What is the most welcoming church in the Germantown area?
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Germantown United Methodist Church
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“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
Ephesians
2:10
The mission statement of Germantown United Methodist Church declares:
We are a welcoming community of faith, committed to: loving God and loving others, serving Christ and sharing him, transforming lives and making disciples.
As we conclude another year seeking to fulfill that mission, we pause to consider the impact of ministry made possible by the prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness of all of you.
This ministry report only scratches the surface of what happens through the church for the purpose of furthering the kingdom of God. Think of this report as a small mirror reflecting the IMPACT of the church’s work through your efforts and giving, helping us to see:
• Invitations to discipleship in the work of the church;
• Moments of grace made possible by faith experiences;
• Partnerships forged for Christ with others in the church and in the community;
• Achievements celebrated for the furtherance of the kingdom of Christ;
• Challenges that God’s grace has led us through;
• Transformations witnessed in the lives of people through the ministry and mission of GUMC.
Consider just some of what GUMC provides in program ministries: Worship ministry, prayer ministry, counseling, music, children’s ministry, youth ministry, Christian education, missions of United Women of Faith, older adult and elder care ministries, and Bible studies.
GUMC also supports ministries in the Memphis area such as Room in the Inn, Neighborhood Centers, and Urban Ministries, as well as regional ministries like Reelfoot Rural Ministries and Mountain Top. GUMC also provides for missionary work in Costa Rica, Haiti, and Russia.
To give to GUMC is to have an IMPACT in the name of Jesus Christ.
Please take time to look through this report, and celebrate some of what is possible when people give in the name of Jesus Christ.
Rev. Dr. Scott Alford
What could we do with $9,141.90?
• We could drink 1,486 White Chocolate Mochas from Starbucks.
• We could eat 2,597 cheeseburgers from McDonalds.
• We could watch 677 movies at the Malco.
Or…we can look through these pages of pictures and stories and celebrate the remarkable amount and variety of ministry that GUMC made possible in 2024 with $9,141.90 each day. We cannot lay out every single thing we accomplished this past year in just a few pages. However, we can be proud of how many lives were touched, how many hymns were sung, how much was shared in mission, and how many hearts felt the love of Jesus with that $9,141.90 daily investment. Honestly, only a fraction of that amount was funded through sources other than each one of us. Meaning, our ministry happens because of you and me and our generosity.
Additionally, the amount of volunteer energy spent living out our church’s mission is hugely important. In fact, if we assume we all receive 8 hours of sleep per night, over the course of the year there remain 5,840 hours for us to engage in mission and ministry in some way. It could be planning, thinking, or doing, and I suspect most of those hours were used by at least one of us at GUMC. Our staff members are perhaps the best with whom I have worked during my 30 years in ministry, but the great work of GUMC cannot happen without all of you making an investment of your time as well as your financial gifts.
Time and money…generally, two things of which we always claim to have too little. Yet, when combined with the power of the Holy Spirit through the church, those two things produce a return on investment that exceeds any possible trade on the NASDAQ, Dow, or S&P. We are talking about a Kingdom level return!
Rev. Mimi White
2024 was filled with interesting message series and amazing music from the Prism Riot Band. We started off 2024 with the series “Wrestling with Doubt” by Adam Hamilton, then dove deep into our heritage with “The Adventures of John Wesley and Our Methodist History.”
We had a blast this summer with “The Animated Gospel” and even went to the movie theatre together to see Inside Out 2! We entered fall with “Falling Into Faith: The Ways of a Jesus Follower” then took a close look at the Old Testament with “The Bible Jesus Read.”
This Advent we celebrated with our series “The Music, Mission and Magic of Christmas” and the Prism Riot band even performed Christmas music live from the back of a parade float in the Germantown Christmas Parade!
We had 28 new people partner with us and 8 of them received baptism. All of these adventures and celebrations could not have been possible without your generous giving. Prism continues to thrive and bless people’s lives together because of your commitment to give God your time, talent, prayers, presence, gifts, and witness. Thank you for your generosity!
Does GUMC offer a Sunday School class for my age range?
