Employment Opportunity: Construction Site Coordinator – Disaster Recovery

Posted August 1, 2023

Job Title: Construction Site Coordinator – Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference UMC Disaster Recovery

Reports to: Construction Project Manager

Status: Non-Exempt

Classification: Fulltime

Summary of the position: The Construction Site Coordinator leads volunteers as assigned by the Construction Project Manager (CPM) to rebuild or repair homes damaged in natural disasters. The Construction Site Coordinator is also responsible for job site tasks as assigned by the Construction Project Manager when volunteers are not available. The responsibilities additional include materials procurement as requested by CPM. The site coordinator interacts with the volunteer teams and the homeowner in a professional and confidential manner, instilling the hope and security that the Church provides. Ensuring a high standard of work is done to all jobs and maintaining the standards of state and local building codes for safety.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Team mindset: Ability to be a team player and work collaboratively; has a commitment to build covenant with the Equip team and staff.
• Interpersonal Skills: Capacity to work collegially and develop rapport with a wide diverse, variety of individuals and leaders.
• Client Centric: Demonstrate concern for, attend to the needs of, provide resources for the work of the Disaster Recovery.
• Construction Skills: Basic skills in construction and building.
• Mission Mindset: Committed to the mission of collaborative disaster recovery.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal, written, and electronic communication.
• Organizational Skills: High ability to prioritize tasks and processes. Ability to execute multiple tasks and projects as coordinated by the CPM.
• Time Management Skills: Effective and efficient use of time, talent, and resources.
• Computer Savvy: Proficient in the use of electronic communication and electronic documents provided by the CPM.
• Dependability: Able to meet deadlines and be reliable.
• Maintain confidences: Commitment to complete confidentiality and high degree of integrity.
• Attention to detail: Takes responsibility for a thorough and detailed method of working. Maintains compliance with building codes and regulations.
• Safety: Maintains compliance with safety regulations. Enforces safe behavior and workplace practices.
• Adaptability: Maintains effectiveness in reaching set goals by adapting to changing circumstances, tasks, responsibilities, and people.
• Conflict of interest: Possess no outside business interest that may conflict with the client or the TWK Conference. Able to maintain ethical conduct in accordance with Conference policy.

Education Requirements:

• High school diploma or GED equivalent required with at least three years’ work experience in construction.
• Contractor’s license preferred but not required.

Compensation and work hours:

• Full time work begins with a probationary period. Upon satisfactory completion of this period, and if the longevity
• of disaster recovery project needs remain, an offer for fulltime employment status may be extended.
• Must be able to work remotely, reside within the TWK conference area, with area travel and team meetings required.
• $22/hr-$25/hr

Responsibilities/Essential Functions:

1. Work with Volunteer Teams

• In coordination with the CPM, meet with volunteer teams upon their arrival on the job site to explain the work to be performed.
• Training the team on safety measures, tools, and equipment.
• Ensure appropriate supplies are on site and ready for volunteer teams, making sure each team member has appropriate equipment and supplies.
• Supervise and answer questions the team may have concerning their tasks.
• Assist where needed, teach where appropriate, and work to ensure the team has a good ministry experience.

2. Administrative duties:

• Coordinate any needed materials or outside personnel with the Construction Project Manager to finish a project.
• Coordinate with the CPM for the purchase of all needed project supplies.
• Assign volunteer teams to appropriate job tasks based on skill level.
• Utilize the tracking processes for volunteer teams that includes the team skills, volunteer hours, and remaining needs.

3. Maintain all job records and account information in a safe location.

4. Report team numbers, volunteer hours, work hours, and progress notes to Construction Project Manager weekly.

5. Ensure all injuries are properly assessed and the correct paperwork is filled out and reported to the CPM.

6. Work with the Construction Project Manager to ensure all accounting procedures are being followed and all available funds are being properly spent.

7. Ensure all site invoices and expense reports are properly accounted for and processed weekly.

8. Financially accountable for the ministries for which you are responsible in collaboration with Construction Project Manager.

9. Embrace the diversity and inclusion goals of the Conference.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

While performing the duties of this job, the position will require working in weather conditions that vary in temperature and noise level. The physical demands of the position include standing, walking, pushing/pulling, and climbing up ladders and/or stairs. Must be able to lift objects weighing up to 50 pounds. Travel to other conference locations in Middle or West Tennessee and Western Kentucky may be required.

Stipulations/Reference:

• This position begins with a brief probationary period.
• Upon satisfactory completion of this period, and if the longevity of disaster recovery project remains, an offer for full employment status may be extended.
• Have a valid driver’s license and vehicle with auto insurance. Able to drive long distances throughout the service area as needed for projects or meetings.
• Ability to travel regularly between service areas as assigned by CPM.
• Pass a background check and online training process.
• This position is eligible for conference health plan and pension benefits upon successful completion of the probationary period.
• Mobile office equipment, supplies, and cellular phone allowance will be provided.
• No unemployment benefits are available to conference employees, based TCA rules.

Contact Information and How to Apply:

- Qualified applicants, please send a letter of interest and resume to careers@twkumc.org
and specify that you are applying for Construction Site Coordinator position. Job offer is contingent upon successful completion of training and background check. Deadline to apply is on or before Friday, August 18, 2023. Applications will be reviewed when they are received.

8/12/22; rev 5/23

This job description is subject to change at any time.

Flyer

Hope United in Spirit

Posted June 8, 2023

I have said it at every information meeting and every inquiry around Disaffiliation, “I don’t want anyone to leave the table.” Seventeen churches in the Purchase District however did decide to leave the table, and their votes were ratified at the Tennessee-Western Kentucky (TWK) Special May 22nd Called Annual Conference. All the churches in the TWK Conference making a this decision were prayed for and sent forward to continue their work of being Christ to a world in need at our gathering. Now, we are called to move forward.

Local churches are the heart of our mission. Local churches throughout the Purchase District work daily in our neighborhoods with outreach and missional endeavors that express our love. The impact we collectively provide in our Western Kentucky communities for spiritual, physical, and emotional needs is vital. I write all this to say that the mission and ministry of the United Methodist Church (UMC) is ongoing despite the divisions highlighted by Disaffiliation. I see and hear every day about the Food Pantries, Coat Closets, Utility Assistance, Community Gardens, Day Camps, Passionate Worship, Afterschool programs, Community Kitchens, Campus Ministries, Senior Citizens Fellowships, Vacation Bible Schools, Ramp Building, Preschools, and many other outreaches that are essential for sharing the love of Christ.

The large majority of United Methodists are staying. We of course lament and bless those that have left. They are friends and colleagues, but our mission to make disciples for the transformation of the world is intact. News outlets and individuals only asking us about our split and conflict is an exercise in missing the point as Bishop Bill McAlilly often reminds us. When people ask you about the UMC, remember to share the hope of what your local church is about and how your community is pouring into your neighbors. We are united behind our love for those that Christ has commanded us to serve.

Peace,

Nancy Johnston Varden
Purchase District Superintendent

For additional hope checkout this article from our Conference Communication Team:

https://twkumc.org/news/hope-amid-disaffiliations/

2023 United Methodist Christmas Shoe Box Project

Posted May 4, 2023

For several years the Purchase area has participated in a Christmas Shoe Box ministry that is sponsored by the North Alabama Disaster Response Warehouse. United Methodist Churches throughout the southeastern United States have worked together to provide our United Methodist missionaries and local pastors with Christmas gifts and the Christmas story to children they minister to. Recently, over 13,000 boxes were distributed in 9 different countries: Panama, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Ecuador, and Mexico.

The Christmas Shoe Box Project will run for 5 weeks, from June 1st through July 5. Boxes can be picked up and returned to the Purchase District Office.
Some of our churches are already involved with the Samaritan’s Purse Shoebox project. It is not our goal to pull support away from other projects. The Christmas Story will be told across the world regardless of whose name is on the box. We wish you continued success in your ministry.

The exciting thing about this project is that it does not have to be a large group activity. Individuals can pick up a box, pack it, and bring it back to the church. Some churches gave a financial donation and a small group of people did the shopping and packing for the entire church. There are a variety of ways your church can participate even in these challenging times.

We are asking that persons packing the boxes include a check for $6 to cover the shipping. Please make the check out to: Disaster Response Warehouse. DO NOT PUT THE CHECK INSIDE THE BOX.

Please click on the link below for instructions on what to include in your box. We are asking for specific items to be placed in the boxes so that each child receives a similar box. This decreases the chance that the child will be targeted for bulling. PLEASE DOUBLE CHECK YOUR BOXES BEFORE SEALING THEM TO BE SURE THE INSTRUCTIONS WERE FOLLOWED. COMPLETE THE CUSTOMS DECLERATION ON THE SIDE OF THE BOX.

The Purchase District Leadership Team

Lisa Chrisman, chrisman@wk.net 270-293-1335
Ruth Ann Roberts, burchammorrisroberts@gmail.com 270-779-6224
Elyse Bell, elysejbell@gmail.com
Beverlyann Jetton, rbjetton@yahoo.com 731-431-0165

Two Mayfield, Ky. Churches Join Together for a Special Valentine’s Meal

Posted February 22, 2023

Submitted by Rev. Mark Stephens, pastor at Christ United Methodist Church of Mayfield, Ky.

“Reidland United Methodist Men & Friends” Ramp Ministry Set to Build Ramp #1,000 in Early January

Posted December 27, 2022

Submitted by Joe Burkhead,
RUMM&F Ramp Ministry Coordinator

PICTURED ABOVE:
Ramp recently built for Mr. Gary Davis of Paducah, who is suffering from terminal cancer and came home from rehab the morning following this ramp build. Right to Left in Picture: Jason Moore, Chuck Bearden, Joe Burkhead, Stephen Douglas, Dallas (friend of Jason), Rose Davis (wife of recipient), Keith Williams, Ed Bach, Vince Kahne, Mike Clark, Anthony (friend of Keith). Unusually large group for this build!

