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Hopewell UMC begins new ministry to empower a new generation

Written: 3/9/2010

Submitted by Debbie Williams, member of Hopewell UMC

Ever wonder why God puts you in the places He does?

During a break at the 2008 North Alabama Annual Conference two members of Hopewell UMC found themselves sharing a bench in the lobby with two lay members from Hanceville UMC. That brief conversation, a time of prayerful waiting, the stirring of the Holy Spirit, and the obedience of our laity to the call of God have resulted in a new children's ministry at Hopewell UMC in Valley, Alabama.

On January 8, 2010, Hopewell began the Journey Children's Ministry, a faith based discipleship program for children ages 2 through sixth grade. The Journey program incorporates discipleship training, mission projects, fun and rewards that impact children, families, churches and communities.

The vision for Journey is that our children will come to know, love and have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. For our children to become so permanently grounded in and by God’s Word that it guides their decision making process throughout their lifetime. Our prayer for this ministry is that children will develop a hunger and thirst for God’s Word and that after being discipled in Journey they will choose to live a “Christ-Centered Life.”

The Hopewell Journey Ministry meets each Sunday morning during the Sunday School hour and also on Wednesday nights. Journey consists of Journey Walk-discipleship training, Journey Talk- missions, and Journey Run-fellowship and games.

There is an excitement with our children, an increased attendance, and evidence of spiritual growth. Approximately 30 children and youth are involved in this ministry.
After the director of a local charity and food bank, the Christian Service Center, spoke to our children during their mission time, they then began a food drive for local missions. Our children were encouraged to earn their food contributions by helping out at home. A total of 176 food items were gathered to help in restocking the Christian Service Center's Food Bank. Work is now beginning on a global mission project...Emergency kits for UMCOR.

Journey Director Jennifer Williams; Journey Walk Teachers Beth Davis, Teresa Davis, Randall McClellan, and Tricia Newton; Journey Run leader Ben Williams; and Journey Talk leader Susan Walters are dedicated to helping the children of our church and community grow in the Lord.

Great things are happening at Hopewell United Methodist Church as we follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.