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Yes! Our Sunday School classes span all age ranges
257
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was the average number of adults that attended Sunday school each week
adults attended our Bible studies throughout the year in 2024
“I'm so grateful for the many ministries of GUMC, especially the 'small group' opportunities. The support of my Sunday School class, the Apostles, was such balm when my father passed away on Good Friday. And being a part of last summer's Kenya Mission Team was an amazing experience I got to share with my older son. People care about one another in this congregation, and it makes all the difference.”
- Laura Meanwell
“The 2024 GUMC ministry areas most impactful to me were: locally focused missions’ ministries enabling me to experience, through service, the boundless promise and hope of God in a world defined by human limitations and: the scope and diversity of GUMC adult ministries through the Asbury Sunday School class lessons, concepts, and members has significantly helped propel my faith journey.”
- Mike Herringshaw
“As a new member of GUMC, being invited to join a Bible study provided a space for me to get to know other members as well as study alongside them. This small Bible study group was a great way for me to feel comfortable opening up and sharing opinions and personal stories, as well as hearing them from my new friends. Meeting other members and getting to know them through this Bible study gave me familiar faces to greet during worship on Sundays which makes GUMC feel even more like home for me and my family.”
- Anonymous
14 78
Sunday Schools varying from all different ages and life stages meet each week
42
women got together for our Annual Women’s Retreat in January
“The Seekers Class has been an important part of my life for 48 years. The outpouring of love and care during times of sickness, death, job loss, and great concern has been a steadfast comfort to me and my family. Our Sunday morning lessons, our joyous fellowship and our emphasis on supporting missions knits us tightly together. The Seekers give thanks for this great blessing in our lives.”
- Alice Clare Colville
Does Germantown United Methodist offer my children opportunities to learn about Jesus?
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Germantown United Methodist Church offers more activities and learning opportunities than you can count!
524
gifts were sold at the Children’s Christmas Market. The largest number of gifts ever sold!
LETTER FROM ANGEL TREE RECIPIENT
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3,500+
254
meals were sorted and packed for Catholic Charities Food Bank during Mission Camp
children attended Vacation Bible School this past summer
1,000
38
people attended our Easter Egg Hunt. This was a record attendance for this event!
children were sponsored from United Methodist Neighborhood Centers of Memphis for our Angel Tree project and provided 300 gifts to those children
111
cold weather supply bags were packed for guests at the Cottage for Room in the Inn
Video Review:
Statement of Gratitude video with grandmother and granddaughter
What church helps the most in my time of need?
Germantown United Methodist Church
The Care Ministries Team sends over 90+ cards to members monthly. We send 66 birthday cards to our members who are 90 or above. We sent 84 Journeying Through Grief Books to our bereaved members. We held 2 annual prayer vigils.
Several of the members take turns writing the notes. Some are shut-ins, some may be bereaved, some are sick, some may have had babies, and some may receive a note that says, “You’re an inspiration.” The photos below are examples of children’s cards and artwork that we mailed out to members. We often get notes, calls or emails of thanks in response.
This first card is a sample Halloween card from our Nursery, while the others are samples of the Thanksgiving
Providing meals for members who are going through challenging times is another way the Care Ministries team serves the congregation. The team is often aided by Sunday School classes.
The care ministries team holds seminars on a variety of subjects… Coping with Challenging Times; Coping with the Death of a Loved One; Hospice, Palliative Care and the Law…etc. These seminars provide opportunities for the congregation to gather, talk, and support each other.
The Director of Care Ministries, Yolanda Toney, received her certification in Grief Care in November of last year. She is utilizing this certification to organize seminars, some of which will be faciliated by others and some facilitated by her.
Top Review:
“My husband lost his father about three years ago, and that was a really tough time for his family. The church was so sweet and helpful in the process of having his father’s service and interment in the church’s columbarium. All of us found so much comfort in knowing the church community was there for us.” - Sonika Robertson
Where can my elderly parents join a church and still be involved and cared for?
The Elder Care Ministry was created to honor and minister to our elder members ages 80 years and older who have faithfully built this church over the decades and to support members who are experiencing significant health or life events.
