We are called to share and serve others.
At some point in our relationship with God we are quickly pointed outward to others. It is not just a relationship between an individual and God, we are pointed toward community, toward others and ever outward beyond our comfort zone. We are called to share and serve others. We are called to move from self-centered to God-centered which will in turn move us to be concerned with all of God’s people.
Getting involved changes lives…not only others but ourselves!


The depth of God’s love invites us to service.
Jesus modeled care and concern for those in physical and spiritual need. He also pointed out that the two most important things about God’s way to true life was by loving God with all that we are and loving others as ourselves. Jesus was constantly reaching out to those considered “the least, the last and the lost.” He reminded all of us who would follow after Him in doing God’s will that we would not treat others as outcasts but as fellow brothers and sisters.
The depth of His love invites us to service and making a loving visible presence even when people often turn against each other. We want to proclaim God’s “good news” and love to the world through making a difference in people’s lives. There are lots of ways to serve both ongoing and one time events. They can vary in distance from feeding the hungry both here and around the world, helping schools in need with school supplies, disaster aid, clothing drives, missionary support and helping to provide scholarships for students at United Methodist related Africa University.
Find the joy of serving others!

Music Ministry
It’s been one year since our music program took an unprecedented and unplanned hiatus due to the pandemic. In March 2020, the Adult Choir was prepared to present its annual Easter Cantata, when it became necessary to drastically adjust all programming.
Throughout the summer and fall, solos and duets were featured for the online worship services, and during the Advent season, the Adult Choir recorded anthems for the online worship services. Starting in February, the choir will begin meeting outside on a covered patio to rehearse and record anthems while observing the safety protocols set forth by our Bishop and the government. Gradually, we are beginning to emerge from isolation and are very excited to once again be a community singing to the glory of God.
The Adult Choir will present a cantata on Palm Sunday, March 28, 2021 via a videotaped presentation. Be sure to watch on desertskiesumc.org website for a truly wonderful musical story of Christ’s love and sacrifice.
Adult Choir Rehearsal and Recording Sessions – Spring2021:
SATURDAYS @ 2:00–3:30 PM on the Fellowship Hall Patio[Houghton Campus]
The Handbells have been rehearsing and playing for services during the fall of 2020. Typically, the Handbells play for one service per month, and we hope to resume that schedule in March until the Handbells break for the summer.
Handbells rehearse: WEDNESDAYS @ 6:00–7:00 PM[Houghton Campus]
The Praise Band has continued to rehearse and record during the fall and Advent seasons and have provided special music for several services. At present, the Praise Band needs a drummer, bass player, back-up vocalist, and a lead guitarist. If you know someone who would like to “stretch their chops” or pick up the instrument they used to play, please contact the Vail Praise Band Leader Scott Jones or Dr. Alex “Doc” Shawn, the Director of Music.
Praise Band rehearses: SATURDAYS @ 9:00–11:00 AM[Vail Campus]
Ring and Sing is designed for children up to and including Grade 6. This is a great way for young people to learn about bell ringing and singing. The basics of music reading are included in the rehearsals. It is anticipated that Ring and Sing will resume rehearsals in the fall of 2021. Check back here for more information.
Ring and Sing rehearses: SUNDAYS @11:15 AM-12:00 PM [Houghton Campus]
Beginning Fall 2021
Youth Handbells is also on hiatus until the fall of 2021 when we anticipate rehearsing again. If you would like more information on this group, please contact the Director of Handbell Choirs, Dr. Raymond T. Ryder, or Dr. Alex “Doc” Shawn.
Youth Handbells rehearse: SUNDAYS @ 11:15AM–12:15 PM [Houghton Campus] Beginning Fall 2021
Musically Yours,
Doc Shawn,Director of Music and Congregational Care
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- 3255 N. Houghton Road
Tucson, Arizona 85749
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