Included in this issue/Save-the-Date:
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January Mission of the Month: CSSH Code Blue - Give
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Caring for Friends, Wednesday, January 15, 12:30 pm
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URGENT - Volunteers needed for CSSH Code Blue, train online or in person -Sat., January 18, 9:00 am and Wed., January 22, 6:30 pm
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Karaoke Night at DUMC, Saturday, January 18, 7:00 pm
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DUMC Youth NERF Night, Sunday, January 19, 6:00 - 8:00 pm
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Please note: Church offices will be CLOSED for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Monday, January 20
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Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service, Mon., Jan. 20, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
- Book Group (2025 schedule), Sunday, January 26, 3:00 pm
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Become a Member of DUMC this Spring
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Youth Hoagie Fundraiser, Sunday, February 6
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Youth Sunday sign up, Sunday, February 23
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GriefShare new semester (now Wednesdays), Wed., March 5, 7:00 pm
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UMC Scholarships due, Monday, March 31
- 2024 DUMC Christmas ornaments have arrived and are for sale in the Lobby
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Preschool programs - registration is open for Fall 2025
- All-Church Bible Study has begun, see details below
- Winter weather closing notification info below
- Wrapping Presence is collecting your leftover holiday cards
- Missions/Outreach in action, details below
- *JUST A NOTE: Church office phones are still answered on SNOW DAYS
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Joined the Church Triumphant - Ray Phillips
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Current Worship Series
"Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations"
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9:00 am
Uplifting Worship*
Wesley Class
Nursery
Fusion
Sunday School
10:10 am
Liturgical Worship*
Nursery
11:11 am
Word & Worship*
Nursery
Kids' Word
*Live broadcast
For links:
DoylestownUMC.com
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January 12 – Passionate Worship
Psalm 63:1-4, John 4:23-24
January 19 – Intentional Faith Development/Spiritual Growth
January 26 – Risk-Taking Mission and Service
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NURSERY CARE
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.
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WORSHIP STATISTICS & HAPPENINGS | |
Thank you to all who worship with us in person and online!
In-person attendance for January 5: 288
Online attendance: 507*
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.)
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All-Church Study
"Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations"
by Robert Schnase
Join us for our upcoming All-Church Study in January 2025.
If you are looking for a deeper sense of purpose both in your own life and in our faith community here at DUMC, this study is for you! We invite you to join this five-week journey based on Robert Schnase’s book, Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations. Together, we will explore practices that help us become a more vibrant, effective church while also deepening our personal faith.
Throughout this study, we will dive into the following key topics:
- Radical Hospitality – How can we embrace the kind of genuine, welcoming love that Jesus calls us to? Learn what it means to go beyond simple friendliness to truly welcome others into the life of the church.
- Passionate Worship – Discover how worship can become a life-giving, transformational experience that helps us encounter God in meaningful ways every time we gather.
- Intentional Faith Development – Explore how we can cultivate spiritual growth by creating environments where learning and discipleship are central to our lives as followers of Jesus.
- Risk-Taking Mission and Service – Consider what it looks like to boldly serve others, stepping outside our comfort zones to meet the needs of our neighbors both near and far.
- Extravagant Generosity – Reflect on the biblical call to give generously and joyfully, supporting the work of the church and sharing God’s love with a world in need.
Each week, our pastors will introduce one of these practices during the sermon, and small groups will meet to explore it in greater depth. Whether you're already part of a small group or looking to join one for this study, we encourage you to participate in this church-wide journey as it is a great opportunity to connect with others, grow in your faith, and make a meaningful impact in our congregation and world.
Mark your calendar! The study will kick off with the sermon on Sunday, January 5 and will conclude the week of Sunday, February 2. Let’s start the new year with hearts and minds focused on becoming a more fruitful congregation together!
Sign up for a small group and take part in this meaningful journey. We look forward to seeing you!
For questions, to sign up, or for anything related to small groups or the all-church study, feel free to reach out to Pastor Paul.
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2024 DUMC Christmas Ornaments
The Doylestown UMC ornaments for 2023 and 2024 were hand made by David Clouser, son-in-law of member, Shelly Mooney. The heart and cross design from the worship center was selected for 2024.
David and Paige (Mooney) enjoy attending the 11:11 service when they are visiting our church. We hope the ornament adds a touch of Christ's love to your home!
Ornaments are available for purchase in the lobby. They are $2.00 each or 3 for $5.00. All proceeds will go to the Hospitality Committee.
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Wrapping Presence
Wrapping Presence is collecting holiday cards to use for tags on gifts the residents select. When you are cleaning up from the holidays, please consider donating the front of your used cards. Place them in the collection box in the lobby at DUMC.
Thank you,
Cindy
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United Methodist Scholarships - Submissions due Monday, March 31
Are you aware that the United Methodist General Board of Higher Education and Ministry has low-interest loans and scholarships to help students further their education? There are more than 70 scholarships available that cover undergraduate and graduate-level studies. Applications are open through Monday, March 31, 2025.
