Click or scan the icon above to make an online donation
Thank you for giving to McCormick Methodist Church. Your gifts enable us to fulfill our mission of “Reaching Up and Reaching Out”.
WORSHIP WITH US – SUNDAYS AT 10AM
from Rev. C. Nels Ledwell
Jesus Is with Us Forever
David E. Leininger, a great sermon writer, shared this in his publication of collected sermons. Read and enjoy! Then give thanks to Jesus for coming.
In 1994, two Americans answered an invitation from the Russian Department of Education to teach morals and ethics (based on biblical principles) in the public schools. They were invited to teach at prisons, businesses, the fire and police departments and a large orphanage. About 100 boys and girls who had been abandoned, abused, and left in the care of a government-run program were in the orphanage. They related the following story in their own words:
It was nearing the holiday season, 1994, time for our orphans to hear, for the first time, the traditional story of Christmas. We told them about Mary and Joseph arriving in Bethlehem. Finding no room in the inn, the couple went to a stable, where the baby Jesus was born and placed in a manger. Throughout the story, the children and orphanage staff sat in amazement as they listened. Some sat on the edges of their stools, trying to grasp every word. Completing the story, we gave the children three small pieces of cardboard to make a crude manger. Each child was given a small paper square, cut from yellow napkins I had brought with me. (No colored paper was available in the city.)
Following instructions, the children tore the paper and carefully laid strips in the manger for straw. Small squares of flannel, cut from a worn-out nightgown an American lady was throwing away as she left Russia, were used for the baby’s blanket. A doll-like baby was cut from tan felt we had brought from the United States. The orphans were busy assembling their manger as I walked among them to see if they needed any help.
All went well until I got to one table where little Misha sat — he looked to be about 6 years old and had finished his project. As I looked at the little boy’s manger, I was startled to see not one, but two babies in the manger. Quickly, I called for the translator to ask the lad why there were two babies in the manger. Crossing his arms in front of him and looking at this completed manger scene, the child began to repeat the story very seriously.
For such a young boy, who had only heard the Christmas story once, he related the happenings accurately, until he came to the part where Mary put the baby Jesus in the manger. Then Misha started to ad-lib. He made up his own ending to the story as he said, “And when Maria laid the baby in the manger, Jesus looked at me and asked me if I had a place to stay. I told him I have no mamma and I have no papa, so I don’t have any place to stay. Then Jesus told me I could stay with him. But I told him I couldn’t, because I didn’t have a gift to give him like everybody else did. But I wanted to stay with Jesus so much, so I thought about what I had that maybe I could use for a gift. I thought maybe if I kept him warm, that would be a good gift. So I asked Jesus, “If I keep you warm, will that be a good enough gift?” And Jesus told me, “If you keep me warm, that will be the best gift anybody ever gave me.” So I got into the manger, and then Jesus looked at me and he told me I could stay with him—for always.”
As little Misha finished his story, his eyes brimmed full of tears that splashed down his little cheeks. Putting his hand over his face, his head dropped to the table and his shoulders shook as he sobbed and sobbed. The little orphan had found someone who would never abandon nor abuse him, someone who would stay with him — FOR ALWAYS.
What a great story! We give thanks to Jesus for coming to be with us-always.
See you in Church or online this Christmas Season.
Your Pastor,
Nels
Nels
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from your Pastor and Church Staff!!
Church Office Closed
- From Tuesday, December 24 at 1 PM through Sunday, December 29.
- From Tuesday, December 31 at 1 PM through Sunday, January 5 2025.
Preparing for our worship services this Christmas Season
Sunday, December 22, 2024 10:00 AM
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Scripture Lesson: Exodus 3: 13-15
Meditation: “To You, I Am”
Meditation: “To You, I Am”
Hymns:
O Little Town of Bethlehem
It Came Upon the Midnight Clear
The First Noel
Christmas Cantata “A Simple Christmas”
It Came Upon the Midnight Clear
The First Noel
Christmas Cantata “A Simple Christmas”
Tuesday, December 24 2024 3 PM
Christmas Eve Service of Candlelight, Communion and the Story of Jesus
Christmas Eve Service of Candlelight, Communion and the Story of Jesus
Sunday, December 29, 2024 10 AM
First Sunday After Christmas
Scripture Lesson: John 1
Message: “The Window of Eternity” by Wendy Kvale – Certified Lay Servant
First Sunday After Christmas
Scripture Lesson: John 1
Message: “The Window of Eternity” by Wendy Kvale – Certified Lay Servant
Sunday, January 5, 2025 10 AM
Epiphany Sunday
Baptism of Emma Ruby Coins
Scripture Lesson: Ephesians 3: 1-12
Message: “With Boldness and Confidence”
Epiphany Sunday
Baptism of Emma Ruby Coins
Scripture Lesson: Ephesians 3: 1-12
Message: “With Boldness and Confidence”
THANK YOU FROM PATSY RHINEHART
To the McCormick Methodist Church:
I would like to thank you all for your prayers, your kindness and your warm hospitality that were shown to me on Sunday, December 18. I truly thank God for giving me the opportunity to meet and share in the service and the fellowship. I pray that God continues to bless each and every one of you all and I thank the Group that made my beautiful and warm prayer quilt. I love it and love you all – May God continue to bless each and every one of you! Merry Christmas and I pray you all have a great and prosperous New Year!
