UMC.org Describes UMC Missions as: When asked what the greatest commandment is, Jesus answered with two: “You must love the Lord your God” and “You must love your neighbor as you love yourself” (Matthew 22:34-40).
Following Jesus's call, founder of the early Methodist movement John Wesley taught us to grow in our faith by “doing good of every possible sort, and, as far as possible, to all” (General Rules).
United Methodists around the world are active in our local communities, and through our global connection of congregations and agencies, we participate in ministries thousands of miles from where we live.
Missions and outreach are the heartbeat of what makes Little River UMC who we are. Through the sharing of God’s abundant grace, we connect with many different local and global organizations, individuals, and community members to share the good news of Jesus Christ. When we SERVE together, no matter our age, stage in life, or experience, we are reminded that the body of Christ is strengthened by its many different parts. We affirm that all who connect with our community, through mission and outreach is a vital part of the kingdom of God.
Throughout the year we are involved in many different seasonal and ongoing mission projects, locally and throughout the world. Some of the ways that we connect through missions are represented below.
Little River UMC Mission & Outreach
·Dignity Ministry & Shepherd’s Table: Assist our local community members who are experiencing homelessness, in need of food and resource assistance, or experiencing a challenging season with food, showers, and laundry services
Times: Monday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Thursday 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
*Shepherd’s Table (Food Only) Friday 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
·Mobile Meals: Provides daily meals to those who are unable to access food resources due to their physical and mental health challenges. Little River UMC participates with several other local faith organizations, to support this ministry for a week on a rotating basis.
·North Strand Helping Hand & North Strand Housing Shelter: Partnering with local organizations such as North Strand Helping Hand and North Strand Housing Shelter, Little River UMC is able to additionally support the housing, food, transportation, utility bills, and clothing needs of our community. Our monthly collection of powdered milk and cereal assists the North Strand Helping Hand pantry remained well supplied. Additional financial, volunteer hours, and board representation for both agencies further links our congregation with these two tremendous organizations.
·Local School Support: Through annual collection of school supplies and community based events we offer support to the local school community to extend the love of God. Additionally, our mission outreach supports the recognition of those within our own congregation as they achieve academic milestones such as graduations, advanced degrees, and additional academic achievements.
·Help4Kids- Backpack Buddies of Horry County: Connecting with our local community family outreach organization, Help4Kids, we are able to support children in our community who struggle to obtain adequate food, clothing, and basic needs to thrive.
· Christmas Season Family Community Support: Leading up to the holiday season, Little River UMC is a participant in the Angel Tree mission, allowing our congregation to share a bit of Christ’s love and light with families who otherwise would find it difficult to provide holiday goodies and needs. Additionally, we are supporters of the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox ministry connecting God’s love with those throughout the world.
·Prayers & Squares Prayer Quilt Ministry: The wonderful quilters in our Little River UMC church family, provide prayed over quilts to many in and beyond our congregation during seasons of trials, health challenges, loss, or other times of need.
·Drive Thru Prayer Ministry: Twice a month some of our Little River UMC congregation members gather roadside to offer prayer for those who are passing through our area. Motorists are encouraged using signs and waving smiling members, to drive through our church parking-lot, remain in their vehicles if they would like, and join with one of our church family to pray together. This powerful ministry continues to shine God’s grace and love into the lives of those who offer and those who receive prayers.
·Financial Support: We actively support, through financial donation, over 20 organizations throughout our community. We recognize that together we can make a positive impact and faithfully follow the leadings of the Holy Spirit, when we empower those beyond our church walls, to care for and faithfully respond as God has empowered them. Click the links below to find out more about some of the organizations we support: