Hawley United Methodist Church

Come one, come all

By SANDY LONG

HAWLEY, PA — For 160 years, the Hawley United Methodist Church (HUMC) has served the greater Hawley area, earning it the honor of being the oldest continuous house of worship in the community. Its long history of outreach and involvement have led to a vibrant membership of approximately 450 people who enjoy a myriad of activities and opportunities available at the popular church.

“The church is used quite a bit by the community and we intend it that way,” said Reverend Martin Cox, who has served the HUMC for nearly three decades.

In its mission statement, the HUMC describes itself as a Christian community sent by the Holy Spirit to proclaim the Kingdom of God. “We seek to make faithful disciples of Jesus Christ by being open to change, willing to risk and ready to serve,” it notes.

In fulfilling that mission, much has been happening at the active church. During the past year, the HUMC implemented a new ministry with Hawley’s First Presbyterian Church to offer meals to the community every Saturday at noon. “The Presbyterians serve the meal on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, while we host the luncheon at our Sojourner’s Café on the first, third and fifth Saturdays,” explained Cox. There is no charge and all are welcome.

In September 2009, the HUMC celebrated its 160th anniversary. “What began in a small upper room in 1849 with little more than a handful of faithful people has grown into a congregation of 450 members that continue to worship and live the gospel as best we can,” said Cox. The HUMC conducted cottage meetings with its members to consider its current state and plan for its future.

The HUMC also hosts its annual Mission Golf Tournament in May, which in 2009 raised over $6,000 for the Campus Ministry of Northeast Pennsylvania, the only mainline Protestant ministry on area college and university campuses. This year’s tournament will raise funds for the food pantry.

Reverend Dr. Doug Miller, who also serves as a part-time pastor at the Barryville, NY United Methodist Church, was welcomed as the HUMC’s new minister of evangelism. Miller will help to kick off the church’s new adult learning series, “Windows of Faith,” in January by offering the three-part exploration “In Quest of a Spiritual Journey.” Others will offer a three-part look at “Music in the Church.” The sessions begin January 23 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.

The HUMC offers worship that reflects the sacramental, evangelical and social principles espoused by the Reverend John Wesley, an Anglican priest and founder of the Methodist Church. Among the many opportunities for worship, fellowship and learning are the following: baptism; healing services; confirmation; three choirs, including a bell choir; Altar Guild; Eucharistic Ministers; Liturgists; church school; bible study groups; youth ministries; outreach ministries such as the CROP Walk and emergency food pantry.

Social events are scheduled throughout the year in support of the church’s commitment to make fellowship a priority. A popular expression used in the church is “We are family.” As such, events like “Hanging of the Greens,” “Story Sunday,” “Soup and Conversation,” an annual family picnic and the church’s annual Christmas pageant, “The Road to Bethlehem,” help to keep members connected.

Visitors are always welcome and encouraged to join in for fellowship and conversation. “Irrespective of what your religious background might be, there is a place in the Hawley Church for you,” notes a booklet offered to those considering membership. For more information visit hawleyumc.org, email hawleymc@verizon.net or call 570/226-3875.

Hawley United Methodist Church Service Schedule

315 Church Street, Hawley, PA

570/226-3875

Sunday worship services

8:00 a.m. Informal Service

9:45 a.m. Traditional Service

Christmas Eve worship services

5:00 p.m. service highlights the children’s choir and Sunday School Christmas play

7:30 p.m. service is a traditional Candlelight Service with music by the Joyful Ringers and Chancel Choir