I am pleased to share some good news from our Staff-Parish Relations Committee. We have hired Kristen Flint as our new bookkeeper. Kristen is a hardworking young woman who recently completed her accounting program at Lake Technical College. She brings with her valuable experience from the restaurant industry and a grounded faith shaped by her time attending Adventure Christian Church in Grand Island, Florida. Kristen also grew up in our local area, which makes her presence here feel all the more like a homecoming.
One of the most beautiful aspects of Kristen’s onboarding has been watching Debbie Sprague pass along her wisdom, gained from serving our church faithfully in various staff roles over the past 20 years. It is a holy sight to witness different generations working side by side, learning from one another. In a world where many communities and families are becoming increasingly fragmented, God is using our church to foster genuine intergenerational fellowship.
You’ll have another opportunity to experience that this Sunday at 1:45 p.m. in Friendship Hall, where we’ll host a family-friendly showing of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.” Invite your friends and neighbors, especially those with young children! Belle herself will be present for photos, autographs, and warm smiles. This joyful gathering will also mark the final Sunday of our “Summer at the Movies” worship series.
The following Sunday, we’ll begin a new series from the Gospel of Luke, focusing on what Jesus can teach us today. As your pastor, I find great value in the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). The RCL is a structured cycle of Scripture readings used by Christians worldwide over a three-year cycle. Far from limiting, I find this framework creatively freeing, like a painter working with a canvas. It connects us to the global church, encompassing Lutherans, Presbyterians, Roman Catholics, and many non-denominational communities, all of whom walk this shared journey through scripture.
Jesus himself read from an assigned text in the synagogue when he unrolled the scroll of Isaiah and declared, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me… to bring good news to the poor” (see Luke 4:16-21). In that spirit, let us continue to seek and share the Good News in every season.
Lastly, many of us are watching the unfolding events in the Middle East with concern and a prayerful heart. I invite you to join me in praying for peace, not only for the world, but within our hearts. Our bishop, Bishop Tom Berlin, recently offered the following powerful prayer, which I leave with you as a benediction and call to hope:
Click above for details on the Celebration of Life services for Betty Ellen Clendinnen, beloved mother of Carol Clendinnen. Please keep Carol and the entire Clendinnen family in your prayers during this time of loss.
Since 2017, our church congregation has been blessed to sponsor Anne, a young orphan in Haiti. Through this connection, we’ve watched her grow and felt the joy of sharing God’s love across borders. Now, as Haiti faces heartbreaking conflict and uncertainty, we lift Anne, the people of Haiti, and the work of Compassion International in our prayers. Please join us in asking for safety, strength, and hope to surround them all.
(Anne in 2017 at the age of 4)
Isaiah 54:10 – “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken… says the Lord, who has compassion on you.”
(Anne in 2025 at the age of 12)
Get Ready for Two Incredible Footprints Events!
June 30th, 9am-5pm July 21st, 9am-5pm – Full-Day Camp Adventures! We’re bringing the energy with a day packed full of fun, activities, and connection right here on campus! Plus, we’ll be joining the Singing Saints for a special time of music, followed by a delicious lunch outing. Don’t miss this full-day experience! Click below to register.
July 30– Footprints Gathering 6 to 8 PM! Join us for an evening of summer fun. It’s the perfect way to stay connected and inspired! Mark your calendars and come be a part of the excitement!
Advance registration is required. If you have any questions, please email Wendy Lee at: wendy.lee@zoeempowers.org” style=”mso-line-height-rule: exactly;-ms-text-size-adjust: 100%;-webkit-text-size-adjust: 100%;color: #007C89;font-weight: normal;text-decoration: underline;”>wendy.lee@zoeempowers.org.
Join us for a time of fellowship on Sundays:
9:00 to 9:30 in the conference room (Sanctuary door behind the piano)
10:30 to 11:00 in Friendship Hall
The Widowed support group will meet Thursday, June 26 at 9:30 am in the chapel.
SUMMER AT THE MOVIES
Join us Sunday, June 29th at 1:45 PM in Friendship Hall for a magical afternoon as we present Beauty and the Beast! But that’s not all—Belle herself will be there in person for a special meet-and-greet before the movie begins for autographs, photos, and smiles included!
Plus, enjoy FREE popcorn, candy, and soft drinks! Bring the whole family and come make memories fit for a fairytale! 🌹
Join the Fun at the Mount Dora Parade!
Help spread summer cheer at the July 4th parade at 10 AM! We need volunteers to pass out Flavor-Ice and keep the crowd cool.
Theme: Aloha vibes! Wear a Hawaiian shirt or grab a red Living Love shirt from the office. Extras: Leis provided at 9 AM in the Grandview parking lot. Support Needed: Flavor-Ice donations welcome!
Let’s bring lots of joy, and a little frozen fun to Mount Dora! Sign up today!
Help us keep our 4th of July Parade Cool & Colorful! We’re looking for donations of Flavor-Ice to hand out during the July 4th parade! If you can contribute a box (or more), you’ll be spreading love this Independence Day. Drop-offs welcome at the church office or reach out to Janet. Mahalo!
Get ready to shout BINGO!
Come one, come all for an evening of fun! Whether you’re new to the church family or a longtime member, this is your chance to laugh, mingle, and make memories.
🕖 When:Friday, July 18, 2025 @ 6:00 PM 📍 Where: Friendship Hall 🎟️ Admission:Absolutely FREE!
Bring your favorite finger foods or snacks to share—and don’t forget to bring a friend or neighbor along for the fun!
Games, conversation, and maybe even a surprise or two await…
RSVP today by clicking the Baked Goods Bingo Night banner above, or filling out your Connect Card in your Sunday bulletin.
We can’t wait to see you there!
Special Film Presentation: A Fighting Spirit – A Combat Chaplain’s Journey Join us for an inspiring true story of faith, courage, and sacrifice.
Two Showings Only! Saturday, July 19 at 6:00 PM – Chapel Sunday, July 20 at 1:30 PM – Chapel
Follow the powerful journey of a chaplain serving on the frontlines—bringing hope to soldiers in the most difficult moments of their lives. This moving documentary captures the deep resilience and unwavering faith that sustain those who minister in the heart of conflict.
Whether you’ve served, know someone who has, or simply seek a deeper understanding of spiritual strength under fire, this film will leave a lasting impact.
Bring a friend. Come be inspired.
Our Back to School Bash is Saturday, July 26 from 11:00am to 1:00pm. Lawn games and activities, and free giveaways.Our Back to School Bash is Saturday, July 26 from 11:00 to 1:00. We need:
Spanish speakers
Barbers who will volunteer their time
School supplies to use as carnival prizes
If you know anyone, please contact the church office. Come prepare for the school year ahead!
Embark on an unforgettable and exciting journey with Pastor David on the Biblical Backgrounds in Italy pilgrimage, November 1-11, 2025! For more details about this incredible experience, email Pastor David at david@mtdorafumc.orgor call the church office.