Early in 2023, the “Reidland United Methodist Men & Friends Ramp Ministry” is on schedule to build their 1,000^th handicap accessibility ramp since the inception of the ministry 27 years ago. In 1995, what started out as part of the Helping Hands ministry of the local group soon became its key focus. Within ten years, the group was averaging a ramp per week almost continuously. Building ramps in western Kentucky became the major focus of the group, averaging more than 60 ramps in each of the past two years, and more than 50 ramps per year for the past decade and a half. We have continued uninterrupted over that time period, even devising special building techniques and practices to keep us safe through the height of the COVID pandemic.

During the past 27 years, it is estimated that:

• This group has built between seven and eight miles of handicap ramps.
• We have utilized over three-quarters of a million dollars in (current dollar) funds (including recycled ramps) to build the one thousand ramps.
• Contractor-constructed value is approaching $2,000,000 (current dollars).
• We have volunteered – as a group – over 30,000 man-hours of skilled labor to this ministry, or almost 15 man-years of full-time work. It is appropriate to use the term “skilled labor,” as we are widely recognized throughout the region as being the most competent and efficient builders of ADA approved and compliant ramps of any construction source available.

The ministry has become a multi-denominational effort in recent years – thus the group being renamed “Reidland United Methodist Men & Friends” – with key builders representing local Roman Catholic, Baptist, and Independent congregations.

On any given build, we rarely have less than six or seven of the core group of ten or so men who are regularly available to work. Almost all are flexible enough with their available workdays that we can select from multiple days of the week to take advantage of the best weather and personal situations. This group has not missed a week of building ramps in the past 18 months.

Worth noting! Over the past 15 years, at least two other groups of builders have been spawned – at least in part – from our group. Mount Carmel UMC in Marshall County (KY) started the Marshall County Ramp Builders around 2010, and Walnut Grove Church of Christ Ramp Builders was initiated in early 2021. All three groups have worked together to coordinate our efforts (and sometimes funding) to do the greatest amount of good works for His Kingdom.

Also worth noting! We’re definitely no band of “spring chickens” by any measure. The average age of the group is 69, with builders ranging in age from 54 to 82! Proof positive that one is never too old to do God’s work, and to be His hands and feet for those in need.

Ramp #997 was built in the third week of December. Based on the expected schedule, we anticipate building #1,000 during the week of January 9^th – likely on the 11^th or 12^th. We’re celebrating that milestone by – among other things – pre-building a section of the ramp in our church bus shed and setting up to allow anyone who has ever worked with or financially supported the ministry over its history to participate in the assembly. This will include widows or other survivors of builders who have since passed. All will be encouraged to drop by the ramp section and put a screw in a deck board on this special section. All will then sign a large poster of commemoration for the “Building of Ramp #1,000.” This section will be used in the ramp, and a special plaque will be discreetly placed somewhere on the structure to seal its place in our Ramp Ministry history! In addition, a reception or luncheon/dinner is also being planned around the time of construction, to allow family members and friends who have supported our work to interact, meet others’ family members who have been supportive of this ministry, and to have an opportunity to meet and recognize the highly valued members of our crew who are not members at RUMC.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, CONTACT:

Joe Burkhead – RUMM&F Ramp Ministry Coordinator
(270) 210-7075

Graves County UMCOR Disaster Recovery Case Management Team resource and support victims of Dec. 10, 2021 tornado

Posted December 8, 2022

Above is the Graves County UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief) Disaster Recovery Case Management Team. These are the individuals that are TWK UMC Conference employees that are already on the frontline working with individuals and families to resource and support people in Graves County through the Recovery Process. They are trained and staffed because of UMC churches’ Connectional Commitments. UMCOR is a major part of the power of our UM Connectional System. There are more Recovery Case Managers working in the TWK Conference but the District Staff had the opportunity recently to talk with some of the Graves County team and they shared some powerful stories of their work with families to recovery. We are thankful for their efforts and ask you to join us in praying for their efforts.

Local United Methodist Churches invite all to attend in-person and virtual Christmas services (2022)

Posted November 17, 2022

Purchase District office announces 2022 schedule for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day

Posted November 17, 2022

THANKSGIVING

• Nov. 21-23 working remotely
• Nov. 24 closed
• reopen 8:00 a.m., Monday, Nov. 28

CHRISTMAS and NEW YEAR’S DAY

• Dec. 20 - Jan. 2 hybrid workweeks
• Dec. 26-27 closed
• Jan. 2 closed
  
• reopen 8:00 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3

REGULAR OFFICE HOURS

Monday - Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

2022 Project Christmas House

Posted November 16, 2022

Looking for a way to truly keep Christ in Christmas? Here's your opportunity!

Resources

The mission of the Purchase District is to discover, equip, connect and send lay and clergy leaders to join Christ’s transforming, disciple-making work in and for the world.

Graves county churches partnered with Kentucky Care to help tornado survivors

Posted September 1, 2022

Aid for severe flooding victims in Eastern Kentucky

Posted August 11, 2022

Ribbon Cutting Celebration at New to You Shop

Posted July 5, 2022

Article submitted by Rev. Samantha Hall
Pastor of Church Grove, Maple Spring, and Union Ridge United Methodist Churches and Third Place Ministries

In 1971, several United Methodist Churches in the Marshall County, Kentucky area banded together under the leadership of the legacy Memphis Annual Conference (now Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference) to provide much needed ministry to the Lakeland area around Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. Property was purchased along Highway 68 and ministry began almost immediately. The Lakeland Parish was pivotal in establishing campground preaching to vacationing visitors to the area and ministry to Senior Citizens throughout the county. A thrift store, The New to You Shop, was opened in Benton and all profits were used for crisis ministry to those stricken by poverty and disaster. The legacy Memphis Conference provided funding and appointed clergy to the Lakeland Parish during this time.

With the construction of the interstate highway in the area, however, the locally owned tourist businesses began to decline, and funding for the Lakeland Parish diminished. It seemed that this once thriving ministry would soon be just a fond memory. But in the 1990’s, a decision was made to incorporate the 14 United Methodist Churches in Marshall County. Thus, the United Methodist Cooperative Ministry of Marshall County (UMCMMC) was born. After some slow going, the Cooperative regained its sense of vision for ministry. The Highway 68 property was sold and the Cooperative and The New to You Shop moved to Cope Road, conveniently located just off Main Street in Benton.

With the help of an Igniting Ministry grant from the United Methodist General Conference, UMCMMC was able to revive the once vibrant ministry. Marshall County’s longest abbreviation was shortened to McUMC. In 2013 the Cooperative Ministry was re-organized and adopted a new set of bylaws and goals. Included in that reorganization was the decision to rename the Cooperative Ministry. The 13 member churches approved the name “Third Place Ministries” to replace McUMC. Changes from that re-organization included the sale of some property and the search for a new and larger building for the New to You Shop.

On June 1, 2018 the name of the cooperative ministry was officially changed to Third Place Ministries, Inc. Third Place Ministries is attached to the Church Grove, Maple Spring, and Union Ridge UMC charge. Many improvements occurred under the very competent leadership of Rev. David Garrett. In June of 2021, Rev. Samantha Hall took over the reins when she was appointed to the charge. The search continued for a larger location for the New to You shop, and finally a suitable location was purchased in April of 2022 with the assistance of volunteer realtor Kendra Capps. New to You moved to 176 Beechwood Lane, a facility with two buildings, one for receiving and sorting donations and crisis ministry, and the other for retail sales. We were honored that Bishop Bill McAlilly and District Superintendent Nancy Johnston Varden helped to dedicate the new buildings on May 23^rd during the grand opening and ribbon cutting. Mr. Paul Darnall and Mr. Carl Greenfield were both recognized for their many contributions to the ministry as well.

New to You depends on volunteers from the community as well as paid staff, and on donations. There is a volunteer Third Place Board of Directors chaired by Rev. Keith Long composed of representatives from each United Methodist Church in Marshall County, one clergy and one lay member from each church. Chairpersons alternate between clergy and lay members. Current ministries include The New to You Shop; The Day1 Radio Program and Day1 Follow-Up Program hosted by volunteer Lois Cunningham; Crisis Counseling; Crisis Assistance (medical and utility assistance); Emergency Assistance (household replacement after fires, storms, domestic abuse, etc.); and a County-Wide Youth Ministry led by volunteer Jenny Darnall.

A lot can happen in fifty-one years. Even through name changes, demographic shifts, and location transitions, Third Place Ministries continues to invest in its community by providing much-needed assistance to those who are in crisis and by continuing to modify what we do to address ever changing community needs.

2021 Project Christmas House

Posted December 7, 2021

Looking for a way to truly keep Christ in Christmas? Here's your opportunity!

Resources

Flyer
Bulletin inserts
Letter

The mission of the Purchase District is to discover, equip, connect and send lay and clergy leaders to join Christ’s transforming, disciple-making work in and for the world.

