Together, we are making God’s world more sustainable, peaceful, just, compassionate, and inclusive.
Dear Fellow Travelers on the Journey,
During these tumultuous days of seeking peace, I struggle. Do I watch the news? Do I not watch the news? What can I do to help others feel peace? How can I feel peace? Ease the pounding of my heart, O God! How can I regain Julian of Norwich’s message, “All shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well”?
Barbara Brown Taylor, a retired Episcopal Priest and author of many books, speaks in the April issue of SOJOURNERS magazine about “Finding the Beauty in Every Day”! Finding balance and the power of resurrection.
“To be holy is to keep one’s balance while the earth moves under our feet.”
BBT goes on to say, “I thought being grounded meant both feet flat on the ground. Then I realized every time I ground myself, I’m putting weight on this foot and then a little more on the other one. It’s about being flexible, adjustable, and movable when the ground’s moving. So that was a big relief. I could quit trying to be nailed, stably, on some kind of floor.”
As I type these words, Maverick, my cat, is right beside me – sometimes right on top of the keyboard! Maverick helps me to keep my balance. He quiets me, nurtures me, and requires me to sit in my chair so he can jump up on my lap. (He is 20 pounds, so I can’t lift him there!) God is so very present in Maverick that he calms my soul. Being grounded for me also during these days means reaching out to more people. Our new Compassionate Care Ministry provides ways to “Find the Good” – to serve others and be served when the need arises. (See Jacki’s article on page 31).
How are you “Finding Beauty in Every Day”? What brings you a sense of peace? How are you keeping your balance during chaos? I would love to know.
May we always seek to find “The Beauty in Every Day,”
Pastor Shirley
COMING THIS SUMMER: SAVING JESUS
Ever feel like Jesus has been taken hostage
by White Christian Nationalism?
Saving Jesus is a video-based series designed to free Jesus's life and message from the grip of the religious right and rediscover a faith grounded in compassion, justice, and relevance for the 21st century.
Join us on Sundays from 11 a.m. to Noon in Fellowship Hall beginning June 22 for this engaging and thoughtprovoking conversation. Pastors Jeff, Michael, and Shirley will guide the dialogue, drawing on insights from leading progressive voices, including Marcus Borg, Brian McLaren, Diana Butler Bass, Walter Brueggemann, John Dominic Crossan, Amy-Jill Levine, and Matthew Fox.
In addition, Pastors Jeff and Michael will preach a companion sermon series each week that ties in with the class theme, offering deeper re fl ection and connection during our Sunday celebrations.
June 22 Who Was Jesus?
June 29 (no class—Pastor Michael’s Graduation and Commissioning Celebration)
July 6 The World into Which Jesus Was Born
July 13 What Can We Know About Jesus (& How)?
July 20 Jesus’ Birth: Incarnation
July 27 Teachings of Jesus: Wisdom Tradition
Aug 3 Jesus’ Program: The Kingdom of God
Aug 10 Jesus’ Ministry of Compassion
Aug 17 Who Killed Jesus?
Aug 24 The Atonement
Aug 31 The Resurrection of Christ
Sept 7 Why Jesus Is Worth Saving
Come explore a credible, compelling vision of Jesus for our time in this congregation-wide study—grow in faith and build meaningful connections along the way. Watch a preview at vimeo.com/14832948
BORG
BUTLER BASS CROSSAN FOX McLAREN
BRUGGEMANN LEVINE
ADULT SUNDAY SCHOOL
The Exploring Contemporary Issues Class is going strong. We have a full Line-Up to encourage, intrigue, and challenge you. We usually have a short presentation and then ample time for discussion.
The upcoming schedule is as follows:
May 4 Pastor Mark will finish The Challenge of Jesus by looking at Jesus’ Resurrection.
May 11 John Dominic Crossan’s video presentation on “The Character of God?” The character of God, as portrayed in the Bible, may seem contrary to the norms of Christian behavior. For instance: 1.) Christians should be humble-- yet God wants to be worshiped; 2.) Christians shouldn’t covet-- yet God is a jealous God; 3.) Christians should be slow to anger-- yet God is portrayed as angry and vengeful; 4.) Christians should turn the other cheek-- yet one offense against God may be enough to send us to hell. Do these seem contradictory to the character of God?
May 18 We will have an open discussion on topics and ideas for this Fall and next year.
May 25 Memorial Day weekend — the Class goes dark for the Summer.
Please plan on joining us in the Palo Verde room for class at 9.00 a.m. (except 2nd Sundays… when we meet in Rm 112). All are welcome. If you have questions, comments, or suggestions, please email Pastor Mark at MnMhuntington@SBCglobal.net or call/text him at (949) 632-7904.
MONTHLY TAIZÉ SERVICE
May 19 and June 22 ~ 4:00 p.m. (Tempe)
Join us for our monthly Taizé Service at 4:00 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Step into a space of peace and stillness, where soft candlelight, simple chants, scripture, and silence create a gentle, reflective atmosphere. Rooted in the tradition of the Taizé Community in France, this contemplative service offers a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the presence of the Divine.
Taizé services are designed to be peaceful and spiritually nourishing, making them especially meaningful for anyone seeking quiet renewal in the midst of life’s busyness.
All are welcome—come as you are, and find rest for your soul.
VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
Vacation Bible School runs from 9:00-noon June 9-12. This year’s True North VBS will be full of the games, songs, activities, and snacks you love. We’ll take kids on an unforgettable Alaskan adventure, where they’ll explore how easy it is to lose sight of what’s true in our wild world today. Pointing them toward Jesus, True North VBS shows them he is a faithful friend we can always trust. Children must be three years old (and MUST be potty trained) through entering 6th grade.
Our VBS experience includes four days of VBS, games, activities, snacks, program supplies, and one set of VBS music per family. The program costs $40 for the first child in the immediate family and $30 for additional siblings.
Volunteers are always needed to help our week run smoothly. If you’re in middle school or older, we have a fun and rewarding job for you!
CHILDREN’S MINISTRY
First of all, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to our recent donation drives! Because of your generosity, we were able to providex over 1,100 toothbrushes, plus toothpaste and Home Food Bank with much-needed pet food, toys, and supplies. Your kindness continues to make a big difference in the lives of those in need!
We have some exciting things coming up at Dayspring. Mark your calendars for a very special Second Sunday on May 11, which also happens to be Mother’s Day. We invite you to a meaningful service and a fun time at Kids’ Church. May 7 marks the end of BeTween for the year. We will have an end-of-year party by the volleyball courts with treats and games.
Our last day of regular Sunday school will be May 18, and we’ll celebrate the end of the year with popsicles and a party. Please note that there will be no Sunday school on May 25 due to Memorial Day weekend. However, childcare will be available in room 116 for children ages eight and under. Starting June 1, we’ll kick off Summer Sunday School in room 206 for kids in kindergarten through 6th grade.
Don’t forget to register for True North VBS, which runs from June 9 to 12! It’s filling up fast, so don’t miss your chance to go on an Alaskan adventure while learning about Jesus. For more information or to register, go to dayspring-umc.org/vbs.
On a personal note, I want to share that I will be stepping down as Children’s Ministry Coordinator after VBS this year. Serving in this role and working with your children for the past three years has been an absolute honor. I’m so grateful for your constant support and encouragement. The Staff Parish Relations Committee is currently searching for the next person to lead the Children’s Ministry, and I’m confident they will find the right person for the position. That said, I’m not going anywhere –you’ll still see me around Dayspring. I will be transitioning into the role of Financial Secretary while continuing in my position as Administrative Coordinator.
Thank you again for all your support and generosity. I’m so blessed to be part of this incredible church family.
outdoor fun and soaking up the sun before it’s sizzling! During Sunday morning’s Formation class, the youth discussed Holy Week and Easter and doubted Thomas. We’ve discussed how it can be hard to believe without seeing things firsthand. Just as Thomas wanted to see and touch Jesus’s wounds to believe he had risen, we, too, sometimes want physical proof. We are thankful to have a community of youth who can speak together so openly and discover ideas and themes that help our faith evolve.
We had several outdoor events this month, the first being a Youth BBQ and games night on April 6th. The youth played volleyball, cornhole, pickleball, ax throwing (don’t worry, they are made out of foam!), basketball, Tetris, and more! Several of the youth were even roller skating around the parking lot! We are thankful for James Farley, who served as our Grill Master. Everyone was grateful for his expertise!
Next, several of our youth volunteered their time by clearing up a Dayspring member’s yard. They worked hard, learned some landscaping skills, and were treated to Starbucks afterward! We are always interested in helping our Dayspring family and extended family with various jobs. Please let us know if you could use our help!
Our final April event was a pool and taco party at the LaFave’s! Julie LaFave is our favorite hostess, and every time we’re there, everyone has a great time. The youth swam, played games, probably ate way too much, and laughed a
We’ve got lots of fun things coming up! We are looking forward to Confirmation Sunday on May 4. You won’t want to miss welcoming our newest Dayspring “official” members! On Sunday, May 11, you’ll get to hear the Dayspring Children and Youth choirs perform during service and some inspiring messages from our children and youth about their loved ones. Later that evening, the youth will celebrate their year-end party at Slick City Action Park.
