We've had a busy week! This year's Operation Christmas Child's campaign brought in 261 boxes for children around the world! Thank you to all who contributed to this wonderful project which helps us share the love of God. Yesterday's annual Veteran Thanksgiving Meal was another smashing success, with over 50 veterans being recognized for their service to our country! Thank you to all those who helped us honor our service members.
Over the years, Grace has grown a larger staff with many capable and dedicated employees, but our budget can no longer support the current number of positions. The Staff-Parish Relations Committee has responded to the Finance Committee's request to reduce the staff budget. Unfortunately, the SPRC had to cut two positions, Greer Rowland, the Finance Secretary, and Chuck Faulkner, the Gym Administrator. We are so grateful for all the time and talents and dedication that Greer and Chuck have both given to the ministry of our church. Greer has continued her role, even after she got another full-time job at N.A. Elementary. Chuck has helped grow our gym programs and has graciously agreed to continue his role in a volunteer capacity, supporting the gym programs, such as Pickleball. The Staff-Parish Relations Committee will continue to look at our staffing to ensure that ministry is fulfilled, within the constraints of the budget.
The SPRC and the pastors are completing the annual Clergy Assessment Form used for performance evaluation, due in November. The SPRC is also given the responsibility of giving input to the District Superintendent in December regarding the appointment of the pastors. This process includes conversations with the pastors and the completion of the Advisory Response Form, where the SPRC and the pastors indicate their wishes regarding re-appointment for the 2026-2027 Conference year.
With the resignation of Rebekah Bryant, Director of Youth Ministries, we are working with our volunteer team and our full-time staff, Amber Forrest, Rev. Ashley Buchanan and Rev. Patrick Taylor, to keep our youth ministry moving forward. If you have questions or ideas and wish to help, please contact one of these staff members.
"A Crucified King" - Sunday, November 23, 2025
On Christ the King Sunday we hear the story of Jesus’ crucifixion, a reminder that our King is a humble, sacrificial King who does not rule by force or might or power, but by the power of love.
Prepare for worship by reading the following scripture passages: Colossians 1:11-20 and Luke 23:33-43
Prayer Concerns as of Thursday, November 20, 2025
Piedmont
Recently Discharged
Click the image to register for the event.
Food Donations Needed for Activity
Children's Ministry is collecting the following items for a yummy craft for families to do together at the upcoming Cookies with Santa event:
There are three drop-off locations: 1) Wesley Center hallway outside of the History Room, 2) Children's Ministry hallway, and 3) Yolanda's door.
Join the Cast of Return to Bethlehem
Help us make Christ time in the CSRA a little more special by joining the cast of this immersive nativity experience.
Set Building Days
November 22 & 29, December 6
Costume Fitting Days
November 30, December 3 & 7
Return to Bethlehem Days
December 10-13
New CMONA Food Pantry Drop Zones
Grace UMC continues to be an ardent supporter of Community Ministry of North Augusta. Especially during the current halt of supplemental food aid to many of our neighbors, it is more important than ever for us to step up to feed to hungry.
In the Asbury Building Lobby and across from the Wesley Center elevator, there are now Community Ministry Food Pantry Drop Zones. If you would like to donate to Community Ministry's Food Pantry, but are unable to do so during their open hours, we have several Community Ministry volunteers who are happy to regularly monitor these drop zones and make delivers on your behalf!
Be Part of our 2026 Lent Devotional Book: Seeking Jesus Together
We're preparing our next Lent Devotional Book, and you're invited to help shape it! Each year, members of our church family write short reflections that guide us through the season of Lent. This year's theme, "Seeking Jesus Together," invites us to grow in faith and connection as a community.
No formal writing experience needed--just a willingness to share your story and how you see Jesus at work in your life.
Revenues and Expenses through November 16
Month to date Revenues: $84,107
Month to date Expenses: $73,144.57
Net: $10,962.43
Year to date Revenues: $1,076,729.47
Year to date Expenses: $1,155,647.06
Net: ($78,917.59)
Balance of Prepaid Pledges: $14,950
Grace Stewardship Campaign (see Generous Giving below to make your Estimate of Giving Pledge.)
As we continue our 2025-2026 Stewardship Campaign, we invite you to reflect on this year's theme: Fill Our Hearts, Open Our Hands. This theme captures the dual purpose of our mission - To Know Christ and Make His Love Known. It challenges us to grow deeper in faith within our church community and to extend Christ's love beyond our walls through mission and service.
So far we have received 138 pledges for a total of $854,052.00.
Stock and Crypto Donations
Giving stock and crypto is now available with the Engiven integration through our giving platform, Realm Connect. It's simple to donate! Navigate to our online giving form and select Stocks or Crytocurrency.
Grace UMC's ministries offer spiritual nurture to those within our faith community and provide care to those in our larger worldwide community. Your giving empowers us to serve together for the transformation of the world.
