For the Week of November 15, 2020 |
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Our Worship Focus This Week |
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Stewardship Series, Part 1: Storing Up
The NIV Stewardship Bible describes biblical stewardship as “God’s ownership of and dominion (authority) over all things seen and unseen….biblical stewardship, at its core, is always about managing someone else’s stuff….we are God’s managers.”
So how do we fulfill our responsibility as God’s managers? Interestingly, God’s way for us to “manage” His stuff is to enjoy it, even while we use it. And the only way to actually enjoy God’s material bounty is not to treat it as the treasure, but to respond to the One who gives it as the real treasure!
Over the next two Sundays, we will discover that stewardship is part “Storing up…” (November 15), and part “Giving away…” (November 22); just like two sides of a coin. Remember, both sides of the coin are equally important. And depending on your relationship with the coin, either the coin will own you, or you will own the coin. True biblical stewardship shows you the best (and only) way to define your possessions and how to relate to them. Over the next two weeks we will consider two gospel images that Jesus uses to show how to choose wisely.
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This Week's Scripture: Matthew 6:19-24 |
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The Message
“Don’t hoard treasure down here where it gets eaten by moths and corroded by rust or—worse!—stolen by burglars. Stockpile treasure in heaven, where it’s safe from moth and rust and burglars. It’s obvious, isn’t it? The place where your treasure is, is the place you will most want to be, and end up being.
“Your eyes are windows into your body. If you open your eyes wide in wonder and belief, your body fills up with light. If you live squinty-eyed in greed and distrust, your body is a dank cellar. If you pull the blinds on your windows, what a dark life you will have!
“You can’t worship two gods at once. Loving one god, you’ll end up hating the other. Adoration of one feeds contempt for the other. You can’t worship God and Money both.
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"It Feels So Good to be Back in Our Worship Spaces!" |
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That was a common sentiment of those who attended our first indoor worship services since March. There was good energy, and it was so good to see one another in familiar spaces, albeit with numerous necessary adaptations to keep everyone safe.
DUMC leaders recognize that not everyone will feel comfortable attending services in person at this time and urge you to do what feels right to you. But when you are ready, we are eager to welcome you. (Online services continue to be available, and we anticipate live broadcasting all three services in the not-too-distant future.)
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Pictured above: Sounds of Faith leads worship at the 9:00 am Contemporary Service on November 8.
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Three In-Person Worship Services |
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9:00 am
Contemporary Worship
Sanctuary
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10:30 am
Liturgical Worship
Sanctuary
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11:11 am
Word & Worship
Worship & Youth Center
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DUMC leaders are excited to welcome you back into our indoor worship spaces
for three different styles of worship*.
With the continuing presence of the coronavirus, we know this must be done carefully, and we know that not everyone will be comfortable with in-person services, so we invite you to join us however you feel most comfortable. (See Health Connections, below, for more details.)
Each Monday you will receive an email with links for you to register online (preferred).
People without email may call the church office during business hours.
Seating is limited.**
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Registration will be needed each week
Registrations are accepted from 9:00 am Monday through Friday noon.
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*Watch future issues of Connections for an announcement from Pastor Paul about the start of Fusion (youth worship).
**For your safety, seating is limited in each of our worship areas. Walk-ins can only be accommodated on a limited basis. Overflow seating during the 11:11 service will be available in Overholt Hall. We are in the process of installing cameras in the Sanctuary and hope to have overflow seating available for the 9:00 am Contemporary Service by the end of November.
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Two Online Services Continue to be Available
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Liturgical Worship
Online
Sunday at 8:30 am
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Recording can be viewed at your leisure after 10:00 am.
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11:11 Word & Worship
Online
Sunday at 11:11 am
Please note time change to 11:11!
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Recording can be viewed at your leisure
after 1:00 pm.
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Scattered geographically, but worshiping together by God's Spirit
Statistics from November 8, 2020 worship services
- 113 views* of Online Liturgical Services
- 131 views* of Online11:00 am Word & Worship Service, led by Power of Grace
- 31 people attended the 9:00 am Contemporary Service
- 39 people attended the 10:30 am Liturgical Service
- 33 people attended the 11:11 am Word & Worship Service
Over 347 total people worshiped in DUMC services on November 8, 2020.