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2025 – MEMBERSHIP CLASSES
INTERESTED IN BECOMING A MEMBER OF DUMC THIS SPRING?
*Email Pastor Paul for more information.
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Community Karaoke Night at DUMC
Saturday, January 18, 7:00 pm
Worship Center
Bring your family and friends for a fun night with your favorite songs! Free snacks and drinks. Wear a costume from your favorite movie or decade. Go to the DUMC Facebook page and comment on the karaoke post to tell us what you want to sing. Click here for a list of songs to inspire you.
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Message from Pastor Mike
Greetings to my friends at DUMC. I am writing to you to offer my deepest appreciation and to share with you my status since my wife’s passing on August 5. Thank you for all of the loving support you gave to me and to my family during this time of loss and grieving. Thank you for attending the celebration of her life and for those who watched online. I want to offer my thanks to Pastor Sunil and Pastor Paul and the rest of the staff at DUMC for their support to make this service such an uplifting experience. Thank you, Power of Grace, for your great music leadership. The music not only lifted up praise to God, but it also strengthened me during such a trying time. I also appreciated the work of the men and women who provided the food for a quality time of greeting after the service. It was so uplifting to me to have the opportunity to greet each of you. Thank you for the many cards, emails, texts, and phone calls I received. Your outpouring of love was so evident and I welcomed all of it with open arms. Thank you for the many donations to the new scholarship fund in Lynn’s name at Pocono Plateau Camp and Retreat Center.
Read more....
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Lay Leader Insights:
LIGHT
The Winter Solstice is a big day for me. We have another minute of light each day after December 21. That encourages me when the Sun is setting before dinner, and 7:30 p.m. feels like bedtime.
Scripture says, "The people dwelling in darkness have seen a great light, and for those dwelling in the region and shadow of death, on them a light has dawned" (Matthew 4:16). This is a reminder that our Messiah is the light of the world. He is hope even in the darkest of times.
Hanukkah is the Jewish celebration of light. Jesus would have celebrated this annual holiday with his family. Jewish people light a Menorah, remembering the story of how one night's oil miraculously lasted eight nights. There was no Christmas yet. That was not celebrated until 336AD when the Catholic Church converted a pagan holiday celebrating Sol Invictus, the god of light, which involved feasting and gifts, and made it Christ's birthday. Hanukkah marks the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem and is considered a minor holiday as opposed to Passover. Since it is often celebrated in December, the holiday has taken on more notice.
Read more....
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January Mission of the Month:
CODE BLUE (CSSH)
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Our mission for the month of January is the Coalition to Shelter and Support the Homeless (CSSH). CSSH is the nonprofit that runs Code Blue for Central Bucks. Code Blue is a program that offers overnight shelter, dinner, breakfast, and a bag lunch for the homeless in our area. The shelter is open when the temperature is below 28 degrees. Code Blue runs from December to March, with a different church hosting each month. CSSH also holds a monthly meal throughout the year for the homeless in our community. The CSSH opened the doors for 65 nights during the 2023/2024 season and provided shelter to 73 different individuals - this is impactful!
Read more....
Read letter....
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Missions/Outreach in Action
The first pillar in our All-Church Study, Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations, is RADICAL HOSPITALITY which involves: Going beyond friendliness, actively engaging with the community, being inclusive, challenging power dynamics, being committed to justice, and being open to being uncomfortable.
We were approached by Salem United Church of Christ to partner with them on events where there is a mutual interest. Currently, Salem’s Social Action Committee is working on two projects.
1. Bags of Warmth – Salem has collected supplies (e.g., warm socks, blankets, gloves), etc that we will put into bags to place in a bin on our front porch so that those visiting the Little Free Food Pantry outside can grab a "Bag of Warmth". This is targeted for those who live mostly outdoors. We will also work with Code Blue centers, depending on how many supplies we can get. To date, they are well supplied, however, Doylestown UMC’s Mission/Outreach Committee will be donating requested camping blankets to this cause.
2. Immigration Issues - Last month, a community gathering, led by Immigrant Rights Action Coalition, was presented with key issues related to possible changes coming with the new administration. One of the breakouts was for people of faith and others. An outcome of that introduction was a commitment to get together regularly to stay informed and share ideas and projects that groups are considering regarding advocacy, support for displaced persons, etc. The first meeting will be on Thursday, January 23 in the board room at Salem UCC. It will initially be led by Juan L. Navia from Our Lady of Guadalupe who is a member of IRAC. All are welcome.
We look forward to sharing more information and opportunities to serve and participate shortly.
Blessings,
Karen Condit, Missions/Outreach
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Next Caring for Friends meal assembly:
Wednesday, January 15 at 12:30 pm
in the DUMC kitchen. CLICK HERE for more details. Instructional guide for preparing meals at home.
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Code Blue Shelter Volunteer Training
Coalition to Shelter & Support the Homeless (CSSH)
Become a Code Blue Shelter volunteer this winter. Help transport and shelter adults in Central Bucks on cold winter nights. TRAINING IS REQUIRED and available online, or in-person on Sat., 1/18/25 and Wed., 1/22/25; SIGN-UP HERE. Additional Information can be found on the flyer (also located in the Lobby). LETTER from Code Blue.
