July 8, 2021 - What's Happening at Dayspring UMC

July 8, 2021

NEW BOOK STUDY

LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER

A new six-week study of the book Healing the Heart of Democracy: The Courage to Create a Politics Worthy of the Human Spirit by Parker J. Palmer will be offered via Zoom by Suzanne Harbster on Mondays at 6:30 pm, starting July 12. To sign up, please email Suzanne today. Learn more

A MESSAGE FROM OUR BISHOP

As a result of my decision to request retirement under ¶408.2a of the 2016 Book of Discipline, the office of resident bishop for the Desert Southwest Conference becomes open. As prescribed in the Book of Discipline, the Council of Bishops has the responsibility of determining, who will serve as the episcopal leader for the Desert Southwest Conference until a new bishop is elected at a regular Jurisdictional Conference. continue reading

NEW SERMON SERIES

In one of the many visions Julian of Norwich had on what she believed to be her deathbed, Jesus said to her, “All will be well, all will be well, all manner of things will be well.” This revelation came when she was fever-struck, quite possibly the bubonic plague that decimated Europe in the 14^th century. Having lived through and found hope during a pandemic, scholar Matthew Fox believes her experience and wisdom have much to offer us today. We will start a sermon series on July 18 based on Fox’s recent book on Julian’s spirituality. Pastor Jeff is working on this series with Rev. David Felten, his collaborator on Living the Questions. Pastor Shirley and Amy will also present. Join us as we learn from Julian of Norwich, whom Matthew Fox considers “a stunning thinker, a profound theologian and mystic, a fully awake woman, and a remarkable guide with a mighty vision to share for 21^st century seekers.”

STEP-UP SUNDAY

STEP UP SUNDAY is August 8. Our “official” return of the school year, all children and youth advance to their next classes on this date. Email Emily with questions or if you are interested in helping lead one of our Children’s Sunday school classes.

ANTI-RACISM TRAINERS NEEDED

The Desert Southwest Conference is looking for up to 15 volunteers in August to become trainers and lead others in a course called Intercultural Competency. This training will increase awareness and understanding of one’s culture and other cultures and learn ways to be bridge builders connecting with those who are different. This train-the-trainer event is free for those selected and will be done in-person at First UMC in Mesa.

Please email Rev. Khalif Smith or Rev. Javier Olivares with any questions. Click HERE to learn more or to apply.

HANDBELLS RETURN

Our Handbell Choirs start rehearsals on August 17 from 6:00-7:30. New members are welcome to join - especially if you can read bass clef! Please email Julie Hackmann for more information.

EARLY RESPONSE TEAM TRAINING

While many feel helpless during an emergency or natural disaster, Early Response Teams step up to do what is needed in the community. From sifting through ashes and caring for those who have lost homes in wildfires to supporting a disaster center-helping them make necessary decisions or meeting their special needs, ERTs bring hope and security to those experiencing the worst. An Early Response Team Training will take place on August 11, 2021 at Prescott UMC. Learn more about the training HERE or read what ERTs are doing right now in our state and how to support their mission HERE.

CHURCH CAMPOUT

Our 24th Annual Labor Day All-Church Campout is on the books for Sept 3-6 at Hoyer Campground in Greer! It is hoped we can resume our regular activities of shared meals, church, group campfires, hikes, etc. Registration begins August 1, but you may preregister now: email Carol Muggeridge or call/text her at 480-221-6136.

UMNS photo by Jan Snider.

THE INN SEEKS SPONSORS

Ordinary people responded to an extraordinary need in December 2016. Thousands of asylum seekers at the Arizona border had no safe place after release from government detention. The Desert Southwest Conference of the United Methodist Church stepped in to help. A courageous church opened its doors, volunteers pitched in, and The lnn began. Unlike the experience of Mary and Joseph who had been turned away at an inn, those needing rest and understanding would be welcome here. continue reading

HELP US WITH OUR IN-PERSON SERVICES

Usher Leaders are needed starting in August-September. We are looking for new leads to assist with ushering the end of summer and for both services in the fall. Candidates will also monitor the usher notification system we use. Some Spreadsheet knowledge will be helpful. The current Usher leaders will finish in August. We can assist with training if needed through August. This is a time for members wanting to serve Dayspring on Sunday mornings to step up. For more information email Pastor Shirley or call the church office at (480) 838-1446.

HELP US WITH OUR ONLINE SERVICES

Livestream production volunteers are needed to help with both the audio and video production of our services. Help us bring our services into the homes of those who can’t attend in person. No experience is needed, but comfort with technology and the ability to handle a fast-paced environment is important. Please email Kris with questions or to join the team!