*A view represents 1 or more people worshiping on a single device
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Health Connections
by Laurie Lewis, RN, Minister of Visitation
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The Fall Surge
As we become more relaxed about living with the coronavirus, the numbers of infections are rising. Masks are the most important infection control protection we can use. “Your mask protects me; my mask protects you.” As we move activities indoors, masks are even more important. It may feel awkward to wear a mask at a family gathering, but one person may be carrying the virus without any symptoms and could, potentially, infect the rest of their extended family.
Thanksgiving is coming—one of the most travelled holidays of the year. The CDC is recommending we forego gathering for a meal with extended family unless it can be done outside. Here in Bucks County it’s a little chilly for picnics at the end of November!
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The mission of DUMC’s Kingdom Growth Committee is to work diligently to grow God’s Kingdom through inspiring others to leverage the three T’s (Time, Talent and Treasure) in appreciation for all God has done for us. His wish for us is to be His servants here on earth, drawing others to Him through the example we set as good Christian stewards.
When George and Ana Maria Witter came to DUMC, they were looking for ways in which their faith could be utilized and impact the community…more than just handing in a check at each Sunday’s service. More importantly, they found that DUMC provided outlets for service that deepen their faith and help them grow as Christians. DUMC’s servant-led approach attracted them like a magnet. At last they found a church where people actively participated in God’s vision, through service, self-sacrifice and a deepening of their own spiritual awareness and beliefs. The Witters dove in with both feet: small group participation, Bible study, Feed My Sheep, Missions, Staff Parish Resource committee, the Vine, the Peach Festival and many other activities where their contributions not only helped others but helped them grow closer to God.
Where do you fit into His vision? How do you answer His call? What more can each of us do? Consider the following:
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(Time) Talk to those you disagree with…seek common ground on which to build friendships
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(Talent) Volunteer to serve on a DUMC committee
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(Treasure) Support the Pastors' Discretionary Fund through your Mission giving this month
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November Mission of the Month - Pastors' Discretionary Fund |
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PLEASE CONTRIBUTE TO NOVEMBER’S MISSION:
PASTORS’ DISCRETIONARY FUND (PDF)
Ministering to those in need
in the Doylestown area
A Little Goes A Long Way!
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Christmas Gift Card Giving 2020 |
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Christmas is coming!
In the past many of you contributed gifts through the Children's Giving Tree Project (that benefited Methodist Services in Philadelphia) and donated gift cards for Lenape Valley Foundation and A Woman's Place.
Due to the pandemic, the need is even greater. Here's how you can help these same important ministries meet their needs this year.
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Christmas Gift Card Giving 2020: |
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We are collecting $25 gift cards
by November 30
for Walmart * Target * Giant * ACME * Amazon
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To give, please mail your $25 gift card(s) to the church (320 East Swamp Road, Doylestown, PA 18901), noting “CHRISTMAS” on the envelope OR drop off at the church office. You may designate which program you would like your card(s) to support, if you would like. Your generosity will bring light and care to those in need during the Christmas season. Thank you! |
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Click on each logo above to read more about these worthy ministries. |
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A Woman's Place Holiday Mom Shop – Donations Needed! |
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While we are sad that we are unable to safely host a Holiday Party this year, we are working with A Woman's Place (AWP) to provide gifts for a “Mom Shop” so the children can still experience the joy of picking gifts for their mothers.
AWP is a domestic violence community benefit organization in Bucks County. AWP has provided the community with free, private, confidential, and comprehensive shelter, service, support, advocacy, outreach, training, and education to victims of domestic violence and their children for close to 40 years.
This year we will be collecting items for children to select holiday gifts for their mothers from the "Mom Shop". If you'd like to donate items for children to choose from, the following items would be appreciated:
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- Jewelry
- Perfume, Lotion, Bath Gel
- Toiletry Gift Sets
- Christmas Ornaments
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- Scarves/Gloves/Hats
- Socks/Slippers
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Gift Bags (no wrapping paper)
- Tissue Paper
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A tote clearly marked “Mom Shop Donations” will be at the “parking lot” entrance to the church. We will begin collecting gifts on Sunday, November 15 and will end Wednesday, December 9.
