Week of August 24, 2025

Included in this issue (this week):

  • August Mission of the Month: UMCOR - Give | Watch
  • Peach Festival schedule, Saturday, August 23, 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
  • ADULT/YOUTH volunteers needed at Peach Festival
  • Peach Festival Silent Auction
  • Youth Pool Day, Sunday, August 24, 2:00 - 5:00 pm
  • Book Group, Sunday, August 24, 4:00 pm
  • DUMC Kids' sign up, due Sunday, August 24
  • DUMC Community Dinner, Wednesday, August 27, 6:00 pm
  • Estate Planning, Wednesday, August 27, 6:00 pm
  • Confirmation 2026 sign up, due Thursday, August 28
  • Guardian Angels Healthy Women Campaign, due Sunday, August 31
  • Reflections Bible Study returns, Tuesday, September 2, 7:00 - 8:30 pm
  • 12 Hours of Prayer, Wednesday, September 3, 7:00 am - 7:00 pm
  • Middle School Fall Retreat registration, due Sunday, September 7
  • Nursery care returns (Registration open), Sunday, September 7
  • Blessing of the Backpacks, Sunday, September 7, 9:00 and 11:11 am
  • Adult volunteers needed for DUMC Youth and Kids' programs/events
  • Elevation KICK OFF (bring a dish), Sunday, September 7, 6:00 - 8:00 pm
  • Elevation meal sign up for 25/26
  • Pampered by Grace returns, Sunday, September 7, 6:30 - 8:30 pm
  • GriefShare returns, Thursday, September 11, 7:00 - 9:00 pm
  • Women's Retreat "Reflect": Friday, September 19, 7:00 - 9:00 pm
  • New to the Faith Class, Sundays, Sept. 21 - Oct. 19, 10:00 - 11:00 am
  • New Member Half-Day Retreat sign-up, due Monday, October 20
  • Youth 25/26 Calendar
  • Preschool job opportunities - Teacher, Teacher's Aide, Lunch Aides, Educational Assistant
  • Welcome our new Director for The Preschool at DUMC
  • Caring for Friends recap, Church Workday - Thank you!
  • Baptism videos from Sunday, August 17, 10:10 and 11:11 services

Current Worship Series

"Christian Sensitivity"

9:00 am

Unplugged Worship

(Outdoor Sanctuary, Room 22 if inclement weather)

Wesley Class

Returns 9/7:

Nursery

Sunday School

Fusion

Elevation


  10:10 am

Liturgical Worship*

Returns 9/7:

Nursery

 

11:11 am

Word & Worship*

Returns 9/7:

Nursery

Kids' Word



*Live broadcast

For links:

DoylestownUMC.com

August 24 – Sensitivity That Welcomes: Sensitive to People, Not Status

James 2:1-9


August 31 – Sensitive to People of Other Countries & Cultures

DUMC Summer Worship Schedule

(Sunday, June 8 - Sunday, August 31)

 

9:00 am - Uplifting Worship is moving to the Outdoor Sanctuary for June and July (August will be in Room 22). "Unplugged" Worship with guitars and conversational preaching (weather permitting....inclement weather, in Room 22). *Not livestreamed.

 

10:10 am - Liturgical Worship, Sanctuary (livestreamed).

 

11:11 am - Word & Worship, Worship Center (alternating Sounds of Faith and Power of Grace praise bands, livestreamed).

 

*We will return to regular Worship schedule on Sunday, September 3, with Holy Communion at 9:00 am - Sanctuary, 10:10 am - Sanctuary, and 11:11 am - Worship Center.

Summer Family Worship "Room to Move"


During the summer, we encourage families to worship together at each of our services. Our Sunday School volunteers and Nursery workers are taking a well-deserved break. In both the Sanctuary and Worship Center, we provide crayons, coloring books, and activity bags for children. There are also quiet worship spaces in both the back of the Sanctuary and the Upper Room (room in back of balcony in the Worship Center) where families can sit while children play.

Everyone is welcome at DUMC — especially during the summer!

 

NURSERY CARE - returns September 7!

 

Nursery care available for children 0-5 years old on Sundays from 8:50 am - 12:15 pm.