Coming up June 9-12, we are looking forward to leading VBS. The youth serve as crew and station leaders and we always need more volunteers! If you’re interested in helping, please email Andrea at Andrea@Dayspring-umc.org.
Finally, our youth will depart on June 29 to San Diego, CA, for Sierra Service Project. Our youth are very excited for this meaningful experience where they build structures and community with those in need! If you would like to support these youth on this fairly expensive trip, please email youth@Dayspring-umc.org. Every little bit helps!
~Julie and Sam Weissberg Youth Ministries Coordinators youth@dayspringumc.org
MUSIC NOTES
Having spent six decades governed by academic schedules, I suppose it’s natural that the approach of summer signals a sort of ending to me, even though we’re in the midst of the church year. The end of the school year seems like a good moment to reflect on the musical riches of Dayspring and how grateful I am to be part of this community.
The strength and variety of Dayspring’s music program are evident on most any given Sunday. We have a robust adult choir that sings every week. We have a handbell choir led by the remarkably dedicated Cindy Van Vleet, a Cherub Choir led by the exceptional Grace Templeton, and Children and Youth Choirs under the tireless leadership of JulieAnne Weisberg. Those groups sing or play in services at least once each month. Our soloists, Emily Gibson, Megan Law, and John Kraft, enrich Sacred Space, Taizé, and Celebrating the Divine Feminine worship regularly and bring their skills and gifts to every choir rehearsal and service. And, of course, there are our extraordinary pianist, Robert Mills, and our gifted organist, Zachary Golden.
The Dayspring music program is made up of people who are not much different from the rest of us—they lead busy, productive lives, yet they find time for Dayspring. They love music, and they are dedicated and disciplined. They come week after week seeking both community and excellence. And if you look around, you will find a remarkable number of these people participating in the life of Dayspring in other ways: serving as Stephen Ministers, sitting on church committees, volunteering in many capacities, leading Second Sunday activities. It would be impossible to name all the activities they engage in—inevitably, I’d leave someone out! But I’m sure you take the point. While in many other churches, people view singing in the choir or playing handbells as adequate service, Dayspring’s people look to help however they can and are indefatigable in their unflagging to make the world more peaceful, just, compassionate, and inclusive.
I don’t mean to minimize the talents of the dozens of musicians who participate in our services each week; they are considerable, and they grow with each rehearsal and service. But talent is abundant everywhere. Clearly, there is something
SUMMER CHOIR
With the end of the school year, the adult choir meets only on certain Sunday mornings (no Wednesdays until September). A schedule will appear in Reflections—so keep your eyes peeled! In May, the choir will sing in services on May 4 and 18. Just come Sunday morning at 9:20 to join us. And if you’ve ever thought about singing in the choir, this is a great way to try it out. We are very flexible, so come any Sunday morning that works for you.
Cherubs, Children, Youth, and bells suspend activities for the summer and resume in July or August. If you are interested in taking part next school year, contact Grace, Julie, or Cindy for information on when those groups resume.
COMING EVENTS
SATURDAY, MAY 3 ~ 4 p.m.
The Arizona Cantilena Chorale, which is led by David Schildkret and with Robert Mills at the piano—along with several current and former Dayspring choir members among the singers—presents its 20th anniversary concert in the Dayspring Sanctuary. This program of favorites spans the group’s history and showcases the remarkable range of repertory the choir performs. Featured works are “Dark Night of the Soul” by Ola Gjeilo, “I thank you God for most this amazing day” by Dan Forrest, and “Tangos” by choir member Marlynn Rey. There are also folk songs, a medley from Hamilton, and much more. No tickets are required; a donation will be gratefully accepted at the door.
SUNDAY, MAY
4 ~
3 p.m.
Our Quartet in Residence, Burn City String Quartet, presents its second Dayspring concert this year. The quartet will perform its own arrangements of North American Folk, Pop, and Art Songs (from Canada, USA, and Mexico) and celebrated ASU composer Daniel Bernard Roumain's String Quartet No. 5, “Parks."
Alex Duke, the cellist who played for our Maundy Thursday service, is the cellist in the quartet, and Spencer Ekenes, who plays second violin in the ensemble, recently played in the orchestra for AZ Opera’s production of Aida. All four members of the quartet formed the core of our Christmas Eve string ensemble. These folks are wonderful musicians with strong ties to Dayspring. Please come out and support them! You will be rewarded with a fun and beautifully performed program.
Ticket Prices--
General Admission: $25.00
Student Tickets: $10.00
SUNDAY, MAY 18 ~ 2 p.m.
Members of the Dayspring Chorale join community members to present Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms and Brahms’s Schicksalslied a preview in anticipation of their performance of these works on May 24 at Carnegie Hall in New York. FREE ADMISSION—Free will offering accepted!
SECOND SUNDAYS
The 2nd Sunday Burrito Menu
Served on a buffet from 8:30-noon In the Fellowship Hall Donations are appreciated to help continue this ministry.
BURRITOS (all served with salsa):
• Morning Glory - cheese and egg
• Blessed Burrito - veggies/rice/black beans
• Praise and Bacon - egg/bacon/cheese
• The Holy Roller - sausage/egg/cheese
Mixed fruit • Assorted donuts Coffee/tea station • Soda and juice
Bringyour dogs!
AFFIRMING MINISTRY
11:15 (Room 110)
Our specially trained Stephen Ministers will sit with anyone in need of prayer. Easily recognize one of our prayer partners by their blue stoles.
KIDS ON SECOND SUNDAYS
Kids have plenty to enjoy on Second Sundays! At 10:00 a.m., Pre-K through 6th graders can join Second Sunday Kids’ Church in Room 206 for songs with Ms. Julie, mini-lessons with Katie and Charlotte the puppet, youth-led skits, crafts, and more. At 11:15 a.m., they can head to the Kids’ Corner with Zoë in the Fellowship Hall or enjoy quiet time in Room 117.
In March, we launched a new ministry for Second Sunday—a sacred space for LGBTQIA+ people to explore faith, scripture, and lived experiences. This isn’t a place to dwell on trauma but a space of affirmation, discovery, and deep listening as we ask: What is God saying to LGBTQIA+ people through the spirit and scripture today?
While allies are welcome, this space centers on LGBTQIA+ voices and faith journeys. Guided by resources from the Reconciling Ministries Network, we’ll engage in meaningful conversations celebrating who we are as God’s beloved. Join us in Room 110 at 11:15 during our Second Sunday Open House to learn more and be part of this new, affirming ministry!
CINCO DE MAYO FIESTA
As the covenant grows stronger between Iglesia Aliento and Dayspring, Aliento would like to invite you to their Cinco de Mayo block party! First Street in Phoenix will be closed for the block in front of the church building for a festive celebration! The party will last from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and include a time of worship (outside!) at 12:30. Expect delicious food, a fire truck exhibition, a bounce house, face painting, games for all ages, and live music with Latin-Carribbean rhythms! Enjoy this morning of connection, culture, and fun for everyone!
IGLESIA ALIENTO
JOIN US THIS SUMMER FOR OUR KIDS’ CAMP!
We’re excited to announce that our Children’s Summer Camp will take place from July 1st to July 16th, running daily from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. We anticipate welcoming at least 30 children for a time filled with fun, growth, and community!
ESL CLASSES
A new round of ESL classes begins at Iglesia Aliento on Wednesday, May 7 at 6:30 pm for 12 weeks If you are looking for a meaningful way to help and have fun while doing it, please contact Rosemary at 480-688-4664 or revrose04@gmail.com
Throughout the camp, children will enjoy daily breakfast and lunch and participate in various activities, including reading, physical exercise, music, and Bible lessons. It’s a beautiful opportunity to nurture faith and friendships in a joyful, safe space.
Here’s how you can get involved:
• Volunteer your time — Whether it’s for a full day or just a few hours, your help makes a difference.
• Support through donations — Every contribution helps make this experience even more special for the kids.
On the final day, July 16, we’ll celebrate with an exciting Splash Day featuring Jumping Houses and Water Slides—a joyful end to a memorable camp.
We would be deeply honored and grateful for the involvement of our Dayspring community. Thank you for your continued support and love!
RECOVERING FROM RELIGIOUS TRAUMA
First United Methodist Church of Phoenix (5510 North Central Avenue) is hosting a religious trauma symposium on May 2nd at 7:00 p.m. This event is open to people of all ages, including people from the church and the community, and it promises to be a special night. The event features a fantastic panel of speakers, including authors, doctors, and therapists who will speak on religious trauma and religious trauma healing. The event is free and open to the public- regardless of religious background, so please invite anyone you know who would be interested. Learn more /register at eventbrite.com
FIXED IT!
After a strong storm blew through South Tempe, Pastors Michael and Khalif, and Ryan and Nikki quickly fixed the pride flag hanging on our building. Thank you!
&CHURCH SOCIETY
AHIMSA, GANDHI, POWER TO THE POWERLESS film screening and actions
A large crowd of peace-seekers gathered in Fellowship Hall for a potluck dinner and screening of a powerful film vividly portrays the life of nonviolence modeled by Mahatma Gandhi and the many legacies he inspired. The film launched our Soul Force grant award, which will work with underserved youth in our community, sharing time in activities together in neighborhood parks. Want to join in those activities?