With Love, Patsy C. Rhinehart
NOTE: Patsy says that her prayer quilt is displayed on her bed for all her friends and family to see!
Acts of Kindness
Waiting for Baby Jesus!
We have one more Sunday during Advent as we await the Holy Birth of Jesus on Christmas Day. This period of waiting took on a new meaning for me this year, and I’d like to share it with you.
Soon after we were married in the late sixties, I went to the local ceramics shop in downtown McCormick and created what came to be our family’s nativity set (left photo above). Since that time, it became a tradition to display it in our home during the Advent Season. It wasn’t “fine china”, but it was fine to me!
Our garage fell victim to Hurricane Helene on September 27 and was later demolished on November 27 – the day before Thanksgiving. Among the three huge containers of ruins that went to a landfill were our Christmas decorations that were stored there – decorations that tell our family’s story.
Among those decorations was our Nativity set, and with the beginning of Advent, my thoughts turned to Christmas decorations, of course! A trip to the Salvation Army Thrift Store resulted in finding a 9-foot pre-lit Christmas tree! After a trip to the Dollar Tree, I suddenly had beautiful ornaments, and my tree was so beautiful! In the thrift store, I also noticed a small Hefty plastic storage bag that contained figures to a Nativity set – I counted the pieces – 10 in all. The set looked complete, so I made the purchase.
At home later, I discovered the Star was missing – the empty manger was there but no Baby Jesus! As you see in the photo on the right, my new Nativity is on display, and, like all of us, it is awaiting the birth of Jesus!! I don’t have to have the figurine of the main character of the Christmas Story, I already know how the story ends, and I will welcome Jesus anew in my heart on Christmas Day! The absence of Baby Jesus in my Nativity set reminds me to keep looking for Him not only during Advent but also throughout the coming year! And when I look for Him, I will find Him in the many kindnesses displayed by His people in so many ways as they share Jesus with one another! Merry Christmas!
Have you seen God today? If you see God at work this week, there are two ways you can share what you saw!
1) Be a blessing to others by sharing your Act of Kindness (no names please) on our website, or use this link! Then check back each week to learn how others are passing on acts of kindness! The link is https://www.mccormickmc.org/acts-of-kindness
2) There is a Kindness box in the library on the window sill, along with paper and pencil. Share your God-Wink, perhaps someone else will be inspired!
MATTHEW AND KRISTI SCALES
MISSION IN UGANDA
MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE SCALES FAMILY!
We are praying this Christmas season is full of intent worship of our savior who came so humbly to save us all.
This season has been extra special for us, we are trying to enjoy each moment.
We wanted to express our gratitude for all the prayers lifted in our name. Also for the support financially we have received so far. If you are interested in year end giving, or becoming a monthly supporter PLEASE let us know, we are still seeking regular support as we prepare for the Ugandan mission field.
UPDATES!
We are leaving for North Carolina on January 6th to begin Cultural Intensive training. Our family of 5 will learn strategic missionary training for the field.
Our Commission Service is planned for February 9th at 5pm, Oakbrook Community Church Jonesville, SC. Please mark your calendars because we want YOU there!
February 18th is our scheduled launch date to Uganda!
We are praying for you and again THANK you for even reading this email. Don’t forget this season to allow the Christmas story to change you,nlet God OVERSHADOW you (Luke 1:35)
Please add the Scales family to your daily prayers.
If you feel drawn to support their mission financially….
You can write a check, payable to MMC and noted Scales Mission and put it in collection plate, bring it by the office, or mail to the church (McCormick Methodist Church, PO Box 267, McCormick, SC 29835).
—or—
STEPHEN MINISTRY
READY TO LISTEN
If you are experiencing any type of difficulty and you need someone to listen to you, with whom you can share your feelings and receive acceptance and Christian love, please consider being in a relationship with a Stephen Minister at MMC.
Start by calling Pastor Nels or one of the Stephen Leaders and begin a ‘fellowship’ with a Stephen Minister. We may be reached through the church office at (864) 852-2394.
CONGREGATIONAL CARE COMMITTEE
The Congregational Care Committee wants you to know they are there to help you if you ever need transportation, meals or a visitor! Please contact Kim Jackson if you or someone you know needs help or if you would like to be added to the list of volunteers.
Download Our App
Stay up-to-date while you are on the go with the latest events, newest sermons, and all the happenings at MMC
For Apple Devices:
For Android Devices:
The first time you use the app you will be prompted to “Find Your Church”. Just begin typing “McCormick Methodist Church” and our church name will appear in the list for you to select.
Click the link below to view a short video on setting up your app.