 

*Nursery staff and volunteers are “Safe Sanctuary” certified; this policy includes all required state and federal background checks.

 

WORSHIP STATISTICS & HAPPENINGS

Thank you to all who worship with us in person and online!



In-person attendance for August 17: 210

Online attendance: 340*



The in-person number includes children in Nursery, Fusion/Sunday School, and Kids' Word (when in session).

*Online number represents the number of views (or households), not the number of individuals watching.

(Online totals are multiplied by 1.5 to get a more accurate sum.)

**PEACH FESTIVAL VOLUNTEERS NEEDED (Adults & Youth)—Sign up ONLINE or FORMS are available in the Lobby!**

PEACH FESTIVAL 2025 SCHEDULE

Saturday, August 23, 8:00 am - 2:00 pm


The Peach Festival is next Saturday, August 23. Continue to bring your used books and flea market items to church (summer hours are 9:00 am - 1:00 pm, please call to confirm if you need to drop outside of these hours).


Books along with CDs, DVDs, and records can be dropped off outside of the music room. Flea market donations can be dropped off on the table in Overholt Hall. Please be sure all items are ready for resale and that all electronics have been tested. If you have any questions about items you would like to donate to the flea market, please ask! Email Melissa O’Brien with any questions or concerns. Please help spread the word by inviting friends and family to shop or donate! Cash, checks, and Venmo @Doylestownumc are accepted.

 

In addition to books and flea market items, please save cuttings and bulbs to be dropped off on Friday, August 22.

 

Click HERE for booth reservation form or email PeachFest@doylestownUMC.com



*2025 Peach Festival proceeds will benefit construction projects at the Carson Simpson Farm Christian Camp. Click here for more details.

Peach Festival Silent Auction



DUMC church groups and individuals, it is not too late to donate a basket or item to be included in a basket for the Silent Auction. Leave it in the church office, marked for the auction, with your name and the approximate value so we’ll have it for bidding purposes. Thanks to all of the DUMC groups, individuals, and businesses who already donated baskets or items to the Silent Auction for the Peach Festival. We currently have 28 amazing baskets and have raised $710. The items will be on display on the day of the Peach Festival, Saturday, August 23. No need to be present at the Peach Festival to win. You will be contacted by phone if you are not present when the bidding ends.

Estate Planning Seminar

Wednesday, August 27

6:00 - 7:00 pm, Room 2

In person at DUMC

 

"Protect Their Inheritance — Even After You’re Gone"

 

-Find out how to protect your children from financial mistakes

-Learn what legal, financial, and personal documents will guide your children even after you are gone

-Learn how to pick the right Power of Attorney or Trustee

-Learn how to build a permanent financial life raft for your spouse and children

-Go from planning to actually doing

-All this and more, CLICK HERE for flyer.

 

Questions, or to register, contact John Benson, (215) 348-4416

Guardian Angels Healthy Women Campaign

Feminine Hygiene Product Collection


We are collecting donations for the Healthy Women Campaign in the lobby of DUMC. The collection will run from Friday, August 1 - Sunday, August 31. Our focus is to uplift women and children by providing hygiene education, essential resources, and practical skills training. If you don't have time to drop off donations, you can sponsor a kit below.


Sponsor a Kit:

  • For just $25/month (less than $1 a day) or $300/year, your support helps restore dignity, improve health, and open doors to new opportunities.


Key highlights:

Over 3,500 women worldwide have received our hygiene kits.


Flyer details

Aquilino Baptisms


The sacrament of Holy Baptism was celebrated at the 10:10 am service on Sunday, August 17, when Lisa Aurora and Aldo Jenson Aquilino, daughter and son of Joseph Aquilino and Victoria Aquilino (Schmidt), were baptized by Pastor Sunil.

 

Click video image at left to view the video of the Baptisms.

Light Baptism


The sacrament of Holy Baptism was celebrated at the 11:11 am service on Sunday, August 17, when Daisy Lou Light, daughter of Zachary Light and Marissa Light (Stout), was baptized by Pastor Sunil.

 

Click video image at left to view the video of the Baptism.

 

FEATURE ARTICLES

 

Lay Leader Insights:

Power of Positivity


When all around us the ground feels like it's shaking, that is the time to think positive. God never promised all would be well. In fact, he said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). 