Elder Care Ministries advocate and promote awareness of aging needs through prayer and support by visiting and calling on members who are homebound or in skilled care rehabilitation facilities, teaching members about planning for care, and life transitions.
attended the Reception of Celebration to recognize and honor our members 80+ years of age
individuals who are unable to attend in person services received home communion last year 55 53 300 80
special members were blessed with the flowers from Sunday morning worship services
INCLUDE:
sessions were held for one-on-one counseling on aging, transition needs and ongoing weekly check ups
• Weekly Flower Ministry
• Homebound Communion
• One-on-one counseling on aging, transition needs
• Teaching about healthy aging, planning for the future etc.
• Liaison to ministries for older members, including Older Adult Council, Health and Wellness Committee, Security support on campus, maintain lending of home care items stored walkers, wheelchairs, etc.
Top Reviews:
“We are very impressed with your thoughtful gift of flowers from the last church service. Thank you so much for your prayers for my husband who is battling stomach cancer and chemo every 2 weeks.” - Anonymous
“The support of the Elder Care Ministry helps me feel connected to my church home even though I can no longer attend in person.” - Anonymous
What is a supportive women’s group with multiple service opportunities?
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Germantown United Women in Faith
$58,048.16
was the total amount given to missions or ministries in 2024 through GUWF. The different ministries and missions as well as the amounts raised are listed at the bottom of this page.
$4,170
$44,842
in profits was made from the 381 cinnamon rolls that were baked
$7,234
of profits was made from The Christmas Cookie Shoppe
women were active members of the Germantown United Women in Faith in 2024 of profits was made from the two Consignment Sales that were held last year
177
Top Review:
“I appreciate the opportunity to work with other women in GUWF to raise money for missions through participating in the Cinnamon Roll Bake and the Christmas Cookie Shoppe. I’ve met so many wonderful women by taking part in these events. It’s amazing how each of us contributing a few hours provides substantial monetary resources to support so many missions at GUMC.” - Donna Haley
What preschool can I send my child to that has a great long-standing reputation?
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Germantown United Methodist Preschool
GUMP serves children 9 months to 5 years of age in a friendly student centered atmosphere. GUMP is a three-star rated program with TN-DHS and has a developmentally appropriate curriculum based upon the TN Early Learning Developmental Standards.
50
years of Germantown United Methodist Preschool were celebrated last year.
119
families were served by GUMP in 2024
4 141
little friends attended GUMP last year
one week camps were offered over the summer ages two to six, and each week had a theme
Top Review:
“This is my sixth year teaching the five-year-old class. Having taught Kindergarten previously, I can see how advantageous our play-based program is to our students. Year after year, my assistant teachers and I have been fortunate to work with enthusiastic, creative, and kind children from very supportive families. By May, our class is one big team, and it is always hard to see everyone move on to the next big thing. But by August, like magic, we are always anxiously awaiting what a new school year at GUMP will bring!”
- Kathleen P.
PRESCHOOL HOURS: 9:30 am - 2:30 pm
EXTENDED CARE HOURS: (OPTIONAL)
Before Care: 7:30 am - 9:30 am
After Care: 2:30 pm - 5:30 pm
SCHOOL YEAR: Runs from Mid-August to Mid-May
Extra curricular activities include Chapel, Social-Emotional Learning, and music classes for ages 3 and up
G.R.A.C.E
A program for children with special needs
Where can I find a full service church gym?
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Owings Life Enrichment Center
was collected through membership fees, building use, group exercise classes, personal training, income from basketball, t-ball, soccer, pickleball, and donations to the OLEC.
$23,709 $16,120
was collected for GUMC Fall basketball with 124 children that registered at $130 per child. Uniforms, league fees, and the concession stand were paid for with the fees collected from registration.
9,723
Top Reviews:
pickleball players came through our gym doors last year
800+
Basketball players came through our gym doors last year for Grizzlies Summer camp including 2 NBA players
“We love the comraderie and the people at this gym. Other places aren’t as welcoming as this one is. The receptionist is always friendly when I come in the building. It doesn’t matter your skill level, whether you’re a beginner or you’ve played for years, you can come to the OLEC and jump right in. You won’t meet a friendlier group of people than the people you meet here!”