Local Churches Invite Public to Christmas Services in Western Kentucky

Posted October 27, 2021

Sunday, November 28
8:45 AM & 11:00 AM Hanging of the Greens incorporated into morning worship services, Murray First UMC | Website​

Wednesday, December 8
5:30 PM Children’s Christmas Program with dinner, Murray First UMC | Website
6:00 PM Children’s Christmas Pageant, Broadway UMC | Website

Sunday, December 12
8:45 AM Christmas Celebration of Praise, Murray First UMC | Website
10:30 AM Chancel Choir Christmas Cantata, Broadway UMC | Website
11:00 AM Christmas Cantata, Murray First UMC | Website

Wednesday, December 15
6:00-8:00 PM Drive By Live Nativity (in front of the church), Broadway UMC | Website

Sunday, December 19
10:00 AM Lessons and Carols Service, Benton First UMC (watch live on Facebook)
10:30 AM Cantata Featuring our Youth / Children / Choir, Concord UMC
10:30 AM Lessons and Carols Service, Broadway UMC | Website
11:00 AM Service of Lessons and Carols, Trinity UMC (Paducah)
6:30 PM Carols, Lessons, and Prayers for Advent at Union Ridge UMC | Flyer

Tuesday, December 21
6:30 PM Longest Night Service, Fulton First

Friday, December 24
4:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight Service with Holy Communion, Reidland UMC
4:00 PM Christmas Eve Joyful Noise Worship Service, Benton First UMC (watch live on Facebook)
5:00 PM Christmas Eve Traditional Worship Service, Benton First UMC (watch live on Facebook)
5:00 PM Lessons and Carols, a joint service of Mayfield First and Christ UMC at Christ UMC
5:30 PM Christmas Eve Service with Carols and Communion, Arcadia UMC
5:30 PM Candlelight Service, Trinity UMC (Paducah)
6:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, Murray First UMC | Website
6:00 PM Family Christmas Service, Fulton First
7:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, Broadway UMC | Website
10:00 PM Christmas Eve service, Pleasant Hill UMC
11:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight Service, Murray First UMC | Website
11:00 PM Candlelight Service w/ Communion, Concord UMC
11:00 PM Christmas Eve Service, Fulton First
11:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight and Communion, Fountain Avenue UMC
11:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight Service with Holy Communion, Reidland UMC (watch live on Facebook)

Sunday, December 26
10:30 AM Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols, Concord UMC

2021 Mission u (Memphis Conference UMW)

Posted June 29, 2021

Mission u is an opportunity to study current issues impacting society and how those issues intersect with our faith. Participants grow in understanding the mission of the church in the current world context. The studies give particular attention to the responsibilities of all in the fulfillment of the mission work of the church. It’s open to members and non-members of United Methodist Women. 1.0 CEU credit and Scholarships are available.

Dates: July 23-24, 2021
Registration deadline: July 9, 2021
Host Church: First United Methodist Church, 2000 Jones Blvd., Milan, TN 38358

Topics:

• Bearing Witness in the Kin-dom: Living Into the Church’s Moral Witness through Radical Discipleship
  Study Leader: Marlene Simpson
• Finding Peace In An Anxious World
  Study Leader: Rebeca Grinstead

2021 Mission u information and registration form: download

Sponsored by: Memphis Conference United Methodist Women

First Annual Refocus Youth Conference

Posted June 21, 2021

2021 United Methodist Christmas Shoebox Project

Posted April 26, 2021

CHRISTMAS IN JUNE??

2021 United Methodist Christmas Shoebox Project
Sponsored by the North Alabama Disaster Response Warehouse

For several years the Tennessee River District of The United Methodist Church has participated in a Christmas Shoe Box ministry that is sponsored by the North Alabama Disaster Response Warehouse. United Methodist Churches throughout the southeastern United States have worked together to provide our United Methodist missionaries and local pastors with Christmas gifts and the Christmas story to children they minister to. In 2019, over 13,000 boxes were distributed in 9 different countries: Panama, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Ecuador, and Mexico. (2020 data is still being compiled)

This year, 2021, we are asking the entire Memphis Conference to join us in filling 3,000 boxes.

The Christmas Shoe Box Project will run 5 weeks, from June 1^st through July 5. In the past we did the project in August. Many churches said the Christmas Shoe Box Project overlapped with their back-to-school projects and requested that we use an earlier date in 2021.

Some of our churches are already involved with the Samaritan’s Purse Shoebox project. It is not our goal to pull support away from other projects. The Christmas Story will be told across the world regardless of whose name is on the box. We wish you continued success in your ministry.

I am excited that we have an excellent leadership team in place. Each county has a coordinator who will contact local pastors for assistance in identifying a layperson in your congregation to lead in this project. The coordinator will provide your church with the boxes and information on how to fill them. Each box will need $5 to cover shipping costs.

The exciting thing about this project is that it does not have to be a large group activity. Last year, during the peak of the pandemic, the Tennessee River District packed over 800 boxes. Individuals can pick up a box, pack it, and bring it back to the church. Some churches gave a financial donation and a small group of people did the shopping and packing for the entire church. There are a variety of ways your church can participate even in these challenging times.

The Purchase District Leadership Team

Calloway Cluster, Lisa Chrisman (270) 293-1335 chrisman@wk.net

Marshall Cluster, Jeanne Gooud (270) 898-3479 gooud@mchsi.com

Rivers Cluster, Ruth Ann Roberts (270) 653-4251 burchammorrisroberts@gmail.com

Graves and McCracken Clusters are still being organized

Conference Coordinator – Beverlyann Jetton rbjetton@yahoo.com

Purchase District Distribution/Collection site

Christ United Methodist Church, 811 West Broadway, Mayfield, Kentucky

Instructions and PowerPoint

Instructions | Link
PowerPoint | Link

Purchase District UMW to host 2021 Spiritual Growth Event

Posted March 29, 2021

Greetings!

I’m Pat Dunker, and I’m the District Spiritual Growth Coordinator for the Purchase District United Methodist Women, and I’d like to invite everyone to our UMW Purchase District Spiritual Growth Event on May 22, 2021 at South Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church located at 5671 Crossland Road (St. Rt. 783) in Hazel, Kentucky.

This will be a little different from what we’re used to. This is going to be a workshop/discussion event based on our Spiritual Growth subject, “Finding Peace in an Anxious World.” Pretty timely, isn’t it? Books for this are available through the UMW website (hard copy), or through Amazon (Kindle).

Registration will start at 9:30, first session will start at 10:00 a.m. and will end at approximately 1:30 p.m.. We’ll have discussions about our survival during our lock down. We’ll share how we kept our minds active; how we continued mission work.

There will be distancing, and we ask that you wear a mask. Most will probably have had their vaccinations (we’re trying to err on the side of caution here!). We’ll just see what things look like at the time. At best, please bring a mask – just in case.

We will also pause to have a small Remembrance Service. Most of us know at least one person we’ve lost during this time – whether it was to Covid or not. I’ll have candles to light, and petals to take with you if you wish. This will give us a chance to acknowledge those special people in our lives – and also to let others know who has joined the Church Triumphant.

Lunch will be served as well – a Salad Luncheon! There will be various kinds of salads for us to choose from! That’s one of my favorite things to have – hope it is for you as well. There will be a $3 charge, but where else can you get your choice of wonderful salads for $3?

Please pass this on- and please - also let me know how many will be coming so these wonderful Ladies can be sure to have enough salads on hand.

I look forward to seeing you – and once again coming together to be about the Lord’s work.

Many blessings, Ladies.

Grace and peace,
Pat Dunker
Spiritual Growth Coordinator
Purchase District United Methodist Women

Can't come in-person? Join online via Zoom

Join the Zoom Meeting by smart phone, computer, tablet, iPad or other electronic device that can connect to the internet:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/2705278282
Meeting ID: 270 527 8282

Or one tap mobile
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
Meeting ID: 270 527 8282

Find your local number:
https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kdKcA5ZiQL

Questions?

I can be reached through email at patdunker@bellsouth.net, or by phone at 731-479-3593 (home) or 562-306-8229 (cell).

Purchase District wins Lakeshore Color Cup Challenge

Posted March 23, 2021

Submitted by Joe Burkhead, member of Reidland United Methodist Church, Reidland, Ky.

And the Winner is...

Click here to watch Lakeshore’s video announcing the winner. (Note: The video indicates that $71,645 was raised; however, the final total was $81,895.)

Learn more about the Color Cup Challenge

Link

Local Churches Invite You to Virtual Christmas Services in Western Kentucky

Posted December 3, 2020

Thursday, December 24
- 4:00 PM Joyful Noise Worship, Benton First UMC | LINK
- 5:00 PM Traditional Advent Worship, Benton First UMC | LINK
- 5:00 PM A Service of Nine Lessons and Carols, Mayfield First UMC | Link
- 8:00 PM Christmas Eve Service, Massac and Lebanon UMCs | Link
- 11:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service, Fountain Avenue UMC | LINK

Tuesday and Wednesday of each week leading up to Christmas
- 6:30 PM Advent reading: Faithful, Christmas Through The Eyes Of Joseph, South Pleasant Grove | LINK

Friday of each week leading up to Christmas
- 6:30 PM Review and discussion of each week’s Advent reading (see above), South Pleasant Grove | LINK

Massac-Lebanon receives Turner Grant and offers invitation to join Wellness Circles

Posted August 31, 2020

Press release by John Smithmier, pastor of Massac and Lebanon United Methodist Churches

Memphis Conference churches offer live streams of their Sunday worship services during period of public health concern

Posted March 23, 2020

Many Memphis Conference churches including churches in the Purchase District are offering live streams of their Sunday worship services during the period of public health concern related to Covid-19. For a list of those churches and links to their live streams, click here.

District Office is closed due to COVID-19

Posted March 23, 2020

In light of Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the Purchase District office is closed to the public. The closure began effective, March 23, 2020. The current plan is for the office to remain closed at least until the end of May 2020. District staff will be at the office to answer the phone and conduct business (contact information).

2020 Purchase District Music Fest at Murray FUMC to benefit Reelfoot Rural Ministries

Posted January 23, 2020

UPDATE: This event has been postponed. The date will be announced at a later time.

For More Information

Contact the Purchase District UMC Office at 270-527-8282 or email purchasedistrict@memphis-umc.org.

Sponsored by

The Laity Team of the Purchase District of the Memphis Conference of The United Methodist Church.

Resources

Flyer
Bulletin inserts
PowerPoint slide

Seeking Mass Choir Volunteers

If you are a UMC choir director or an individual (not singing with a choir) in the Purchase District and would like to sing in the Mass Choir, contact the Purchase District Office by March 30 or click here to sign up online. You may also contact the district office for YouTube links to the music for the purpose of practicing. The Mass Choir will perform three (3) choral pieces at the event. Robes are optional.

A mass choir rehearsal will begin at 4:00 p.m. on the day of Music Fest followed by light refreshments.

