District Roundup
Abingdon:
Many churches have cemeteries on their premises, but First Mountain City UMC may be the first in Holston to build a place for cremated remains. The "columbarium" was conceived two years ago and dedicated in May. It cost $23,000 to build and contains 128 niches for storing urns filled with ashes. Seven niches have been bought by church members at $500 each, compared to the $1,000 charged at a local mausoleum. Building Chair Richard Walsh says that storing our remains is "something we don't like to think about. But what better place than a churchyard?"
Big Stone Gap:
Jonesville Camp Meeting just completed its 192nd annual run, delivering music and message for four nights at the historic campground shed. The Rev. Dennie Humphreys, district superintendent, preached every night to crowds averaging 210 in number.
Chattanooga:
East Ridge UMC plans two special gatherings to observe Sept. 11. On the anniversary of the bombings, the Rev. Amy Rollins Probst will lead a Service of Remembrance & Healing, where worshipers will write messages to churches near the World Trade Center and Pentagon. On Sept. 7, East Ridge will host an appreciation dinner for local fire, police and rescue workers. "They are our new generation of heroes," Probst said, "and we want to show them that ministry of hospitality."
Cleveland:
In July, the Rev. David Graves asked every member of Ooltewah UMC to write down their "faith stories" – how they came to Jesus Christ – and lay them at the altar. On the designated Sunday, about 60 members came forth. As Graves began sharing details of stories in his sermons, others were inspired to write. The pastor began receiving testimonies by email, in his office box, at the altar. To date, 120 stories have arrived, and they're still coming. Getting people to focus on "what's really important" is lifting up the congregation and inspiring them to ministry, says Graves. "It's not about buildings. It's not about raising money. It's about sharing Jesus Christ." Stay tuned.
Johnson City:
In 2001, Mt. Wesley UMC members were disappointed when only 12 children attended vacation Bible school. They halfheartedly prepared for the 2002 season, planning a parade to kick off the first night. To their surprise, the whole Telford community jumped in to help, lining up with tractors, golf carts, fire engines, floats and antique cars. "The parade ended up being a half-mile long," says the Rev. Mark Mangum. By week's end, 60 children had participated in Mt. Wesley's VBS, themed "Godzwerkus Circus."
Kingsport:
Okolona UMC raised $900 in June with a pig roast. On Aug. 3, Okolona and sister church Chalybeate Springs UMC used the funds to host a "Back to School Bash." More than 100 underprivileged kids from the community were served with food, games, snow cones, face painting and backpacks filled with school supplies, says the Rev. Barry Lane.
Knoxville:
Oakwood UMC recently won a $1,000 Change for Children grant for "basketball Bible study." The plan is to transform the church's unused basement into a gym, then invite middle-schoolers in for basketball followed by a discipleship program. "We're in the condition that a lot of inner-city churches are in," says the Rev. John Jackson. "This used to be a large, thriving church. Now it's in a period of decline." The congregation hopes that basketball, beginning this fall, will help them re-connect with the community.
Maryville:
After breaking ground in 1999, Fairview UMC began worshiping in its new sanctuary on June 30. The $4.5 million project, located across the street from the existing building, is expected to be complete in 2003. The new sanctuary seats 900-plus, which Fairview packs every Sunday. Is it taking an unusually long time to finish the project? Perhaps, says Director of Volunteer Ministries Roxanna Jones. "But most of the building is already paid for. At least we're not in debt."
Morristown:
Economy UMC recently dedicated a new fellowship hall, which was built and paid for in a year's time. The oldest church in Morristown District, Economy was established in 1819. The new fellowship hall conforms to the architecture and accommodates more than 150 people.
Oak Ridge:
Youth at First Oak Ridge UMC have another reason to look up to Youth Director Scott Gillenwaters. On Aug. 1, the 38-yearold leader was elected Anderson County commissioner in District 6. "My morals and standards will help me hold myself accountable to the people I represent," he recently told The Oak Ridger.
Tazewell:
The Bishop Charge recently held a 40-hour prayer vigil prior to a six-night revival. Following the revival, 22 people were baptized. "Yes, prayer is a powerful tool!" the district newsletter reports. The Bishop Charge includes Alexander Memorial, Boyd's Chapel and Brown's Chapel United Methodist Churches.
Wytheville:
Appointed to Grove UMC in June, the Rev. James Bennington is using "neighborhood cluster meetings" to get acquainted with his congregation and talk about vision. The six meetings, held at members' homes in different regions of Radford, began Aug. 15. Bennington says he asks parishioners, "Why do people need Jesus?" and "Why do they need this church?" The questions help members uncover the vision God gives for the congregation, according to the book, "Leading Beyond the Walls: Developing Congregations With a Heart for the Unchurched."
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