Thank you for your continuing support in making this “special event” for the children a success. If you have questions, please email Rhelda Richards. |
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Christmas Casting Call!
Hark! Calling all kids (and a parent, grandparent or two) who want to “star” in our first Digital Christmas Pageant—a production of Do Not Be Afraid, a nativity story by Illustrated Ministry.
We are also looking for musical families and folks to pre-record some Christmas hymns to add to the spirit of the storytelling.
How to participate:
- Have a heart for Christmas and a spirit for creative fun.
- Have a phone or recording device or know someone who does, so you can submit your part to us OR be able to attend one or two staggered, socially distant filming sessions at DUMC.
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Click on this Sign-up Genius link to see which parts are available—including songs!
- Once you’ve signed-up, you’ll receive more information about how to complete your part.
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Questions? Ideas? Want to help beyond what’s listed? Email Amanda Mandia: AMandia@doylestownumc.com or Laura Siegle: attylms@gmail.com
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Please don’t forget to drop off the Thanksgiving craft by November 20 to our front office area (there will be a box on the sign-in tables). These will bring so much joy to our senior communities who may not have the gift of family or children this Thanksgiving. Your kids can feel free to write a note or draw a picture on the back of them.
***If your craft kit seems incomplete, please email Amanda Mandia and we can fix that. : ) |
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Sign up today for our 2020/21 DUMC Kids’ Programs
Along with Kids’ Messages, your registration will make sure that your family is receiving information about our special events and updates as the year unfolds.
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Elevation
Sunday, November 15, 2020
Middle School Elevation (grades 7-9): 4:00-5:15 pm
High School Elevation (grades 9-12): 5:30-6:45 pm
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This week at Elevation, we will be looking at two verses penned by the Apostle Paul: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 and 1 Thessalonians 5:20. When combined/summarized, these two verses tell us to give thanks in “everything always.” The Apostle Paul had many difficult circumstances he had to overcome. His life serves as an example to us for how we are to live our lives as followers of Jesus. No matter what life throws our way, it is vital that we remember to be thankful in “everything always” because Jesus is there to love us and to make beauty come out of the good times as well as the bad.
We will also be playing a group game, having small group time, and watching our always-hilarious STUPID VIDEO OF THE WEEK!!!
All aspects of our in-person Elevation meetings will incorporate our largest meeting spaces, proper social distancing, hand sanitizing stations, and mask-wearing.
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Divorce Care Fall Semester
Mondays, 7:00-9:00 pm at DUMC in Room 2
Socially distanced; masks are required
Information and online registration option can be found at DivorceCare.org. Contact Debbie Schultheiss with questions or to register: Email: Debbie Schultheiss; Phone: 215-348-5224
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Grief Share Fall Semester
Thursdays, 7:00-9:00 pm at DUMC in Room 2
Socially distanced; masks are required
Information and online registration option can be found at GriefShare.org. To sign up, please contact Becky Van Dine by Email or phone 215-813-7436.
GriefShare Coordinators: Becky Van Dine, Betsy Bishop, Donna Harrison
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DUMC Preschool Available Openings Now! |
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We have 2 new classes opening in January!
Our preschool programs
offer your child
a nurturing, safe,
and fun learning environment!
Register today!
2-Day Preschool class for 3 year olds and
3-Day Kindergarten Readiness class for 4 year olds
Your child will experience:
- Acceptance and belonging in a group situation
- Age-appropriate activities designed to engage and challenge
- A sense of comfort with school routines and environment
- Extending the circle of trust in separation from parents
Please call Karen Borghi or Ann Kennedy at 215-345-9775
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Join the Wesley Class Adult Bible Study
LIVE on Zoom
Every Sunday at 9:15 am for fellowship, Bible study, and discussion.
(Please note change of time!)
Beginning Sunday, November 29, Jim Dowling will lead the Wesley Class in a four-part Advent series, Incarnation, with Adam Hamilton.