First is prayer. Ground yourself by talking to your Creator. Speak honestly and then listen for wisdom.

Second is setting your priorities so you never forget what truly matters. Faith matters. Your family matters. Your decisions matter. When you make a list, it's easier to prioritize your next step, especially after you have first prayed.

Third is peace, because not everything deserves your energy. You can choose to say no. You can choose not to respond to a hurtful comment or an unfair situation. You can choose your own health and peace—and remain hopeful.

Fourth is patience, because good things take time. It takes time for prayers to be answered. Immediacy is not the goal. Your relationship with God is more important. 

You don't need to have it all figured out. Just stay centered. Lean into God and away from chaos. Stay focused, and the answers will come. Let God handle the rest. 


(adapted from Power of Positivity article)

Blessings,

Laurie Lewis


August Mission of the Month:

UMCOR

The United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), a unit of Global Ministries, is a humanitarian organization that helps alleviate human suffering, one of the two main goals of Global Ministries. UMCOR’s work is carried out by providing relief and assistance in response to natural and human-made disasters and supporting programs in the areas of migration, health, food security and environmental sustainability.


Read more....

Watch video....

 
 

SERVE & ENGAGE

 

DUMC Community Dinner

Wednesday, August 27, 6:00 pm

(Last Wednesday of each month)

 

DUMC will be hosting Community Potluck Dinners on the last Wednesday of every month from 6:00 to 7:00 pm. This will be a similar format to the Lenten Soup Suppers. However, the meal and theme will change monthly.

 

A SignUpGenius will be sent out prior to each meal, detailing what the meal is and what food will be needed. There will also be a signup sheet in the lobby. If you can contribute in any way, please sign up for August HERE.

 

If you have any questions or want to be on the planning committee, please reach out to Cindy Biehl.

 

We are looking forward to a fun event full of food and fellowship.

 

Hope to see you there!

THANK YOU!

  

Thank you to everyone that contributed food and helped pack the August meal of chili, frozen vegetables and corn bread. We packed 157 meals in only 40 minutes.


As usual this team showed how adaptable it can be. Our normal tables were all being used for the Peach Festival flea market. That did not stop us, we used the available round tables and adjusted our process accordingly. Go team!!!


Our September meal will be packed on Wednesday, September 17 at 12:45 pm and will consist of chicken parmesan, frozen veggies and applesauce.


I look forward to seeing you all again in September.


Best,

Cindy

Next Caring for Friends meal assembly:

Wednesday, September 17 at 12:45 pm

in the DUMC kitchen. CLICK HERE for more details. Instructional guide for preparing meals at home.

Feed My Sheep Opportunites


Do you have an hour or two to help? ---


We have been “Feeding the Sheep” even more than we ever were before.

A few opportunities have come directly to us, and we have been using these donations to feed our local community. Let me illustrate them, and perhaps you can find an hour or two to get involved. Click here to read more....

Summer Hospitality Update



During the summer months, we'd like to give our regulars a break, but we will continue to have coffee and tea available each Sunday, as well as cool refreshments. This more relaxed time of year would be a great time for you to try this rewarding ministry. This is not at all difficult and we’re happy to train you! See our SignUpGenius or contact Cindy Betancourt in the church office.

 

Flower Basket Waterers Needed

 

SIGN UP HERE or contact Sheri Shifman. Thank you!

*Click on the images below to join or volunteer.

 
 

*Visit DoylestownUMC.com for more ways to get involved at DUMC

CHILDREN AND YOUTH

 

Kids' Newsletter returns the week of August 31, 2025!

 

Kid's Ministries 25/26 Calendar

Wendy Arnott, Director

WArnott@DoylestownUMC.com

(215) 348-5224

 

*Click image to sign up by Sunday, August 24!

*Click image below to sign up*

Youth Ministries 25/26 Calendar

Lenae Baldwin, Youth Director LBaldwin@DoylestownUMC.com

(267) 245-7871

 
 

Youth Summer Calendar

2026 Confirmation Class

 

Students in Grade 7 or above who are interested in exploring their faith, preparing themselves to make a profession of faith (making their faith their own), and learning more about being an active member of the church are invited to be part of our upcoming Confirmation Class. Sign up is due by Thursday August 28. Classes will be held on Sunday mornings, 10:00 - 11:00 am, beginning on Sunday, September 7. The Confirmation ceremony is planned for Sunday, May 17, 2026.

