News

Congratulations and thank you, Derry! We have not only reached but exceeded our goal of $50,000 in support of the Veterans Outreach of Pennsylvania program to build 15 homes for veterans in the Harrisburg area. Construction of the community center is already under way and construction of the tiny home funded by Derry is expected to begin in January.

The excess funds will be held until the project is completed and then donated to VOPA to support some of the programs to be offered to the vets living in the village. Thank you for your support in helping our veterans to reintegrate into today’s society.

Derry friends, make your plans now to be part of Derry’s annual mission trip to the Dominican Republic. Be part of an international group immersed in the local culture that helps to build a new home for a Dominican family. You’ll also have the opportunity and joy to assist with Bible School activities. Cost is $1,600 per person with payment due by March 8. For further information, contact Pete Feil.

2-6 PM SUNDAY, DEC 10 AT THE ENGLEWOOD, 1219 WEST END AVE, HERSHEY

This festive Christmas musical fundraiser brings together Central Pennsylvania artists rallying to help their neighbors facing homelessness: funds raised support our mission partner Christian Churches United. A family friendly event, this concert spotlights performers from the Joy to the Burg 2023 Christmas album. Tickets are $10, children 12 & under are FREE. Can’t make the concert? A CD is available at Karns. More info here.

You are invited to ponder and discuss the following questions with your family, with small groups and committees, or on your own so what happens in worship can follow you, inspire you, and guide you throughout the week:

1. What does it mean to you to say, “Christ is King”?
2. One definition of power is force x velocity. Where have you seen power that uses force to achieve its aims?
3. Another definition of power is work over time, what Eugene Peterson has called “a long obedience in the same direction.” What can you do relentlessly day after day to make a difference in this world?

From Sunday, Nov 26 through Sunday, Dec 3, join Derry Church as we spread the joy and share the love! In the Narthex outside Fellowship Hall, you can pick up our 2023 Advent devotional, “Home for Christmas,” and an Advent wreath liturgy booklet, and support our mission partners by:

• Bringing $25 Walmart gift cards for the racetrack ministry and Derry Township Social Ministries (you can take a reminder tag this Sunday, Nov 19 from a tree in the Narthex)
• Dropping off canned goods for the Hershey Food Bank.
• Supporting Allison Hill Community Ministry with donations of sweaters, blankets, coats and jackets for babies, youngsters, teens and adults. Used items in good condition gladly accepted.
• Taking a note card you can fill with cash or a gift card, then pay it forward to someone you meet who’s not expecting it.

Cash Flow – Operating Fund as of 10/31/23:

BEGINS 11 AM MONDAY, NOV 20 IN THE HAMMOND LIBRARY

You’re invited to join the Monday Morning Bible Study as they begin a new study for Advent: Not A Silent Night: Mary Looks Back At Bethlehem by Adam Hamilton. Questions? Contact Claudia Holtzman.

6 PM TUESDAY, DEC 19 IN THE CHAPEL

Christmas can be a painful time for some. It may be the first Christmas without a loved family member who has recently died; it may be a time that has always been difficult.

The constant refrain on radio and television, in shopping malls and churches, about the happiness of the season, about getting together with family and friends, reminds many people of what they have lost or have never had. The anguish of broken relationships, the insecurity of unemployment, the weariness of ill health, the pain of isolation – all these can make us feel very alone in the midst of the celebrating and spending. We need the space and time to acknowledge our sadness and concern. We need to know that we are not alone.

Our spirits sink, as the days grow shorter. We feel the darkness growing deeper around us. We need encouragement to live the days ahead of us. For these reasons, Derry offers Longest Night worship, led this year by Pastor Stephen.

Come and join with us in sharing and hearing prayers, scripture, communion and music that acknowledge that God’s presence is for those who mourn, for those who struggle  – and that God’s Word comes to shine light into our darkness. Everyone is welcome.

7:15 PM SUNDAY, DEC 10 AT FENICCIS RESTAURANT, 102 W. CHOCOLATE AVE.

The Day Trippers also do evenings, and you’re invited to join them after Derry’s Christmas concert for some Christmas fellowship! Those attending will order off the regular menu and everyone will pay for their own meal. RSVP to Sue Whitaker by Sunday, Dec 3.

1:30 PM MONDAY, DEC 11 AT THE DI MATTEO WORSHIP CENTER/CHAPEL

Pastor Stephen will lead worship with communion, prayers, a meditation and carol singing, with organ accompaniment by Kathy Yingst. A time of fellowship follows the service. The Prime Timers have been invited to participate.

If you’d like to share your recipe for the cookies you’re bringing to the Cookie Walk on Dec 2, bring a copy of the recipe with your cookies. Recipes will be displayed with the cookies and people can take a photo or wait for a printed copy to be made available later. 

You are invited to ponder and discuss the following questions with your family, with small groups and committees, or on your own so what happens in worship can follow you, inspire you, and guide you throughout the week:

1. Where do you see signs of hope in the world?
2. How has God given you hope in your life?
3. What do you hope for the world in the future?