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The DUMC Book Group meets on the fourth Sunday of every month. Currently we meet via Zoom. New members are always welcome. To learn more about the group contact Judy Coleman at 215-345-0797. Our next meeting on Sunday, November 22 at 7:00 pm, where we will discuss the book, How to be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi. The December 27, 2020 selection will be Year of Living Biblically by A. J. Jacobs.
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Next Blood Drive
Doylestown United Methodist Church - Overholt Hall
Tuesday, December 1, 2020, 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm
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Caring for Friends will be assembling meals on Wednesday, November 20, at 12:30 pm in the church kitchen. All are welcome to contribute items and/or help assemble meals. The meal will include pork tenderloin, mashed potatoes, and vegetables.
Please contact Beth Fitz at 215-601-8748 for more information. Thanks so much for your consideration!
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Did you pick up your Pictorial Directories yet? If you had your picture taken for it, we have a copy for you. How do you get it?
Monday to Friday or Sunday mornings: You can pick up your copy at the church between 9-11 am and 12-2 pm. They will be located on the counter outside the main church office in the Narthex (in last name alphabetical order).
People who did not have their pictures taken are welcome to an updated contact directory with information for the congregation.
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Hymn Stories: What a Friend We Have in Jesus |
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This second in a series of four hymn stories tells how Joseph M. Scriven came to pen the words to the beloved hymn, What a Friend We Have in Jesus.
Many thanks to the following people:
- Our singers: Donna Dickie, Kathy Kugel, Roger Dean, and Pastor Sunil Balasundaram
- Our organist: Barbara Tull
- Our producer: Courtney Eickman
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Encouragement for the Week Ahead |
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Revolving Piano Duet
1 piano, 4 pianists, and 8 songs
Pianists are Jonathan Montgomery, Natalie Raynes, Tracy Jones, and Doug Raynes
Hymns include: 1) Power in the Blood 2) Standing on the Promises 3) When we all get to Heaven 4) Are you Washed in the Blood 5) Since Jesus Came into my Heart 6) Oh I Want to see Him 7) My Sins are Gone and 8) When the Saints go Marching in
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Build My Life
By Pat Barrett
Enjoy this preview of a new song that
Sounds of Faith will be leading this week!
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Want to connect with a staff member?
While most of us are busily working remotely, we are still available to you.
Please feel free to reach out to us!
General office hours for staff who have offices in the building:
Sean Smith, Facilities Manager: Monday to Friday, 9-11am and 12-2 pm
John Bechtel, Business Administrator: Tuesdays, 9 am-1 pm and Wednesdays, 9 am-2 pm
Amanda Mandia, Director of Children's Ministries: Wednesdays 9 am-1:30 pm
Pastor Paul, Pastor of Student Ministries : Thursdays, 9 am-12 pm
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We are also available in other ways or by appointment at other times:
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Call us - phone: 215-348-5224 (phones are answered Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm)
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Email us (click on name above to email)
- Call or email us to make an appointment
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- Online Liturgical Service - 8:30 am
- In-person Contemporary Service (Sanctuary) - 9:00 am
- In-person Liturgical Service (Sanctuary) - 10:30 am
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In-person and online Word & Worship (Worship & Youth Center) - 11:11 am
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Middle School Elevation (grades 7-9): 4:00-5:15 pm
High School Elevation (grades 9-12): 5:30-6:45 pm
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Pampered by Grace
6:30 pm via Zoom
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Caring for Friends
12:30 pm in the kitchen
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- Online Liturgical Service - 8:30 am
- In-person Contemporary Service (Sanctuary) - 9:00 am
- In-person Liturgical Service (Sanctuary) - 10:30 am
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In-person and online Word & Worship (Worship & Youth Center) - 11:11 am
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DUMC Book Club
7:00 pm via Zoom
See above for more information.
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Connecting with Connections
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Connections!
NOTE: The deadline for contributions to Connections is Monday noon.
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If you have any family members or friends who would like to receive our eNewsletter, please click below to add their contact information, and we will be sure to include them. We want all of you to be a part of our new eNewsletter, Connections!
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Doylestown United Methodist Church
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320 East Swamp Road
Doylestown, PA 18901
Main number: 215-348-5224
Worship Service Hotline:
267-245-7870
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