Previous Year's Events

2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012

Local Churches Invite Communities to Christmas Services and Events in Western Kentucky

Posted November 18, 2019

Sunday, December 1
-10:30 AM Hanging of the Greens, Concord UMC
- 4-6 PM Advent Walk, Broadway UMC | FLYER

Friday, December 6
- 5:00 PM One Starry Night: A Savior is Born!, Murray First UMC | FLYER
- 6-9 PM Live Nativity at the Bill Cherry Exposition Center, Various churches in the Calloway UM Cluster | FLYER

Saturday, December 7
- 6-9 PM Live Nativity at the Bill Cherry Exposition Center, Various churches in the Calloway UM Cluster | FLYER

Sunday, December 8
- 3:00 PM Kantorei Christmas Concert, Fountain Avenue UMC | FLYER

Sunday, December 15
- 8:45 AM Christmas Celebration of Praise, Murray First UMC | FLYER
- 10:15 AM Children’s Christmas Program, Calvert City UMC | FLYER
- 10:30 AM Christmas Anthem, Benton First UMC
- 10:30 AM Christmas Cantata by the Chancel Choir, Concord UMC
- 10:30 AM Christmas Cantata, Broadway UMC | FLYER
- 10:30 AM Christmas Cantata, Lone Oak UMC | FLYER
- 10:30 AM Christmas Cantata, Mayfield First UMC
- 10:45 AM Christmas Cantata, Reidland UMC
- 10:55 AM Sunday Worship w/ Choir Cantata, Pleasant Grove UMC (Marshall Co.)
- 11:00 AM Christmas Cantata, Murray First UMC | FLYER
- 5:00 PM Christmas Cantata, Trinity UMC (Paducah) | FLYER
- 5:30 PM Christmas Pajama Karaoke and Dinner, Benton First UMC

Wednesday, December 18
- 6-8 PM Live Nativity, Broadway UMC | FLYER

Thursday, December 19
- 6:00 PM Blue Christmas Service, Arcadia UMC | FLYER
- 6:00 PM Longest Night Worship Service, Calvert City UMC | FLYER

Friday, December 20
- 7:00 PM Blue Christmas Service, Lone Oak UMC | FLYER

Sunday, December 22
- 10:00 AM Lessons & Carols Service, Benton First UMC
- 10:30 AM A Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols, Concord UMC
- 10:45 AM Christmas Cantata, Fountain Avenue UMC
- 11:00 AM Christmas Cantata, Calvert City UMC | FLYER
- 10:00 AM Christmas Cantata, Arcadia UMC | FLYER
- 6:00 PM Annual Christmas Program, Pleasant Grove UMC (Marshall Co.)
- 6:30 PM Carols, Candlelight, and Cookies, Oakland UMC

Tuesday, December 24
- 4:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service, Reidland UMC
- 5:00 PM Christmas Eve Service, Benton First UMC
- 5:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service, Calvert City UMC | FLYER
- 5:00 PM Christmas Eve Worship, Mayfield FUMC
- 5:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion and Worship Celebration, Trinity UMC (Paducah) | FLYER
- 5:30 PM Candlelight Communion Service, Arcadia UMC | FLYER
- 6:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight Service and Communion, Murray First UMC | FLYER
- 6:00 PM Christmas Eve Service, Pleasant Grove UMC (Marshall Co.)
- 6:15 PM Come and Go Communion, Benton First UMC
- 7:00 PM Christmas Eve Communion and Candlelight Service, Broadway UMC | FLYER
- 7:00 PM Christmas Eve & Candlelight Communion, Lone Oak UMC | FLYER
- 9:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service, Calvert City UMC | FLYER
- 10:00 PM Christmas Eve Service, Pleasant Hill (Ballard Co.)
- 11:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight & Communion, Concord UMC
- 11:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight & Communion Service, Fountain Avenue UMC
- 11:00 PM Christmas Eve Worship, Mayfield FUMC
- 11:00 PM Christmas Eve Service, Pleasant Grove UMC (Marshall Co.)
- 11:00 PM Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service, Reidland UMC

Sunday, December 29
- 9:00 AM Love Feast Observance, Calvert City UMC | FLYER
- 11:00 AM Love Feast Observance, Calvert City UMC | FLYER

Purchase District office announces 2019 schedule for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day

Posted November 5, 2019

THANKSGIVING

• close beginning Wednesday, Nov. 27
• reopen 8:00 a.m., Monday, Dec. 2

CHRISTMAS and NEW YEAR’S DAY

• close beginning Tuesday, Dec. 18
• reopen 8:00 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 2

REGULAR OFFICE HOURS

Monday - Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

District Training Day: One Board Model & PPRC

Posted October 24, 2019

Date and Location

When: Nov. 16, 2019, 9:30-11:30 AM
Where: Purchase District UMC Campus located at 2285 Jack Treas Road, Brewers, Kentucky | MAP

Workshops Include:

One Board Model for Church Administration

Leader: Dr. Joe Geary
Description: Learn the benefits and challenges of a simplified model of church administration which melds the Disciplinary committees into one unified board for church administration, leadership, and oversight.
Suggested Participants: Pastors, Church Council Members, and Administrative Committee Chairpersons

Pastor Parish Relations Training

Leader: Dr. Rob Martin, Purchase District District Superintendent
Description: Learn the role, responsibilities, and process for effective Staff Parish Committee work.
Suggested Participants: Staff Parish Chairs and New Committee Members, Church Pastors

Registration

Online: https://memphis-reg.brtapp.com/PDUMC2019TrainingDay
Phone: 270-527-8282
Deadline to register: Thursday, November 14, 2019

For more information

Contact Samantha Hall, Director of Resource Ministries
270-527-8282
shall @ memphis-umc.org

2019 Project Christmas House

Posted October 16, 2019

Looking for a way to truly keep Christ in Christmas? Here's your opportunity!

Please consider sponsoring Project Christmas House 2019!

Project Christmas House is a ministry of the Purchase District and is open to everyone. Led by Mr. Bill Carr, a team will be headed once again to Hattiesburg, MS to help a family rebuild their home after a catastrophic event from which they cannot recover alone.

This year, the team will need $28,000 to successfully accomplish their goal. Unlike other years, there is no other funding available for this worthwhile project, so its success is dependent upon the generosity of the congregations in the Purchase District. What an awesome way to remember loved ones for Christmas by donating to this mission in their name! If the funds are not raised, there will be no trip this year for the first time in many years. Donations must be received no later than December 17.

The team also needs volunteers. They will leave for Hattiesburg on December 26 and return on December 31. Volunteers may come for a few days or the week. The team starts at the ground and builds up.

Most of all, the team needs your prayers. Please add them to your prayer lists and pray about how you can help. If you need more information or would like to volunteer, please contact Bill Carr at 270-556-5221. Bill is also available to come and speak to your church group.

Pastors, please distribute the flyer below to your congregation.

In Christ,

Samantha Hall
Director of Resource Ministries

Publicity

Flyer
Bulletin insert

Marshall County, Kentucky, benefits from ‘Great Commission Day’ coordinated by Benton First UMC

Posted September 18, 2019

Article published 9/12/19 by Memphis Conference of The United Methodist Church | Link

Benton First United Methodist Church’s Great Commission Day “turned out to be a beautiful, great day to celebrate being the Lord’s hands and feet in our community.”

That’s according to Jim and Dianna Ealey, members who coordinated the Sept. 7 Marshall County event for the Benton, Kentucky, church.

“Our theme of Hebrews 13:16 (And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased) turned out to be a huge blessing as five churches and an estimated 200 people came together to unite and serve Jesus,” reported the Ealeys.

Great Commission Day (GCD) is a day of mission held annually in Marshall County, usually on the first Saturday of September, explained Dr. David Russell, pastor of Benton First United Methodist Church (UMC).

“This event originated at Benton First UMC, but over the years, other churches in the community have joined in,” said Russell.

Other churches that participated with Benton First UMC this year were Benton First Christian Church, Benton First Baptist Church (first year), Benton First Missionary Baptist Church (new church campus is next door to Benton First UMC) and Central Church of Christ.

The day began with breakfast at Benton First UMC, followed by a brief time of music and prayer. Teams then dispersed to various work projects:

• In-A-Fix - 11 teams spread out to do household repairs and clean up work for Marshall County residents in need
• Build-A-Bed - Volunteers built bunk beds to be sent to Eastern Kentucky for families without enough beds for all their children
• Come And Get It - Just like a yard sale, except donated items were given away to those in need, rather than sold
• Meals on Wheels – Volunteers delivered meals to shut ins, elderly and residents at former Lakeland Wesley Village
• Food Pantry – Collections and donations from participating churches were sorted and used to stock four area food banks and fill bags for residents of former Lakeland Wesley Village
• Visitation – Volunteers visited persons in area nursing homes and elder care facilities
• Victory Through Grace - Volunteers did yard work and painting at this faith-based residence for women freed from sex trafficking
• Greeting Cards – Volunteers prepared cards to be used by participating churches with shut-in ministries
• Bags of Love – Volunteers coordinated bags of items for children who experience traumatic events
• New to You Thrift Shop – Volunteers donated time at this ministry of the United Methodist Churches of Marshall County

For more information about GCD, contact Dr. David Russell at 270-527-3990.

Click HERE to watch video of Sept. 7 event.

Purchase District to offer Basic and Advanced Lay Servant Courses on August 16 & 17, 2019

Posted July 16, 2019

Course Offerings

Basic Course
Prerequisite: Recommendation of your Pastor (the church where your membership is)
The Purchase District is offering a 2-day Basic Lay Servant course on Friday, August 16 and Saturday, August 17, 2019. The course will run from 6:30-9:00 p.m. on Friday evening and from 8:00am-4:00pm on Saturday. This course is for those who either have never completed the Basic Lay Servant training or don’t remember if or when they completed it, and those who are interested in becoming a Lay Servant in their Church or Charge. In the Basic Course topics such as servant and spiritual leadership, caring ministries, basic communication skills, sharing your faith and leading meetings will enhance your knowledge and skill as a leader. This course is not designed to prepare you to preach. Those who have gifts for preaching may take the advanced course on preaching after this course.

