YOUR CHURCH’S NEWSLETTER * Tuesday, April 29, 2025
Dear Friends in the Faith,
Grace and peace to each of you. On Monday evening, April 28, your Church Council gathered for a spirit-filled and productive meeting. We tried a new meeting format that prioritized immediate and future action with intercessory and worship of Our Lord.
In the absence of our Chairperson Bob Van Cura due to a family emergency (with his brother Bill being taken to hospice) and Secretary Janet Hinchee (due to a family vacation), I was honored to serve as both acting chair and acting secretary with the Council’s support.
As always, Church Council meetings remain open to all members on the 4th Monday of most months at 7 pm in the Church Chapel. We were pleased to welcome Certified Lay Minister Rosemary Plummer as a guest.
I have attached the meeting minutes and the SPRC special announcement about Amanda Green’s appointment as our Associate Pastor.
Here are the key actions your Council took:
• Worship Alignment: Council unanimously approved holding a single, unified 10:00 AM worship service on every fifth Sunday and the Sunday after Christmas, beginning August 31, 2025, through June 2026. This change aims to build unity and celebration across all services.
• Choral Scholars Program: We approved the creation of a Choral Scholars Program to support young musicians, pending funding approval by the Endowment Committee on June 4.
• Scholarship Awards: Four $2,500 scholarships were awarded to Amanda Green, Sari Harman, Peyton Hyland, and Jessa Talton, based on recommendations from the scholarship committee. These will be celebrated in worship on May 18.
• Charge Conference Scheduled: A Charge Conference will be held Monday, May 19 at 6:30 PM in the Chapel, with a brief Church Council session to follow at 7 pm for the sole purpose of approving the pastoral compensation of our incoming Associate Pastor, Amanda Green. This is an important step in our shared governance as a United Methodist local church.
• Summer Meeting Schedule: The Council voted to suspend regular meetings in June and July, unless urgent matters arise that require action via email.
• Finance and Audit: The 2024 audit was received with no exceptions, and the March 2025 financial report was approved, reflecting strong stewardship and a positive year-to-date balance.
These decisions reflect a continued commitment to spiritual growth, financial integrity, and vibrant worship. I invite you to continue praying for the ministry of our church, especially as we prepare for the Charge Conference and Amanda Green’s transition into her new pastoral role.
By the way, I have 9 spots left on the church bus for anyone who would like to ride to the Bishop’s Gathering on Tuesday, March 6th at 1 pm in Melbourne. We will leave from the 6th Avenue parking lot at 10:30 am.
With gratitude for your faithful witness,
Pastor David
The Lake Concert Band performed on April 27 and delighted the audience with its diverse music and talented musicians.
The grand opening of the new Lake Cares facility is Monday, May 5 at 10:00 am at 4500 N. 19A in Mount Dora. To attend, RSVP to rhaffner@LakeCares.org.
A heartfelt message from the Florida Conference Treasurer awaits! Click on the newsprint above to read the inspiring thank-you note to our church.
BAREFOOT! Join us every Wednesday from 6-8 PM for sixth to twelfth graders. Worship, singing, games, Bible study and stories.
Our Teacher Appreciation breakfast at Triangle Elementary is Wednesday, May 7 at 7:15 am. If you would like to bake breakfast breads or donate cut fruit, please contact the church office.
Celebrating the Voices of Tomorrow
Every great achievement begins with a spark—a dream, a vision, a belief in the power of possibility. As we recognize the outstanding scholarship applicants, we honor more than just their essays; we celebrate their aspirations, their perseverance, and the incredible potential they bring to the world. Each essay represents a unique story, a testament to resilience, creativity, and the unwavering pursuit of knowledge.
These scholars have poured their hearts and minds into words, shaping ideas that inspire change, challenge perspectives, and ignite hope. Their journeys are proof that dedication and passion create a foundation for success. We look forward to the awards on Sunday, May 18th, let us applaud their courage in sharing their voices, knowing that today’s dreams will shape tomorrow’s reality.
Today, we are honored to share Peyton Hyland’s inspiring and uplifting essay. Peyton, thank you for allowing us to feature your thoughtful words—it’s a privilege to highlight your voice.
Mark your calendars for an unforgettable afternoon of style and flavor! On May 27 at 12 noon, join us for a Thrift Store Fashion Show and Salad Luncheon. Admission is unique and meaningful—simply bring new women’s underwear or socks to donate. It’s fashion with a purpose!
For more details, feel free to reach out to the church office. Don’t miss this fabulous event that celebrates giving in style!
VBS Trainings:
Sunday Lunch: May 18th 12pm Wednesday Afternoon: May 21st 4:30pm
Come to one of the two training sessions listed above.
Pastor Amanda Green
Our mission trip to Forest Home, Belize is October 4 to 11, 2025. The trip may include painting the Methodist elementary school, an after-school program at the school, and relationship building. The estimated cost of the trip is $2,000 per person. If you are interested in going, please talk with Janet Westlake. A $200 deposit must be paid by May 31. A brief informational meeting is Sunday, May 5 at 10:30 am in Friendship Hall.
ITALY
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.
OR
Embark on an Adventure of a Lifetime – EGYPT 2026!
Discover the wonders of Egypt and the unforgettable experiences awaiting you. Join us for an inspiring presentation on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at 4:00 PM in Friendship Hall. Dive into the details of this incredible journey and learn how you can be part of it! Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to explore the land of ancient mysteries and timeless treasures.
FUMC MT DORA EXERCISE
🎶Move & Groove, Feel Alive!
(Verse 1)Stretch a little, sway a bit, keep those joints from feeling stiff! Step by step, nice and slow, Feel the energy start to grow!
(Chorus)Move & groove, feel alive! Strength and balance help you thrive! Gentle moves, healthy heart, Every step’s a brand-new start!
(Verse 2)Roll your shoulders, lift your chin, let that joy come rushing in! Breathe in deep, let stress go, Feel the wellness start to flow!
(Chorus)Move & groove, feel alive! Strength and balance help you thrive! Gentle moves, healthy heart, Every step’s a brand-new start!
🎶
Join our exercise class which meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 9:00 am in Friendship Hall. No fees, no floorwork—just FUN, and fitness! Spread the word!