 

Sign up and details....

2025 BREAKAWAY MIDDLE SCHOOL FALL RETREAT

September 26 - 28

 

Middle schoolers in 7th - 9th grades, come join us for a fun-filled weekend at NorthBay Adventure Camp in North East, Maryland. Cost is $195. *Volunteers needed, please contact Lenae.

 

Click HERE for details. Register HERE by Sunday, September 7.

*Click image below to sign up*

We can’t wait to kick off another great year together with an awesome evening full of fellowship! Come enjoy 9 Square, tasty food, an outdoor craft, and more!


If you’re willing and able, please sign up to donate a side dish, dessert, or drinks to help make the night even better. Your contributions are greatly appreciated!


Let’s make this night memorable—see you there!


**Elevation meal sign up for 25/26.

The Youth Team Needs You!

Adult Volunteers Needed - Youth Programs


We’re looking for 2–3 volunteers to help teach Sunday School this fall as part of our Youth Fusion program. The commitment is just one Sunday a month at 9:00 am. All teaching materials are provided, and prep time is minimal—about 30 minutes is all it takes to feel confident and prepared. No teaching experience is needed—just a heart for investing in our young people!


We’re also seeking 1–2 Elevation small group leaders to help guide youth discussions on Sundays from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. We’re especially in need of a few female leaders, but would also love to add more male leaders to support and connect with our teens. This is a great opportunity to build meaningful relationships and walk alongside our youth as they grow in faith.


If you're interested in either role, please fill out this FORM.

️

Thank you for considering being part of our team and making a difference in the lives of our students!

 

BIBLE STUDIES & SMALL GROUPS

 

Paul Georgulis, Assistant Pastor

PGeorgulis@DoylestownUMC.com

(267) 245-7874

 

Reflections

Women’s Bible Study

Tuesdays, 7:00 - 8:30 pm, Room 2

 

"Jesus In Me" by Anne Graham Lotz

(Returns September 2), 25/26 Schedule

 

This is a 7-week study, on the Holy Spirit and starts with a discussion about the different names representing the Holy Spirit.

 

Check out the promo video.

 

The study guide includes free access to the videos if you miss a session or want to revisit a topic. The guide says eight sessions, but the first one is a 49-minute workshop on studying the Bible. Feel free to watch that one on your own. 

 

Bring a friend, newcomers are always welcome!

RSVP by emailing Laura Herbst if you plan on attending all or some of the studies.

Pampered by Grace

Women's Bible Study

Sundays, 6:30 - 8:30 pm, Room 22

 

"Hidden: Finding Delight in Your Life with Christ" by Allison Allen

Runs September 7 - October 12

 

Come join us as we pick up where we left off in May with "Hidden". You can always invite friends to our Bible study and as usual we will have yummy treats!! All women and newcomers welcome!


*Email Laurie Lewis to register or for more information.


Pampered by Grace schedule for 25/26:


  • 10/19 - 11/9 Movie "God is Good"
  • 11/16 - 12/7 "Advent Study with Lisa Harper & Christine Caine"
  • Christmas Break
  • 1/4/26 - 2/22 "Deborah (The First Woman Judge)" -or- "Proverbs"
  • 3/1 - 4/19 "The Chosen"
  • 4/26 - 5/31 "I Guess I Haven't Learned That Yet"

Ladies' Night @ DUMC

Friday, September 19

7:00 - 9:00 pm, Room 2

 

Reflect is a night for women to come together, deepen our faith, and celebrate the goodness of God in our lives.


Take a moment to step away from the busyness of life to connect with one another and grow closer to God as we worship and watch a livestream from Elevation Church.


“For you are the fountain of life, the light by which we see. Pour out your unfailing love on those who love you.” —Psalm 36:9-10


Questions and registration, contact Laurie Lewis.

DUMC New to the Faith Class

Sundays, September 21 - October 19

10:00 - 11:00 am, Room 22

Donuts and coffee provided!