Want to know and read more about Gandhi, his legacy, and his works around the world? There is a wealth of resources, including books. We have several copies of one of the most recommended books in Gandhi The Man by Eknath Easwaran. There will be a table on the second Sunday for further steps, borrowing books, and just giving feedback and ideas. Where are you called to bring nonviolence to the world? I look forward to hearing and sharing.
Ahimsa, often misunderstood as mere nonviolence, encompasses righteous action in thought, word, and deed. As a foundational principle of Sanatana Dharma, its true meaning remains relevant today (in the Hindu, Buddhist, and Jainist traditions): respect for all living things and avoidance of violence toward others.
Ahimsa: three principles –Non-Violence, Pacifism, Compassion
Watch an official trailer of the film: www.youtube.com/watch?v=P70F14zTUO8
VALLEY INTERFAITH PROJECT
Dayspring is a charter member (25 years) of VIP, joining dozens of churches and other non-profits across the Valley to further make a more just world for all, but especially the poor and the powerless. Our actions are led by the needs of the community.
In April, 125 people gathered in a civic academy to address the threat of Medicare reduction (more on the next page) and the need for affordable housing and recognize the significant progress of our Arizona Career Pathways training program.
Valley Interfaith Project is a chapter of the West/ Southwest IAF. Representatives have been blessed to meet with and receive support from Pope Francis for the past three years. Together, we all grieve the death of this great servant of God. You might recognize a few of our local interfaith leaders in the photo on the next page: Joe Rubio, Rabbi Lindner, and Tm McManus. Let us continue to carry on his work to honor and help the poor and the powerless.
May/June 2025
THE LEGACY OF POPE FRANCIS: AMOR CONCRETO
It is with great sadness that we learned the news this Easter Monday morning about the death of Pope Francis.
Over the past three years, we, as representatives of the Industrial Areas Foundation, were privileged to meet him three times in his Santa Marta residence at the Vatican, each an encounter of 90 minutes or more.
It felt extraordinary that the successor to St. Peter would carve out such time to meet with a group of community organizers and leaders in the midst of a schedule that included preparing for grueling international travel, receiving visits from foreign leaders, and hosting the global synods. Not to mention issuing numerous apostolic letters and encyclicals.
Yet, there he was each time, sitting side by side with us in a circle without any of his staff in the room, engaging carefully around our experiences of organizing and sharing his own encounters. He never rushed the conversation.
He listened intently and attentively as we told stories about working at the margins to bring water and wastewater services to the border colonias, supporting and defending immigrant communities, developing job training programs to support families advance economically, among others. But most importantly, we spoke about our formation as public people dedicated to transforming local communities.
“What you’re doing is creating a culture,” he said. “You’re not looking to resolve things from one day to the next…That’s what I would emphasize. You’re creating a culture of solidarity.”
~West/ Southwest IAF swiaf.org
THE HIGH COST OF MEDICAID CUTS: PROTECTING ARIZONA’S
HEALTH AND ECONOMY
Arizona’s Medicaid program, AHCCCS, provides critical health coverage to over 2 million residents, including vulnerable populations such as rural adults, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and those with mental health or substance abuse issues. It is jointly funded by the state and federal governments.
Proposed $2 billion federal cuts to AHCCCS funding could cause 500,000 to 700,000 Arizonans to lose healthcare. The state may try to compensate by reducing benefits, eligibility, and provider payments— but even these measures won’t fully bridge the gap.
Consequences would include:
• Reduced access to essential treatments (e.g., cancer care, diabetes medication, addiction rehabilitation).
• Financial strain on hospitals—especially in rural areas—leads to closures, higher healthcare costs, and rising insurance premiums.
• The impact on the statewide economy is estimated at $31 billion, including 300,000 lost jobs and a $1 billion drop in state/local tax revenues.
Legislation like Arizona’s SB 1092 could worsen the situation by limiting Medicaid access through time limits and work requirements.
Call to Action: Residents are urged to contact their congressional representatives—especially Rep. Schweikert—to oppose Medicaid cuts, support advocacy events like the May 15th action in Tucson, and stay united to prevent devastating consequences to Arizona’s healthcare and economy.
S.A.G.E.
Spiritual Activists Greening the Earth
STEPS TO EFFECTIVE CLIMATE COMMUNICATION
“We think that people use information to make up their minds, but they don’t. We use moral judgment to make up our minds and then
use our brains to find reasons that explain why we’re right.”
~Katharine Hayhoe, Leading Climate Scientist and author of Saving Us
Americans are increasingly concerned about climate change. With the impacts all around us, This makes it easier than ever to strike up a conversation. There is so much we can do to be part of the solution.
What You Need to Know First…
1. We all care about the same things. Our children, health, and communities. We all know that clean air, clean water, and thriving nature around us keep us healthy.
2. Everyone can see our changing seasonal weather patterns, which are creating more storms, floods, droughts, and wildfires. It’s in the news almost daily.
3. Everything we do to solve climate change has multiple benefits. For example, reducing air pollution improves our health and restoring nature enhances property values.
4. People want to talk about it: 75% are concerned about climate, but only 14% think others around them are very concerned, which leads to needless silence on the topic.
5. Talking about climate change helps people overcome their barriers to action on solutions. Your concern, thoughts, ideas and actions will help others understand the issues and opportunities, and follow suit.
6. Connecting with people’s values and beliefs is more effective than talking about science. It is human nature to use moral judgment and emotion to make decisions.
7. You can inspire and empower your family, friends, colleagues, and public officials to seek the benefits of climate solutions. Follow the steps on the following page and check out the full 5 Steps guide for more information.
What You Need To Do
Following are the 5 steps to crafting emotionally resonant, personalized, and effective messages on climate change.
1. Start with people, stay with people. If you want people to care about climate change, care about them. Listen. Start by honoring their concerns and values, such as family, community, health, and fairness. Move from people to climate. Make room for ambivalence with a simple statement like “some of us are more worried about climate change than others” to inspire people to engage with an open mind.
2. Make it real. Focus on local realities everyone can see with their own eyes, like changing seasons. Include a memorable fact or two from a trusted source. Bring forward your own climate journey to personalize the issue. Stories sell, numbers numb.
3. Focus on solutions and personal benefit. Many people don’t realize that power plants are shifting from coal to solar, wind, and batteries — and it costs less. The best new cars and trucks coming from GM and Ford are electric. It’s not about sacrifice. Solutions are here, and they save money, create good jobs, clean our air, and protect our health and communities.
4. Inspire and empower. We need to move Americans from concern to action on climate. We’re told we can’t make a difference on climate change when the opposite is true. Every day, almost everything you do — driving, eating, talking — can impact the problem and the people around you. So, ditch the doom and gloom. America can lead on climate solutions, and so can your state, town, family, and you!
5. Be thoughtful when talking about climate change. Give examples, ideas, and steps they can take that are meaningful, accessible, and relevant. Be sure to stay above the fray and don’t get caught in the trap of arguing to refute false information. Keep it simple, big picture, and on what is important. End with your “ask,” encouraging your audience to act on climate.
“The biggest problem is not the people who aren’t on board; the biggest problem is the people who don’t know what to do. And if we don’t know what to do, we do nothing.”
~Katharine Hayhoe, Leading Climate Scientist and author of Saving Us
This article is reprinted from ecoAmerica.org, a nonprofit organization inspiring communities across America to visibly act and advocate for ambitious, just, climate mitigation, resilience, and restoration.
