Welcome to Andrews United Methodist Church.
We are so glad you found us!
I’m so glad you found Andrews United Methodist Church!
If this is your first glimpse at Andrews UMC, then let me offer you a special welcome. I first laid eyes on this congregation in September of 2013, when my husband and I drove out of the Nantahala Gorge and into this beautiful town in far western North Carolina late on a Sunday afternoon. We were struck right away by how this green valley is surrounded by those amazing 5,000 foot peaks.
It didn’t take us long to learn that the people of this community are even more beautiful than the scenery. It’s a real blessing to serve as the pastor of Andrews UMC because they live out a few key passages of Scripture so well:
“I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me…” (Matthew 25:35).
Every Thursday night Andrews UMC hosts a free community meal called the Welcome Table where we share a meal with people of all backgrounds, gathered around the supper table as equals.
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28).
This congregation is a welcoming place where divisions don’t matter much. Given a choice between including or excluding someone, they naturally choose to include. We love to work and worship with other denominations.
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven” (Mathew 19:14).
My two small children – like all the children here – are loved and mentored by caring adults and good friends.
During my first weeks in Andrews, one church member gave me good advice for living in this valley: “If you ever get lost, just drive downhill and you’ll make it back to town!” The same is true about this congregation of Jesus Christ: If you feel lost in life, just make your way here – and you’ll find yourself found.
Much love,
Rev. Mary Brown
