As United Methodists, we believe that putting our love and faith into action is at the heart of being a Christian, and that we are all called to participate in Jesus Christ’s outreach by helping others. John Wesley described this work in simple, practical terms: “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” At First Wayne Street, we wholeheartedly embrace this philosophy.
Caring for others
At First Wayne Street, we know that it’s not enough to support each other; it is absolutely vital that we also help others. The membership of First Wayne Street supports a number of missions both locally and globally.
Caring for each other
First Wayne Street is proud to be one of over 11,000 Stephen Ministry congregations worldwide. Stephen Ministries is a support system which helps members care for each other in times of need.
Get involved
You’re invited to help, too! We’re always looking for volunteers to help with all sorts of ministries and missions. We couldn’t carry out the work of First Wayne Street without so many individuals generously sharing their time, energy, skills, and unique God-given gifts to do all the good they can with and for First Wayne Street. See the list below for a list of the types of opportunities available.
Hospitality
Staff the Welcome Center, follow up with newcomers, or help with food preparation and/or serving at receptions. For more information, contact the church office at 260-422-4681.
Celebration
Support our Worship service by being a greeter, a reader, an usher, a communion steward, or sound technician, or sign up to help with visual arts (including preparing banners and paraments for the sanctuary). For more information, contact the church office at 260-422-4681.
Music
Participate in our music program by singing in one of our choirs: sing or play an instrument with the Praise Team, sing with the Sanctuary Choir, or ring with the Handbell Choir. We also welcome instrumentalists of all types who are able to provide music for special occasions. For more information, contact our director of music, Geoff North.
Children & Families
Assist our staff members in the nursery; lead, assist, or be a substitute teacher for a Sunday School class for children from age 2 through 5th grade; or help with crafts, music supervision, or activities and games during Gather. For more information, contact our Director of Congregational Life & Nurture, Audra Reinders.
Youth Ministries
Lead Junior or Senior High Sunday School classes or volunteer to be a substitute leader; help lead and participate in youth activities on Sunday evenings; chaperone special trips, or help with Wednesday night fellowship. For more information, contact our Director of Congregational Life & Nurture, Audra Reinders.
Nurture & Spiritual Formation
Lead an adult Sunday School class; offer to share and serve your favorite soup, stew or group meal for dinner during Gather; participate in the United Methodist Women. For more information, contact our Director of Congregational Life & Nurture, Audra Reinders.
Office Volunteers
Work in the church office one morning or afternoon a week (or every other week) as receptionist, or assist with mailings. For more information, contact our Office Manager, Connie Boren.
Care
Be a Sunshine Visitor and help serve the spiritual needs of our church family members who are homebound or in nursing care; help with funeral dinners. For more information, contact the church office at 260-422-4681.
Outreach
We support many mission programs, and we’d love to have you work with us to provide that help. For more information, contact the church office at 260-422-4681.
Missions
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.” — 1 Peter 4:10 Faith and discipleship are more than just the walls of the church. We want to be able to share Christ’s love and bless those in our community. At First Wayne Street, we support a number of missions locally, nationally and globally.…
Stephen Ministry
Stephen Ministry is a support structure that helps members care for each other. Stephen Ministers (specially trained members of the congregation) provide one-to-one care to people who are experiencing a crisis or life challenge. First Wayne Street has been home to the Stephen Ministry since 1994. It has been a vital part of our congregation’s caring for each other and for the…
GriefShare Ministry
“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” — Romans 8:28 GriefShare is a friendly, caring group of people who will walk alongside you through one of life’s most difficult experiences. You don’t have to go through the grieving process alone. Through this 13-week group,…