For more information on the 5 steps, and to see them applied to a message, please visit ecoamerica.org
01
May EVENT CALENDAR
Tempe
10:30 / Chair Yoga / Palo Verde Room
6:00 / Gardening Class / Palo Verde Room
6:15 / Cantilena Rehearsal / Music Room
7:00 / Centering Prayer / Library
7:00 / NA / Room 112
02 10:30 / Opening to God / Zoom
03 7:00 / Habitat for Humanity
8:00 / UMM / Fellowship Hall
3:00 / Cantilena Concert / Sanctuary
04 Confirmation Sunday
8:50 / Sacred Space / Sanctuary
8:50 / Childcare / Room 116
9:00 / Adult Sunday School / Palo Verde Room
10:00 / Worship / Sanctuary
10:00 / *Sunday School Schedule*
11:30 / Sunday Lunch Bunch
3:00 / String Quartet / Sanctuary
05 10:30 / Memory Loss Caregivers Support / Zoom
6:30 / Grief Support Group / Zoom
7:00 / BS Troop 172 / Fellowship Hall
7:00 / Tempe South Little League / Room 112
06 2:00 / Stephen Ministry Leadership / Library
3:00 / Praying Together / Zoom
5:30 / Church & Society / Palo Verde Room
7:00 / Brahms Rehearsal / Sanctuary
07 9:00 / Stitchers / Palo Verde Room
5:30 / Sacred Story / Zoom
6:00 / Children’s Choir / Room 206
6:30 / Book Club / Library
6:45 / Youth Choir / Room 206
6:45 / BeTween / Room 201
7:00 / Brahms Rehearsal / Music Room
08 9:30 / Connie Reading Circle / Room 112
10:30 / Chair Yoga / Palo Verde Room
6:30 / Stephen Ministry Meeting / Palo Verde Room
7:00 / NA / Room 112
09 10:30 / Opening to God / Zoom
11 Second Sunday / Mothers’ Day
8:30 / Breakfast and Coffee / Fellowship Hall
8:50 / Childcare / Room 116
8:50 / Sacred Space / Sanctuary
8:50 / Divine Feminine / Palo Verde Room
9:00 / Adult Sunday School / Room 112
10:00 / Worship / Sanctuary
10:00 / Nursery Care / Room 117
10:00 / Kids’ Church / Room 206
11 Second Sunday / Mothers’ Day (continued)
11:20 / Yoga / Room 112
11:20 / Love Lessons / Palo Verde Room
11:20 / Affirming Ministry / Room 110
11:30 / Sunday Lunch Bunch
12 7:00 / BS Troop 172 / Fellowship Hall
7:00 / Mary Martha Circle / Room 112
7:00 / Trustees / Palo Verde Room
13 6:30 / SPRC Meeting / Palo Verde Room
7:00 / Brahms Rehearsal / Sanctuary
14 5:30 / Sacred Story / Zoom
15 10:30 / Chair Yoga / Fellowship Hall
7:00 / Centering Prayer / Library
7:00 / NA / Room 112
16 10:30 / Opening to God / Zoom
18 8:50 / Sacred Space / Sanctuary
8:50 / Childcare / Room 116
9:00 / Adult Sunday School / Palo Verde Room
10:00 / Worship / Sanctuary
10:00 / *Sunday School Schedule*
11:30 / Sunday Lunch Bunch
4:00 / Taize / Fellowship Hall
19 10:30 / Memory Loss Caregivers Support / Zoom
6:30 / Grief Support Group / Zoom
7:00 / BS Troop 172 / Fellowship Hall
20 3:00 / Praying Together / Zoom
21 5:30 / Sacred Story / Zoom
22 10:30 / Chair Yoga / Palo Verde Room
12:30 / Kindergarten Graduation / Fellowship Hall
7:00 / UWF / Palo Verde Room
7:00 / NA / Room 112
23 10:30 / Opening to God / Zoom
24 9:00 / Giving Garden Seed Swap / Fellowship Hall
25 8:50 / Sacred Space / Sanctuary
8:50 / Childcare / Room 116
10:00 / Worship / Sanctuary
10:00 / Childcare 8 years and under / Room 116
11:30 / Sunday Lunch Bunch
26 Memorial Day (Church Office Closed)
28 5:30 / Sacred Story / Zoom
29 7:00 / NA / Room 112
30 10:30 / Opening to God / Zoom
31 3:00 / Wedding/ Sanctuary
June EVENT CALENDAR
01 8:50 / Sacred Space / Sanctuary
8:50 / Childcare / Room 116
10:00 / Worship / Sanctuary
10:00 / *Sunday School Schedule*
11:30 / Sunday Lunch Bunch
02 10:30 / Memory Loss Caregivers Support / Zoom
6:30 / Grief Support Group / Zoom
7:00 / Tempe South Little League / Room 112
03 2:00 / Stephen Ministry Leadership / Library
3:00 / Praying Together / Zoom
5:30 / Church & Society / Palo Verde Room
04 5:30 / Sacred Story / Zoom
05 10:30 / Chair Yoga / Palo Verde Room
7:00 / NA / Room 112
06 10:30 / Opening to God / Zoom
07 9:00 / Decorate for VBS / Church Campus
08 Pentecost
8:50 / Childcare / Room 116
8:50 / Sacred Space / Sanctuary
10:00 / Worship / Sanctuary
10:00 / Nursery Care / Room 117
10:00 / Kids’ Church / Room 206
11:20 / Affirming Ministry / Room 110
11:30 / Sunday Lunch Bunch
09 9:00 / VBS / Church Campus
7:00 / Trustees / Room 112
10 9:00 / VBS / Church Campus
6:30 / SPRC Meeting / Room 112
11 9:00 / VBS / Church Campus
5:30 / Sacred Story / Zoom
12 9:00 / VBS / Church Campus
10:30 / Chair Yoga / Room 112
6:30 / Stephen Ministry / Palo Verde Room
7:00 / NA / Room 112
13 10:30 / Opening to God / Zoom
15 Father’s Day
8:50 / Sacred Space / Sanctuary
8:50 / Childcare / Room 116
10:00 / Worship / Sanctuary
10:00 / *Sunday School Schedule*
11:30 / Sunday Lunch Bunch
16 10:30 / Memory Loss Caregivers Support / Zoom
17 3:00 / Praying Together / Zoom
18 5:30 / Sacred Story / Zoom
19 10:30 / Chair Yoga / Palo Verde Room
7:00 / NA / Room 112
20 10:30 / Opening to God / Zoom
22 8:50 / Sacred Space / Sanctuary
8:50 / Childcare / Room 116
10:00 / Worship / Sanctuary
10:00 / *Sunday School Schedule*
11:20 / Saving Jesus / Fellowship Hall
11:30 / Sunday Lunch Bunch
4:00 / Taizé / Fellowship Hall
23 10:00 / Compassionate Care Planning / Palo Verde
25 5:30 / Sacred Story / Zoom
26 7:00 / NA / Room 112
27 10:30 / Opening to God / Zoom
29 8:50 / Sacred Space / Sanctuary
8:50 / Childcare / Room 116
10:00 / Worship / Sanctuary
10:00 / *Sunday School Schedule*
11:00 / Pastor Michael’s Party / Fellowship Hall
11:20 / Saving Jesus / Palo Verde Room
11:30 / Sunday Lunch Bunch
SUNDAY SCHOOL SCHEDULE
Nursery Care (infants to 3-year-olds): Room 117
Prek-Kindergarten: Room 116
1st – 6th Grade: Room 206
Jr. High Formation (7th and 8th Grade): Room 110
Sr. High Formation (9th – 12th Grade): Room 111
June May
01 10:00 / Worship /
02 10:30 / Memory Loss Caregivers Support / Zoom 6:30 / Grief Support Group / Zoom 03 3:00 / Praying Together / Zoom 04 5:30 / Sacred Story / Zoom 7:00 / AA (Men) / Strivings Library 06 10:30 / Opening to God / Zoom
9:00 / Decorate for VBS / Church Campus
7:00 / AA (Men) / Strivings Library
Fathers’
10:30 / Memory Loss Caregivers Support / Zoom 6:30 / Grief Support Group / Zoom 17 3:00 / Praying Together / Zoom 18 5:30 / Sacred Story / Zoom 7:00 / AA (Men) / Strivings Library
20 10:30 / Opening to God / Zoom
25 5:30 / Sacred Story / Zoom 7:00 / AA (Men) / Strivings Library
27 10:30 / Opening to God / Zoom
EVENT
CALENDAR
ONGOING
SPIRITUAL FORMATION OPPORTUNITIES
PRAYING TOGETHER
May 6 and 20 and June 3 and 17 ~ 3:00 p.m.
Praying Together meets on the first and third Tuesdays of each month via Zoom at 3:00 p.m. If you have prayers during the week, please enter them online or send them to shirley@dayspring-umc.org. We will then send them to the members of this group who are praying. All are welcome to meet with us via Zoom; please email shirley@dayspring-umc.org for the Zoom link or more information. You are also welcome to bring your personal prayer concerns.
SACRED STORY
Wednesdays ~ 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
This group explores all of the sacred stories we have around us – from Scripture, life experiences, memorable events, and more - all the ways we are affected by the sacred that make a lasting imprint on our lives. Join us as we delve further into the meanings behind each week’s story and see how the Holy One works in our lives. Together, we will be enriched by the possibility we might have missed by walking too swiftly—email shirley@dayspringumc.org for the Zoom link or more information.
CENTERING PRAYER
May 1 and 15 and June 5 and 19 ~ 7:00 p.m.
Centering Prayer is a spiritual meditation practice used by Christians. It emphasizes interior silence. The name comes from Thomas Merton's description of contemplative prayer as “centered entirely on the presence of God.” A small group meets on the first and third Thursdays of the month at 7:00 p.m. in the Dayspring Tempe library. For further information, email Bethany at blambrecht1225@gmail.com.
OPENING TO GOD
Fridays ~ 10:30 a.m.
Opening to God meets weekly on Friday mornings at 10:30 via Zoom. We gather for silence, centering prayer, meditation, journaling, contemplation, sharing, and listening to God’s direction in our lives. Please join us for this sacred time. Email shirley@dayspring-umc.org for the Zoom link or more information. All are welcome.
SMALL GROUPS
STAFF UPDATE
For the past three years, Dayspring’s Children’s Ministry was blessed with the dedication and care of Andrea Farley, who made (and is still making) a lasting impact on our families and their children. We are deeply grateful for her faithful leadership and are proud to announce that Andrea will now be stepping into a new role as Dayspring’s Financial Secretary. Andrea will graciously continue her of fi ce administrative duties as well. As she transitions, we are beginning the search for her successor in children’s ministry.
The Children’s Ministry Coordinator at Dayspring United Methodist Church is responsible for leading and organizing a comprehensive ministry for children from infancy through sixth grade. Key duties include planning and implementing Sunday school classes, coordinating monthly Kid’s Church services, overseeing nursery care and staff, and preparing lessons and events for the 4th–6th grade BeTween ministry. The role involves recruiting and training volunteers, managing special programs such as Vacation Bible School, seasonal events, and service projects, and maintaining regular communication with families. Additional responsibilities include coordinating acolytes, supporting the Children’s Music Director, organizing family fellowship events, and managing the ministry’s budget. The coordinator must ensure a safe and nurturing environment, be CPR and first aid certified, and attend weekly staff meetings.