Advanced Course
Leading Worship
Prerequisite: Basic Lay Servant Course
This course focuses on the ministry of the lay servant who either regularly or occasionally leads a group or congregation in worship.

Advanced Course
B. Andrew Halford, Instructor
Transforming Evangelism: The Wesleyan Way of Sharing Faith
Prerequisite: Basic Lay Servant Course
This course leads participants to learn from John Wesley how to practice relational evangelism. They will discover that evangelism involves not only sharing our faith with others but also welcoming people into a community where they can grow in faith.

Dinner, a light breakfast, and lunch will be served. Please let us know if you have special dietary needs!

Registration

To register, contact Samantha Hall at the Purchase District Office. Call: (270) 527-8282; Email: shall@memphis-umc.org; or Online: https://memphis-reg.brtapp.com/LSM2019Fall. Make checks payable to Purchase District UMC and write Lay Servant Course in the memo line. Checks and registration must be received by the August 5th deadline to allow time for participants to receive course book and have time to prepare pre-class work.

Publicity

Flyer
Bulletin insert

For More Information

For more information, contact Samantha Hall, Director of Resource Ministries for the Purchase District of The United Methodist Church at (270) 527-8282 or by email at shall@memphis-umc.org.

Ignite Women’s Conference at Grace UMC

Posted May 28, 2019

​Ignite Women’s Conference will be held from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. on Friday, June 28 and 9:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Saturday, June 29, 2019 at Grace United Methodist Church in LaCenter Kentucky. The keynote speaker for the evening will be Cheryl Goss of Connecting Ministries and the event will be hosted by Grit & Grace Women’s Ministry. Doors will open Friday at 5:30 p.m.

More information can be found on the Grit & Grace Facebook page including how to purchase tickets online.

Grace United Methodist United Methodist Church is located at 3752 Paducah Road in La Center, Kentucky (MAP).

Ignite Women’s Conference | Facebook Link
Grit & Grace Women’s Ministry | Facebook Link
Flyer | Link

Summertime Fun Support Sought for Foster Kids and Foster Families

Posted April 23, 2019

NEXT: Exploring Your Christian Walk

Posted March 19, 2019

What’s “NEXT?” As youth grow older, they are always looking ahead. From iPod to iPhone, bicycle to learner’s permit; they are consciously and unconsciously asking the question: “What’s NEXT?” This is why the Purchase District is coming together to offer a one-day event: “NEXT: Exploring Your Christian Walk.”

This event is tailored to Middle School Youth, but is open to 5th-10th graders who will experience a day of fellowship and fun while seeds are planted both now and in the future. Life can take us many places. Along the way, how we see ourselves can change as our interests change. And yet, as time moves on; there are some things that NEVER change!

Malachi 3:6a: “I the LORD do not change.” Even though we are always growing and changing, there are things about us that NEVER change. Such as this truth; “I am a Christian.”

So where are our youth right now? Right now, our youth may say, “I am a Christian who plays the trumpet and loves playing Xbox.” What about 2 years from now? They might say, “I am a Christian who is a Summer Counselor at Lakeshore UMA.” 5 years? “I am a Christian who is a part of a College Wesley Foundation or volunteers with Project Transformation.” 10 years? We have an army of Christians entering every imaginable career and field making Disciples and transforming the world!

NEXT will take place at Christ UMC 1322 W. Broadway Mayfield, KY 42066. We will begin in the Church Sanctuary at 10am and end with at time of Holy Communion, prayer, and commissioning in the Sanctuary at 2pm. Lunch will be provided and this is a completely free event filled with music, games, and prizes.

This will be a day of building relationships and making connections. Individuals and small groups will meet Christians of different ages and walks of life who are living out their faith. We will learn “The Church doesn’t have a mission; there is a mission, and it has the Church.”

As part of our preparation for this day we ask participants to register (see link below) and to follow the link to the Cokesbury Youth Spiritual Gifts Assessment. This will be helpful in our journey of discovering what’s NEXT. We can’t wait to begin the journey with you!

Registration

Click here to register

Flyer

A Town Hall Gathering: “The Purchase Area and the Proposed New Conference”

Posted January 14, 2019

Purchase District Lay and Clergy Delegates
And Interested Guests

Announcing: A Town Hall Gathering
“The Purchase Area and the Proposed New Conference”

February 10, 2019
2:30 - 4:00 pm

Calvert City UMC
571 Oak Park Blvd, Calvert City, KY

Invited Guests:
Bishop Bill McAlilly, Nashville Area
Bishop Leonard Fairley, Kentucky Area
William Moore, DS, Pennyrile District, KY
New Conference Advisory Team Members

Please register at
https://memphis-reg.brtapp.com/PDTHM2019

Publicity

Flyer
Bulletin insert

Courageous Conversations and the Commission on the Way Forward

Posted January 9, 2019

​.

The January 30th date has been cancelled due to inclement weather.

Courageous Conversations and the Commission on the Way Forward

Four Sessions at Broadway UMC located at 701 Broadway, Paducah, KY 42001
Wednesdays (January 23 - February 13)
5:45 - 7:00 pm in Igert Hall
(Meal Served at 5:00 pm with required reservation. Contact revlorajean@comcast.net to reserve a meal spot)
Session Leaders: Dr. Rob Martin and Dr. Ben Boone

District pastors, please be sure to publicize these important Wednesday conversations in your church.

Publicity

PowerPoint
Bulletin insert
Flyer

2019 Purchase District Music Fest (a.k.a. Choir Fest) at Concord UMC to benefit Reelfoot Rural Ministries

Posted January 3, 2019

Sunday, March 3, 2019, 6-8 p.m.
at Concord United Methodist Church, 5178 Hinkleville Rd, Paducah, KY
Mass Choir Director Lyz Hornbeak

All are welcome to attend the 12th annual District Music Fest (a.k.a. Choir Fest). The 2019 event is scheduled to take place Sunday, March 3 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Concord United Methodist Church (UMC) of Paducah, Kentucky, under the direction of Mrs. Lyz Hornbeak. Mrs. Hornbeak is the choir director at Concord UMC.

A mass choir comprised of UMC members from all around the Purchase District will be performing two (2) choral pieces at the event. In addition to the mass choir, each participating church choir will perform one selection of their own choosing.

Donations will be accepted at the event through a love offering with 100% of donations benefiting Reelfoot Rural Ministries, located in Obion, TN - a ministry of the Memphis Conference of The United Methodist Church. Those giving to the offering are asked to make checks payable to their local church and write “Reelfoot Rural Ministries” in the memo line. Then, each local church is asked to write one check made payable to Reelfoot Rural Ministries and bring it to Music Fest to place in the offering.

At the 2018 event, a mass choir gathered for the 11th annual Choir Fest with proceeds totaling $4,020.00 and benefiting Reelfoot Rural Ministries.

Mark your calendars now to attend the 2019 District Music Fest at 6:00 p.m. March 3 Concord UMC located at 5178 Hinkleville Road in Paducah, Kentucky (Just past Kentucky Oaks Mall by Lowes Home Improvement).

For More Information

Contact the Purchase District UMC Office at 270-527-8282.

Sponsored by

The Laity Team of the Purchase District of the Memphis Conference of The United Methodist Church.

Publicity for the 2019 event

• Flyer
  
• Bulletin inserts
  

Seeking Mass Choir Participants

If you would like to sing in the mass choir contact the Purchase District Office by the February 4th deadline. The Mass Choir will be perform two (2) choral pieces at the event. Robes are optional.

A mass choir practice will begin at 3:00 p.m. on the day of Music Fest followed by individual choirs that would like to practice their individual pieces. Please click here to hear the mass choir selections on YouTube.

Please register by February 4th so the district staff can make sure to order enough music.

Previous Year's Events

2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012

2019 Purchase District Training Day for Clergy and Laity

Posted December 17, 2018

Date and Location

When: January 20, 2018, 2:30-4:30 PM
Where: Purchase District UMC Campus located at 2285 Jack Treas Road, Brewers, Kentucky | MAP

Workshops Include:

One Board Model for Church Administration: Praxis and Pitfalls
Leader: Dr. Joe Geary, Memphis Conference Director of Connectional Ministry
Description: Learn the benefits and challenges of a simplified model of church administration which melds the Disciplinary committees into one unified board for church administration, leadership, and oversight.
Suggested Participants: Pastors, Church Council Members, and Administrative Committee Chairpersons

Creating Ministry Action Plans and Future Coaching Opportunities
Leaders: Sue Engle, Trinity-Paducah Pastor, SLI Facilitator and Coach and Samantha Hall, Director of Resource Ministries, SLI Facilitator Trainee
Description: Learn how to accomplish a ministry goal through developing a measurable plan and outcome. Workshop will include an introduction to creating Ministry Action Plans (MAP) and to further coaching opportunities.
Suggested Participants: Church Council Members, Work Area/Ministry Team Members, Church Pastors

Pastor Parish Relations Training
Leader: Dr. Rob Martin, Purchase District District Superintendent
Description: Learn the role, responsibilities, and process for effective Staff Parish Committee work.
Suggested Participants: Staff Parish Chairs and New Committee Members, Church Pastors

DayShore Information and Introduction
Leader: Allison Doyle, Program Director, Lakeshore UMA
Description: Learn how to bring one of the best assets of the Memphis Conference to your local church/cluster and how Lakeshore supports the program with people and program resources.
Suggested participants: Calloway and River Cluster Youth Leaders and Church Pastors

Registration

Online: https://memphis-reg.brtapp.com/PDUMC2019TRAININGDAY
Phone: 270-527-8282

Deadline to register: January 13, 2019

Resources

Flyer: https://memphis.brtapp.com/files/districts/paducah/flyers/district+training+day/district+training+day+2019.pdf
Brochure: https://memphis.brtapp.com/files/districts/paducah/flyers/district+training+day/2019+training+event+brochure.pdf

For more information

Contact Samantha Hall, director of resource ministries
270-527-8282
shall @ memphis-umc.org

2018 Project Christmas House

Posted December 5, 2018

Looking for a way to truly keep Christ in Christmas? Here's your opportunity!

