Giving Tuesday At AUMC
As the holiday season approaches, we are excited to continue a generosity tradition at Arapaho UMC. #GivingTuesday is an opportunity to support the important work God is doing through the missions and ministries at Arapaho and you are invited to consider making a special end-of-year gift to help support the church as we enter the Advent season together.
The Chosen: A Christmas Story
As we prepare our hearts for Advent and the Christmas season, you’re invited to a special gathering to experience the first Christmas in a deeply moving way. On Wednesday, December 11, at 6:00 pm, we’ll come together to watch The Chosen: A Christmas Story — a beautiful retelling of the nativity through the eyes of Mary and Joseph.
Dobie Pre-K Angel Tree
This holiday season, you’re invited to help bring joy and hope to families at Dobie Pre-K through our Arapaho UMC Angel Tree! By volunteering to select a gift for a child, you can make this season truly special for a family in our community.
Special Holiday Service
Each year at the Winter Solstice, the Arapaho community gathers in a "Service of Longest Night." This service helps us share in the remembrance of those who passed over the year, and acknowledges the loneliness and grief that can accompany our lives during the festive holiday season.
Christmas Eve Family Service
Join Arapaho United Methodist Church for Christmas Eve on December 24th at 5:00 pm. The 5:00 pm Christmas Eve Service is a kid-friendly, family worship service that includes a live nativity re-telling, candlelight and carols.
Candlelight & Communion Service
Join Arapaho United Methodist Church for Christmas Eve on December 24 at 7:00 pm for an in-person or online worship service experience with carols and candlelight.
Staff Gift
AUMC has a long-standing tradition to show gratitude to the church staff by a monetary Christmas gift.
Dobie Teacher Appreciation
Mark your calendars! On November 11, AUMC will be providing delicious treats and snacks for the teachers and staff at Dobie Pre-K, and we need your help to make it a special day!
Election Day Prayer Vigil
As Election Day approaches, many in our community may find themselves feeling anxious or uncertain. At Arapaho United Methodist Church, we want to offer a space of peace, prayer, and reflection for anyone who needs it.
Spares & Pairs First Gathering
Are you aged 21-45, single, single on Sundays, or part of a couple without children? If so, we'd love for you to join Spares and Pairs—a group where we come together twice a month for devotionals, mission work, and fellowship. Whether you’re looking to connect with others, deepen your faith, or simply find a welcoming space to share life’s journey, Spares and Pairs is the perfect fit!
Right now, we’re exploring Brian McLaren's "We Make a Road by Walking," a 52-week devotional that guides us in meaningful discussions. Each gathering also includes a hands-on activity, helping support the important missions of AUMC.
Dobie Reading Buddies Program
We invite you to become a part of the Reading Buddies Program, a special initiative where volunteers spend 30 minutes each week reading with a child, engaging them with a book, and playing interactive activities that help foster a love for learning.
Trunk Or Treat
On Saturday, October 26, from 5:00 - 7:00 pm you are invited to bring your kids or grandkids to the AUMC north parking lot for a night of costumes, candy, community and decorated trunks! Dress up in your favorite costumes, and don't forget a basket to collect all the treats.
Austin Street Food Service
The Austin Street team is making, delivering and serving food in October. To serve this time, you may make food, serve food, do both or contribute financially. All of your help is greatly appreciated. This foodservice will work a little different than normal as a small group in the church is making sandwiches. If you would like to provide food, click here to view what you could provide.
Listening Circle: Reproductive Rights
The debate around reproductive policy in Texas is complex, and we invite you to engage in this important conversation at AUMC's Common Concerns Listening Circle on October 23 at 6:30 pm (in Room 40).
Blessing Of The Animals
On October 13 at 3:30 pm, we invite you and your beloved pets to join us on the lawn for our annual Blessing of the Animals, a beautiful tradition that honors the spirit of St. Francis of Assisi.
St. Francis, a 12th-century Catholic priest, is remembered for his compassion toward the poor, his dedication to caring for those with leprosy, and his deep love for animals and the natural world. As the patron saint of animals and the environment, his legacy continues to inspire acts of kindness and stewardship toward all of creation.
