#30DAYSOFTHANKS

Want to share your story for #30daysofthanks? We would love to hear it!
Send a short write up with a picture or a brief video to epreaves@valdostafirstumc.org to have your note of thanksgiving shared one day this month.

November 1, 2020

Greetings Everyone, this is Anthony McPhail (Senior Pastor) here to kick off #30daysofthanks! Every day this month we are going to post something from someone in our church family about why they are thankful to be a part of Valdosta FUMC. I volunteered to go first!

As a family we have so many reasons to be thankful that we are a part of Valdosta FUMC, but the word that comes to mind the most is also the core value we focused on this morning: community. When we moved to Valdosta over the summer, we were new kids on the block in a town where everyone knows everyone and there happened to be a pandemic going on that limited social interaction. None of that has seemed to matter, as so many people from the church have gone out of their way to make us feel at home. This is a church that loves to laugh together, eat together, and make memories together.

We cannot say thank you enough to God for placing us in such a loving community, and to each of you for making us feel at home. We look forward to continuing to lay down roots in this South Georgia community, and growing in love and grace together. -Anthony McPhail #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 2, 2020

What I love about being part of Valdosta FUMC is that I don’t feel like just a number. From being mentored one-on-one by the pastor years ago, to attending the Discipleship study with my wife, to being plugged-in to the Kairos prison ministry and Walk to Emmaus, to being part of an active Sunday School class — I feel like our Church cares about me and my family, and that, in turn, encourages me to get involved with the service, mission, and fellowship opportunities our Church offers. I thank God for FUMC Valdosta! -Hansell Watt #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 3, 2020

I grew up in Valdosta FUMC siting on my “grandmother Zipperer’s pew…” as we Zipperer children called it… and we’re still sitting there after all these years. (The pew extends out a little towards the wall on the right side of the sanctuary.)
Then, and now, I have been loved, mentored and taught about Jesus and his love. My parents, grandmother and many amazing people have always been my “cloud of witnesses” at FUMC and I give thanks for being a part of this fellowship of love. The circle of love was completed when Allan and I were married in our beautify sanctuary fifty-one (51) years ago and continues to grow stronger every day. -Nell Ricketts #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 4, 2020

When I think about Valdosta FUMC, I am thankful for its rich history and deep roots that were planted long ago and, as a result, have nurtured me—as a child who grew up here—and also my husband and our children.

Our members are loyal to our church and to each other. The friendships made in my Sunday School class are much more than that—they are like family. These are just a few of the many reasons I am so thankful for my church!
-Leigh Jordan #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 5, 2020

We are thankful for Valdosta FUMC in more ways than we can say in one post. We started visiting FUMC after a friend suggested the Mother’s Morning Out program for our then 1 year old son. We LOVED everyone who cared for him and joined the church. The altar is a place I’m most thankful for. It’s the place both our children have been baptized, where both children graduated preschool, where Steve & I renewed our wedding vows and both children stood next to us as “best man and maid of honor”, where our oldest recently kneeled for confirmation, where Steve as an usher has stood with the offering plate, where I’ve stood to share about our Compassion International child & pray for our congregation, and where pastors have prayed healing prayers over my health- the altar my tears have stained. The altar is special to our family & so are the people who make up our church.
-Betsy Burch #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 6, 2020

Why the Brad Tarpleys are thankful for Valdosta First United Methodist...
We are thankful for the many things VFUMC means to us. Among the worship and the fellowship, we have take pride in the history of our church and the many traditions. We are also so grateful for the relationships and memories that will last a lifetime. While teaching in The Rock and Children’s Church, we love encouraging the children and the legacy they will leave for Valdosta First. But most of all, we are thankful for Wednesday Church Night Suppers. -The 'Brad' Tarpleys #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 7, 2020

Thankful means the 3 F's to us-family, friends, and First United Methodist Church. We are so blessed with a loving family and friends, and First United Methodist has been an important part of our lives. Ben, having been raised in our church and a member all his life, and me joining in the 1970's. Also , our daughters and grandson were raised in our church.

We have been members of the Becky Anthony Class for over 40 years and we love our Sunday school class and its members. Our class looks after and cares about one another in sickness and in health.