If you are interested in the position or know someone who might be, please contact Anthony Contente-Cuomo for a detailed job description: sprcchair2025@gmail.com
SAVE THE DATE!
Join us as we celebrate Pastor Michael Long’s incredible achievement—his graduation and commissioning! Let’s come together to honor his dedication and hard work on Sunday, June 29, 2025, in the Fellowship Hall at Dayspring Tempe.
This special event will be filled with joy, gratitude, and community as we recognize this important milestone in Pastor Michael’s journey. All are welcome!
ADD YOUR PHOTO TO THE CHURCH DIRECTORY!
Let’s make our church community feel even more connected! Adding your photo to the directory helps others recognize you, learn your name, and feel more at home—especially new members and visitors. It’s a simple way to build relationships and strengthen our fellowship.
Here’s how to add your photo in the app:
1. Go to your own directory listing
2. Tap Edit in the top right
3. Select or take a photo
4. Tap Save
If you have trouble uploading your photo, please email kris@dayspring-umc.org for help.
Would you prefer to have someone do it for you? No problem! We’ll have a photo booth at the next Second Sunday (May 11), where we can take your picture and upload it right away.
Thank you for helping make our church family even more welcoming!
MONTHLY GATHERINGS
GRIEF SUPPORT
May 5 and 19 and June 2 and 16 ~ 6:30 p.m.
Everyone experiences grief differently, but having the skills to process life after loss can make life bearable and, hopefully, life-giving. Our Grief Support Group meets on Zoom throughout the year and is facilitated by a psychologist and Dayspring member. It introduces the skills needed to help promote healing. If you or someone you know needs support in grieving a significant loss in your life, such as a death, broken relationship, or job loss, please come and experience a safe place to process in community. Please email Sharon Zygowicz at zygowicz@gatewaycc.edu for more information or the Zoom link.
DAYSPRING STITCHERS
May 7 ~ 9:00 a.m.
(Tempe)
The Dayspring Stitchers will hold their next monthly meeting on Wednesday, May 7, in the Palo Verde Room at 9:00 a.m. We make quilts, sew blankets, and drawstring pillowcases to donate to kids in foster care and various other organizations, while those who prefer to knit and crochet make prayer shawls and lap blankets. We welcome new members all the time. Email Susan at annette4katz@outlook.com for more information.
DAYSPRING MOMS’ MEET UP
May
9
~ 7:00 p.m. (Tempe)
Whether you’re a new mom or you’ve been through it all, the Moms’ MeetUp is open to all moms in search of a kid-free night out. We will meet for dinner and supportive, judgment-free conversation at Julie’s home on Friday, May 9, at 7:00 p.m. Email Julie at julie.lafave10@gmail.com with questions or to RSVP - and for the address.
DAYSPRING LUNCH BUNCH
Sundays ~ 11:30 a.m.
Dayspring Lunch Bunch welcomes church members to join us weekly at local restaurants at 11:30 following the Sunday services. We share fun, fellowship, and “family” support. Lunch locations are listed at the Welcome table in the Narthex. We send a weekly email to members. Email lunch@dayspringumc.org for more information. All are welcome. Upcoming Lunch Spots:
May 2025 Dates
4 D.T.C Sports Grill, W. of 101, N of Elliot, Tempe
11 Garcia’s McClintock and Warner, Tempe
18 Bonfire Craft Kitchen and Tap Room, Warner Rd. 25 US Egg. Chandler Blvd near Gila Springs Rd
June 2025 Dates
1 Rigatony’s Warner and McClintock, Tempe
8 Blackberry Café, Warner and Dobson, Chandler
15 Garcia’s, 48th and Warner, Ahwatukee
22 Chili’s Chandler Blvd. Chandler Mall
29 Famous Dave’s BBQ South of Chandler Mall
BOOK CLUB
May 7 ~ 6:30 p.m. (Tempe)
Dayspring's Book Club will meet on Wednesday, May 7th, at 6:30 p.m. in Room 112. We'll be discussing: "The Mystery Guest" by Nita Prose
Molly Gray is not like anyone else. With her flair for cleaning and proper etiquette, she has risen through the ranks of the glorious five-star Regency Grand Hotel to become the esteemed Head Maid. But just as her life reaches a pinnacle state of perfection, her world is turned upside down when J. D. Grimthorpe, the world-renowned mystery author, drops dead—very dead—on the hotel’s tearoom floor.
When Detective Stark, Molly’s old foe, investigates the author’s unexpected demise, it becomes clear that this death was murder most foul. Suspects abound, and everyone wants to know: Who killed J. D. Grimthorpe? Was it Lily, the new Maid-in-Training? Or was it Serena, the author’s secretary? Could Mr. Preston, the hotel’s beloved doorman, be hiding something? And is Molly really as innocent as she seems?
We don't meet in June and July!
Our August book is a nice long one. 11/22/63 by Stephen King
On November 22, 1963, three shots rang out in Dallas. President Kennedy died, and the world changed. Unless…
In 2011, Jake Epping, an English teacher from Lisbon Falls, Maine, sets out on an insane — and insanely possible — mission to prevent the Kennedy assassination. Leaving behind a world of computers and mobile phones, he goes back to a time of big American cars and diners, of Lindy Hopping, the sound of Elvis, and the taste of root beer.
In this haunting world, Jake falls in love with Sadie, a beautiful high school librarian. And, as the ominous date of 11/22/63 approaches, he encounters a troubled loner named Lee Harvey Oswald.
If you'd like more info about Book Club, please email Beth Cadman at beth@thecadmans.com
We recognize our graduates on Sunday, May 18, during services. If you or someone in your family is graduating from high school or beyond, please email their name and a photo to kris@dayspring-umc.org by May 12 to include them in our celebration.
READ
DAYSPRING TEMPE LIBRARY NEWS
“Library Highlights” focuses each month on a topic, author, series, or recently acquired books.
May 2025 Topic: Homelessness and Hunger
Featured book: Homeless Outreach and Housing First: Lessons Learned by Jay Levy 362.5 LEV Learn about the positive measurable impact of a housing first approach and its moral, fiscal, and quality of life implications.
Additional books:
Not Just a One Night Stand: Ministry with the Homeless by John Flowers 261.8 FLO
Helping the Homeless: God’s Word in Action by Duane Grady 261.8 GRA
Toxic Charity: How Churches and Charities Hurt Those They Help and How to Reverse It by Robert Lupton 361.7 LUP
Ending Hunger Now: A Challenge to Persons of Faith by George McGovern 261.8 MCG
June 2025 Topic: Prayer
Featured book: Featured book: Understanding Prayer: An Exploration of the nature, disciplines, and growth of the spiritual life by Edgar N. Jackson 248.3 JAC Jackson explores the process and benefits of prayer, focusing on its importance in the development of the Christian’s spiritual maturity.
Additional books:
The Spirit Moves: Handbook of Dance and Prayer by Carla De Sola 248.3 DES
10 Prayers You Can’s Live Without: How to Talk to God about Anything by Rick Hamlin 248.3 HAM
The Way We Pray: Prayer Practices from Around the World by Maggie Oman Shannon 291.4 SHA
Healing Prayer by Barbara L. Shleman 248.3 SHL
The Prayer of Jabez: Breaking Through to the Blessed Life by Bruce Wilkinson 248.3 WIL
UNITED METHODIST MEN
May 3 ~ 8:00 a.m. (Tempe)
The United Methodist Men (UMM) have a great program schedule and celebrate diversity, different perspectives, and lled with fellowship, music, and lively discussion. Please join us on Saturday, May 3rd, at 8 a.m., when Bethany Lambrecht will receive the annual Lee Cook Award to recognize her service to the Dayspring community. The UMM established this award to honor the unselfish service of Jesse Lee Cook, who established his family’s membership at Dayspring in 1990. He was active in the church and was the founder and president of the Dayspring United Methodist Men.
Meetings are on the first Saturday of the month at 8:00 a.m. in the Fellowship Hall. All are welcome, men and women. You need not be a member of Dayspring or the UMM to attend. A light breakfast and coffee are served.
The April 5th UMM meeting featured singer Tony Joseph, a former member of the legendary vocal group The Crests. Joseph’s remarkable voice, still in top form, captivated the audience as he performed classic Crest favorites. His smooth vocals and heartfelt delivery brought nostalgic charm to hits that defined an era. The performance was a celebration of timeless music and enduring talent.
Please reach out to Mark Kaiser or Bill Stenseth with any questions.
UMM 2024–2025
LEADERSHIP
mjkaiser51@gmail.com stensew@gmail.com
Ken Brooks, Music Director, kenneth.brooks@asu.edu
Tom Swift, Communications, tnswift@gmail.com
Anthony Contente-Cuomo, Programs, awc2378@gmail.com
Fred Searing, Treasurer, fesearing@aol.com
Robert Smith, Past UMM President, az4smith@gmail.com
Pastor Jeff Procter-Murphy, Advisor, jeff@dayspring-umc.org
May/June 2025
All May meetings welcome all Dayspring women.
• Connie Reading Circle - Thursday, May 8th, 9:30 a.m., Breakfast at Biscuits, 1815 E. Elliot Rd.
