December 17 - What's Happening at Dayspring UMC

December 17, 2020

CAROL SING

The Holiday season is a special time for all, with traditions, giving, and gathering. Since we are still unable to gather, we’re trying to be creative in helping to bring the comfort of the holiday season to you. We will gather at 6pm this Saturday, December 19 to be led in an event that everyone can enjoy: a chance to sing the beloved songs of the season. And so that the kids can be involved, too, we'll certainly sing about Rudolph and Frosty. CLICK HERE to join the Zoom at 6pm.

BLUE CHRISTMAS SERVICE

Christmas is not always a joyful time. For those of us who have lost loved ones, are in insecure environments, or are just struggling with life, the glitter of holiday lights is often not a sign of joy but of sorrow. This year in particular, all of us are facing the holidays with mixed emotions tinged if not overwhelmed by loss and grief. We will join together online, Sunday, December 20th at 4pm for a Blue Christmas service to remember that the light of God shines upon and through us even in the darkness. CLICK HERE to watch.

CHRISTMAS POINSETTIAS

This year, we continue our Christmas Poinsettia tradition of offering plants or donations in honor or memory of a loved one. While you won't be able to collect these poinsettias for yourself, the flowers you purchase will be donated to someone in our congregation with proceeds to benefit UMOM (you may also donate directly to UMOM). The deadline for ordering is December 18 at noon. We will share these gifts through lists in the Reflections weekly newsletter and in the weekly bulletin. Order Here.

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES

The popular song I’ll Be Home for Christmas rings especially true this year, as most of us will be home, sheltering in place, for the holidays — including Christmas Eve. Which is why we are preparing two special online Christmas Eve services. A Family Service featuring our children and a Christmas message by Pastor Joel will debut at 5:00pm. Be sure to have candles/glow sticks ready for the end!

Watch the 5pm family service HERE.

A Traditional Service featuring the Celebration Singers, Dayspring Chorale, and DayStar Handbell Choir with a Christmas message by Pastor Jeff will debut at 7:00pm. You are invited to have your candles at the ready for the closing carol Silent Night, along with Communion elements.

Watch the 7pm service HERE.

NEW YEAR'S STUDY

Water, Wind, Earth & Fire, the upcoming Book Study will give you the chance to dive more deeply into a contemplation of your relationship with nature. Organized around "The Canticle of the Creatures" by St. Francis of Assisi, Water, Wind, Earth & Fire is the first book to consider the ways in which praying with the natural elements can enliven Christian spiritual life. more

SUPPORTING OUR NEIGHBORS

Tempe Community Action Agency's mission is to foster dignity and self-reliance in economically vulnerable persons within the community. Traditionally, the people of Dayspring support the TCAA through our Fourth Sunday Food Drives. Unfortunately, we have not been able to do so since February, but the needs still exist. As a result, this organization is our December giving focus. Donate Here.

UMOM STOCKING DRIVE

Thank you to everybody who donated to UMOM's stocking drive. Our children's, youth, and mom's groups combined to sponsor the four largest families (a total of 32 kids) and there were several individual donations as well. Thanks for brightening the holidays of some families in need!