We feel blessed to be a part of First United Methodist and hope to remain active members of the church and Sunday school class for many more years to come. -Ben and Nisey Wetherington #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 8, 2020

I am so thankful to have the opportunity to watch my boys grow up in the same church their father did. One of my favorite things has been creating family traditions together, such as the Christmas Eve candlelight service. Our prayer is that our children grow up knowing the church and it's congregation as their home, a place to feel safe, a place to grow in their faith, and a place to build the foundation of their lifelong relationship with the Lord. -Maggie Miller

I am thankful for the many meaningful memories from growing up through FUMC. Top of mind are all the incredible relationships the church fostered. What I find myself most thankful for today is the incredible opportunity we have as a congregation to pay tribute to the legacy of FUMC, and the saints before us, by developing a culture that attracts additional members, spurs new, and nurtures existing relationships among membership.
-Jonathan Miller #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 9, 2020

Mama always said, "you get out what you put in." Well this is true, but when it comes to my church family, God just seems to have multiplied the blessings. We've been a part of FUMC ever since we moved back in 03. My husband's family for a few generations prior. It is home. Is it a place of encouragement, support, and very real Prayer. This church has nurtured our three sons since birth. There is just so much love. It hasn't always been pretty or easy. Sometimes it's been hard. But it has always been right for us. I too have cried buckets on that beautiful altar. I've said goodbye to grandmothers and beloved friends at funerals. But I've also witnessed glorious weddings, baptisms, and confirmations. This is a church that seeks the will of God. It's been a beautiful journey to be on.
-Rebecca Moseley #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 10, 2020

Becoming a member in the late 70's, my memories are so filled with gratitude. My children were 10 or eleven years old and have such wonderful memories of Brother Billy Keys. He had such an influence on both Eldridge and Mark Closson, I can never say thank you enough. It was during their teen years of attending the youth group and church that continues this day in their growth in the Christian faith. What a beautiful thing to watch your children grow in their love of Jesus. Today they have their own families and continue with their love of the church in their own community. As for me, I was a member of the Sarah Vallotton Sunday School Class. We became active in the foundation of the ministry of the first Van that the Church owned. There were four of us that drove the bus picking up the older members for Sunday evening services, taking turns each Sunday. Again, I was able to have our children be a part of that ministry by escorting the ladies up on the van and after church walking them to their home assuring that they were safely in their homes. What a beautiful opportunity to teach the true meaning of ministry by actually doing. It also was in the Sarah Vallotton Sunday School Class that again the teaching of the the Sunday lessons was shared. Such people as Dr. Raymond Cook and Dr. Tom Gandy are just a few of those leading the lessons. I was truly mentored by the best of Christian believers and became a teacher myself. Sarah was such a fine southern lady with a faith in her Lord that would never be shaken. Others that I remember in the class were the Powells, Trudy Menza, Jan Carter, the Fishers and Sally and Doug Frank. Most of those who where members of the Sarah Vallotton Sunday Class may be gone, but their legacy continues on. Each of the members of that class had always been very supportive of me during Life challenges.

Now updating, Ray and I were married in the Chapel (Dr. Moseley) and now live outside of Hahira. We have visited churches a bit closer to us; however, we just have not been able to leave this beautiful church. Our involvement due to distance may be more limited, but our love for the church and the people has grown over the years. We truly feel the presence of our Lord each Sunday as we worship through the word and music. Thank you to all who add to this wonderful fellowship of believers. -Susan and Ray Ring #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 11, 2020

Why am I thankful for Valdosta FUMC? We could be here all day as I tell you all the reasons why I am thankful for this church family. I came to this church in 2013, burnt out on what I thought Christianity was. I was coming out of a very tough time in my life and a friend took a chance on inviting my daughter and I to a movie night in the fellowship hall. I had no idea that from one little invite, so much would happen to impact the life of my family and I.

Fast forward a year and Alexis and I joined Valdosta FUMC because we could feel the Lord’s presence and could see the growing impact that this fellowship of believers was having. Engaging in a small group and volunteering as an usher helped me find the connection that had been missing for such a long time. A year after that, Emily Powell asked me if I would consider volunteering as a chaperone for the DNOW weekend and I said ok sure. From there that turned into being a middle school youth volunteer and a friendship with Emily that really blossomed to a marriage with a woman of God who is such a blessing.

We’ve seen our daughter baptized in the prayer garden, worked hurricane shelters and soup kitchens, led mission trips and put on youth auctions. We’ve made friendships with wonderful people who are such a blessing. People who have prayed for us and over us, even if it was Saturday night and they’d just got finished with yard work! In this place, I found a church home that I love, all because one person took time to invite an unchurched guy because they cared. All this because the people at Valdosta FUMC showed love, grace, and acceptance where it was needed.
-Chris Reaves #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 12, 2020

The Fred Anderson family is thankful for Valdosta First United Methodist Church for giving our family roots and wings. Fred and I met while students at Valdosta State College (now University). After marriage and establishing our home, we joined FUMC and started our family. Fred had a career in real estate and I was a teacher. We were blessed with three fine sons (Jeff, Mixson and Justin) who have enriched our lives immensely. They learned Christian principles and values by studying the Holy Bible, the red letter words of Jesus and having many experiences, ministers, friends and
mentors.

