February 23, 2026
Theme: The Things That Worry Us
Today’s Scripture: Matthew 6:25–34

Scripture: “Do not worry about your life… strive first for the kingdom of God and God’s righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today’s trouble is enough for today.”  - Matthew 6:25–34

Thought: Jesus speaks directly to the anxieties that live in our bodies and follow us though our days. Worry can become an idol whether we have much or very little. Poor people idolize what they don’t have, and rich people idolize what they do have. But our lives are held by God’s care rather than our striving. Trusting God means refusing to believe survival rests only on our shoulders. A life rooted in God’s righteousness moves with purpose, responds to real problems, and is assured that we are loved and provided for. Today’s burdens are enough. Tomorrow belongs to God.

Prayer: God of tenderness and truth, quiet the worries that crowd our minds and tightens our hearts. Teach us to trust your care more than our fear. Help us to seek you first, walk in your righteousness. Amen.

Positive Practice: Pause three times today, inhale “God cares for me” and exhale one specific worry and release it into God’s hands.

Lenten Emphasis - Heart Health for African Americans: Protecting your heart through hydration, rest, or reduced salt is both spiritual stewardship and sacred resistance.

Mission Emphasis - HBCUs: HBCUs nurture faith, scholarship, and community leadership. Mentor or give to an HBCU student to invest in a future that trusts God’s ongoing provision.

Monday, February 23rd @ 6:30pm via Zoom

Join the Literary Guild on the 4th Monday of each month for an engaging book discussion filled with meaningful conversation, connection, and shared insights.  To receive the Zoom meeting link, email literaryguild@friendshipcharlotte.org

Simple Steps to a Healthier You
Nutrition Education Series - January - April 2026

Please join the Office of Health Equity's Community Engagement Program in partnership with Demetria Grandberry, Grobine, for an interactive series of engaging cooking demonstrations.

Signup here!

Stay Active & Independent for Life (SAIL)

Join MCPH Community Engagement Program in partnership with Atrium Health and Novant Health for SAIL. 

*Adults 50+ who are looking to prevent a fall by improving balance and strength are encouraged to come.
* The program focuses on improving flexibility, strength,and balance.
* Exercises can be done standing or seated and use of light 1-5 lb weights is encouraged.
* Exercises mimic actual balance and strength required to prevent a fall and is not duplicated by other exercise classes you may attend.
* Loose clothing and flexible type tennis shoes are recommended and water bottles and towels are welcome.

Please review the available slots below and click on the button to sign up. Thank you!

Signup here!

In this FREE seminar, you will learn simple, practical tools, connect with others, and discover how God is shaping you to lead with courage, kindness, and faith. Whether you’re just stepping into leadership or have years of experience, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, confident, and ready to make a difference. 
Refreshments provided | Registration required.  Scan QR code or click here to reserve your spot:  https://bit.ly/Fmbcleadershipworkshop

We invite you to participate in a series of meaningful activities designed to educate, inspire, and bring our community together.

Black History Month 2026 marks a historic milestone—100 years of honoring, celebrating, and sharing the remarkable accomplishments, resilience, and contributions of Black people. As we commemorate this centennial year, it is more important than ever to promote pride, deepen research, and preserve the rich stories and achievements that define our Black heritage.

Learn more!

Join us on March 15th for a powerful mental health symposium focused on “Releasing the Superwoman Mentality” and learning how to rest, restore and renew—together. This conversation is for women and men seeking balance, healing, and wholeness in a faith-centered space. We are honored to welcome our distinguished speakers, whose expertise and unwavering commitment to women’s health inspire meaningful progress in advancing wellness, empowerment, and equitable care across every stage of life. All are welcome to attend and registration is required as refreshments will be provided. 

Click here to register!