2022 - A Look Back on the Past Year
As always the turn of a new year brings reflection and celebration for what has been accomplished through our witness and ministry as Mars Hill United Methodist Church. It’s truly amazing to consider how much we’ve done together!
2022 was a year of renewal and rebirth for our church, being the first year we’ve experienced a full year of in-person worship in three years, and our first year of hybrid worship in our congregation's history. We give God thanks for our expanded ministry and renewed sense of community so many of us missed at the height of the pandemic.
This past year also saw an intentional connection with our sister congregation at Bright Hope Laurel United Methodist Church. Through this broader connection with the larger Church and community, we have enjoyed new opportunities for fellowship and ministry, including support of the Outland Family Clinic and the Ebbs Chapel Food Pantry. You’re invited to celebrate all we have accomplished together by reviewing the enclosed list—and perhaps adding to the list particular blessings you have received by being a part of our congregational life!
Much of what was accomplished in 2022 was due, in no small part, to your generous giving of time, energy and financial resources. Please know there is deep gratitude for your contributions! We wouldn’t be able to do our ministry without you!.
As we embrace the energy that has come from the newness of 2022, we look forward to where our witness and ministry will lead in 2023 as together we grow!
2022 Celebrations at Mars Hill United Methodist Church
A refreshed exterior with updated paint
An incredibly talented music staff, music scholars and intern
A fully accessible sanctuary with expanded seating for those requiring additional accommodations
Generous financial support of the Ukrainian people through the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR)
The return of our annual Trash and Treasures Sale after a two-year COVID hiatus with proceeds supporting the beautification of the historic Mt. Olive Cemetery, My Sister’s Place and the Outland Family Clinic in Ebbs Chapel
A renewed connection with Mars Hill Manor, the retirement community opposite our church grounds on South Main Street
Collaborating with Bright Hope Laurel UMC on a monthly men’s breakfast and United Methodist Women’s group
Participating in the WNC Pride Parade and co-hosting a booth with Central United Methodist Church
Partnering with Bright Hope Laurel UMC to host conversations on abortion rights, an evening of pumpkin carving, a Blessing of the Animals service and support the Outland Family Clinic, the Ebbs Chapel Clothing Closet and the Ebbs Chapel Food Pantry
Continuing to support My Sisters Place, Haywood Street, back to school supply drives, Angel Tree Gifts and other local missions
Supporting Reconciling Ministries with spiritual and financial gifts
Lucy Butterworth’s retirement after four decades of handbell choir ministry, including the founding and fundraising for Mars Hill UMC’s handbell choir
Hosting the location of Mars Hill’s first 24/7 Little Free Food Pantry in partnership with a local Girl Scout Troop
A vibrant online congregation that saw year-over-year double-digit growth and now exceeds our in-person attendance