Fred and I have enjoyed the love and fellowship of the Becky Anthony Sunday School Class for about 50 years. The chancel choir has always been a joy to me. Praising God with singing shows our love, gratitude and understanding of God and his son Jesus Christ. Memories made in the sanctuary include baby dedications, weddings, baptisms, funerals and many special events including our favorite, The Candlelight Christmas Eve service.

Our family will forever be grateful for the Christian nurture and FUMC will continue to be an important part of our family. Thank you and to God be the Glory. -Emily Anderson #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 13, 2020

Valdosta FUMC gives me many reasons to be thankful. I’m particularly thankful for the beautiful music ministry we have. Kenji does a wonderful job adding meaning to each song, with a mix of cherished hymns and contemporary music that both stir the soul. The Christmas hymns at our wedding and the sweet songs at our son’s baptism are just a few of the music memories I hold dear to my heart. I look forward to a lifetime of worship with my congregational family at Valdosta FUMC.
-Annabelle Henry #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 14, 2020

I am thankful that my family gets to be a part of the same church body as I have been all my life. Between weddings, funerals, confirmations, and baptisms, Valdosta FUMC has been a central place in my family’s life. I am especially thankful for my Sunday School class and The Rock for keeping my family connected and growing in our faith. I would also like to say a special thanks to the FUMC staff. Serving as Chair of the Staff Parrish Relations Committee over the last two years I have seen first hand the extraordinary efforts by all. The year 2020 has had its challenges, but our church leadership has tackled each one of them. I am so excited for the future of Valdosta FUMC. -Lee Tarpley #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 15, 2020

The Gilpatricks joined FUMC in Summer, 1986. Jim Trice was senior pastor. We were in the chancel choir before we joined in the middle of June. Mark's mother passed away that October. Our Ralph Brandon SS Class members helped with his expenses to fly back home for her funeral. That class and our current class, New Covenant, have witnessed love and faith in Christ to our family. Todd and Kristin were nurtured by Pam and Chris Goff in their teens.

Our choir directors have encouraged us, as have all the senior and associate pastors. Diane Shedd has a special place in our hearts. I think of all the saints who have gone on before us: Tom Gandy, Ralph Brandon, Don Pitts, Amorette Campbell, Jackie Harris, Jack Rudolph, and others as well as the living example: Tad Moseley, Emily Anderson, Kyle McQuity, and others. FUMC is one of the fortresses of faith of downtown Valdosta. -Mark and Brenda Gilpatrick #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 16, 2020

-Wendy Hart #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 17, 2020

My family moved to Valdosta in 1963. This was difficult for me because Waycross had always been my home. I had been with the same group of friends at church and school since we were probably four years old. After a tearful beginning, I began to meet the kindest people at First United Methodist Church and Valdosta High School who continue to be friends today. My late husband, Jerry, and I attended First United Methodist Church when we were in high school and college. Later we were married by Dr. Jason Shirah. We were blessed with three children-Bryan (angel in Heaven), Chad (He and his family attend church in Moultrie), and Georgianna.

I am thankful for the ministers, Sunday School teachers, and peers who taught them about the love of Jesus. Our family is thankful for the beautiful memories we have of baptisms, weddings, and special programs. We will never forget Botie Chitty's musical programs. I am thankful for the special friends I have made through Circle, Bible Study, the Altar Guild, and teaching the Four Year Olds Sunday School Class with Georgianna. We are thankful to be members of a loving, caring, giving church. Our daily prayer for First United Methodist Church is Ephesians 1:16- I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.
-Kaye Meadows and Georgianna Meadows
#30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 19, 2020

We are so thankful for First United Methodist Church of Valdosta. Our FUMC experience began over 40 years ago. For us, it was a compromise. Ben grew up at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and I as a Baptist. Ben loves to say he was a Christian but is now a Methodist. Yes, First Methodists we are proud to be. We are so thankful that the Lord led us here. Our children and grandchildren grew up here and learned so much from dedicated and selfless leaders and teachers.

The Becky Anthony Sunday School class and its members are at the core of our religious experiences. Our class supports each other with love, prayers, and participation. Our charitable/mission auction has helped so many in our community and beyond. Wednesday Church Night Supper and Bible studies, as well as dedicated ministers and leaders, have enhanced our spiritual journey.

Our blessings are overflowing here at our church. We are extremely grateful for Valdosta First United Methodist Church. Thanks be to God. -Jane and Ben Stanaland #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 20, 2020

O God, You are my God.
So I have looked for You in the sanctuary,
To see Your power and Your glory.
Psalm 63:1-2 (NKJV)

My family came to Valdosta FUMC in the fall of 1999. Weary with grief over the loss of my daddy, the traditional worship in the sanctuary made for a smoothing balm over my quiet yet ever so raw emotions. Especially during the Thanksgiving, Advent and Christmas Eve Services. With time and megadoses of God’s word, I recovered from my grief. Yet the sanctuary continues to be such a special place to me. A safe place. A place so holy that I truly know that God is my God.

