Where Can I Serve?

Jesus told us, his disciples, to make disciples of all nations. One of the most important values of First United Methodist Church is mission to the world. It begins in our own community, and spreads throughout the world. First Church members are involved in a variety of ministries.

Upshur Helping Hands

First Church is an active supporter of the Upshur Helping Hands youth and adult community service group.  The Upshur Parish House sponsors an annual work team trip by Upshur Helping Hands to McDowell County, West Virginia, one of the poorest counties in the country, to provide light carpentry and other services to those in need.  First Church works with the Parish House in funding and encouraging members to participate in the work team. UHH works through the Big Creek People in Aciton local group in McDowell County to identify residents who qualify for assistance.  First Church members are among the youth and adults who participate in the Work Team, which is open to anyone of high school age or older with the ability to commit to a week of volunteer service. Past Projects include: Building an ADA-compliant access ramp for a wheelchair-bound man and his wife Rebuilding a kitchen using donated second-hand cabinets Replacing rotted flooring in a bathroom, and replacing the leaky shower that caused the rot Building or replacing porches Installing new siding on a 2-story house Replacing roof shingles Flood relief The motto of the UHH Work Team is “Warmer, Safer, Drier.”  The projects we undertake must fulfill one or more of those objectives. The Work Team encounter is a key component of First Church’s ministry with youth, and provides the first opportunity for many of them to experience the unique rewards of community service.  This life-changing event provides a fresh perspective on the world and life, and empowers team members by demonstrating the value of their contributions to the members of the McDowell County community. For more information on the Upshur Helping Hands Work Team, contact Woody Martin: wmartin2@frontier.com.

Boy Scouts

First Church sponsors Cub Scout Pack 128 and Boy Scout Troup 128.  Our troop has produced a large number of Eagle Scouts through the years, and the boys continue to do an impressive job with their advancement and with service to the community.  The troop meets Monday at 7 PM in the Scout Room, Ground Level of the main building.
 
Cub Scouts are in grades K-5 and participate in den meetings, pack meetings and special events. It is a good idea to begin with scouts in the fall when school starts, but Cubs can join any time during the school year. The Pack Meeting is the 3rd Monday of each month at 6 pm.