Fayetteville UMC Looking Ahead

Fayetteville UMC gathered on Sunday afternoon, June 14, 2009, to celebrate the payment of debt associated with remodeling of sanctuary, building of fellowship hall and expansion of education wing. The pastor of 24 years, Rev. John Limbaugh praised the church members for their work and ministry together and for their generous donations that made paying of the loan possible.  He challenged the church to look to the future for the exciting things that God has plan for the Church.

The church recently purchased a new bus to meet the travel needs of a growing youth group and the adults. Reverend Limbaugh admonished them for taking this step, noting that the church is looking ahead.

District Superintendent Richard Stryker joined the congregation in celebrating this wonderful day. He praised them for allowing God to use them in preparing a unique place for the worship of God. He challenged the congregation to use the church building as a place where nonbelievers can connect with God but also to take care of the bodily temple, for God goes with us wherever we go in this bodily temple.

D.S. Stryker also commended the church for the new preachers coming out of the congregation. Reverend Paul Vick is pastor at New Site and Reverend Chris Whitehead is pastor at Oak Grove UMC. Both recently entered the ministry. Bro. Warren Ford is a member and exploring ministry.

After the praise and worship time in the sanctuary, the congregation gathered outside to celebrate this special day by burning a copy of the note. The smoke drifted into the heavens as Reverend Limbaugh prayed a prayer of thanksgiving.

The celebration continued with festive eating of fried fish, many kinds of vegetable dishes and desert. Worship and fellowship provided a marvelous time in the Lord.