• Mary Martha Circle - Monday, May 12th, 6:30 p.m., Dinner at Red Robin, 1375 W. Elliot Rd. Please RSVP by 4 p.m. to Suzan Bawolek, sjbawolek@gmail.com.
• MayUnit Meeting - Thursday, May 22nd at 7:00 p.m., in the Palo Verde Room or via Zoom, Program: Family Promise
Dayspring UWFaith meetings will resume in September after a summer break.
ONE PAIR CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Donate Your Used Glasses to Help Others See!!
Dayspring United Women in Faith will collect usable eyeglasses for the Chandler Lions Club. We will be collecting during the month of May. The collection box can be found in the narthex.
Everyone is welcome to register for: Mission u 2025
July 17-19
St. Mark's United Methodist Church, Tucson
This year’s theme is “Practicing Hope Together”. This theme will explore the hope that emerged within a small community of followers after the resurrection of Jesus, which changed the world. Out of so much confusion and fear following the crucifixion of Jesus grew a “Resurrection People” steeped in hope who began living out their faith in powerful ways.
For more information, go to: uwfaith.org/events/mission-u Or contact: Lorraine Shaw, Dean ladyinsurance@att.net Clair Hart, Assistant Dean hartcd89131@gmail.com
PRISON MINISTRY
May 27 ~ 5:30 p.m. (Tempe)
PRISON MINISTRY WELCOMES TWO FORMER INMATES AS SPEAKERS
Two special guests attended the Prison Ministry’s April 22 meeting: Tish and Megan, both former inmates at Perryville Prison who have made significant progress toward turning their lives around. Tish just completed the two-year Bridges Reentry program at the Magdalene halfway house, and Megan is seven months into the program.
“Living at the Magdalene House and being in the Bridges program is the biggest blessing of my life,” Megan told the group. “I feel so much love and support there. I can see my dreams coming about.”
Megan, a young woman with a warm smile, is from a middle-class family in Indiana. After high school, she came out west to take a job and found herself spiraling into addiction and crime. She was homeless, on the streets for 2 ½ years, often camping at Priest and Broadway in Tempe before she was arrested.
In prison, she began to see a role for herself as a helper, tutoring other prisoners in GED classes. Now, she is taking online college classes and working toward a degree in addiction psychology. She has also taken a leadership role at Magdalene House.
She told the group how much their monthly “surprise” gifts meant to her. This month, the Prison Ministry group provided Magdalene residents with nine lovely prayer shawls, thanks to the Dayspring Stitchers. Each shawl was accompanied by a note explaining the thought and love behind it.
They also received Easter Baskets with homemade coffee cake muffins and chocolate Easter eggs. A note on each basket reminded the residents of how much we think of them, pray for them, and hope for them to find their way. Avery, the granddaughter of one of the members, lovingly prepared these gifts.
Prison Ministry members continue to send monthly birthday cards and act as pen pals for many women at the Perryville prison. The next meeting will be May 27 at 5:30 p.m. in Room 112. All interested people are welcome to attend.
~Sarah Auffret
TAKING CARE: LIVING
AND LOVING WITH MEMORY LOSS
Learning to be a Caregiver
By Anne Ahland
Some of the following information is from a recent article on myALZteam, April 2025. It addresses increasing the quality of life for people with Alzheimer’s with a combination of medications, supportive care, and lifestyle strategies. I am not going to include information about medications here.
Some people with Alzheimer’s experience emotional and behavioral changes, including depression and anxiety. These may occur as aggression or irritability, wandering or becoming disoriented, becoming restless at night, and trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. The consequence is that the caregiver may become overwhelmed, especially if these are frequent or intense.
Since medications may have undesirable side effects, some non-drug strategies may help. Some of these are:
• Encourage daily activity , such as walking or gentle stretching.
• Use night lights to reduce confusion and lower the risk of falls in the dark.
• Offer comforting items like a favorite blanket, stuffed animal, or soft pillow.
• Maintain a consistent daily routine for meals, activities, and bedtime.
• Avoid background noise and sudden changes to create a calm environment.
• Offer reassurance or distraction to avoid arguments or confrontation.
Mealtime and maintaining nutrition may become more challenging as your loved one with dementia experiences a loss of appetite and has trouble recognizing food. Helpful suggestions include serving meals in a calm, quiet setting, allowing extra time so she or he does not feel rushed, and offering one food at a time to reduce stress or agitation.
Finally, caregivers need to be able to talk to others who understand the unique challenges of caring for someone with dementia. Our support group at Dayspring meets via Zoom two times each month. We welcome you to join us in a safe and caring discussion with other caregivers.
Taking Care, a support group for caregivers of those with memory loss, meets the first and third Mondays of every month on Zoom. If you are aware of someone who may not know about our meetings, please encourage them to contact Pastor Shirley at shirley@dayspringumc.org so they can be included. This group welcomes anyone from the community as well as Dayspring members and friends. Helping those around us makes all of us stronger.
CREATIVE CONTAINER GARDENING
Join Master Gardener Jo Setliff on Thursday, May 1, at 6:30 in the Palo Verde Room to learn how to move beyond that six-pack of petunias to original, exciting, easy-care container gardening. We'll discuss how container gardening differs from in-ground vegetable, flower, and herb gardening. You will learn how to select containers, soils, plants, locations, and watering methods in our harsh desert climate. Please RSVP to garden@dayspring-umc.org. This is our last free gardening class until fall.
About our speaker: Jo Setliff gardens in NW Chandler and in the Dayspring Giving Garden, where you can find her many days teaching people of all ages about growing plants, pollinators, soil health, rainwater harvesting and more. She graduated from the Maricopa County Extension Master Gardener program in 1997; the mission is to help residents and businesses integrate sustainable, water-efficient practices for beautiful and productive gardens.
The mission of Dayspring’s Refugee Focus program is to show God’s love to the stranger.
Strangers no more, please meet the Nigerian family that Dayspring is co-sponsoring through a partnership with Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest (LSS-SW). LSS-SW trained our Refugee Focus team of volunteers and matched them with the family over the past two weeks.
Mom, Abigail, is a 31-year-old widow with four children under nine years old. They fled their country a few years ago because of violence and lived in a Cameroon refugee camp before arriving in Arizona in January.
Abigail, a devout Christian, was a farmer in her country. She can speak some English and loves to read, but her children do not yet speak or read English. Abigail doesn’t have a car, nor does she drive, so she and her children walk to many places, including to their church. She also doesn’t have employment yet. The older two children are enrolled in a nearby elementary school.
The family lives in an apartment in Phoenix, and they have already built a community with other refugee families in their complex.
So far, our team has helped the family with furnishings and household items, visited and played with the children, taken Abigail to an employment meeting at DES, and performed other essential tasks. We’re working hard to help her find a job and child care, learn the bus system, and discover the public library, among other tasks. LSS-SW provides temporary rental and utility assistance and case management.
Abigail and her family are among nearly 400 newly arrived refugees in Arizona who were stranded in January by the current administration’s stop-work order and freeze on foreign aid. These decisions ended services — rent, utilities, food, and other necessities — that refugees who already were on American soil rely on to rebuild their lives.
We would love you to join us in helping Abigail and her precious children become successful New Americans! Join our team or ask questions about volunteering and donations by emailing me or calling the church office at (480) 838-1446. See the links below for other ways to help Dayspring and LSS-SW care for the stranger.
Thank you for being part of this vital work.
~ Janie Magruder jbmagrud@gmail.com
Current Needs for our Refugee Family
Please email jbmagrud@gmail.com before purchasing large items, as they may already have been collected. Thank you!
Laptop computer
Printer
Assistance with helping the family use the TV and computer
Fabrics and notions or gift card for these items
Boys bicycle (for an almost 9-yearold)
Girls bicycle (for a 6-year-old)
Two girls tricycles or small bikes (for almost 4-year-olds)
Gently used or new children’s picture books and those with simple, repetitive words and sentences
Early preschool-ready games and puzzles
Walmart gift cards
Changing Hands gift cards
Contributions for wifi at the family’s apartment, potential rent, utilities, groceries and bus fare
WHO ARE REFUGEES?
Definitions
Immigrant: Someone who chooses to come live in a new country for a variety of reasons.
Refugee: A refugee (as defined by the 1951 United Nations Refugee Convention and the U.S Immigration and Nationality Act) is someone who has fled their home country due to a wellfounded fear of persecution based on race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. Refugees apply for protection through the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) or directly at U.S. embassies while still outside of the U.S. Refugees go through an extensive vetting and background screening before the U.S. government decides if they can enter the U.S. The process includes: 8 government agencies, 5 background checks, 6 security databases, 3 in person interviews.
Asylum Seeker: An asylum seeker is someone who is seeking international protection. When someone crosses an international border seeking safety, they often need to apply to be legally recognized as a refugee. While they seek asylum and await the outcome of their application, they are referred to as asylum seekers. Not all asylum seekers will be found to be refugees, but all refugees were once asylum seekers.
Parolee or Parole Status: Temporary permission granted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to allow a non-citizen to enter or remain in the United States for a limited time, usually due to urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public bene fi t, without being formally admitted as an immigrant; essentially, it's a temporary stay while their refugee application is being processed, and does not confer a permanent immigration status.