Upcoming Events
CELEBRATE THE BIRTH OF JESUS
McCORMICK METHODIST CHURCH
Thank you to the Sonshine Ringers for presenting “Bells of Praise” and “Go Tell It on the Mountain” at our service on December 15. We are so fortunate to have a Handbell Choir!
If you missed the beautiful music on Sunday, you can see it on https://www.mccormickmc.org/livestream-archives/
On Sunday, December 22 the MMC Choir will present the Cantata, “A Simple Christmas”
Lindy Stahlman will be directing, Dan Tutt will be narrating, and Peggy Thomas will be accompanying on the piano. It proves to be a moving experience. Hope to see you there!
The advent Series for December 22 is I AM
We recommend you watch the video about I AM on:
https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/458407
We recommend you watch the video about I AM on:
https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/458407
On Tuesday, December 24 at 3PM there will be a Christmas Eve service.
Everyone is welcome!
There will be Carols, The Story, Communion and Candlelight.
Prepare Your Heart for Advent with Us!
This Advent season, join us as Pastor Ledwell will lead us through an inspiring sermon series, uncovering the powerful names of Jesus and what they reveal about His love and presence. Each Sunday, Pastor Ledwell will preach on these meaningful themes:
- Emmanuel, God with Us
- Wonderful Counselor
- Everlasting Father
- I AM
To enhance your experience, we’ll also be using video lessons by J.D. Greear on RightNow Media, perfectly complementing the weekly messages.
Here’s how you can be part of it:
- Sunday School Classes will study these lessons each week during Advent.
- Small Groups will meet Sundays at 4:00 PM for deeper discussion and fellowship.
Sign-up sheets for small groups are available in the Fellowship Hall, or reach out to Kim Jackson if you’d like to host a group in your home!
If you’re watching the sessions on your own, we’ll ensure you have access to the materials and can stream them easily to your TV.
Let’s grow in faith together this Advent season and prepare our hearts for the birth of Christ.
INVITE YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS
ADVENT AT MMC
Debbie Wissinger designed a flyer you can share with your groups, friends and neighbors! There is a printable copy at
You can forward it or print it and share it! Use it to invite all to our church!
Thank you, Debbie!
METHODIST MEN
JANUARY 7 6PM FELLOWSHIP HALL
Mark your new calendars
The Methodist men will meeting for the first 2025 meeting on January 7. We welcome all men, including your friends and neighbors!
Dinner will be served at 6pm followed by a devotion by Gary Grady. There will be some short business discussions. Dinner will be prepared by Don Smith, who will be making his famous sloppy Joe’s.
Our guest speaker is Yule Gurreau. He will be discussing the history and war in the Ukraine. He came to America seeking political asylum. Please feel free to invite other men, we would like a good turn-out for our first 2025 meeting!
Bob Rennie President, Methodist men
YEARLONG CHURCH-WIDE STUDY INITIATIVE
RIGHTNOW MEDIA
We are thrilled to introduce a year-long church-wide study starting in January! Designed to foster spiritual growth and community connection, this study is available on RightNow Media.
RightNow Media Roadmap 2025 Highlights:
Ready-Made Resources: Roadmap 2025 features curated studies, each lasting about 5-10 weeks, with study guides. Each study is presented by different speakers and focuses on different facets of Christian life such as discipleship, life application, scripture study, outreach, and community relationships.
Ready-Made Resources: Roadmap 2025 features curated studies, each lasting about 5-10 weeks, with study guides. Each study is presented by different speakers and focuses on different facets of Christian life such as discipleship, life application, scripture study, outreach, and community relationships.
Each Sunday school class will be using Roadmap 2025 for their curriculum beginning in early January. Please feel free to join one of the Sunday school classes that meet each Sunday after service.
If you are interested in hosting a small group in your home, you might want to invite your neighbors and friends to watch with you, feel free to contact Kim for help in getting started.
You can check out the RightNow Media Roadmap 2025 here: https://www.rightnowmedia.org/roadmaps/adult-bible-study-roadmap-2025
Special 12 Week Small Group Study:
Wendy Kvale will lead a 13-session small group study on The Truth Project, offering in-depth guided discussions. The Truth Project is a ground-breaking small group curriculum on the Biblical worldview. This video-based Bible study is the starting point for looking at life from a biblical perspective. Join Dr. Del Tackett, as he takes you through 13 engaging video lessons on the relevance and importance of living the Biblical worldview in daily life, featuring insights from biblical experts like R.C. Sproul, Os Guinness and Gordon Pennington. This group will start in early January and meet at Wendy’s home or McCormick Methodist Church.
Wendy Kvale will lead a 13-session small group study on The Truth Project, offering in-depth guided discussions. The Truth Project is a ground-breaking small group curriculum on the Biblical worldview. This video-based Bible study is the starting point for looking at life from a biblical perspective. Join Dr. Del Tackett, as he takes you through 13 engaging video lessons on the relevance and importance of living the Biblical worldview in daily life, featuring insights from biblical experts like R.C. Sproul, Os Guinness and Gordon Pennington. This group will start in early January and meet at Wendy’s home or McCormick Methodist Church.
Look for Sign up sheets in Fellowship Hall