- Chet Sisk, frequent pickleball player
“Al Walton understands his followers perfectly. I find his gentle yoga sessions just right for me and expect my fellow yogis would say the same. He also sprinkles his sessions with health tips. I love his classes.The OLEC is a real gem of a facility; well maintained, clean and comfortable. The staff is first rate, friendly and warm.” - Bob Howard
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Where can I find employment where I feel my contribution truly matters?
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Germantown United Methodist Church
Here at Germantown United Methodist, we like to make miracles happen.”
- Charles Higgs, Maintenance Supervisor
13,000
480
Top Reviews:
feet of new luxury vinyl flooring was installed in the nursery and children’s education wing man hours on the Oasis remodel project maintenance tasks were completed in 2024 new HVAC units were installed
686
7
“David & I joined this church in January of 1981, as a newly-married couple. Over the years it became an integral part of our life while we raised our family. We built friendships here that sustained us through our highs and lows and continue to support me now. Recently, I realized that our Chapel still looked as it did in 1981, so it became a goal of mine to give it the attention it needed to ensure it remains an important part of our Worship experience. This church has been a big part of our lives for the last 40 years, and renovating the Chapel was a way that I could give back to the church and honor David’s memory at the same time. I am proud of the improvements we were able to make so that the Chapel is ready now to serve our church for many years to come.”
- Karen Oppenheim
“When I saw the announcement that the maintenance team was in need of a pick-up truck, I felt led to gift my late husband, Greg’s truck to the church. The maintenance team’s excitement was palpable, as this much-needed donation lightened their load. I know Greg would be overjoyed to see his legacy making such a meaningful impact!” - Debby Bland
“I’ve been at GUMC since I was in the 4th grade, and joined with my dad when I was in 6th grade. I love getting to serve the church I grew up in. Charles, Josh, Phil, & Parker make each day more and more enjoyable. The skills I’ve learned from Charles will be useful for the rest of my life. From carpentry to changing out toilets, the crew I’m with makes it fun.” - Harrison Kelly
Where can I find fellowship and make a difference with other Christian men?
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Germantown United Methodist Church
$55,200
20 was raised by the United Methodist Men and was given to Amy Speake’s Alturas ministry.
Top Reviews:
men on average meet each Tuesday morning for the Sonrise group from 6:307:30 am to study the Bible or other spiritual resources
men are currently part of the United Methodist Men’s group within the church
men on average meet each Wednesday morning for the Rutherford prayer group from 6:30-7:30 am, to pray for the congregations needs
men are currently active on the safety team as of last year. There is always room for more participation in the coming year!
“Attending the Wednesday morning Rutherford prayer group gives me the opportunity to receive a great devotional, pray for church members and friends in need, and to have great fellowship with other Christian men!” - Dave Thompson
“The Sonrise Bible Study is a group of multigenerational men who meet on Tuesday mornings at 6:30 in the Alpha Sunday School Room (behind the kitchen in the Fellowship Hall) to study various books of the Bible or books written by popular Christian authors such as Adam Hamilton, Phillip Yancey and Amy-Jill Levine among others. All men are welcome and encouraged to attend.” - Bill Whitaker
“I joined GUMC because its membership was so very much into being the Hands & Feet of Jesus Christ. I also love teaching and learning about our savior with other Christians. From being in a Sunday School class, two or three Bible studies a week, gleaning from Trader Joes, giving time and dollars to missionary work, and teaching several Sunday School classes about Jesus, I am provided with many opportunities to answer the question "What would Jesus do?" He, of course, would serve!” - Rob Jolly
“Our Rutherford Prayer Group is one of our groups that intentionally practices what they preach. They care for and feed His sheep regularly. As an example, only a couple of weeks ago, this group was sent an email, asking for Room in the Inn volunteers for Friday night. Within 12 hours of when it was sent, the responses received filled every position of service needed plus several more. It’s because of their love for our Lord and all of His children that those less fortunate are fed spiritually, emotionally and physically. They practice what they preach. Hats off to this group of men. I’m proud to be a part of them.” - Roger Woelke
A ministry that helps children who have the lowest economic resources in San Jose, Costa Rica. Led by our very own GUMC missionary, Amy Speake.
