Learn and Grow

overview

sunday school

growth groups

bible studies

alpha

the fran plan

the bias opinion

testimonies

testimonies

Paul, Irene & family

I strongly believe there is a reason why things happen in my life. For me, this reason is that God has a plan and a purpose for me to be where I am at any point in my life. In August of 1979, my family and I moved from Indiana to Peoria, Illinois. We did not know anyone in the community but we knew we were going to find a new family—a place of worship for us to call home. We visited a few churches in town before coming to First United Methodist Church. When we arrived, we were greeted with welcoming hearts and we felt at home. In spite of the fact that there were only a handful of African American families, we chose to stay. 

I have been on several committees and have been involved in childcare and other ministries including counseling. I currently am one of the counselors and am involved in the Insight Ministry. I am an at-large lay delegate to Annual Conference and am part of the Pastor Parish Committee. FUMC has provided a solid foundation for my faith. I have learned to thank God in all situations and to trust Him to transform my life. The Alpha discipleship class is very educational and affirming, and indeed transforming.
 
Among FUMC’s many strengths, the most important is the teaching of faith in the living God, who loves and equips us to be disciples of Jesus for the transformation of Peoria and the world. We are encouraged to minister to each other and be involved in missions.
 
 For 25 years, I have been encouraged to express my opinions about things that are important. I thank God for the opportunity to have raised our three children at FUMC where the seed was planted and the foundation was put in place for them.

Irene