Looking at the Book of Psalms
The Rev. Carlos Perez of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of DeLand is presenting the Book of Psalms for the 10:45 a.m. Sunday services in August and September.
Some may consider the Psalms as the ancient prayer book of the people of God, but it is an everyday prayer book for us as well. The Psalms provide a framework of prayers that extend to various emotions, experiences and situations. There are Psalms for when things are going well and for when things aren’t going that well; for times of celebration and for times of despair and pain.
The Psalms help us to understand that we can genuinely come before God’s presence no matter what. The Psalms can help us connect with God and with one another. Come join the members of the church for a closer look.
NEW OFFICERS — DeLand Assembly #31, International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, had their semiannual installation of officers Aug. 10. This term focuses on branching out from within and into the community. The Assembly will be supporting Rescue Me, Rescue U Inc. by collecting items to provide to the nonprofit service-animal training academy. Officers, from left, include August – Chaplain; Ryleigh – Charity; Rachel, GWA – Worthy Advisor; Penny – Faith; Azra – Worthy Associate Advisor; Rachel – Hope; and Sophia – Service. The International Order of the Rainbow for Girls is a nonprofit youth organization for girls ages 11-20, focusing on leadership, service and sisterhood. For more information, visit www.gorainbow.org or email deland31fliorg@gmail.com.
Mary and Jesus in the Qur’an: Signs for the Worlds
On Sunday, Aug. 25, at 10:30 a.m., all are welcome at Unitarian Universalists of DeLand to learn from Heba Ismail about the holistic story of the Virgin Mary and beloved Jesus from the Qur’an, both chosen to be a “sign for the worlds” (43:61). Ismail will focus on how we can appreciate and relate to their humanity today, by discussing their devotion through despair, kindness through vulnerability, strength through humility, while having faith and trust in God, and constantly “loving their neighbors as themselves.” Both are role models of spiritual excellence in Christianity and Islam.
A physician, Ismail was born and raised in multicultural interfaith environments. A Muslim, she has a commitment to share her experience and appreciation of the spiritualities of Islam, Christianity and other faiths. She has a passion for inter-spiritual dialogue and the promotion of peace, awareness and unity.
‘Meals as Community’
First Church DeLand has begun the new series “Meals With Jesus.” On Sunday, Aug. 25, Pastor Mark Bitner’s sermon title will be “Meals as Community.”
Many times, Jesus sat down to eat at community meals. Whether tax collectors or a sinful woman were present, Jesus gave his love and forgiveness to all who wanted to be near Him. Some misunderstood when Jesus allowed Himself to be touched by a sinful woman.
The Pharisees did not understand that those in lower stations than themselves and those who were considered sinful, showed more respect and love to the Messiah than they did. The hearts of the sinners were open to receive His love and forgiveness, and even change their ways.
First Church DeLand is exploring the need for a new cancer support group to start this fall. This would be for anyone having cancer or someone who has a family member(s) and/or friend(s) fighting cancer. Call the church office at 386-734-5113 for more information or with questions. All are welcome.
Effective spiritual warfare!
At First Presbyterian Church of DeLand on Sunday, Aug. 25, the Rev. Donna McClellan will lead the monthly single service at 10:30 a.m. In her message, Pastor McClellan will propose an effective way to wage spiritual warfare.
How does the Christian believer of today contend with this most important yet invisible war against evil? What motivation drives us? The pastor will contemplate the powerful metaphor Paul writes, using the armor God has provided — the Mystery of the Gospel!
After the service, attendees break bread together at a potluck luncheon, and are encouraged, but it is not required, to bring a dessert or side dish to the kitchen before the service.
God’s Bathhouse will be 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 24, on the courtyard near the Mission Room. Volunteers will provide private showers, clean towels and clothing items, Manna Bags, refreshments and fellowship.
The last Pop-up gathering for August will be at 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 29, at Mr. Bill’s Donuts & Sandwiches in Downtown DeLand.
Presbyterian Women’s Circles begin meetings in September, with details online.
The innovative study “Making Sense of the Bible” by Adam Hamilton begins 4-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 28, and continues weekly through Nov. 13. Led by Bill and Cathy Campbell, this series will include open and honest conversations about history, questions and themes in the Bible. Email ccampbell@fpcdstff.org or call 386-734-0022 for registration and details.
What path are we on?
The congregation of Mosaic Unitarian Universalist, this Sunday, Aug. 25, will conclude the series on the pathway to membership with a discussion among participants. It will be conducted in a small-group ministry-style, as have most of the summer Sundays.
The following are some questions to ponder before we gather: Why bother with a spiritual community in the first place? What path am I on, and why do I follow it? What’s it do for me?
Facilitator Judy Raymond will guide everyone through the discussion. As always, everyone is welcome, and there is never any pressure on anyone to become a member of Mosaic! All are welcome.
