By: David Tom

 There is a song I used to sing back when we didn’t stream services on YouTube or Facebook: Touch a Hand, Make a Friend. It was first released in 1973 by the Staple Singers and later made popular by one of my favorite groups, The Oak Ridge Boys. The opening line
says, “Can’t you feel it in your bones? Oh, a change is comin’ on.”
“That’s what I feel in my bones about Desert Chapel—a change”.
 Feelings matter, but I wanted to see whether there were tangible indicators of change. Sure enough, there are. Attendance is up about 13% compared to early 2025, and pledged dollars have increased from last year. These are encouraging trends worth celebrating.
 But that’s not the only change I’m sensing.
 I’m feeling warmth. Happiness. A renewed need for one another. While there may not be statistics for those things, they are real—and they matter. As leaders consider our immediate and long-term plans, programs, and priorities, we are working to capture and nurture that spirit.
 Part of that planning involves our physical facilities. Over the past several years, it has become clear that our buildings are aging—and not always gracefully. Leadership has worked creatively to manage both maintenance and modernization. We now have processes in place to address items that break as well as those that simply need
improvement.
 A key part of this process is the central reporting of concerns, suggestions, or maintenance issues through the church office (open Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.). Since most congregants are on campus primarily on Sundays, when the office is closed, the best way to report concerns is by leaving a written note in the offering plate, in the sign-in folders, or with an usher. As Lay Leader, I’m always glad to hear your concerns—but I know myself well enough to admit I might not remember every detail! Written communication ensures that issues are documented and addressed.
 Last summer, the new insurance provider for Methodist churches in our conference initiated a program to review previously denied or underpaid damage claims. Working with our Operations Manager, Trustees, and Leadership Board, they have inspected numerous
areas of our facilities to determine whether claims were improperly handled.
 This process has already resulted in more than $5,000 in previously unpaid claims being reimbursed. However, it also means that some disputed damage cannot be repaired until reviews are complete. If you notice worn or damaged areas needing attention, please report them using the methods listed above—they may already be part of this review
process.

 One common concern is that portions of our building exteriors and grounds appear “shabby” or unkempt. Some of this may be related to the ongoing insurance review, but some is within our control. We are reminding our contracted maintenance provider of his responsibilities and are also seeking bids from additional contractors as our annual contract renewal approaches.
 Earlier, I mentioned happiness, joy, and warmth. As I stand before both the congregation and the camera each week, I see those emotions on your faces. While I can’t see our remote worshipers, I do see the weekly stream of emoji smiles, hearts, and thumbs-up from our 100+ online viewers—and I hear comments like, “I feel like I’m in a real church again,” and “We got a personal note from the Pastor.”
 Our social ministries also contribute to the joy of Desert Chapel. Thanks to the dedication of many volunteers, the Methodist tradition of the potluck has returned! Along with
Chargers breakfasts and monthly donut-and-cookie fellowship, these gatherings nourish both body and community.
 Our most recent potluck was attended by over 50% of those present for Sunday worship, and the latest Chargers breakfast had the best turnout in several years.
 “In a world often divided by social, political, and even religious
differences, Desert Chapel’s leaders believe our strengths lie in a more traditional approach to worship, music, and outreach. “
 The blending of message, music, and Methodist teaching continues to keep us both fresh and grounded.
 Returning to Touch a Hand, Make a Friend: “Hey, what about you, my friend? Ain’t it time to come on in? We can find a better way—why
don’t you join us today?”
 It seems we, as a congregation, are already doing just that.
Desert Chapel touches many hands and warms many hearts. As we often say, we are the Heart of Apache Junction. Our central location in the growing East Valley continues to make us a welcoming place for those seeking a warm, inviting church home. Reach out. Touch a hand. Make a friend. Be a disciple.
 Come on in—and have a little talk with Jesus. (Yes, another song we’ll need permission to
sing!)