September 2026 A Way Through: Walking with God Through the Wilderness September has always felt like a month of transition to me. Summer begins to loosen its grip, school is back in session, routines return, and we start looking toward fall. There’s a sense that we’re moving from one season into another. That makes September […]... Read More

August 2026 Newsletter Rector First United Methodist Church Following Jesus Dear Friends, As I write this, I have been with you for just over a month, and I continue to be grateful for the warm welcome you have shown me. From the wonderful luncheon, to the smiles, conversations, and words of encouragement each week, you […]... Read More

Dear Church Family, As I reflect on my first few weeks at Rector First United Methodist Church, my heart is filled with gratitude. Thank you for the incredible welcome you have extended to me. From the very first Sunday, I have been surrounded by kindness, encouragement, and genuine hospitality. Whether through warm handshakes, thoughtful cards, […]... Read More

Dear Rector First United Methodist Church Family, Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! My name is Rev. Candace Barron, and I am honored and excited to be appointed as your new pastor, effective July 1, 2026. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to join you […]... Read More

Dear Church Family, As I sit down to write this newsletter, I realize this will be my final monthly newsletter as your pastor. That is not an easy sentence to write. Over these past two years together, you have welcomed me into your lives, your homes, your celebrations, and your sorrows. We have worshiped together, […]... Read More

As we step into the month of May, we find ourselves standing in a season of transition, both in the life of the church and in the rhythm of the Christian year. Easter is still fresh in our hearts, and yet we are already being drawn toward Pentecost, toward that moment when the Spirit breathes […]... Read More

April 2026 Newsletter. April is one of the most meaningful months in the life of the church. It is a season when we move from the shadows of the cross into the joy of resurrection. Throughout this month we will gather to remember Christ’s sacrifice, celebrate the victory of Easter, and continue growing together as […]... Read More

Dear Church Family, March invites us into the holy season of Lent, a time when the Church slows its pace and turns its attention toward spiritual renewal. While signs of spring begin to appear around us, Lent calls us inward, inviting us to reflect, pray, and grow deeper in our relationship with Christ. Lent is […]... Read More

“ ‘Tis a Gift to Be Simple‘Tis a Gift to Be Free…” These 10 simple changes will ultimatelyfree up your life and help save Earth.This month’s Tips come from a teacherof environmental science classesfor 13 years.Now retired, she continues to share tips,for the love of God. February 2026 Heating our water consumes much energy. Consider these […]... Read More

Church Family, February often gets labeled as the shortest month of the year, but in the life of the church, it is anything but small. It is a month that invites us to slow down, pay attention, and remember what truly matters. As we move through February together, we continue living into the season after […]... Read More