Flyer

Click here

The mission of the Purchase District is to discover, equip, connect and send lay and clergy leaders to join Christ’s transforming, disciple-making work in and for the world.

$46,000 distributed to feeding ministries from Memphis Conference 2018 ‘Lenten Hunger Offering’

Posted October 3, 2018

9/10/2018
By Lane Gardner Camp, Director of Communications, Memphis Conference
Source: Memphis Conference of The United Methodist Church website | LINK

FOCUS: Finding Our Center Under Stress Women’s Event

Posted September 26, 2018

Publicity

• Flyer
• Bulletin inserts
• Poster

Six new Stephen Ministers commissioned at Trinity United Methodist Church in Paducah

Posted May 31, 2018

Article published 5/16/2018 on the Memphis Conference UMC website. | Link

Safe Sanctuaries Training Event to be held May 6, 2018 in the Purchase District

Posted April 11, 2018

The Purchase District UMC is sponsoring a FREE Safe Sanctuaries® Training on Sunday, May 6, 2018 from 3:00-5:00 p.m. at the Purchase District Campus located at 2285 Jack Treas Rd. in Kirksey, Kentucky. The training will be presented by Rev. Dean Emerson, Memphis Conference Safe Sanctuaries Coordinator.

Register your church in one of two ways:

• Online: https://memphis-reg.brtapp.com/PDUMC2018SST
  
• Contact: Samantha Hall | 270-527-8282 | shall@memphis-umc.org
  

Flyer

​CLICK HERE

Information on Safe Sanctuaries

http://www.uminsure.org/safe-sanctuaries

Reducing the Risk of Sexual Abuse: Safe Sanctuaries® is one of the “social structures that are consistent with the gospel” (Book of Discipline, ¶122) allowing our sanctuaries, classrooms, mission encounters, camps and retreats, and all spaces where we gather to worship and serve God to be places of trust. Training is required for all persons having direct contact with children, youth, and vulnerable adults in all activities connected with local congregations, annual conferences, and camp settings. The minimum standard of training shall include an annual orientation that includes information about the Safe Sanctuaries Policy; training in the supervision of children, youth, and vulnerable adults; and training in the identification and reporting of abuse.

Benton First UMC Reaches out to Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School

Posted March 29, 2018

Article by Rev. Dr. David Russell, pastor
Benton First United Methodist Church, Benton, Ky.

Purchase District to offer Basic Lay Servant Course on April 27-28, 2018

Posted March 6, 2018

Registration Information

​To register online, click here.
To register via phone, contact Samantha Hall (see contact information above).

Make check payable to Purchase District UMC and mail to 2285 Jack Treas Rd., Kirksey, KY 42054. If registering online, mail check with printed registration form.

Resources

• Flyer
  
• Bulletin insert
• PowerPoint

2018 Purchase District Choir Fest at Mayfield FUMC to benefit Reelfoot Rural Ministries

Posted February 6, 2018

Pictured above is the 2017 Mass Choir under the direction of Mr. Josh Gatlin at the 10th annual District Choir Fest held on April 23 at Fulton First United Methodist Church. Photo by Penny Story.

2018 Purchase District Choir Fest

All are welcome to attend the 11th annual Choir Fest (a.k.a. Music Fest) in the Purchase District (formerly Paducah District). The 2018 event is scheduled to take place Sunday, February 18 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church (UMC) of Mayfield, Kentucky, under the direction of Mr. Buckley Walker. Mr. Walker currently serves as choir director at Mayfield First UMC.

Over 100 people have signed up to sing in the Mass Choir. That number represents five (5) local church choirs as well as several individuals from UM churches around the district. The mass choir will be performing two (2) choral pieces at the event and most local church choirs will perform one to two selections of their own choosing.

Donations will be accepted at the event through a love offering with 100% of donations benefiting Reelfoot Rural Ministries, located in Obion, TN - a ministry of the Memphis Conference of The United Methodist Church. Those giving to the offering are asked to make checks payable to their local church and write “Reelfoot Rural Ministries” in the memo line. Then, each local church is asked to write one check made payable to Reelfoot Rural Ministries and bring it to Choir Fest to place in the offering.

At the event in the Spring in 2017 (pictured above), a mass choir of approximately 69 voices from five (5) United Methodist church choirs along with several persons participating as individuals gathered for the 10th annual Choir Fest with proceeds totaling $4,020.00 and benefiting Reelfoot Rural Ministries.

Mark your calendars now to attend Choir Fest at 6:00 p.m. February 18, 2018 at Mayfield First UMC.

For More Information

Contact Dianna Colson, lay leader of the Purchase District UMC at (270) 527-1939 or the Purchase District Office at 270-527-8282.

Sponsored by

The Laity Team of the Purchase District of the Memphis Conference of The United Methodist Church.

Publicity for the 2018 event

Flyer
Bulletin inserts
Seeking Choir Members - At this time the Mass Choir is full. If you are interested in participating in the event in 2019, please check this website toward the end of 2018 or contact the district office.

Previous Year's Events

2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012

Seeking Choirs, Groups, and Individuals for the 11th annual District Choir Fest

Posted November 15, 2017

Pictured above is the 2017 Mass Choir under the direction of Mr. Josh Gatlin at the 10^th annual District Choir Fest held on April 23 at Fulton First United Methodist Church. Photo by Penny Story.

2018 Purchase District Choir Fest

Plans are underway for the 11th annual Choir Fest (a.k.a. Music Fest) in the Purchase District (formerly Paducah District). The 2018 event is scheduled to take place Sunday, February 18 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church (UMC) in Mayfield, Kentucky, under the direction of Mr. Buckley Walker. Mr. Walker currently serves as choir director at Mayfield First UMC. Since October 8, 2017, members of the Purchase District Laity Team have been contacting local church choir directors, music directors, pastors or designated contact persons to recruit choirs, groups, and/or individuals from each church to participate in the mass choir.

If you would like to sing in the mass choir, contact Dianna Colson (contact information below) or the Purchase District Office. The mass choir will be performing two (2) choral pieces at the event. The total cost of both pieces is $3.75 per person. Please register soon so district staff can make sure to order enough music.

Donations will be accepted through a love offering at Choir Fest with ALL proceeds benefiting Reelfoot Rural Ministries, located in Obion, TN - a ministry of the Memphis Conference of The United Methodist Church. Those giving to the offering are asked to make checks payable to their local church and write “Reelfoot Rural Ministries” in the memo line. Then, each local church is asked to write one check made payable to Purchase District UMC and write “Reelfoot Rural Ministries” in the memo line and bring it to Choir Fest for the offering. After Choir Fest, the district will then write one check to Reelfoot.

At the event in the Spring of 2017, a mass choir of approximately 69 voices from five (5) United Methodist church choirs along with several persons participating as individuals gathered for the 10th annual Choir Fest with proceeds totaling $4,020.00 and benefiting Reelfoot Rural Ministries.

Mark your calendars now to attend Choir Fest at 6:00 p.m. February 18 at Mayfield First UMC.

For More Information

Contact Dianna Colson, lay leader of the Purchase District UMC at (270) 527-1939 or the Purchase District Office at 270-527-8282.

Sponsored by

The Laity Team of the Purchase District of the Memphis Conference of The United Methodist Church.

Previous Events

2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012

Purchase District office announces 2017 schedule for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day

Posted November 15, 2017

THANKSGIVING

• close beginning Wednesday, Nov. 22
  
• reopen 8:00 a.m., Monday, Nov. 27
  

CHRISTMAS and NEW YEAR’S DAY

• close beginning Tuesday, Dec. 19
  
• reopen 8:00 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 2
  

NORMAL OFFICE HOURS

Monday - Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

A beautiful performance by Rust College A’Cappella Choir at the 3rd annual Laity in Action Celebration

Posted October 31, 2017

Creating Congregational Cultures of Generosity 2-day Seminar coming in 2018

Posted October 3, 2017

The Lake Institute has partnered with the United Methodist Foundation for the Memphis and Tennessee Conferences to offer a two-day seminar entitled “Creating Congregational Cultures of Generosity” to Purchase District churches. Creating Congregational Cultures of Generosity (CCCG) is an interactive seminar demonstrating how pastors and ministry leaders can unearth and energize congregational generosity by exploring the significant and necessary steps to creating lasting cultural change within a congregation.

When:

• Saturday, February 24, 2018, 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
• Saturday, March 24, 2018, 8:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
  

Where: Purchase District Campus located at 2285 Jack Treas Road, Kirksey, KY (in the Brewer’s community)

Cost: $25 per person for manual

Meals: Lunch and snacks will be provided

RSVP: Churches need to report the number of people that will be attending to the Purchase District Office at 270-527-8282 by January 31, 2018.

“If the ethics of the Christians were not in theory greatly different from the best of Stoic and Jewish teaching, in practice they were, and they were inspired and ennobled by a new motivating force, which the Christians claimed was none other than the Spirit of this gracious God active within their lives. They made the grace of God credible by a society of love and mutual care which astonished the pagans and was recognized as something entirely new. It lent persuasiveness to their claim that the New Age had dawned in Christ.” (Michael Green, Evangelism in the Early Church, 120)

Among those practices were amazing acts of generosity such as adopting pagan children into their homes, children they could little afford to feed. As it was true in the first centuries of our movement, it remains true today: the world is watching us and will still respond to the message of a church that practices what it preaches. You are invited to participate in a program that could help inspire your congregation into greater and more consistent lives of generosity.

Flyer

Click here to view or download flyer.

Rust College A’Cappella Choir to perform at 3rd annual Laity in Action Celebration

Posted September 26, 2017

About Rust College

Rust College is located in Holly Springs, MS. The college’s world famous A’Cappella Choir is one of America’s most renowned choirs. The choir performed at the 2016 Memphis Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church and has captured the attention of prestigious audiences worldwide.

