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Let’s be honest for a second: adulting is hard. Between work deadlines, endless laundry, and trying to remember if you fed the dog or just thought about feeding the dog, finding actual, genuine community can feel like hunting for a unicorn.

At Heart O' the Lakes Church, we believe life was never meant to be lived on a solo island. God created us for connection, relationship, and—let’s be real—eating good food together. Whether you call our Jackson Campus or Brooklyn Campus home, we’ve put together a lineup of fall events designed to help you plug in, laugh out loud, and stop pretending you have it all figured out.

Here’s what’s coming up, why you should definitely show up, and how we're making space for you.

What We’re Talking About On Sundays

Before we get to the candy and chili, here’s a quick peek at what’s happening in our Sunday services across campuses:

  • Jackson Campus — "Find Your Fit" in Community: Real spiritual growth doesn't happen in a vacuum. You can't "lone ranger" your faith! This season at Jackson, we’re helping everyone find their actual fit. Whether that’s an adult Life Group, serving on a team, or finding three people who will pray for you when your week falls apart, there’s a place for you here.

  • Brooklyn Campus — "God is Not a Genie": Pastor Cyle unpacked a truth we all need to hear: God isn't a cosmic vending machine. You don't insert three prayers and a good deed and expect a shiny blessing to pop out on your timeline. Faith isn't a transactional business deal; it's a relational journey. God wants your heart, your trust, and your transformation—not just a wish list.

Upcoming Events (And Why You Can't Miss Them)

1. Mom’s Book Night — "A Blind Date with a Book"

  • When: Friday, October 23 | 6:00 PM

  • Where: Brooklyn Campus

  • Why You Should Go: Moms, listen to me: you need a break. Leave the chaos at home, grab a snack to share, and wrap up one of your favorite books with a short 1–2 sentence teaser on the front. It’s speed-dating, but for books—and zero awkward small talk. It’s an evening of laughter, snacks, and connecting with other moms who totally get what you're going through.

2. Trunk or Treat

  • When: Sunday, October 25 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

  • Where: Jackson Campus (5225 Clinton Rd, Jackson, MI)

  • Why You Should Go: Picture this: your kids get to burn off endless energy, wear their favorite costumes, and collect massive piles of candy in a completely safe, car-free zone. Meanwhile, you get to sip coffee, chat with other parents, and not worry about neighborhood traffic. It’s a win-win.

3. HOTLween

  • When: Sunday, October 25 | 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM

  • Where: Brooklyn Campus (7031 Jefferson Rd, Brooklyn, MI)

  • Why You Should Go: Two words: 100% FREE. We're talking game stations, face painting, prizes, warm apple cider, and enough hot dogs to feed an army. It’s high-energy, totally family-friendly, and hands-down the best way to kick off Halloween week with your neighbors.

4. Jamaica Missions Interest Meetings 

  • When: Monday, October 26 & Tuesday, November 3 | 7:00 PM

  • Where: Brooklyn Campus Café

  • Why You Should Go: Ever felt called to something bigger than your daily commute? If you're 18+ and have a heart for serving others, come hear about our upcoming mission trip to Jamaica. No pressure, no instant commitments—just a room full of people excited to make an eternal impact together.

5. Jackson Campus Chili Cook-Off

  • When: Sunday, November 1 | 12:00 PM

  • Where: Jackson Campus (5225 Clinton Rd, Jackson, MI)

  • Why You Should Go: Because nothing settles a Sunday afternoon debate like arguing over who makes the best chili in Jackson County. Bring your secret family recipe to compete, or just bring a spoon and enjoy a free, delicious meal with awesome people. 

6. Women’s Cookie Decorating Workshop

  • When: Monday, November 2 | 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM

  • Where: Brooklyn Campus Café ($40/person, all supplies provided)

  • Why You Should Go: Ever watch those satisfying cookie-decorating videos online and think, "I could do that"—only to end up with a frosted blob? Master baker Courtney Smith (owner of Bliss Bakeshop) is teaching us actual step-by-step skills. You'll leave with beautiful cookies, a new skill, and a night of great conversation. (Seats are limited, so reserve yours fast!)

Find Your Place This Fall

Whether you're looking for a place where your kids can run around in costume, a warm bowl of chili, or a community of believers who will walk through the ups and downs of life with you, Heart O' the Lakes Church has a seat saved for you.

Ready to jump in?

Check out our full event schedule and register online at hotlstrong.com/events!