Would you like to know more about our church, FUMC of Waynesville?  Have you been joining us for worship and events, but would like to have detailed conversations about the church and how/where to plug in?  Are you considering membership, and would like to have dedicated time to discuss the details?  Please join Pastor Becky for 5 sessions: Introductions, History, Methodism, Spiritual Gifts and Talents, and Mission and Ministries of the church.  We will meet masked, in person at the church, and will have a remote option on zoom - simultaneously.  We look forward to getting to know you!

In this six-week study we will enter into conversation with the authors about the Biblical and Christian understanding of reparations.  We will work through the history of this conversation in the church and in society as we seek to find a firmer basis for our own work of repair today. Both authors are pastors with advanced degrees in theology, well-grounded in the local work of reparations. In their words: “We see it as our responsibility to acknowledge the truth of our collective history and our own culpability in it, to surface ethical resources in the Christian tradition that can help us engage the consequences of this history, and to call others in the church to take up the work of reparations in their own communities.” Reparations, p. 185.The study is led by Bill Everett, Emeritus Professor of Christian Social Ethics and long-time member of FUMC. For more about Bill visit his website at www.WilliamEverett.com.The book is available from on-line booksellers and through Blue Ridge Books in Hazelwood. It is also available on Kindle. Series Outline: February 16: Introduction to the Study. Read: Introduction and chapter 1: The Call to See February 23: What is White Supremacy? Read chapters 2 and 3. March 9: “Owning” our Past and Present. Read chapter 4. March 16: Restitution: Read chapter 5  March 23: Restoration: Read chapter 6. March 30: Repair and Repentance. Read chapter 7.

Have you been looking for a meaningful and deeply spiritual small group experience? Have you felt God nudging you to find an opportunity to grow deeper in your faith? Consider joining our next training for Journey Group leaders. Journey Groups are small groups of 8-10 people who are committed to regularly meet together for one hour to support one another and grow deeper in faith together. These groups are soul -tending and involve a deep level of trust of one another. We utilize the 18th century Wesley method for developing small groups historically called Class Meetings. We will read the book The Class Meeting by Kevin Watson and will practice how to lead a journey group together in our safe space. Consider diving deeper into your faith by joining this group. Free books!