“Our family has watched children we met seven years ago grow and overcome extreme poverty and violence to become fine young folks who are graduating from high school. This is thanks to Amy Speake, our missionary, and her staff who are wisely using the resources given by others to show God’s love to children who otherwise would be forgotten and destined for terrible futures. Now, they have hope, and we rejoice! We can make a difference.” - John
Ueleke
A faith-based non-profit with services spanning all ages that treats the body as a whole.
A medical supply ministry that equips medical mission teams with medical supplies and medicines as they share the Gospel.
A ministry located in Cordova, TN, that aims to enhance the quality of life for all seniors served by Wesley Living.
A ministry that seeks to put God’s love into action and brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope.
A ministry that helps pregnant women in crisis explore healthy options, providing the option of adoption with a Christian family.
A ministry that provides hope in Jesus Christ and opportunities for sustainable work through education and lifelong services.
Their mission is re-imaging a broken community with new housing, community resources, and building green spaces and parks.
A ministry that serves the homeless and disenfrachised in Memphis, TN.
Members from GUMC have been going on mission trips to Kenya to build houses, deliver medical supplies, and administer medicine amongst other extensive work while there. years of mission trips traveling to Kenya
house built for a vulnerable family 13 KENYA MISSION TRIP 11 130 1
GUMC members traveled to Kenya in 2024
people were supplied with vital medications
A day where local congregations come together on Labor Day to deliver MIFA meals to senior citizens, package 20,000 meals for the hungry, and drop off goods to the Mid-South Food Bank.
A Christ-centered children’s home for orphaned girls located in Haiti.
La Puerta Abierta is a multicultural United Methodist Church located in St. Paul, Minnesota that speaks Spanish and English.
A ministry that offers hospitality to homeless and poor guests and blesses them with hygiene items, showers, and clothing.
A ministry that provides food for families, children, and seniors and aims to end hunger in the Mid-South.
“When we first came to GUMC, a choir friend asked me to help at a Food Drop through Mid-South Food Bank. What an honor to serve alongside a very dedicated Galloway congregation monthly, working together for a wonderful cause. We are doing God's work, loving our neighbors and feeding the hungry through Mid-South Food Bank.” - Beth Kitson
A ministry that supports the independence of vulnerable seniors and families in crisis through high-impact programs.
A ministry that prepares servant leaders for ministry in the Wesleyan tradition and is transforming Russian society.
A ministry that provides a variety of mission based programs for youth and adults, including repair projects and day camp programs.
A ministry that helps people in need find stability and sustainability through Christ-centered programs.
A literacy program which partners children and college-age adults and churches to improve the literacy and spiritual development of children.
$3,100.00 $9,082.89 $8,830.00 $40,000.00 $3,625.00 $16,057.00 $4,000.00 $3,000.00 $6,180.00 $1,000.00
PROJECT TRANSFORMATION IMPACT
“On behalf of Project Transformation, we want to express our deepest gratitude to you and Germantown UMC for your unwavering partnership and support of our ministry. Your commitment through prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness has been invaluable, especially during a year filled with challenges. Together, we have seen the goodness and faithfulness of God in our collaborative efforts, and we have much to celebrate.” - Carrie Yoder, Executive Director hours served volunteers kids served books read at Centenary UMC 126
Children’s Christmas Market’s presents came from 18 different countries, providing hope, dignity, education, shelter, safety, food, and water to many artisan groups in each country. We sold a total of 524 gifts in 2024!
UMCOR ROOM IN THE INN
A ministry founded by the Memphis Conference of the United Methodist Church and provides grocery distribution, a dental clinic, and an eye clinic amongst many other services.
“GUMC’s involvement helps to allow Reelfoot Rural Ministry (RRM) to operate its many important ministries for the underprivileged folks who live in upper northwest Tennessee and nearby counties in Kentucky. The Ministry’s philosophy is to involve those who RRM serves in their solutions – small fees are asked of those served so that these people have participation and pride in taking care of themselves. RRM states that everything they do is out of love for those served. A few of the ministries include food distribution, dental services, school supply distribution, vision services, home repair, a Christmas toy store, and emergency supplies for anyone.” - Joe Wyrick
A ministry that partners with churches in the area and provides emergency shelter for homeless guests.