Whether sitting in the congregation or watching from the choir loft as all come forward to share in Holy Communion, I feel as though I see the hands of Jesus as the bread is broken. And I look for Him on the faces of those who partake. No doubt He is there. He is always there. Of course, the Lord is present in all seasons. He is present in any spot where two or more are gathered. He always meets me wherever and however I worship Him. Yet, even still. There’s just something special about the sanctuary.

And so, I wonder if in ancient times, King David had a vision of the same sanctuary. When reading Psalm 63, I believe that perhaps it is so. And, I’m grateful. -Becky Hitchcock #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 23, 2020

I am thankful to be a part of FUMC family because of just that “it’s a family”. Full of love and support like a family. As a special friend told me one time “It’s your home away from home where you find your joy and peace.” They were so right I do find joy and peace among my FUMC congregational family. I do have a little history with FUMC. My grandparents and parents were long time members of this congregation. My mother was very involved in the Women’s Mission of this church. She was president for about two years of the UMW Executive Broad. This was her passion so it’s like coming home on April 2012.

I visited at a time when I was searching for a place to worship and continue with my music ministry. I was invited by a choir member to come one Wednesday night to choir practice. As I was introduced to Lester Williams, he didn’t hesitate to invite me to sit and practice with them. He placed me next to Carolyn, his wife and Sarah Nipper who welcomed me as if I was already a member. Then he told me there was an opening in Handbells if I was interested. That’s when I knew this is where God wanted me to be, I felt at home.

I have three memories that stands out to me. First memory is when Cindy asked me to assist her in Youth Handbell choir. I had directed handbells before, so this was a wonderful opportunity again to use my ministry. The second memory was after reading an email from Cindy saying she was in need of assistance in the PreK choir. I prayed about it first because I have not worked with this age group before. You know you always hear that God sometimes calls you out of your box to do his ministry, well this was what He was doing with me. So, I said Yes. I assisted Morgan Lanier for about two years before she went back to school. That’s when God really pulled me out of my box. I became the Leader. It has been the best door God has opened for me. These little ones have blessed me beyond all measures. Just to be able to teach these little ones to love to sing praises to God gives me such wonderful joy. I can’t wait to begin again in January.

Now, third one is Kenji letting me join him and the best group of family members sing in the Loft. I am the Old lady of the group, but they make me feel so young. I thank Kenji for all he has done to keep the Music Ministry going. I am so very proud to be a part of the best Music Ministry under the best Director in town.

The special traditions of the church I find meaningful is of course Christmas. Its always beautiful. I also think that the spring music the choir does, and the Children’s Music programs are also very meaningful.

I could go on, but I guess I need to stop. I am just grateful to be a part of a beautiful church family FUMC who love and care about each other. Very praying church. God continues to be the center of this church family. Blessings to all!
-Judy Varnado #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 26, 2020

For what am I thankful for this Thanksgiving? YOU!!!

You have loved me and my sons since 1995 when we came to join you in ministry here in Valdosta. You trusted your little ones with me. And older ones jooined me on trips around the world. We did missions together meeting the needs of others both near and far. We studied the Bible together through Disciple, Brown Bag Bible Study, and Wednesday Night Studies. We ate together, laughed and cried together over the years. We became friends first.....then family.

It broke my heart to retire in 2016 and move away. I lost my church family......and no other people and place of worship could compare. I'm so thankful God brought me back to Valdosta First....brought me back to family!
-Diane Shedd #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

November 30, 2020

Greetings to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ on this last day in November!

I am thankful for all of the volunteers of our church especially the music and tech volunteers. Each of you help us lift high the name of Jesus at Valdosta FUMC. I am always grateful for the sacrifices you all make weekly to be a part of the life of our church. I would be remiss if I do not say a special thank you to our Altar Guild and Ushers!
“Only what you do for Christ will last!”
-Kenji Bolden #30daysofthanks #valdostafumc

December 1, 2020 (BONUS)

From building a nest, to a full nest, to a once again empty nest, and finally to the special joys of grandchildren in other nests, Valdosta First United Methodist Church has been an integral part of our family since we moved to this area of the state 47 years ago. We have never been alone in our celebrations, our grief's, our successes, our failures.

Valdosta First is home to a caring congregation and offers multiple opportunities to worship, to learn, to serve, and to grow. Come, join us! -Slade and Margaret McCranie
#30daysofthanks #valdostafumc