Some of their noteworthy performances include:

• The 1982 and 1983 World’s Fair
  
• Two European trips as Ambassadors of Friendship
  
• Annual Tours throughout the Midwest and South
  
• Appearances as guest on several regional radio and television programs
  
• First Place in the 13th Annual American Negro Spiritual Festival (Cincinnati Music Hall)

Links

Flyer
Bulletin insert
Calendar
Event on Facebook

More Information

For more information

• about the event, contact the Purchase District Office at 270.527.8282
• about Rust College or the A’Cappella Choir, contact Rust College at 662.252.8000 ext. 4014

2017 Purchase District Choir Fest at Fulton FUMC to benefit Reelfoot Rural Ministries

Posted March 30, 2017

Come and enjoy an evening of worship through music with a district-wide Mass Choir consisting of approximately 125 voices and guest speaker Robert Craig, director of Reelfoot Rural Ministries (RRM). The event will take place at First United Methodist Church in Fulton, Kentucky on Sunday, April 23, at 6:00 p.m. The Purchase District Laity Team is pleased to announce that the mass choir of the 10th annual Choir Fest will feature Hallelujah! By and By arranged by Mary McDonald, and Alleluia, He Lives! arranged by Joel Raney.

Location

First United Methodist Church, 200 Carr Street, Fulton, KY 42041 | website

Resources

Bulletin insert | PowerPoint

For More Information

Contact:
Purchase District Lay Leader Dianna Colson | (270) 527-1939
Purchase District Office | (270) 527-8282 | PurchaseDistrict@Memphis-UMC.org

About Josh Gatlin

Josh Gatlin is starting his fourth year of service to First United Methodist Church (FUMC) in Fulton, Kentucky. Josh is a 2012 graduate of the University of Tennessee-Martin with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education. Along with serving FUMC Fulton, Josh is in his third year of teaching. He teaches at Chester County High School in Henderson, Tennessee working as the choir director and assistant band director. Josh currently lives in Jackson, Tennessee with his wife Lauren and dog Izzy.

Information for Choir Participants

The Mass Choir will practice on April 23rd at 3:00 p.m. at Fulton First UMC. Participants are to rehearse both song selections prior to April 23^rd and come to practice prepared. Individual participants may contact any of the participating church choirs to practice with them (click on church names above for contact information). Robes are optional. After practice and prior to the program, the generous members at Fulton First UMC will serve a light meal.

Previous Events

2016
2015
2014
2013
2012

April 15 is deadline to apply for $2,000 music scholarship offered by Lone Oak UMC in Paducah

Posted February 22, 2017

Congo Women Arise: Memphis Conference joins with two other United Methodist conferences to support East Congo women’s center

Posted February 8, 2017

The Memphis Conference, along with the Tennessee and California-Pacific Conferences of The United Methodist Church, are partnering with the East Congo Episcopal Area of The United Methodist Church for Congo Women Arise – an initiative to address the needs of rape survivors in a location often called the “rape capital of the world.”

Congo Women Arise will be the recipient of the 2017 Memphis Annual Conference offering, according to an announcement by Nashville Episcopal Area Bishop Bill McAlilly. The Nashville Area includes the Memphis (West Tennessee and Western Kentucky) and Tennessee (Middle Tennessee) Conferences.

To read the full article on the Memphis Conference website, click here.

Seeking Choirs, Groups, and Individuals for the 10th Annual District Choir Fest

Posted January 10, 2017

Pictured above is the Mass Choir under the direction of Jane Dyson at the 2016 Purchase District Choir Fest held on March 20 at Reidland United Methodist Church located in the Reidland Community. Photo by Penny Story.

Plans are underway for the 10th annual Choir Fest (a.k.a. Music Fest) in the Purchase District. The 2017 event is scheduled to take place on Sunday, April 23 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at First United Methodist Church (UMC) in Fulton, Kentucky, under the direction of Mr. Josh Gatlin. Mr. Gatlin currently serves as choir director at Fulton First UMC. Purchase District Lay Leader Dianna Colson reports that members of the Purchase District Laity Team will be contacting each local church choir director, music director, or designated contact person to see how many choirs, groups, and/or individuals from each church will be participating in this year’s event to assist the team in planning and ordering materials. Mrs. Colson serves as chairperson of the District Laity Team.

Donations will be accepted through a love offering at Choir Fest with ALL proceeds benefiting Reelfoot Rural Ministries, located in Obion, TN - a ministry of the Memphis Conference of The United Methodist Church. Sunday, April 9 is designated as a district-wide 'special offering' day for churches to take up an offering for the event. Those giving to the offering should make checks payable to their local church and write “Reelfoot Rural Ministries” in the memo line. Then, each local church is asked to write one check made payable to Purchase District UMC and write “Reelfoot Rural Ministries” in the memo line and bring it to Choir Fest for the offering. After Choir Fest, the district will then write one check to Reelfoot.

At the 2016 event, a mass choir of approximately 120 voices from six (6) United Methodist churches gathered for the district's 9th annnual Choir Fest with proceeds totaling $3,485.00 and benefiting Reelfoot Rural Ministries.

Mark your calendars now to attend Choir Fest on April 23rd at Fulton First UMC.

More Information

Contact Dianna Colson, District Lay Leader, at (270) 527-1939.

Previous Events

2016
2015
2014
2013
2012

Mason’s Chapel UMC Sends Team to Glean with the Society of St. Andrews

Posted January 3, 2017

By Rev. April Arnold, Pastor

There are some sights and sounds that trigger familiar longings. With autumn comes the changing of colors and leaves falling to the ground. The air is filled with the sights and sounds of harvest. The word “harvest” itself seems to suggest “plenty” or “abundance.” We at Mason’s Chapel United Methodist Church (UMC) are growing into a new appreciation for the concepts of “fullness” and “lack.”

Fifteen (15) members from Mason’s Chapel UMC took a break from our everyday “norms” to submerge ourselves in a Society of St. Andrews “Harvest of Hope” Mission Retreat in Dahlonega, GA Friday-Sunday, November 4-6, 2016. This idea first began with Advent Devotional books ordered for members of the Hazel-Mason’s Chapel Charge in 2015. From this came donations given to the Society of St. Andrew and more information about their programs; including an eye opening DVD concerning waste in America and the various, and sometimes surprising, causes.

The weekend was centered on Matthew 25:31-46: “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on the throne of his glory. All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and he will put the sheep at his right hand and the goats at the left. Then the king will say to those at his right hand, ‘Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?’ And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.’ Then he will say to those at his left hand, ‘You that are accursed, depart from me into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels; for I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not give me clothing, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ Then they also will answer, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not take care of you?’ Then he will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’ And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

Highlights of the weekend were Worship together, fellowship with two other United Methodist congregations from Alabama and Georgia, a 2-night stay at Camp Glisson which is the North Georgia Conference’s version of our Lakeshore UMA in the Memphis Conference, gleaning, tour of a Food Bank (did you know there is a difference between a food pantry and a food bank?), and a hunger awareness meal. It’s impossible to summarize how meaningful these activities and this time together have been for our congregation. Not only are we experiencing a new unity, we have come back changed and more aware of the realities of hunger not only in America, but in our community.

We have also come back with a new resolve and sensitivity to those around us. Not only can we make a difference, but our Shepherd’s voice is calling us to follow Him and to feed His sheep. The good news is: we are finding that we don’t have to re-invent the wheel. Rather, we can take steps beyond things we are already doing and plug into programs already in place.

During the season of Advent Hazel and Mason’s Chapel UMC’s took the Advent challenge. We often have Advent Calendars to count down the days until Christmas in which we might receive a candy cane or piece of chocolate. This year we collected a non-perishable food item for each day that we count down to Christmas. So what about you? The season of Lent begins with Ash Wednesday on March 1, this year. What if as a part of our “giving something up” or “giving ourselves to”, we collect non-perishable food items for the 40 days of Lent? Maybe this effort could be joined with or might spark a renewed commitment to our Lenten World Hunger Offering?

What if; we take those items to our local food pantry to be donated to those who are food insecure? What if; we take these items to a family, someone elderly, or someone alone in our community as a bridge to loving them and welcoming them into our lives and our churches? What if? What if we “on purpose” did the things that God is calling us to do? I pray you will join with us as we strive to be disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.

For more information about our trip simply contact Rev. April Arnold aprilarnold21@gmail.com. Our mission team would be happy to come share this trip you’re your congregation or small group. Check out Mason’s Chapel UMC’s Facebook page for pictures of our trip. Check out the Society of St. Andrews website for more information about their gleaning programs, retreats, Christmas Cards, and free Advent or Lenten Devotionals at www.endhunger.org.

GRACE Home for Children in South Sudan

Posted December 7, 2016

Submitted by Jeannine Cauthen, Mason’s Chapel United Methodist Church, Hazel, Ky.

GRACE Home for Children was founded in 2013 as a response to the overwhelming number of orphaned, abandoned, and vulnerable children resulting from war and lack of medical services in the new nation of South Sudan. That year, the first home was completed by the Holston Conference of the United Methodist Church in the village of Pukuka, and in 2015, a second home was built in the village of Kenyi through the efforts of people in the Memphis Conference of the United Methodist Church in cooperation with Holston. It has been a blessing to be a part of this ministry.

My involvement began in 2012 when I made my first trip to South Sudan with a VIM team from the Memphis Conference led by Rev. Michael Blake and Beth Brown. Rev. Richard Dowdy from our district was also on the trip. While there, we spent a good bit of our time in the village of Kenyi where we were installing a concrete floor in the United Methodist Church there. There were children everywhere!! In fact, more than 200 who were orphaned or vulnerable. Most of these children were living in the homes of extended family, but there were about a dozen children living behind the church in some abandoned huts. These huts had huge holes in their thatch roofs, and the children were sleeping on a dirty old blue tarp on the dirt floor. The church was trying to take care of them best they could, by at least providing some food. These children just stole my heart.