 

Are you new to the Christian faith—or have you been following Jesus for a while but feel the need to revisit the basics? If so, this class is for you!



Join us for a five-week journey exploring the foundational truths of Christianity in a welcoming, conversational setting. We’ll talk about who Jesus is, what it means to follow him, how to grow in your faith, and other key aspects of the Christian life. Whether you have questions, doubts, or simply want to strengthen your understanding, this is a great place to start.

 

Because worship is such an important part of following Jesus, we encourage everyone attending the class to also attend either the 9:00 am Uplifting Worship Service or the 11:11 Word & Worship Service. Experiencing worship together helps us grow in faith and connect with God in meaningful ways.


We’ll need at least five participants in order to hold the class, so if you’re interested, please let Pastor Paul know.


Come as you are, bring your questions, and let’s grow together!


If you are interested in being a part of the class or if you have questions, please email Pastor Paul.

DUMC New Member Half-Day Retreat

*Sign up due Monday, October 20

Saturday, November 1

9:00 am - 1:00 pm, Worship Center

 

Contact the church office at (215) 348-5224 or email Pastor Paul to sign up (forms available in the lobby or print here).

 

CARE AND SUPPORT

 

Becky Van Dine, Caring Ministries

(215) 813-7436

*Click GriefShare logo to learn more or register.

 

Thursday nights

7:00 - 9:00 pm, Room 2

*Returns September 11

PRAYER CORNER

Praying for our Congregation,

Community, and World


Praise & Thanks: Chukwuma family trip successful, Harper made CB East Hockey, cooler weather, veggies from our garden, birth of River Joy, baptism of Lisa & Aldo Aquilino, baptism of Daisy Light, Kristi Bryan appointed new DUMC Preschool Director


Health & Healing: Bud, Bill, Gavin, Ed, Linda, Brett, Paul, Nan, Dad, Betty, Mark, Agestino, Russ, Bert, health & strength for busy people, Artie, Mom, Colleen, Ann, Diane, Karen, Mateo, Russ, Margaret, Dave, Barb, Ed, Lisa, Shelly, Rita, siblings, Marion, Rochelle, Donna, Bill, Nell, Linda, a friend, Cliff, Wendy, Dean, Takara & Cody, my husband, Kathy & Elizabeth, Ambre, Jarron, Jim, Andre


Guidance: Summer, Molly, Bev, Donna & Dana, Joe, Susan, Madelyn, Elizabeth, our democracy, all kids starting new school year, Danyelle & daughter, Jude & Lachlan, David, Chris, parents of college freshman, Ethan, Peach Festival, Julie & Amy, President Trump, U.S. Cabinet, U.S. Congress, my brother, environmental issues, Carolyn, my sons, Christopher, famine around the world, those serving abroad, Olivia, Clark, church finances 


Hospice: Sarah, CJ, Connie Thompson, Doris, Elaine


Grief: Family of Iris Schwing, especially Karen; Family and friends of Rodolfo Masinsin Sr., father of Carlota Monte


For this reason (their faithfulness), ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. ~Ephesians 1:15-16


~Laurie Lewis and the Congregational Care Team

Our Next 12 Hours of Prayer:

Wednesday, September 3

7:00 am to 7:00 pm

 

Take a few minutes from the hectic pace of life to slow down...breathe...and be part of our next 12 Hours of Prayer event. Join with your DUMC sisters and brothers to form a continuous 12-hour chain of prayer. Take an intentional 10 minutes to praise and thank our amazing God...and bring the needs of our community, our church, and yourself before God's throne.

 

Sign up now to tap into the power of prayer. see what God wants to do in, through, and among you!

 

THE PRESCHOOL AT DUMC

 

Welcome our New Director of The Preschool at DUMC!


We are excited to announce the appointment of Kristi Bryan as the new Director of The Preschool at DUMC. Kristi has been with the preschool since 2008. During that time, Kristi also served as the DUMC Wedding Assistant. Kristi has also volunteered as the Children’s Ministry Leader and was a volunteer with Vacation Bible School. To learn more about Kristi, please join us for a “Meet the New Director” event on Wednesday, September 17 from 6:30 - 7:30 pm in the DUMC Worship Center.