Learn more at:lss-sw.org
FINANCE
By Nan Lawson, Treasurer
FINANCE REPORT
Total income for the General Fund through 3/31/2025 was $325,945 and expenses were $303,293. This was a positive cash flow through March 2025 of $22,652. Thank you for all your donations!
Capital Campaign Update
The "A Place for All" Capital Fund continues to grow with $333.169 in pledges for 2025/2026, and $179,976 in donations received to date! This is over 54% of the funds already available to use for improvements in making our campus more accessible and safe. Already we have seen renovations to the parking lot and outdoor lighting, sound system and lighting upgrades in the sanctuary, and leveling of the bricks on the patio. More improvements are in the planning and bidding stages by the Trustees and will be completed in the upcoming months.
To make donations, go to www.dayspring-umc.org/give and select "Capital Fund - A Place for All" in the drop-down fund menu. Alternatively, checks and cash are always appreciated, so just include "Capital Fund" on your check or donation envelope. A big thanks to all who have contributed or pledged!
DONATE
CURRENT COLLECTIONS:
- Eyeglasses
- Large Bottles of Laundry Detergent
- Water Bottles
- Electrolyte Drinks
- Nutritional Snacks
City Hope and New Life were very appreciative of all the new hygiene items we donated to them in April! Thank you to everyone who helped support this resilience hub partner.
GIVE A LITTLE, GET A LOT:
The Real Benefits of Volunteering
Volunteering is one of the most rewarding ways to give back to your community, and its benefits extend far beyond the immediate help it provides to others. For individuals, volunteering offers a powerful sense of purpose and fulfillment. Whether it’s tutoring students, helping at a food bank, or cleaning up local parks, these acts of service create a tangible impact—and being part of that impact fosters deep personal satisfaction. Volunteering also helps people connect with others, building strong relationships, enhancing communication skills, and creating a sense of belonging that’s often hard to find elsewhere.
On a personal level, volunteering can greatly enhance mental and emotional well-being. Studies have shown that people who volunteer regularly report lower stress levels, improved mood, and even better physical health. The act of helping others naturally boosts self-esteem and combats feelings of loneliness or isolation. Volunteering also allows individuals to break from their daily routines, shift focus away from personal challenges, and gain a fresh perspective. Whether you're looking to feel more connected, add structure to your days, or simply feel good about making a difference, volunteering offers personal growth in deeply enriching and longlasting ways.
Beyond the emotional rewards, volunteering can open doors to professional opportunities. It allows people to gain experience, develop new skills, and explore career paths in a hands-on way. Many employers view volunteer experience as a sign of initiative and community-mindedness, traits that are highly valued in the workplace. For students and career changers especially, volunteering can strengthen resumes and offer invaluable networking connections. In short, volunteering doesn’t just change lives—it can also change your future in ways you might never expect.
DAYSPRING’S COMPASSIONATE CARE MINISTRIES . . . A MINISTRY EVOLUTION SPARKED BY NEED
By Jacki Taylor
It was on Second Sunday, about four months ago, that Pastor Shirley and I found ourselves in Fellowship Hall pondering the plight of a couple of our Dayspring congregants. Both were facing surgeries with no support system to help them through and after their procedures. The weight of these situations on Pastor Shirley’s heart was palpable. By the grace of God, the concept of developing Dayspring’s Compassionate Care Ministries (DCCM) was sparked.
DCCM will serve as the umbrella under which Dayspring’s myriad of “caring” ministries can coalesce to facilitate more seamless coordination of ministry when someone is in crisis. We have pulled together our DCCM development team which consists of the leaders of our existing ministries as well as other dedicated, passionate people who share concern for those among us in need. Together we are working to identify gaps in our ministries that might more completely meet our congregation’s needs when a life crisis happens. These include meal provision, transportation assistance, medical advocacy, and non-medical in-home care.
Even after 48 years as a member of Dayspring, I had no idea of the scope of our ministries until we started this project. Dayspring offers everything from prayer shawls to funeral reception planning to mental health groups to Stephen Ministry. The list goes on. The number of people working to bring these ministries to life is awesome.
As the DCCM development team continues to flesh out our caring ministries, I pray you’ll find a ministry you can join and offer your gift of care to someone in need.
BORDERLANDS PRODUCE RESCUE
May 24 ~ 6:00 a.m.
We host a monthly Borderlands event for the Arcadia neighborhood. Volunteers are needed to pack food boxes of approximately 70 lbs. This is a great chance to spend time in the neighborhood, interact with neighbors, reduce food waste, and bring healthy food to local families. If you’re interested, please email Nikki at nikki@dayspring-umc.org.
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
May 3
Our final build date of the season is May 3. This year’s build site is close to South Mountain, near 16th Street and Southern. Please email Mark Boyle at ruthandmarkboyle@gmail.com if you would like more information or are interested in signing up for this or future builds. No construction experience is necessary. Volunteers must be 16+. Come help complete a house for a delightful, deserving family: single mom Nicole and her five-year-old daughter Jasmine.
COUNTERS NEEDED
Have you been thinking about a way to be a volunteer? Why not join the counters and help sort and count the offering. Prepare checks and cash offerings for the deposit. We meet on Monday mornings in the finance office. Counter chair will be there to work with you. Please contact Kay Block at 480 244-6426 if you are interested or would like more information. Thank you!
SANCTUARY CARE
Help keep our sanctuary welcoming and organized by becoming a pew restocker! This simple yet meaningful task involves tidying and restocking the pews once a month, either after Sunday service or during the week—whatever best fits your schedule. It’s a small commitment that makes a big difference for our congregation.
Your help ensures a clean and inviting worship space for everyone. If you're willing to serve in this way, we’d love to have you on the team! Please get in touch with the church office at (480) 838-1446 or email andrea@dayspring-umc.org
MEAL TRAIN VOLUNTEERS
We've recently received several requests for meals to support individuals and families in need, and we're organizing a meal train to help. We're looking for volunteers who are willing to prepare and/or deliver a meal to someone in our community.
If you can cook, we’ll match you with a recipient and share any relevant dietary restrictions, food allergies, family size, and preferred delivery times. Meals can be homemade or store-bought— whatever works best for you. Simple, comforting dishes that reheat well (like casseroles, soups, pasta, or grain bowls) are usually great options.
Not sure what to make? We’re happy to provide suggestions! If possible, label your dish with ingredients and reheating instructions. Disposable containers are appreciated to minimize cleanup and the need to return dishes.
If you’re not a cook but would still like to help, you can sign up to deliver meals instead—we’d love your help with that, too!
Whether through cooking, delivering, or both, your support makes a real difference for those going through a challenging time. If you're interested in participating, please email kris@dayspring-umc.org — we’d love to have you on board!
MAKE A LASTING DIFFERENCE: BECOME THE NEXT FAMILY PROMISE COORDINATOR!
LOOKING BACK
Are you passionate about helping families in need and seeking a meaningful way to serve your community? Dayspring is seeking a Family Promise Coordinator — a key volunteer role that offers the chance to truly impact lives.
As the Family Promise Coordinator, you will be the primary connection between Dayspring and the Family Promise organization. Our church hosts families experiencing homelessness four times each year, offering them safe shelter, meals, and a warm community. You would help organize and guide our fantastic team of volunteers during these hosting weeks.
Here’s what you would do:
• Coordinate four host weeks per year by setting schedules, preparing facilities, and recruiting volunteers.
• Communicate with Family Promise and our congregation, sharing essential updates and inspiring others to get involved.
• Welcome and Support families each evening with warmth, compassion, and hospitality.
• Plan and Organize setup and cleanup efforts to ensure our spaces are welcoming and ready for guests.
• Celebrate and Reflect by recognizing volunteer efforts, sharing stories of impact, and continuing to strengthen our community's commitment to service.
While there are some administrative tasks like writing short reports and setting up signup tables, you’ll also be directly engaging with families, building meaningful relationships, and offering them dignity and hope during a difficult time. You’ll work closely with our church staff, Family Promise team, and a wonderful network of volunteers — you’re never alone in this effort!
The rewards are tremendous: you'll see lives touched, friendships formed, and hope restored. You’ll experience firsthand the incredible difference a caring community can make.
If you have a heart for service, a little time, and a lot of love to give, this could be the perfect opportunity for you. Step into this vital role and help extend the spirit of Dayspring beyond our walls — to where it’s needed most.
Interested? We would love to talk with you and support you every step of the way. A more detailed job description is available in the church office.
Together, we can be the hands and feet of Christ for families seeking a fresh start.
Dayspring hosted Family Promise for a week last month. Fourteen people experiencing homelessness came through our doors.
One family found an apartment early in the week, and a new family of four moved into their bedroom for the remainder of the week. Two parents had successful job interviews and will be starting new jobs. Thanks to our volunteers, we were able to celebrate these events with the families and offer them delicious meals and a safe place to rest each night.
Our next week to host is August 8. We need help with room setup, meal prep, overnight hosts, activity offerings after dinner (craft, manicure, music, games, etc.), room cleanup and reset, and laundry. You can sign up to help or get more info at our Family Promise table after church this July/August.
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
creating comfort and aring God's love
What is a Prayer Shawl?
