Save the date
Tickets are now on sale for an unforgettable evening of magic, fun and inspiration as renowned Christian illusionists David and Kylie Knight bring their highly acclaimed Family Fun Night Illusion Show to Stetson Baptist Church in DeLand at 6 p.m. Sunday, March 30. This family-friendly event promises to captivate audiences of all ages with jaw-dropping illusions, comedy and audience participation.
Tickets cost $5 per person and will include dinner from 4:30 to 5:45 p.m. People can register at https://churchteams.com/m/Register.asp?a=bjZjdTVMUFd5bU09.
But the easiest way to get tickets is to text the word “SHOW” to the church number 386-734-1991. That will send the registration link back to the phone number for registration.
The Ten Commandments: a closer look
All are invited to Unitarian Universalists of DeLand’s 10:30 a.m. service Sunday, March 9.
Much in the news of late, and very popular on the walls of public-school classrooms, the Ten Commandments are much more than meets the eye. It also seems as though many, despite the image of Charlton Heston coming down from Mount Sinai, don’t believe that it was written in stone!
Activist and educator Rabbi Merrill Shapiro will take a deeper dive into this most meaningful text. Shapiro is a past president of the National Board of Trustees of Americans United for Separation of Church and State (AU), and the founding president of the Atlantic Coast Florida Chapter of AU and chair of the board of directors of FlaglerLive.com.
Also, on March 9, is another Black History Class for all ages 2-4 p.m. at the UU.
‘Father Forgive Them’
Pastor Mark Bitner’s sermon title Sunday, March 9, at First Church DeLand is “Father Forgive Them.” This sermon is from the new series “Famous Last Words.”
Jesus was treated like a common criminal. He was later nailed to a cross and placed between two prisoners. He had committed no crime. What did he do?
Jesus shared His love by healing the afflicted and promised everlasting life for those who believed in Him. This kind, wise man spoke parables to teach about love and forgiveness. Yet, the people responded by committing an unthinkable act: They crucified Him.
As Jesus hung on the cross, slipping away, just before returning to His Father in heaven, He asked that the Lord forgive these ignorant people for the acts they were committing. What love! What compassion!
If we were about to succumb to this horrible form of punishment, would we even think about forgiving our adversaries? Maybe — or not likely. Let us appreciate what Jesus did for us and mirror His actions by being quick to forgive.
Come out to the Communitywide Baby Shower 10 a.m.-noon Saturday, March 8. All things cute and practical will be found for expectant mothers and new mothers. Representatives will be available from various organizations to assist the moms and offer information.
DeLand Quakers’ activities
DeLand Quakers have been actively advocating for the rights of all people in this area: low-income people, people of color, immigrants, whether documented or not, people in the LGBT+ community, the very young and elderly. Toward this end, they have packed food and health bags for the homeless, printed and distributed thousands of red ICE cards, distributed contact information for state and local elected officials, and participated in LGBT+ and BIPOC festivals.
DeLand Quakers are working with the Fighting Against Injustice Towards Harmony (FAITH) organization preparing for the Tuesday, March 25, Action Assembly. FAITH is a 501(c)(3) organization of 30 religious congregations in Volusia County. Though FAITH congregations differ in their racial makeup, socioeconomic status and theology, they stand united in their commitment to fulfill God’s call to “Do Justice.”
On Tuesday, March 11, the Zoom meeting will start with a short Quaker Speaks video from Friends Journal on “Quakers Combatting White Supremacy.” We will discuss how our testimonies speak concerning white supremacy and our work to resist it.
For more information about these events or the DeLand Quakers, email delandquakers@gmail.com or call 386-337-5204.
‘Navigating Difficult Conversations’
The congregation of Mosaic Unitarian Universalist meets online at 11 a.m. every Sunday. The March 9 service is titled “Navigating Difficult Conversations.”
In an era of division, how can we hold space for those with whom we profoundly disagree — politically, spiritually and ethically — without compromising our values?
Drawing on insights from Braver Angels and faith-based dialogue, Chuck Tyler will explore practical tools for engaging in difficult conversations with grace, courage and humility.
This sermon will offer a framework for listening deeply, speaking honestly and fostering connection, even when the divide feels unbridgeable.
Judy Raymond will be the service leader. Everyone is welcome!
‘Be Genuine’
The Rev. Carlos Perez of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of DeLand will deliver Sunday, March 9, the sixth sermon in the series “The Way of Jesus.” This sermon, “Be Genuine,” is from Matthew 6:1-18.
Jesus tells his disciples and followers to not do charitable deeds just to be seen. When fasting, anoint your head and wash your hands so only your Father in the secret place sees. Follow genuine praise and requests when you pray not in vain repetition.
Following the sermon, Chairman of the Elders Brenda Venezuela-Morales, with other elders, guides the congregation in Communion. Throughout worship, celebrated pianist Donald Valencia and song leader Dorothy Ashton will provide inspirational music to make a meaningful worship service.
Opportunities for charitable deeds and fellowship throughout the week include the Disciple Men’s Breakfast with Stephanie Wilson at 8 a.m. Saturday, March 8. There is no charge to attend. Call 386-734-6078 to make a reservation.
Help with or attend the Disciple Women’s bingo games at 7 p.m. Friday, March 14, for outreach giving. Coastal Choices Women’s Clinic in DeLand is designated as the recipient for the March proceeds.
Lent begins!
On Sunday, March 9, at First Presbyterian Church of DeLand, Associate Pastor Cassandra Riker will lead attendees as they embark on personal journeys through part of Mark’s Gospel toward Easter, beginning with Mark: 9-15.
Last week, on Ash Wednesday, we initiated this pilgrimage, and Pastor Riker’s sermon will direct our focus this Sunday on the significant need to pause! The Lenten devotional by Trevor Hudson, Pauses for Lent, is serving as the congregational guide for the 40 days.
Hudson writes, “Sometimes we all need to pause, to put life on hold for a few moments. The act of pausing can create space for God in our hectic lives.”
This Saturday, March 8, the Presbyterian Women have planned the important celebration called the “Birthday Offering Gathering,” held annually to provide grants for the group’s notable ministries. For an at-the-door cost of $5, guests can enjoy a delightful brunch buffet, an informative program, and quite delicious birthday cake. This annual event brings together all women: church members, circle members, friends and guests for an early spring renewal of spirit-filled fellowship.
Rummage Sale at UU of Ormond Beach
The always-popular, annual Rummage Sale featuring home goods, electronics, clothing, collectibles and art will be 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Friday, March 14, and Saturday, March 15, at Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Ormond Beach, 56 N. Halifax Drive.
Members of the congregation and friends have donated lightly used and new merchandise for the event. Free parking is available, and bargains abound! All proceeds benefit outreach programs serving the local community.