Project Christmas House 2016

Posted November 17, 2016

For More Information

If you would like to help this family out for Christmas by volunteering to go on the mission trip or to make a donation contact:
Bill Carr (270) 556-5221 | Brad Colson (270) 703-0610

Mission projects shared at 2016 Laity in Action Celebration

Posted October 26, 2016

Four Calloway County Churches Join Together for Successful VBS

Posted July 27, 2016

Submitted by Rev. April Arnold
Hazel-Mason's Chapel UMCs

Pictures

Pictures can be found on each church’s Facebook page/group by clicking a link below or searching the church's name on Facebook.

• Hazel United Methodist Church
• Lynn Grove United Methodist Church
• Masons Chapel United Methodist Church
• South Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church

Marshall County Cluster Participates in 2016 World Day of Prayer

Posted March 23, 2016

Submitted by Rev. Kim Morrison, District Resource Leader

South Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church Reading Program

Posted March 8, 2016

Submitted by Nancy Phillips, South Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church, Calloway County, Ky.

South Pleasant Grove UMC delivers 48 health kits to district office for UMCOR

Posted March 2, 2016

By Valerie Clark, South Pleasant Grove UMC, Calloway County, Ky.

2016 Purchase District Choir Fest at Reidland UMC to benefit Reelfoot Rural Ministries

Posted February 11, 2016

Updated Mar. 17, 2016

Come out to enjoy an evening of worship through music with a Mass Choir consisting of approximately 130 voices at Reidland United Methodist Church in Reidland (Paducah), Kentucky on Sunday, March 20 at 6:00 p.m. The Purchase District of United Methodist Church is pleased to announce the 9th Annual Choir Fest (formerly Paducah District ‘Music Fest’), featuring 10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord), arranged by Lloyd Larson, and For the Beauty of the Earth, arranged by John Rutter. A variety of choral arrangements will be performed by six (6) choirs and praise teams from Calvert City UMC, Concord UMC, Fulton First UMC, Lone Oak UMC, Reidland UMC, and Trinity UMC (McCracken) as well as a combined Mass Choir under the direction of Jane Dyson of Reidland, Ky. Also performing with the Mass Choir will be individuals from Clinton First UMC, Lynn Grove UMC, Mason’s Chapel UMC, Massac UMC, Owens Chapel UMC, Pryorsburg UMC, South Pleasant Grove UMC, and Spence Chapel UMC.

Donations will be accepted through a love offering, with ALL proceeds benefiting the many ministries of Reelfoot Rural Ministries (RRM), located in Obion, Tenn. Robert Craig, director of RRM, will be the guest speaker. Refreshments will follow the performance. All are invited!

Sponsored by the District Laity Team of the Purchase District of the UMC.

Location

Reidland United Methodist Church is located at 5515 Reidland Road, Paducah, KY 42003

Resources

Bulletin inserts

For More Information

Contact the Purchase District office at 270.527.8282 or PurchaseDistrict@Memphis-UMC.org.

Information for Participants

The Mass Choir will practice on March 20th at 3:30 p.m. at Reidland UMC. Participants are to rehearse both song selections before March 20th and come to practice prepared. Individual participants can contact any of the participating church choirs to practice with them (click on church names above for contact information). After practice, the generous members at Reidland UMC will serve refreshments before the program begins at 6:00 p.m.

Leaders and youth of South Pleasant Grove UMC attend “Warmth in Winter” event

Posted February 10, 2016

By Roshella Jackson, South Pleasant Grove UMC, Hazel, KY

Members at Hazel UMC are reaching out through “Reaching Out Mail Ministry”

Posted February 2, 2016

Submitted by April Arnold, pastor
Hazel and Mason's Chapel United Methodist Churches

Hazel United Methodist Church has begun a new “Reaching Out Mail Ministry”. The ministry began with a simple Christmas visit to a shut-in last year to a lady who longed to receive mail. We have organized and this lady now receives a piece of mail every day that the Postal service runs. From this, we are dreaming big and are “reaching out” to others in the community and beyond, from inmates, to those of little or no faith, to the faithful who can no longer join a congregation on Sunday mornings. We are asking YOU for names and addresses of people who might be blessed by this ministry.

For More Information

For more information or other ways you can help contact Travis Burris by email at tburris@murraystate.edu.

Bishop McAlilly Joined Mason’s Chapel Consecration After Devastating Fire

Posted January 27, 2016

‘Opening Umbrellas’ to Intercept Trafficking (Murray UMW)

Posted January 25, 2016

Submitted by Nancy Doty
Communications Coordinator, Murray UMW

For More Information

Visit the UMW website at http://www.unitedmethodistwomen.org/intercept.

Local UMM Supports Cleaning Bucket Project

Posted January 8, 2016

By George James
South Pleasant Grove United Methodist Church; Hazel, KY

Our Cleaning Bucket Project

Photos: courtesy George James
(Click on arrows to view more photos.)

River Counties Cluster and Heartfelt Connection Unite for Epiphany

Posted January 7, 2016

Submitted by Rev. Jamie Lee, pastor of Grace United Methodist Church, Ballard County, KY

The River Counties Cluster of United Methodist Churches met Sunday, January 3, 2016 for a joint Epiphany service in the with the people of Heartfelt Connection, an outreach ministry of Clinton First United Methodist Church located at the old feed store in Clinton, Ky. There were 85 in attendance and the Riverheart band led us in worship.

Members of the cluster churches provided the meal for the group. Several of the youth helped with a teaching moment about the 12 Days of Christmas and we closed the evening around the bonfire with an Epiphany candlelight service, celebrating the night when God broke into the darkness. Rev. Stan Waldon, pastor of Clinton First UMC, commissioned the group to go out and be the light of Christ to a hurting world.

(The River Counties Cluster is consists of United Methodist Churches in Ballard, Carlisle, Fulton, and Hickman Counties in western Kentucky.)

Seeking Choirs, Groups, and Individuals for the 9th Annual District-wide Choir Fest

Posted January 6, 2016

Plans are underway for the 9th annual Choir Fest (a.k.a. Music Fest) in the Purchase District. The 2016 event is scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 20 at Reidland United Methodist Church in Reidland (Paducah), Ky., under the direction of Ms. Jane Dyson. Ms. Dyson currently serves as choir director at Calvert City United Methodist Church in Calvert City, Ky. Purchase District Lay Leader Dianna Colson reports that members of the Purchase District Laity Team will be contacting each local church choir director, music director, or designated contact person to see how many choirs, groups, and/or individuals from each church will be participating in this year’s event, to assist the team in planning and ordering materials. Mrs. Colson serves as chairperson of the District Laity Team.

Donations will be accepted through a love offering with ALL proceeds benefiting Reelfoot Rural Ministries, located in Obion, TN - a ministry of the Memphis Conference of The United Methodist Church.

At the 2015 event, a mass choir of 120 voices from eight (8) United Methodist churches gathered for the district's 8th annual “Music Fest” with proceeds totalling $4,500.00 and benefiting Reelfoot Rural Ministries.

Mark your calendars now to attend Choir Fest on March 20th at Reidland UMC.

More Information

Contact Dianna Colson, District Lay Leader, at (270) 527-1939.

Previous Events

2015
2014
2013
2012

Kairos Prision Ministry Informational Meeting

Posted January 5, 2016

The Slogan of Kairos

Changing Hearts, Transforming Lives, Impacting the World is the essence of what Kairos does.

For More Information

Visit the Kairos Prison Ministry website at www.kairosprisonministry.org.

Location

Calvert City United Methodist Church, 571 Oak Park Boulevard, Calvert City, Kentucky 42029

Lectionary Study Group

Posted December 16, 2015

More Information

Contact District Resource LeaderRev. Kim Morrison. | Contact details

Location

Purchase District Office, 2285 Jack Treas Road, Kirksey, KY 42054

Project Christmas House 2015

Posted October 20, 2015

More Information

If you would like to help this family out for Christmas by volunteering to go on the mission trip or to make a donation contact Bill Carr. (270) 556-5221 | email

Resources

Flyer | Bulletin inserts

One-Time Fund Raiser for Lakeshore Capital Building Fund

Posted October 15, 2015

Submitted by Joe Burkead

The Purchase District One-Time “Make a Difference” Fund Raiser for the Lakeshore Building Campaign is drawing to a close. October 31 has been set as the final date to host an event. Groups of United Methodist Men, as well as United Methodist Youth Fellowship (UMYF) groups and others, have made this campaign a terrific success!

To date, 15 churches have participated in seven separate fund raisers, generating a total of $10,261.46 for Lakeshore United Methodist Assembly (LUMA).

The most recent group to add to the total was Lone Oak United Methodist. On September 23, Terri Bozeman and her group children, ranging in age from 6 –11, assisted by the Lone Oak United Methodist Women (UMW), raised over $800 for Lakeshore by hosting a spaghetti dinner at the church. This was one of our more successful events, and was the event that raised the grand total above the $10,000 mark! Thanks and congratulations to Terri and her gang for an outstanding effort!

If there are any groups who plan to host a “last minute” event in October, we may yet add to the above total. Contact Joe Burkhead with any information or questions.

Brother Gary Lawson, Lakeshore Director, and the rest of the staff and Board of Directors at LUMA, pass along their most sincere thanks for the efforts of those in the Purchase District who helped make this campaign a success.

To contact Joe Burkhead, call the Purchase District Office at 270-527-282.

One-Time “Make a Difference” Fund Raiser for Lakeshore Capital Building Fund

Posted September 3, 2015

For additional information

Joe Burkhead - (270) 210-7075, rjburkhead@att.net
Purchase District Office - (270) 527-8282, purchasedistrict@memphis-umc.org

Resources

Flyer for the Sept. 22 event

Mission Field Teaching

Posted June 14, 2015

Video of Gil Rendle

More from the UMC Memphis Youtube Channel

https://www.youtube.com/user/UMCMemphis

Looking for Job Openings?

Posted June 7, 2015

Keep Up With United Methodist News

Posted June 7, 2015

Lakeshore Capital Building Fund

Posted June 7, 2015

Methodist Men of Western Kentucky

For More Information

• Purchase District Office - (270) 527-8282 purchasedistrict@memphis-umc.org

• Joe Burkhead - (270) 210-7075 rjburkhead@att.net