Preschool Job Opportunities

Teacher and Teacher's Aide


The Preschool at DUMC has openings for a classroom teacher and an aide for 5 mornings a week, 8:30 am - 11:40 am. For more details, contact Kristi Bryan at 215-345-9775.

Lunch Aides


The Preschool at DUMC needs lunch aides, Monday - Friday, from 11:20 am – 12:30 pm. Duties include, but are not limited to, overseeing the lunchroom and supervising children on the playground. To apply, please contact: The Preschool at DUMC, (215) 345-9775.

Educational Assistant


Educational Assistant needed for Time For Twos (A Parent and Me Class), Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 – 10:15 am. To apply, please contact: The Preschool at DUMC, (215) 345-9775.

Click image above for FALL 2025/2026 PRESCHOOL details and to sign up!


 

COMING UP / SAVE THE DATE....

 

-Please note: The church offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 1 for Labor Day

-12 Hours of Prayer, Wednesday, September 3, 7:00 am - 7:00 pm

-Gentle Christian Yoga, Thursday, September 4, 6:00 pm

-Pop Up Sunday/Kick Off/Nursery returns, Sunday, September 7, 9:00 am

-Dinner With The Pastor (for more info CLICK HERE):

-GriefShare returns, Thursday, September 11, 7:00 - 9:00 pm

-Men's Breakfast, Saturday, September 13, 8:00 am

-DSP Meatball Monday, Monday, September 15, 5:00 - 7:00 pm

-Caring for Friends, Wednesday, September 17, 12:45 pm

-Women's Retreat "Reflect": Friday, September 19, 7:00 - 9:00 pm

-RISE Against Hunger mealpack (flyer, register HERE), Sat., Sept. 20, 10 am - 12 pm

-New to the Faith Class, Sundays, September 21 - Octoer 19, 10:00 - 11:00 am

-Book Group, Sunday, September 28, 4:00 pm

-Alpha Marriage Course, Sunday, October 5 (7 weeks), 1:00 - 2:30 pm

-Blood Drives:

  • Tuesday, October 7, 3:00 - 8:00 pm
  • Tuesday, December 16, 3:00 - 8:00 pm

-Trunk or Treat (register), Saturday, October 25, 3:00 - 5:00 pm

-Liturgical Concert, Sunday, October 26, 4:00 pm

-New Member Half-Day Retreat, Saturday, November 1, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

-Parents' Night Out (flyer, register HERE), Friday, December 5, 5:00 - 8:30 pm

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT....

"Better"

Bethany Pocceschi, Barb & Steve Rocca

*Doylestown United Methodist Church CCLI # 7127647*

Click HERE to watch

Sunday's Worship Services:


*9:00 am Uplifting Worship (no livestream 6/8 - 8/31)

10:10 am Liturgical Worship

11:11 am Word and Worship

Offering

CONNECT WITH US

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WORSHIP

Doylestown United Methodist Church

320 East Swamp Road

Doylestown, PA 18901

Main number:

(215) 348-5224

Worship Service Hotline:

(267) 245-7870

Sunil Balasundaram, Senior Pastor

Paul Georgulis, Assistant Pastor

Laurie Lewis, Lay Leader/Min. of Visitation

Lenae Baldwin, Youth Director

Wendy Arnott, Dir. of Children's Ministries

John Bechtel, Business Administrator

Cindy Betancourt, Receptionist

Noel de la Pena, Office Manager

Kristian Frikke-Schmidt, 9:00 am Worship Leader

Temple Sieger, 11:11 am Worship Leader

Diana Durbin, Director of Adult Bells

Stephanie Hume, Director of Music

Grace Silva, Organist

Trevor Foster, AVL Technical Coordinator

Scott Shead, Live Streaming Technician

Mark Charles, Evening Building Specialist

Mike O'Neill, Daytime Sexton

Ken Buckner, Wknd Bldg Spec (not shown)

Office phone: (215) 348-5224 (office hours: M-F from 9:00 am - 3:00 pm)

Staff schedule: Church year

Summer

Schedule facilities: Cindy Betancourt

Submissions for Connections:

Noel de la Pena

(due Mondays by 12:00 pm)