$30,884.10
URBAN MINISTRY INITIATIVE TEAM READ REELFOOT
SOS MISSIONS YOUTH LEADERSHIP
SOS exists to glorify God by proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ in underserved neighborhoods through home repair and leadership development.
A tutoring/reading volunteer opportunity that aims to help students improve their literary skills at an early age.
The United Methodist Committee on Relief assists the most vulnerable people affected by crisis or chronic need.
UNITED METHODIST NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER
A ministry that provides education, child care, social services, and spiritual development in a loving atmosphere.
A Bible, theology, and leadership training curriculum for the urban church, especially among the poor, in order to advance the Kingdom of God.
A ministry that helps develop at-risk boys into leaders. For over 20 years, YLM has developed boys into men through work, mentorship and economic development to teach skills and impart character.
ZOE MINISTRY
A ministry that equips vulnerable youth with solutions to overcome extreme poverty for good.
$441,958.40
$3,000.00 $2,250.00 $ 10,656.00 $5,170.00 $4,735.00 $2,000.00 $17,825.00 $14,566.41
was the amount given to missions in 2024. Not to mention all the dollars that weren’t reflected in the above number from the generosity of Sunday School classes stepping up to meet various needs within different ministries. Individual contributions do not go unnoticed.
Every dollar given helps turn these missions into daily miracles for others.
$44,177.00
was given to the 21 participating organizations and agencies because of the donations you made and the gifts you gave in honor of family and friends! This was a record number for Merry Mission Market!!
You’ll never truly feel connected to a church until you serve in it. Attending helps you grow spiritually, but serving allows you to fulfill your God given purpose.
Thanks to your generosity, God’s love and care is being shared with the “least and the last” among us.
Which church can I join that has multiple music opportunities for me and my family?
Top Search Results:
Germantown United Methodist Church
104
opportunities are provided to receive a musical blessing offered by multi generational GUMC leaders on just Sundays alone.
active Chancel choir members
50 38
years have been served by Peggy Warner with the children’s choir (K-2nd)
40 20 26 19
years have been served by Libby Schielke with the children’s choir (3rd-5th)
active members of the children’s choir
years have been served by Mary Groh with the children’s choir (3 year olds to Pre-K)
active members of the Testimony Youth choir
Top Reviews:
“As a member of the Chancel choir, I am reminded every week of the incredible gift of music, a gift God has given us to glorify Him. St. Augustine said, “When we sing, we pray twice.” When we lift our voices in harmony, we are drawn closer to God and to each other. I give thanks for this wonderful ministry, for every note sung, every chord played, and every heart moved.” - Randy Lewis
“Dianne and I have loved watching our grandchildren participate in the Cherub Choir this year. They're experiencing the satisfaction of learning music alongside other choir members, and during the Plum Pudding Festival, they saw that at just four years old, they can be a part of church worship. This church meant so much to our children, and we're blessed that our grandchildren are now benefiting from GUMC's music ministry.” - Bryan Barger
“Each Sunday evening brings me a special blessing and a glimpse of God’s kingdom. What a pleasure to introduce Bible Stories through music to them. I see the face of God every Sunday night with those children.” - Mary Groh
What church can I attend that puts an emphasis on older adult activities?
Top Search Results:
Germantown United Methodist Church
22
years of XYZ programming
19 25 325 494
years of Brown Bag Lunch programs
people attended 2 AARP driving classes
58
individuals attended XYZ events
individuals attended Brown Bag Lunch programs
Handy Helper jobs were completed by the team
Top Reviews:
“In 2002, there were 11 members on the GUMC Senior Adult Council. They began a quarterly Birthday Party for church members 55+.This provided interested people a chance to gather and enjoy getting acquainted and a little entertainment. It also began the XYZ (Extra Young & Zesty) program. It began with a trip to a Redbirds game, then progressed to visiting local and short trips via bus, van, and cars. Lunches were also included in the pricing, enabling new restaurant visits.
