As Wesley United Methodist Church turns the page on a cherished chapter, June arrives as a month of gratitude, transition, and joyful anticipation. Pastor Martha's final message reflects warmly on five years of shared ministry: new worship traditions, deepened discipleship, expanded outreach, and a congregation humming with life and purpose. The month culminates in her retirement celebration on June 28, a service of worship and picnic fellowship that invites the whole congregation to gather and give thanks for her faithful leadership.
Yet even as one chapter closes, another opens with great promise. The congregation will soon meet incoming pastor Rev. Michael Burge, whose Christ-centered, community-focused vision for ministry aligns beautifully with Wesley's own calling to do no harm, do good, and stay in love with God. His first Sunday at Wesley is set for Sunday, July 5, and the community is already preparing to welcome him and his family warmly.
The month is rich with fellowship and community engagement. A visit to the West Virginia Botanic Garden, an upcoming Mononglia Symphony Orchestra performance celebrating America's 250th anniversary, and a Concerts in the Loft performance by multi-award-winning singer-songwriter Carol Markstrom offer the congregation abundant opportunities to gather outside of worship.
As summer takes hold and new leadership arrives, Wesley UMC steps forward with confidence, rooted in love, shaped by years of faithful service, and eagerly embracing the renewal God has in store.