Bring your pets—whether they’re dogs, cats, rabbits, turtles, snakes, or something more unique! Pastor Cathy and others will offer a blessing for each animal and a small treat for your furry, feathered, or scaly friends.
Music In The Pumpkin Patch
We are excited to invite you to an unforgettable evening of music at Arapaho UMC Pumpkin Patch! On Saturday, October 19, from 5:00 to 6:30 pm, the UpSwing Jazz Orchestra, under the direction of Mr. Bill Geyer, will perform a lively and entertaining concert on our north lawn.
Bible On Broadway: Movie Watching Party
Before we kick off our Bible on Broadway series this year, we’re hosting Friday night movie previews—come watch The Greatest Showman on October 18 at 6:30 pm in Room 40!
District 112 Town Hall
Arapaho United Methodist Church is proud to announce a special town hall gathering on October 23 at 6:30 pm. Both candidates for District 112, Rep. Angie Chen Button and Averie Bishop, have been invited to participate. This event will be moderated by Rev. Dr. George Mason, who will lead a thoughtful dialogue on key issues of concern to our community.
Introduction To Wesleyan Theology
Did you know that nearly two out of three new members at Arapaho UMC come from non-Methodist or Wesleyan backgrounds? This important statistic shows just how beneficial a brief introduction to Wesleyan theology could be for many in our church community.
Confirmation Begins
We are excited to invite your youth on an intentional faith journey through a Confirmation program. This experience is designed to help them explore what it means to be a Christian and a part of the United Methodist Church. Throughout this journey, students will dive into the Old and New Testaments, learn about United Methodist history and beliefs, and gain a deeper understanding of sacraments like Communion and Baptism.
AUMC At North Texas Pride Festival
We’re excited to invite you to the Come As You Are Pride Festival at Haggard Park in Plano on October 12, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm! This vibrant, family-friendly event will be a day full of celebration, inclusion, and community as we honor and uplift the LGBTQ community.
Bible On Broadway: Movie Watching Party
Have you seen the Broadway musical Billy Elliot? On Sunday, October 13 at 11:00 am in worship, AUMC kicks off the Bible on Broadway worship series. This year, come enjoy an evening of fun and watch a special screening of the movie on Friday, October 11, at 6:30 PM in Room 40.
Billy Elliot tells the inspiring story of a young boy in County Durham, England, during the 1984 miner's strike. While his family struggles with the economic impact of the strike, Billy finds himself drawn to ballet, much to the surprise of those around him. With the help of his teacher and behind his father’s back, Billy secretly prepares for an audition at the Royal Ballet.
The musical adaptation is funny, historical, deeply moving, and uniquely British! Please note, it features some strong language with a British flair. We hope you’ll join us for this heartwarming story.
Mark your calendar for:
Movie screening: Billy Elliot – Friday, October 11, 6:30 pm
Bible on Broadway: Begins Sunday, October 13 at 11:00 am in person or at 11:10 am online via www.arapahoumc.org/watch
Reclaim Our Vote (6:30 pm)
Whether you can write a few postcards or many, your participation will help us reach our goal and contribute to a greater movement for justice and equality. Come be part of this inspiring initiative on September 17, at 6:30 pm, as we work together to make every vote count.
Reclaim Our Vote (1:00 pm)
Whether you can write a few postcards or many, your participation will help us reach our goal and contribute to a greater movement for justice and equality. Come be part of this inspiring initiative on September 17, at 1:00 pm, as we work together to make every vote count.
Warming Station Info Session
Arapaho UMC is proud to have a team of volunteers who step up when called to serve. On October 6, after worship (about 12:15 pm), you are invited to join in Room 1 to hear inspiring stories from our AUMC volunteers and learn how you can get involved this season. Come see how you can make a difference and help bring warmth and care to our community. No RSVP Necessary.
