First United Methodist Celebrates Its Debt-Free Milestone

Pastor Jamie Westlake of the First United Methodist Church of Brandon is quoted in a Facebook update heralding the good news that the church committed to making “more and better disciples of Jesus Christ” is debt free.

In the spring of 2007, when I received the news that Denise and I were coming to serve here, one of the key goals I envisioned and began to pray about was the defeat of our debt. I started those prayers even before arriving here that June. I had faith that, with God’s help, we would do it. However, God working through you so rapidly has surprised and delighted me. Even in the midst of a severe economic downturn, which began at precisely the time (October 2008) the Capital Campaign Team invited you to make a financial commitment, we are today able to joyfully shout, “We’re Debt Free!” God really is good- ALL THE TIME!

Church members reportedly celebrated in the courtyard July 1, at 10:40 a.m., with a “burning of the mortgage and dedication of the sanctuary.”

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5 Things To Know About First United Methodis Church of Brandon:

• The church is at 121 North Knights Ave. and can be reached at 813-689-4161. Visit online at www.fumcbrandon.org.

• FUMC is a Stephen Ministries congregation located in the heart of Brandon, at 121 North Knights Ave.  The church offers Bible Studies,Small Groups, Worship services and Senior Adult  Ministries.

• Two worship services each Sunday are broadcast online: the 9:30 a.m. modern praise and worship service and the 11 a.m. blended service, with full choir and orchestra. Services are available for online viewing within 48 hours of the live broadcast. Prior services are available to view as well.

• The church has three preschool programs. As noted, the church’s weekday preschool and kindergarten program, for more than 40 years, "has been meeting the needs of children ages 3, 4, and 5 years of age in the church and community by offering early childhood education in a Christian environment regardless of race, color and national or ethnic origin.”

• This year’s Vacation Bible School, “Zapped,” is July 9-13 from 9 a.m. to noon.