Thanks to all the in-person volunteers, and those that made donations for this past Saturday’s Country Store. We were able to serve 84 clients and give out 108 backpacks for the school age children and 96 sack lunches. It is hard to believe, but with this store we finished our eleventh year of doing this ministry at the church. Thank you to all that…

Another summer break is quickly coming to an end for our students, teachers, and school staff.  School starts August 10, and I know many people are preparing for the new school year this week. I pray for a school year exceptionally free of violence, illness, and tragedy. May God’s Grace sustain our students and all school personnel. Many volunteer hands made for quick…

Earlier this summer, we had a 9am worship service with a focus upon traditional hymns from the United Methodist Hymnal. Several folks mentioned that they would welcome such a service from time to time. So, our plan at Grace is to offer this type of worship every fifth Sunday. That means that this coming Sunday, July 31, at the 9am service, we will sing several of the old…

I remain on track in reading through the Bible in a year. I just finished Proverbs and am beginning Ecclesiastes. While my life is currently as busy as it has ever been, my time in scripture is truly the best thing I do for my sanity each day. I use The Message Devotional Bible, which includes Eugene Peterson’s very insightful reflections on…

What an exciting week we will have as we host a Family with Family Promise for the first time in a while. I am so grateful for all who volunteer to help and make our families feel special and welcome. This is the gift of hospitality. Making sure all those who come into your life, no matter how long or short a time…

If you have helped with the Family Promise ministry in the past, then you know that the experience is wonderful for everyone involved. During the week of July 17-24, Grace will be hosting families on our campus. This is the first week we have hosted on campus since the pandemic put everything on hold. If you are available during the July 17-24 week to greet…

One of my favorite true statements is that “the local church is the hope of the world.” This statement reminds me that even with all of our challenges, our local churches offer people from all walks of life an opportunity to experience the power of God’s transforming love. This week at Grace has been a great example of this reality. 130 children…

The VBS week is almost here! On Monday, June 27, the Grace campus will have approximately 120 children here for a week of fun and spiritual growth. If you have already committed to volunteer your time, thank you! If you are able to help on one or more of the days, it’s not to late to notify Ms. Niki.  This Sunday, June 26,…

Summer officially begins on Tuesday, June 21, but it feels like summer already on Merritt Island. I understand that a number of folks have been busy preparing for our upcoming VBS week, scheduled for June 27-July 1. There are more than 100 children registered, so we certainly appreciate our volunteers! Special prayers for Ms. Niki as she leads the team in preparation.  Please remember…

I am writing this Gracevine early, during Memorial Day weekend, because Colleen and I will be on a Florida Conference UMC-sponsored trip to England from May 30-June 8. Called the Wesley Fellowship study, this trip was made possible by a generous endowment given by Bernie and LaVonn Simpkins. The goal is to help pastors become more knowledgeable about the life and faith…