Welcome to 

First United Methodist Church 

Greetings!

Spring fruit trees blossom with flowers in bright pastel hues.  Those same tree blossoms transition from the initial sprig to full blossom.  Those blossoms are replaced by the nature of being God's creation and become productive life giving food.  Life giving fruit of various kinds enrich the health of the body with the vitamins consistent to the fruit type.  Some trees produce sweet fruit-apples, oranges, plums.  Other trees produce lemons, papayas, olives and, coconuts.  The health of the human body is strengthened by fruit.

In contrast to the fruit bearing tree which produces fruit eaten for nourishment, the New Testament book Galatians refers to spiritual fruit which is not eaten.  The message to the church in accordance with Galatians 5:22 "fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control" provides direction in strengthening our work and relationships.  Each fruit of the spirit is given to the church for the work of ministry.  As God grants these gifts for the work of ministry, we are to encourage the use of giftedness.  The church should always incorporate the tools which God has granted for Kingdom work.

Often heard by members of the church is the statement, "I don't have a clue as to what are my gifts."   This statement is an incentive to build upon leadership development systems empowering the laity to further serve as called people.  The committee responsible for leadership development will be working with the membership and constituency in identifying, providing training, encouraging, strengthening and deploying to serve the mission of Christ in the world.

The church of Galatia received the same message that we are receiving and renewing today, God has provided for God's church.  The letter to the church which was in Rome affirms we are one body with many members and not all members will have the same function.  As gifts are aligned with function and role, a more effective and harmonious environment thrives for the health of all.  Let us make health, wholeness and growth a focus for ministry.  

Pastor Gwen

To contact Pastor Gwen Roberts by email: gwen.robertsmc1st@sbcglobal.net

This is her private E-mail for church business.

Get-To-Know-You Gatherings held at the church in small group settings provides an opportunity for you to know Pastor Gwen and for her to know you.  

• Dates & times are posted on sign-up sheets in the narthex.  
• Gatherings sponsored by Staff/Parish Relations Committee.  
• Please register today for the date you would like to attend.