By Mary McCarthy
SNELLVILLE, Ga. | For those that are feeling disconnected or discouraged at your current church, consider moving to another church. During the Fall of 2023, my family moved to Lawrenceville First United Methodist Church. It has been exciting to become involved in this vibrant faith community.
McCarthy
We found a church with worship services to meet different needs from traditional, contemporary to Holy Communion. It is so exciting to see all ages from babies to youth, young families to working families to retired families worshiping together. Our senior minister, Dr. Adam Hilderbrandt, is adept at teaching and challenging us as we grow stronger in our faith journeys.
There is a growing Kids Ministry. Here are some of the activities they are continually doing:
- Sunday School;
- Wednesday Night groups and activities for three years old through fifth grade;
- Digital Learning Days for Kids K-5;
- Weeklong Summer Vacation Bible experience;
- Two or three retreats per year;
- Special kids event during annual church camp meeting;
- Easter Festival, Advent Festival and Candy at the Cabins; and
- Parents are supported through small groups and programs.
The Student Youth Ministry is most active:
- Sunday School;
- Wednesday Night small groups and activities;
- Fall Beach Retreat;
- Spring Retreat;
- High School Mission trip; and
- Special youth events during annual church camp meeting.
Lawrenceville First United Methodist Church
The music ministry consists of choirs, men and women ensembles, bells, contemporary music and instruments. It provides stirring music that creates another level of worship.
Recently there was an opportunity to explore approximately 25 small groups that are striving to learn more about our faith through Bible study or providing mission opportunities throughout our local community.
“Propel” is an opportunity for women to meet with all ages of women to have dinner together and then participate in a Christian learning experience with music, videos, guest speakers and small group discussion.
“Crossroads” is a monthly meeting to meet with others who are 50 or older to enjoy lunch, conversation and special guest speakers.
The church shows God’s love throughout the Lawrenceville community. We partner with many local ministries outside the church:
- Lawrenceville co-op. In August, we contributed 3,502 items to this ministry;.
- Family Promise: provide meals, building play equipment;
- Village of Hope: providing summer lunch programs for needy children who are on free or reduced lunch. Christmas Extravaganza provides Christmas gifts for needy families where parents come and select gifts;
- “Sleep in Heavenly Peace” builds beds for children in Gwinnett County that need them;
- “Parents First Initiative” offers parent classes at four locations on “Raising Highly Capable Kids;
- “Grace Arbor” is an Adult Day Respite Care for those with memory impairment;
- Habitat for Humanity;
- Student tutoring; and
- “GriefShare” offering guidance to those who are experiencing loss.
Part of the church’s heritage is the ownership of a 56 acre campground, which began holding camp meetings in 1833. The land was originally bought in 1832 for $1 an acre for 50 acres. It is still utilized for Camp Meeting during the summer, for retreats, children and for youth experiences, LV Christmas Lights, Candy at the Cabins and singalongs. The Boy Scouts also routinely use the campground.
We have found this a vibrant church, and we welcome you. The address is 395 West Crogan Street, Lawrenceville, Ga. 30046. The website is lvfirst.org.
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