As some became unable to use the vehicles, or aging, the Brown Bag Lunch was organized in 2005. Most were able to come to the speaker events in the Mike Wilson Fellowship Hall to still enjoy meeting. The church provides beverages - if someone wants to visit after the program they may bring their lunch.
Some on the XYZ and BBL committees have served from the beginning and continue to serve as welcoming individuals to many non-members from local communities. As you see in the numbers reflected above, XYZ programming has been taking place for 22 years with over 300 individuals in attendance last year alone! The Brown Bag Lunch has amassed an even larger crowd with close to 500 individuals attending these events with 19 years of programming! We hope to continue these events for many more years.”
“We find serving on the Older Adults Council & XYZ Board to be interesting and rewarding. We have an opportunity to input our interests as well as hearing those of others. Going to the events affords us an opportunity to meet new friends and become better acquainted with existing friends, as well as learning something new and being entertained. We look forward to each monthly event as well as helping promote and manage them.” - Gretchen and Phil Blair
Which church offers the best work atmosphere and is welcoming to new employees?
Top Search Results:
Germantown United Methodist Church
25+
3 8 years of employment have been served by 3 of our staff members. Those staff members include Pam Moore, Sharon Panis, and Leola McAdams.
of our staff members have served our congregation for more than 10 years
11
of our staff members have served our congregation for more than 2 years
11
of our staff members have served our congregation for more than 5 years
of our staff members have served our congregation for more than 1 year
Top Reviews:
“I am continually inspired and encouraged by my fellow staff members' creative energy, supportive approach to our work, and care for each other and the congregation. The shared activities of the music department feed my soul and spirit each week, both in our rehearsal preparations and in our offerings in worship. I'm grateful to be in a place where ministry efforts can reach across several generations through the many program offerings for all ages.” - André Duvall
“My first year as a worship leader at Prism has been a journey of growth and connection. Although it was difficult at first to leave a church I had been part of for so long, Prism is starting to feel like family. I’ve made invaluable friendships and grown so much as a musician; all while being deeply impacted by the worship songs and messages that have helped me stay focused on the Lord. One highlight of the year was riding and playing Christmas songs in the Germantown Christmas Parade.” - Peter Simons
“This is a job where I feel needed and wanted. I have always been taken care of here. That is why I come everyday.” - Josh Wiles
“Being a part of the Youth Ministry at GUMC has been a great experience. The students are an incredibly talented and dedicated group! I’ve had the privilege to empower a lot of them to lead in the ways they feel called like worship leading, event planning, and even joining our youth advisory council. These kids are truly special.” - Caasi Grove
Which church can I attend that has a traditional service and a contemporary worship service?
Top Search Results:
Germantown United Methodist Church
Top Reviews:
“In my life journey at GUMC, most recently I’ve discovered a meaningful role in the PRISM service/ ministry. This vibrant community, filled with joy and support for Jesus and live music, has allowed me to serve and grow in confidence. I’ve transformed from a quiet member to an engaged part of this incredible family.” - Melissa Smith
“I enjoy going to the traditional service with my children. I grew up Methodist and having my children in the service with us, learning the same hymns and rituals that I learned at that age, is really meaningful for our family.” - Dorothy Rogers
“2024 was a major milestone in the life of not only our local church, but of the entire United Methodist connection. After years of discussion and disagreement votes were taken resulting in some churches and members leaving the United Methodist Church.This affects every one of us. I am proud that Germantown UMC has been unwavering in its commitment to the UMC and our ability to successfully navigate during these challenging times. We have had members leave our church. However, I have seen nothing but love, respect and support offered and received. GUMC is uniquely well positioned to continue our long history of serving in the Royal Priesthood of Christ, inviting and welcoming all who seek.” - Marc Tate
new members were welcomed into membership 29
individuals (all ages) on average attended Sunday School or other weekly education programs 280 individuals were baptized this year 17
people on average attend our online worship services 555 150
people attend our in-person worship services on average each week.
What’s the most open, fun, and exciting youth ministry?
Top Search Results:
GUMC Youth Ministry
12
students were confirmed last year
43 1 15 32 55 55 14
students attended Discovery student was baptized organizations were partnered with throughout the year
students attended Chillax was the average attendance for weekly programming students attended Crave seniors graduated last year
What do the students really think about GUMC youth ministry?
