Sunday Worship, Jan. 3
Short Answers to Big Questions: Who is God?

Join us on this Epiphany Sunday as we celebrate the visit of the Magi to Jesus. This visit is more than an extension of the Christmas story, it is a contrast between two ways of seeing God. We can choose to see God in a narrow focus like Herod, or be open and willing to experience him like the Magi.

Sanctuary: The Rev. Magrey deVega 
Chapel: The Rev. Justin LaRosa 
Magnolia: The Rev. Justin LaRosa
NEWS
Christmas Eve at Hyde Park

Thank you to those who served or made room for the thousands of guests who attended our Christmas Eve services! You can experience the Rev. Magrey deVega's unique rhyming sermon again here.
Year-End Contributions

To qualify as a charitable contribution for 2015, donations to Hyde Park United Methodist must be received or postmarked by Dec. 31, 2015. Ministry offices will be open until 5 p.m. Dec. 31. Gifts may also be made online. Each gift supports the ministries and missions of Hyde Park as we Make God's Love Real in our community; thank you!
Healing Prayer Available Sunday

If you or a loved one is suffering in body, mind or spirit, the healing prayer team is available after every service in the Chapel this Sunday to pray with you. For more information, contact Joan Mellen.
Discover Hyde Park this Sunday 

Learn more about our congregation at Discover Hyde Park this Sunday after the 9:30 and 11 a.m. services in Knox Hall 156.  Find out about groups, serving opportunities and more at this 30-minute event. Learn more.
New Member Class Begins Jan. 6

Meet and study with other newcomers to Hyde Park as you take your first steps toward membership together in the New Member Class. Learn more.
Baptism Class Jan. 6

Learn more about the sacrament of baptism and what it means in our faith journey at our next baptism class, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Jan. 6 in the Chapel. This class is required for all those considering baptism; learn more.
Stewardship Update

We are happy to announce that over 460 households have made a financial commitment to the church for 2016. You can join them in three ways:
Read this month's Giving Matters by Lori Osborne. 
Tax Savings for Direct Charitable IRA Distributions

Dec. 18, legislation was signed to permanently extend the IRA charitable rollover. This allows taxpayers age 70 ½ or older to make tax-free charitable gifts of up to $100,000 to eligible charities, including Hyde Park United Methodist. To take advantage of such rollovers, the distribution must be sent directly from the IRA to the church. For further details, contact Mary Lou Compton or 813.253.5388.
New Year Holiday Schedule
  • Wednesday, Dec. 30: No Children's or Youth Programming or Dinner
  • Friday, Jan. 1: Ministry Offices Closed
EVENTS AND GROUPS
New Sermon-Based Groups

Dig further into the "Big Questions" of our next sermon series in a casual setting of a sermon-based group. Multiple groups meet throughout the week, or you can start one of your own using our free resources. Learn more and register.
"Taking Care of You" Workshop

Turn New Year's resolutions into healthy behaviors at the "Taking Care of You" workshop 6:30 p.m. Jan. 7 in Knox Hall 150.  Learn more.
SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES
Help New Immigrants in Tampa Area
 
While nations wrestle with a worldwide refugee crisis, Tampa charities are helping immigrants in our community, one family at a time. Learn more or contact Vicki Walker if you are interested in helping.
Seven Ways to Serve in the New Year 
 
Begin the new year in service at Hyde Park United Methodist! There are seven opportunities available, including Children's Ministries shepherds and serving communion; learn more.
CHILDREN AND YOUTH
New Safety Procedures at the Wesley Center 
 
Our children's safety is among highest priorities at Hyde Park. Beginning this Sunday as part of our continued review of Sunday procedures, the entrance to the Wesley Center will be restricted to children and their parents/guardians only. Restrooms are available in the Sanctuary, Knox Hall and Chapel Lobby. Read more. 
FAMILY CIRCLE
  • Sympathy to Carlton and Donna Cozart on the death of her mother, Carroll Saxton, Dec. 27. A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Jan. 4 in the Chapel.
  • A memorial service for Jerri Rollins will be held 11 a.m. Jan. 8 in the Chapel; the family requests donations be made to Life Path Hospice in lieu of flowers.
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