Microplastics removal
On Sunday, July 28, all are welcome to visit with members of Unitarian Universalists of DeLand to learn about microplastics. These persistent organic pollutants are known to accumulate in the bodies of living things — including humans!
Ahmed Eldeeb, an Egyptian-American youth activist, upcoming Harvard University student, researcher and author of the children’s book Laila’s Toolbox, will discuss methods to remove microplastics from our environment.
Unitarian Universalists are an inclusive, freethinking, faith community, where all are welcome as everyone learns and searches together for truth.
1st Christian Church activities
First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of DeLand welcomes the Rev. Thomas Messick as the guest speaker for the Sunday, July 28, worship service. He is married to the Rev. Sandy Messick, Disciples of Christ regional minister.
Tom Messick has become a supply minister and comes to various Florida Disciple churches when called upon.
At 9:30 a.m. Sundays, there is an adult Sunday-school class. “Expectant Watchfulness,” based on Psalm 130, is the topic for July 28. This psalm allowed worshippers to move from despair to confidence in God’s saving work.
First Christian’s outreach ministry will be at the Mayor’s Backpack Giveaway 8-10 a.m. Saturday, July 27, at Earl Brown Park.
Other church outreach includes housing Voloria Manning’s Temple Learning Center Camp until it ends Friday, Aug. 9. The church is part of the BreakSpot Summer Children’s Food Program, with breakfast 8:15-9 a.m. Monday-Friday, and lunch noon-1 p.m. through Aug. 9. Coordinating this program are Edna Cortes, Emma Hille, Amanda Manske, Jane Price and Stephanie Wilson.
The first Tuesday of every month, First Christian provides the 5 p.m. dinner at The Bridge emergency shelter on South Palmetto Avenue in DeLand. The volunteers for this outreach are Sue Brague, Jen Brennan, Jill and Greg Carroll, Vicki Dean, Dusty Going and Liz Kowalski. Bill Anderson and AdventHealth Fish Memorial support this outreach.
God’s greatest desire, our greatest need
On Sunday, July 28, the Rev. Donna McClellan will bring a message from Psalm 14 to the congregation of First Presbyterian Church of DeLand. Psalm 14 is a tender prayer for the Ephesians from the apostle Paul, who communicates his greatest desire for God’s people.
What does God want from us as God’s covenant people? And how does God enable us to live out the life God created us to live?
We will explore these concepts as we gather together during one worship service beginning at 10:30 a.m.
Following worship, we will enjoy fellowship during a potluck lunch. The church will provide the main dish and drinks. Attendees are encouraged, but not required, to bring a side dish to share.
On Saturday, Aug. 10, God’s Bathhouse welcomes those in need of hygiene support at 9 a.m. in the church courtyard. Kind volunteers offer help with private showers, clean towels, clothing needs and hygiene items.
August Pop-Up Events – First Pres DeLand will continue to POP-UP around town during the month of August for fun and fellowship.
Back-to-School Blessings – All students and teachers beginning the 2024-25 school year are invited to attend First Pres DeLand at 9 a.m. or 11 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 11, for a special blessing to celebrate the hope and excitement of a new school year. Bring a backpack to be blessed also.
Living a life with meaning
The congregation of Mosaic Unitarian Universalist will continue its Summer Sharing Series of roundtable-style services online at 11 a.m. Sunday, July 28. This Sunday, the congregation will explore the subject of a life with meaning.
Here are some questions to ponder before everyone gathers: What is bringing your life meaning right now? How would you live this day if you thought it might be your last?
Facilitator Deanna Leary will guide everyone through the discussion. Please consult the Religion Directory to learn how to take part. All are welcome.
‘God on Your Side’
At First Church DeLand, we are enjoying the series “The Psalms of Summer.” On Sunday, July 28, Pastor Mark Bitner’s sermon title will be “God on Your Side.”
With God on our side, who can harm us? There is no power greater, no force more capable than God. Who created the earth and heavens above? Who created you and me? The Lord did in His majestic authority. Such a masterful force walks with us during our daily routine, assisting us at every turn, if we ask. God is capable of making all things right.
The Small Group Wednesday Bible Study will continue to meet through the summer, studying the Book of Daniel, 6-7 p.m. in Room 113 in the Life Enrichment Center. All are welcome!
