Athens First United Methodist Church

The North Georgia UMC Annual Conference is in Athens this week as United Methodists from across our region gather at the Classic Center for worship, learning, fellowship, and to conduct the business of the Church.

Our clergy team - Jeremy Lawson, Nancy Johnson, Natalee Dukes Hamby, Montana Hamby, and Lisa Lawrenz - will be in attendance as well as retired clergy connected to our church. Laity representing Athens First are Cassie Folsom, Peggy Gates, Kim Griffith, Tom Jackson, and Nate Roberson. Serving as at-large delegates from our district are Laura Blanco, David Conley, and Sharon Conley. Cole Jones, one of our college students, will also be a delegate.

Annual Conference is a reminder of our connection to congregations and ministries throughout North Georgia and the shared mission we undertake together. As we welcome visitors to our Athens community, we invite you to keep the conference, its leaders, clergy, laity, and churches in your prayers!

Today, our Athens First UMC staff celebrated Rev. Dr. Nancy Johnson with a beach-themed going away party. While we are sad to “wave” goodbye, we are grateful for her leadership and excited for all that's ahead in her next chapter!

Our church family will have the opportunity to show their appreciation to Nancy this Sunday, June 21. We will have a special reception in Hancock Hall following both worship services.

We look forward to seeing you on Sunday as we express our gratitude for Nancy!

What a beautiful morning yesterday at Athens First UMC as we celebrated the baptism of Sarah Walker Schmidt, daughter of Caroline and Taylor Schmidt.

Sarah Walker, God claims you, God helps you, protects you, and loves you too!

What an incredible week of VBS!

As we celebrate all that God did this past week, we want to say a huge THANK YOU to the amazing volunteers who made it possible. From our crew guides who faithfully walked alongside our children each day, to those who spent countless hours decorating, preparing snacks, gathering supplies, leading stations, and serving behind the scenes—this week simply would not have happened without you.

Because of your generosity, our children experienced joy, friendship, belonging, and the love of God in meaningful ways.

Join us in thanking these incredible volunteers for sharing their time, talents, and hearts with our kids! WOW GOD!

Today we were reminded that God is our place of refuge, and we can always trust in Him!

God is our safe place - WOW GOD!

We had another great day in the Rainforest! Today we studied Psalm 139 and were reminded that God knows everything— WOW GOD! We can’t wait to see what adventures are in store for tomorrow.

It was a GREAT first day in the Rainforest! Today’s Bible Point reminded us that God is our Creator - WOW GOD!

Yesterday, our Agape Adult Ministry enjoyed a wonderful morning at the State Botanical Garden of Georgia for Free Sketch Friday! They spent the morning exploring the gardens and museum and afterward enjoyed lunch before returning to the church.

We are grateful for opportunities like these to connect and enjoy God’s creation together!

"Wow, God!” is what we’ll be shouting all next week!

Vacation Bible School begins Monday, and we are getting ready for YOU!

We are praying big prayers for the kids who will walk through our doors and for the volunteers and leaders who will share God’s love.

As we observe Memorial Day, we pause to remember and give thanks for the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation.

Yesterday in worship, a wreath was placed in our altar space in remembrance of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Following the service, the wreath was taken to Memorial Park as a tribute to their courage, service, and sacrifice.