“The acceptance of all people makes GUMC special to me. The group of people seems so different but so close at the same time. All ages, ideas, and people are always welcome and listened to.”- High School Student
“My favorite GUMC memory is when I attended my first church event at last year’s Discovery. It was very special to me because I had never grown up with that kind of church community, and it was so special to finally experience that.” - High School Student
“Crave and Discovery are my favorite events because it is filled with the Holy Spirit, and I have a great time with my friends.” - High School Student
“My favorite youth event is Crave because you have time to get away from all of the stress and build your relationship with God.” - 6th Grade Student
“GUMC Youth is a place where I can come to escape the stress and chaos of everyday life, and come closer to God, learn about God, and spend time with friends.” - 8th Grade Student
“GUMC is one of the greatest, most supportive communities that I’ve ever been a part of. The bonds here between everyone are so strong and it is always such a caring environment. Our youth pastors are the best people I know and have truly turned the hearts of all the students towards Jesus. GUMC has a place for everyone.” - 8th Grade Student
“GUMC Youth has given me my best friends and a fully accepting environment.” - High School Student
“A tight knit youth community that is very accepting of all kinds of different people.” - High School Student
What is the largest United Methodist congregation in the area?
Top Search Results:
Germantown United Methodist Church
Germantown United Methodist Church is the largest United Methodist Church in an area that includes West Tennessee, Western Kentucky, Eastern Arkansas, and North Mississippi.
is the yearly budgeted expendatures for church operations, missions, and programming in 2024. $3,336,975.82
$9,141.90
equals the daily investment in ministry for 2024.
$259,757.98
was the programming expense last year, not including staff.
$639,825.83
was the total spent on campus operations including utilities/phone, plumbing, equipment, IT equipment, and repairs.
$120,767.46
was the total calculated office expense. This includes printing, office supplies and necessary administrative needs.
Where can I find a church that is transparent and open about their finances?
Top Search Results:
Germantown United Methodist Church
GENEROSITY STATEMENT
We are called to joyfully and gratefully share our blessings to transform lives for God’s glory. We believe that the discipline of generosity helps us to live out our calling to invest in our church’s ministry, to love others, and impact the world. God calls us to be faithful stewards and share the many blessings He has provided for us.
We are thankful for the many blessings God has given to us, and it is with great joy that we share these blessings. We seek to not only experience God’s blessings but to participate in growing His kingdom. [2 Corinthians 9:7, 11]
We know that the source of everything we have is God, and we are meant to be faithful stewards of the abundance we have been given. Our goal is to live a life that reflects His gifts with our financial resources as well as our time, talents, prayers, and witness. [1 Chronicles 29:12]
We seek to be Spirit-led, open-hearted, and open-handed as we work to live generous lives. Growing in generosity is a pathway along our spiritual/faith journey. When we follow this path, our heart is in God’s kingdom, not in this world’s. [Matthew 6:21, 24]
We know that God can perform miracles and, just like the multiplication of the loaves and fishes, our generosity can multiply to impact those here at home and throughout the world. By using our resources to touch lives outside our church, we make a difference in the way others see and feel the impact of His love firsthand. [Acts 4:34-35]
OUR CORE VALUES WAYS TO GIVE
• Cash or check given in the offering plate or by mail
• Electronic Giving Website: shelbygiving.com/app/ giving/germantownumc
• Venmo: @GermantownUMC
• Text: “GIVE” to 901-910-1220
HAVE YOU CONSIDERED A PLANNED GIFT TO GUMC?
A planned gift is any charitable gift made during life or at death that is part of your overall estate plan. Planned gifts can include a percentage or a specific cash amount of your will, trust, life insurance, or retirement account. Planned gifts can also include appreciated assets, like stock or real estate, as well as income-generating current gifts, such as charitable gift annuities or charitable remainder trusts. Offering a planned gift will sustain the mission and ministries of GUMC for future generations. If you would like more information, contact Scott Alford, our Executive Minister, or Sharon Panis, our Financial Manager.