Questions? Email Rhelda Richards.
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*Click on the images below to join or volunteer. | |
DUMC Youth NERF Night
Sunday, January 19
6:00 - 8:00 pm
We are having a nerf night! We encourage youth to bring their own nerf launchers with their names on it (please label it so we can ensure you get your launcher back). All nerf darts will be provided by the church (please do not bring any because we cannot ensure you will get them back). Invite friends to this super fun event! Please RSVP, dinner will be provided.
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BIBLE STUDIES & SMALL GROUPS | |
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Becky Van Dine, Caring Ministries
(215) 813-7436
| *Click GriefShare logo to learn more or register. | | | |
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*Wednesday nights
7:00 - 9:00 pm, Room 2
*Returns Wednesday, March 5
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Praying for our Congregation,
Community, and World
Praise & Thanks: Bob & Jayne Jacobus' 53rd Anniversary, snow day, a new year, optimism, new Bible study for DUMC, beauty in nature, Danielle, hope
Health & Healing: Jeff, Liz, Oh family, Carol, my sister, Nan, Bert, Brenda, Wayne, Jean, Bethany S, Kaitlin, Cathie, David, Miguel, Jay, Tim, Tom, Kate, Jessica, Dave, Bob, expectant mom & baby, Chris, Carol, Pam, Lisa, Lynlee, Bill, Russ, Cheryl, Paul, G, Andrea, Linda, Maggie, my son, Loraine, Jane, Doris, Artie, Kathy & Elizabeth, Jim, Jerry, Andre
Guidance: Elizabeth, Youth Retreat, Iris, Henry, Bob, Joe, Anthony, Julie, Dave, Amy, Jamie, Erika & family, Mike, family, sale of our home, environmental issues, Marie & family, Carolyn, my sons, Takara & Cody, Ambre & Christopher, world famine, service personnel - Olivia, Iain and those serving abroad, Church Bible Study
Hospice: Bonnie
Grief: Family & friends of Ray Phillips, Richard Nye (Julia Luginbuhl's Dad), and Leigh Sheldron, Sr. (Kimberly Beck's Dad)
"The LORD makes firm the steps of the one who delights in him; though he may stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with his hand." Psalm 37:23-24
~Laurie Lewis and the Congregational Care Team
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With gratitude, we remember
Raymond Maurice Phillips
April 26, 1944 - January 5, 2025
Please remember Ray's family and friends
in your prayers as they grieve his loss.
Celebration of life:
Date to be determined - Graveside service
at Washington Crossing National Cemetery
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WINTER WEATHER IS COMING! | |
Winter weather may soon be upon us....
Before you venture out when the weather is bad, please:
Check our church website at DoylestownUMC.com
or
Call the Worship Service Hotline
(267-245-7870)
*Opt in for text updates
We will have the closings or service changes on both. A determination will be made by 6:00 pm on Saturday evening for Sunday morning services.
During weekdays, we will generally follow the lead of Central Bucks School District regarding cancellations. Any additional evening closures will be decided by 4:00 pm.
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IN CASE YOU MISSED IT.... | |
"God is Calling Us"
Chapel Choir
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"Simeon's Blessing"
Sanctuary Choir
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"Oh, You Don't Need a Phone to Call Jesus"
Carol Choir
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*Doylestown United Methodist Church CCLI # 7127647* | |
Click HERE to watch
Sunday's Worship Services:
9:00 am Uplifting Worship
10:10 am Liturgical Worship
11:11 am Word and Worship
Offering
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- Wednesday, February 19, 3:00 - 8:00 PM
- Tuesday, April 22, 3:00 - 8:00 PM
- Tuesday, July 22, 2:00 - 7:00 PM
-Youth Sunday, Sunday, February 23
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Doylestown United Methodist Church | |
320 East Swamp Road
Doylestown, PA 18901
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Main number:
(215) 348-5224
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Worship Service Hotline:
(267) 245-7870
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Sunil Balasundaram, Senior Pastor
Paul Georgulis, Assistant Pastor
Lenae Baldwin, Youth Director
John Bechtel, Business Administrator
Cindy Betancourt, Receptionist
Noel de la Pena, Office Manager
Wendy Arnott, Dir. of Children's Min
Kristian Frikke-Schmidt, Uplifting Worship Ldr
Laurie Lewis, Lay Leader/Min of Visitation
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Temple Sieger, 11:11 Worship Leader
Diana Durbin, Director - Adult Bells
Stephanie Hume, Director of Music
Grace Silva, Organist
Scott Shead, Live Streaming Technician
Trevor Foster, AVL Technical Coord
Ken Buckner, Wknd Bldg Spec (not shown)
Mark Charles, Evening Building Specialist
Sean Smith, Facilities Manager
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Office phone: (215) 348-5224 (office hours: M-F from 8:30 am - 3:00 pm) | | | | |