and the late Jill Bopp-Poor (Derek). He was a cherished grandfather to twelve grandchildren and a proud great-grandfather to two great-grandchildren.

Ken will be remembered for his unwavering faith, his devotion to family, and his generous spirit.

What a blessing this morning at Twin Valley Alliance Church!

We were honored to hear the Word of God preached by one of our own—Frank Yost, a faithful member of our church, former pastor, teacher, and postal worker. Frank delivered a powerful message titled:

“Secrets Revealed: The Prophetic Clock of Kingdoms, the Temple, and the End.”

God has never left His people in the dark. From Daniel’s visions to the words of Jesus, and the final unveiling in Revelation, the Lord has revealed a clear prophetic timeline: the rise and fall of world empires, the destruction of the temple, and the coming of His eternal Kingdom. These truths were never meant to be hidden—they are given to prepare and purify His people.

Key Scriptures:
Daniel 2 & 7 · Luke 21:24 · Amos 3:7 · Deuteronomy 29:29 · John 15:15 · 2 Corinthians 13:1
We’re grateful to Frank for stepping in and faithfully sharing God’s Word in Pastor Joel’s absence this morning. Thank you for leading us deeper into His truth!

 You can watch the sermon at the hot link below.
https://-KHHV53.subspla.sh/5tqfdms

 Thinking About Babysitting? Here’s What PA Parents / Teens Need to Know!

1️⃣ No Legal Minimum Age in PA

Pennsylvania does not set a legal minimum age for babysitters. It’s up to the parents’ judgment.

⚠️ BUT if a child is harmed while under someone’s care who wasn’t ready, parents can face neglect charges.

2️⃣ Choosing a Babysitter? Ask These Questions:

✅ Is the sitter mature and responsible?
✅ How many kids and what ages?
✅ Any allergies, special needs, or medications?
✅ How long will they be babysitting?

 Resources for Parents/Teens:

• Keep Kids Safe (PA DHS) https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dhs/resources/keep-kids-safe.html

• PA Child Welfare Resource Center https://www.socialwork.pitt.edu/research/child-welfare-education-and-research-programs/child-welfare-resource-center

• Safe Kids PA | Penn State Health | UPMC

https://pasafekids.org/about-us/find-your-local-safe-kids/
https://hhd.psu.edu/SafeHealthyChildren


3️⃣ Safety Tips for Babysitters

 Share your location with a trusted adult
 Don’t open doors to strangers
 Lock up when outside or if leaving with kids
 Know who to call in an emergency
 Know when to contact parents vs. 911
 Have a safe ride home—never accept one from someone under the influence
 Learn basic care: diapering, snacks, safe play, emergency contacts

4️⃣ Babysitters Are Mandatory Reporters in PA

If you’re caring for children—even as a babysitter—you’re considered a mandatory reporter of suspected child abuse or neglect.
 
Be prepared. You can take the free state-approved online training here:

www.reportabusepa.pitt.edu

This is a  2-3 hour class with a Certificate, which is Good for getting Jobs working with children but understanding your responsibilities.

5️⃣ Get Babysitting Certified!

While not required, babysitting certification is a smart move.

✅ American Red Cross offers both online and in-person courses
• Babysitting Basics (online, ages 11+)
• Babysitter’s Training (classroom)
✔️ Learn child care, first aid, safety, and more
 Certification is valid for 2 years

6️⃣ Volunteering with Kids? You’ll Need Clearances

 Required in regulated settings:
• PA Child Abuse Clearance
• PA State Police Background Check
• FBI Fingerprinting (if a PA resident <10 years)

✅ The first two are free for volunteers!

https://www.compass.dhs.pa.gov/cwis - Childline Background Check

https://epatch.pa.gov/home - State Police Background Check

7️⃣ What Is Child Neglect?
Neglect = failure to provide essential needs like food, shelter, clothing, supervision, or medical care. it can lead to serious charges—even felonies.
 
Be smart. Be trained. Be ready.
Whether you're a parent, sitter, or volunteer, when it comes to kids, safe is always better.

The Gate Kids Ministry Pool Party has been canceled this evening due to inclement weather for everyone's safety. It has been rescheduled for next Thursday at 5:00 PM. If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!

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Happy Father's Day from all of us at Twin Valley Alliance Church! ?? Today, we celebrate and honor all the incredible dads out there. Thank you for your love, strength, and example.

As you enjoy your day, take a moment to remember and give honor first to your Heavenly Father—the One who knew you before you were born (Jeremiah 1:5), who knows the number of hairs on your head (Luke 12:7), who calls you His son or daughter (2 Corinthians 6:18), and who never gives up on you. Through Jesus Christ, He showed the greatest love of all. "

See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" – 1 John 3:1 You are deeply known, endlessly loved, and always cherished—the apple of His eye (Deuteronomy 32:10).

Have a blessed Father’s Day! ?

 Now Available: The Twin Valley Alliance Church App!

We’re excited to announce our brand-new app—your secure and convenient way to stay connected, grow in your faith, and engage with our church family throughout the week!

? NEW: Safe & Secure Church Chat
Stay in touch with friends, small groups, and church leaders through private in-app messaging—powered by Subsplash, using the latest security and encryption technology to keep your conversations protected.

Plus, chat with us LIVE during our worship services!

✨ App Features Include:
✅ Watch sermons anytime, anywhere
✅ Easy and secure online giving
✅ Full calendar of events & reminders
✅ Submit prayer requests and praises
✅ Read and take notes in the Bible
✅ Get real-time church updates
 Kids Ministry |  Adult Sunday School
Small Groups |  Men’s Bible Study & Men of Williams Valley

 Available now for:
 Apple & Android Phones
 Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire TV

This Hot Link will give you a list of our apps and how to download them directly from the app store, no matter what device you're using.

https://get.theapp.co/tjwy

 Download today from your app store or visit our website and download them from the links provided

 https://www.twinvalleyalliancechurch.com/church-apps

United State Of America Memorial Day – Honoring Those Who Gave All ??

From Twin Valley Alliance Church

This Memorial Day, we pause as a church family to honor and remember the courageous men and women who laid down their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice is a powerful reminder of Jesus’ words:

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” – John 15:13 (NIV)

As we enjoy the freedoms we have today, we reflect on the cost with gratitude and reverence. We also lift up the families who bear the weight of that sacrifice every day. May God's peace and comfort surround you.

We invite you to take a moment to watch this short tribute video and join us in prayer for our nation and its heroes.

Let us never forget the price of freedom — and may we live each day in a way that honors both our Savior and those who gave everything.

With gratitude,
Twin Valley Alliance Church

#MemorialDay #HonorTheFallen #TwinValleyAlliance #John1513