An Evening With Jim Wallis
AUMC is thrilled to announce that Jim Wallis, a renowned writer, teacher, and justice advocate, is coming to Dallas! Wallis, a New York Times bestselling author and respected public theologian, is known for his powerful insights on ethics and public life. He passionately believes that the gospel of Jesus must be liberated from its cultural and political constraints.
UWF Fall Kickoff
This fall, Arapaho UMC’s Love Circle is inviting all women of the church to a special kickoff event where you can learn more about UWF, explore forming small groups, and engage in meaningful advocacy for justice and support for missions. Our featured speaker, Shelley Ross, the Executive Director of Wesley Rankin Center—a community cornerstone in West Dallas for over 100 years—will share her insights and experiences.
Racial Healing Circle
On Saturday, September 21, from 9:00 am until 2:00 pm (in The Fellowship Hall), we are excited to invite you to a Racial Healing Circle, facilitated by the esteemed Quodesia "Quo" Johnson. This transformative experience will bring together current J2RJ participants, Leadership Board members, and staff for a powerful journey toward racial healing.
North Texas Giving Day
Imagine if your financial contribution had the potential to fuel the next transformative idea within the Richardson and North Dallas community. Over the past few years, Arapaho UMC has harnessed the impact of North Texas Giving Day as a platform for inaugurating fresh ministries. This time around, every donation received by AUMC will directly enhance our capacity to engage with and embolden novel ministries within our faith community. On Thursday, September 19, you donations will go to support the ministries of Live Like Luke and Journey To Racial Justice.
Dinner & Documentary
"1946: The Mistranslation That Shifted Culture" is a compelling documentary that delves into the origins of the anti-gay movement among Christians. It reveals how a grave mistranslation of the Bible in 1946 has shaped attitudes and prejudices for nearly a century. The film features the discovery of never-before-seen archives at Yale University, presenting astonishing revelations that challenge the biblical basis for LGBTQIA+ prejudice.
The Enneagram Experience
Would you like community support for your journey of self-discovery and personal growth? If you are curious to learn more about the Enneagram and discover your personality type, or if you know the Enneagram number you lead with but are unsure of what next steps to take in doing deeper Enneagram work, you are invited to a new class this fall.
(F)all Church Picnic
Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 8, from noon to 2:00 pm. Stay after worship for a fun-filled (F)all Church Picnic! We’ll be serving up hot dogs, hamburgers, cold drinks, chips, and popsicles to keep everyone refreshed.
The Threat Of Christian Nationalism
On Sunday, August 25 at 3:30 pm (in Room 40), Pastor Cathy will share the profound learnings from her time at Georgetown. She will focus particularly on understanding Christian Nationalism, examining why it poses a significant threat to both the faith community and society at large.
Meet The Pastor
You are invited to a special series of gatherings where you can enjoy good food, fellowship with other church members, and have the opportunity to meet Pastor Jonathan in a more intimate setting. These gatherings are designed to foster community spirit and engage in meaningful conversations about the future of AUMC.
Between August 14 and August 27, six different homes in the community will open their doors to host these special events. Each gathering will feature a light meal and welcoming atmosphere. During these meetings, you'll have the chance to get to know Pastor Jonathan on a personal level and share your thoughts and ideas. It's a perfect opportunity to discuss how we can all work together to strengthen our community and faith.
Texas Impact / North Texas Votes
You are invited to get involved with Texas Impact, a statewide, interfaith advocacy organization. Texas Impact helps us understand current events and demonstrates how our faith can drive us towards more effective civic engagement.
Back Pack Blessing
Do you have a child or grandchild heading back to school? On Sunday, August 11 all students are encouraged to bring their backpack to worship with them. During Children’s time in the 11:00 am worship service there will be a backpack blessing for all students. As a part of this blessing, each student will be given a backpack tag for their school year.
Journeys Of Paul Info Session
Would you like to go to Greece and travel through the historic world of Paul? Come to an information session on August 4 at 12:15 pm in Room 1 to learn about the opportunity, meet others who have signed up, and get ready for a fantastic learning experience as we follow Paul's journey through Greece.