First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of DeLand to Bless Students and Teachers for Upcoming School Year

First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) of DeLand will host a worship service on Sunday, Aug. 9, at 10:45 a.m., during which the Rev. Carlos Perez will bless all students and teachers in attendance. This event is intended to prepare participants for the 2026-27 school year. The church emphasizes a welcoming and inclusive environment for children and youth, encouraging active participation in worship and church activities. It also supports the development of leadership skills through service initiatives.

The Disciple Women, a group within the church, provide financial assistance each summer for children and youth who wish to attend camp at The Retreat in Silver Springs, Florida. This camp aims to deepen participants’ relationships with Jesus Christ. First Christian Church in DeLand sent six youths to the camp this summer. Additionally, 10 young women affiliated with the church received scholarship funds for further education following their high school graduation.

The congregation and Disciple Women are actively engaged in ministries aimed at supporting children and youth. The church plans to hold a major fundraising effort on Feb. 5 and 6, 2027, to further support programming for young people.

The Disciples Historical Society has announced the 225th anniversary of the Cane Ridge Revival, a significant event in Christian history. The celebration will take place on Saturday, Aug. 8, 2026, at the historic Cane Ridge Meeting House in Paris, Kentucky. Bill McIntyre, representing First Christian Church of DeLand, is involved in this commemoration. The Cane Ridge Revival, which occurred in August 1801, drew 20,000 to 30,000 people from diverse backgrounds. Barton Warren Stone, who was pastoring at Cane Ridge, welcomed the attendees, many of whom traveled on foot or horseback. The revival led to the formation of a movement advocating for Christian unity along nonsectarian lines by 1804.

Unitarian Universalist (UU) DeLand Connection will host a service at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 9. Rowena Elise Waters, a local education specialist and private tutor, will share her insights on the restorative power of human connection. Raised with Palestinian and American heritage, Ms. Waters brings a unique perspective to the importance of community and relationships. Her presentation will include stories of connection’s cathartic power and practical ideas for fostering healthy relationships within families, friends, and communities.

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