It’s all about intention. When a Prayer Shawl is started, it is the intention of the crafter to infuse healing, love, comfort, and protection by praying for the recipient. There is a reward for those who walk in love, humility, and unity toward each other. They are the ones who inherit God’s blessings. Compassion and the love of knitting, crocheting, or sewing are combined into a prayerful ministry and spiritual practice that reaches out to those in need. The blessing is transferred from person to person, giver and recipient “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” Proverbs 27:17…both maker and recipient feeling God’s unconditional embrace and love. “For I will restore health to you and heal you of your wounds.” Jeremiah 30:17 Knitting/crocheting can be a meditative practice; it is rhythmic and repetitive. When doing anything creative, the right brain is engaged by anything physically repetitive, intellectually undemanding, and visually stimulating; it can be comforting and relaxing…a way to disengage from worry and troubles so that the crafter becomes “mindful” while still having a certain amount of concentration on the pattern, stitches, surroundings. In this state of contemplation, peace, and mindfulness, we are open to the Holy Spirit.
A Brief History of Prayer Shawls
Prayer Shawls are mentioned in both the Old and New Testaments. Originally, prayer shawls were commissioned by God and were worn only by men after marriage or at age 13 after their bar mitzvah. In Numbers 15:38-40 God told the Israelites to make for themselves a garment with fringes on the borders called a tallit (ta-leet). It was a rectangular piece of cloth that looked like a blanket. The blue stripes, fringes, and knots on the border of the tallit are significant as they represent the 613 commandments or laws the Israelites were to follow. It also represented the Tabernacle in the wilderness, as 3 million people could not fit in that space, symbolizing God’s residence. So, the men wrapped their tallit around the head and shoulders as a personal secret place or Tabernacle to pray. Jesus says in Matthew 6:6 “when you pray enter your closet (personal secret place), and when you have shut the door, pray to your Father which is in secret, and your Father which sees in secret shall reward you openly.”
Jesus wore a Prayer Shawl continually. Mark 5:25-30 tells of the woman who was ailing for 12 years, touched the edge of His garment or shawl tassel, and was healed. Jesus wore His Prayer Shawl in the Garden of Gethsemane. It was even part of His Resurrection. John 20:6-7 Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the seven strips of linen lying there, as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen., it was gently folded in the corner of Jesus tomb and the way it folded was testimony of Jesus’ Resurrection. The last
How to get involved:
appearance of the Prayer Shawl in the New Testament comes in Revelation. Revelation 7:9, “after this I beheld and lo a great multitude, which no man could number of all nations, and kindred’s, and people and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes and palms in their hands”. Revelation 19:12 “He had a name written that no man knew on His Vesture and on His thigh a name written King of Kings and Lord of Lords.” Jesus llment and promise of the New Testament that when we wrap ourselves in Jesus we are protected and have entered into
In 1998, the original Prayer Shawl Ministry was started by Janet Bristow and Victoria Galo as an outgrowth of the Women’s Leadership Institute at Hartford Seminary in Hartford, Their website is www.shawlministry.com. Since then, it has had a ripple effect with Churches worldwide developing their own Prayer Shawl Ministries; thousands of prayer shawls have been made and received.
“…serve one another humbly in love.”
Galatians 5:1
1. Pray for those who need a Prayer Shawl and those who are making them. This ministry is growing!
2. Share your time and talents! This ministry is open to anyone, women, men, youth, or children, who are interested in making Prayer Shawls, lap blankets, or any other comfy item for our church community experiencing difficulty, trauma, or grief and need healing. We need your help! New yarn is available for crocheters and knitters.
3. Donations of money to buy new yarn are needed: - Cash or check can be put in an offering envelope and marked Prayer Shawl - Online donations can be made through the website or app. (Look for the Stitchers option
4. Help with the delivery of Prayer Shawls and Lap Blankets. We are all called to be ministers in the service of Christ.
5. Join us for our monthly meeting on Wednesday, May 7, at 9 a.m. in the Palo Verde Room. Bring your crochet, knitting, or sewing machine and supplies. We’ll have a three-day Stitchers Camp at the end of July here at the church. Look for the dates in the newsletter; the Fall schedule starts in September. If you're unable to attend the meeting, that's ok. You can still make a prayer shawl, as we all crochet and knit all month long.
6. Please contact me for any questions you might have.
Blessings to you!
Susan Staley annette4katz@outlook.com
602.800.9110 text
ADDITIONAL PRAYER SHAWL
GROUP STARTING!
Join us at 9:00 a.m. on Sunday mornings in the Courtyard for a special new opportunity to create prayer shawls to be given to those in need of encouragement, comfort, or support.
This group is open to anyone from 7th grade and older— whether you already know how to knit or crochet, or you’d like to learn! No experience is necessary—if you’re new to stitching, we’ll gladly teach you! If you already have skills, come share your gifts and fellowship with others.
Come be part of something meaningful, where every stitch carries a prayer and every shawl brings a blessing. We can’t wait to see you there!
FROM OUR PASTORS
Resurrection and the Walls That Remain
On our recent visit to Belfast, my family and I took the well-known Black Cab tour, which explores the legacy of the Troubles—the decades-long conflict between Catholics and Protestants in Northern Ireland. Our guide was not only insightful and compassionate, but as we later learned, he was also the Protestant—along with a Catholic—co-founder of the tour company. In fact, he had once personally led the Irish president along the same path we traveled. But what astonished us most wasn’t just the history—the present.
We saw with our own eyes the towering “peace walls,” some as high as 40 feet, still separating Catholic and Protestant neighborhoods. And we learned that each evening, gates in these walls are closed and locked—then reopened every morning. These aren’t relics of the past. They are living, breathing signs of a fragile peace still being worked out. They are a reminder that even decades after ceasefires and agreements, real reconciliation takes time, trust, and a willingness to face the pain of the past.
I found myself thinking of Easter—of resurrection—not as something that erases the wounds but something that transforms them. In my Easter sermon, I said that resurrection is an invitation to follow Jesus into abundant life, into love without fear. And yet, even the risen Christ still bore the scars of crucifixion. Healing doesn’t mean pretending the wounds were never there. It means they no longer define or divide us.
In Belfast, the walls still stand. But so does the hope. There are murals now—painted with messages of peace and justice. There are people working across lines of difference to build relationships, listen to each other’s stories, and risk hope. The work of resurrection is slow. But it is real.
And so I ask myself, and maybe you might ask yourself too: What walls still stand in our lives? In our communities? In our hearts? And what gates might God be nudging us to open—morning by morning?
In the spirit of the Risen One, may we keep walking toward peace. Not a peace that denies the past but one that dares to build a new future.
Grace and hope,
Pastor Jeff
MEET OUR NEW MEMBERS
TRISTAN BOOTH
Tristan was born in Shorewood, Illinois, and was raised Lutheran. In 1975, at age 13, he moved with his mother to Arizona. Having rejected the Lutheran church, he attended services at the First United Methodist Church on Central Avenue, Phoenix in the early 80s, but left to join Logos in Scottsdale. This was a small Christian church, rooted in the Edgar Cayce readings, which closed about 30 years later. He looked on Google Maps for a gayfriendly church, at first attending a Unitarian Universalist congregation, but later spotting the rainbow flag at Dayspring. Tristan received his B.A. in broadcasting, but switched to human communication for his M.A. and Ph.D. He taught communication classes at ASU for 20 years, and has a number of publications in academic journals and books. He is an Anglophile who basically loves anything UK-related, especially Monty Python. He is also a fan of Star Trek, the Twilight Zone, and Benny Goodman.
LYNN HEADRICK
Not Pictured:
In 1974, I married my high school sweetheart, John, in Indiana. In 1988, we moved to Arizona with our three daughters, Kerri, Kelli & Kylla (ages 9, 4 & 2). I worked for the State of Arizona with the Division of Developmental Disabilities for over 20 years. We raised our daughters in Chandler where I still live. John & I were active with Chandler Girl’s Softball for many years while our daughters all played. I lost my soul mate in 2015. I retired in 2016. My daughters all live in the valley and I am blessed to spend time with them & my six grandchildren. I enjoy my family and doing crafts in my retirement. I started attending Dayspring a couple of months ago after attending a Christmas eve service.
CATHY JANSSEN
I'm a Valley of the Sun native with three grown children. I'm retired from teaching elementary school full time, but still dabble in tutoring, testing and substitute teaching to get my "kid fix." I enjoy singing in choirs, yoga, walking, spending time outdoors and reading. I love Dayspring's embrace of all people and look forward to becoming involved in more of the opportunities offered here.
BRIT DAVIS
I volunteer with the Maricopa police department and I am also a CASA. I enjoy fishing, reading, video games, disc golf, board games and family time.
CHRISSY HURTADO
I am a mom of three wonderful kiddos. My fiance and I love being involved in the community and helping those in need. I volunteer for the Maricopa city police and fire departments and the local school district and am a CASA. I love gardening, art, fishing, baking, and games.
EMERALD REVELS
Born and raised in Phoenix AZ, I currently work for Philips dealing with medical equipment. I have a dog named August.
Dayspring UMC is a Reconciling Congregation. All people, regardless of age, sex, race, color, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, economic status, or ability are welcome into the full life of our congregation.
Dayspring UMC affirms the value and worth of all persons, recognizing that everyone is a child of God. We call all to live by and attest to gender equality and to observe Jesus' principles of love and non-violence in all our relationships.
