Dummy copy here: Through two young adult members who traveled to Kenya on a two-month mission trip, Sycamore Tree UMC has been led to raise $44,000 to construct a new building, dig a well, and buy food and farming supplies for children at Sandota School. The new orphanage building was completed in July and has been named “Sycamore House.”

On Aug. 18, Holston Home for Children celebrated completion of a $5 million building and renovation project. The project included renovations across campus and construction of two new residence halls. Country music star Rodney Atkins, a former resident, attended the ceremony.

Each February, Luminary UMC offers a health fair for people in Roane and Meigs Counties. About 250 come for mammograms, kidney screenings, eye exams, and other health services. “We are very insistent that everything remains free,” says the Rev. Billy Kurtz. This summer, Luminary received a $1,000 Margaret  Loving grant to aid this ministry.

For 12 years, Central UMC has hosted a post-baccalaureate cookout for the graduating class of Bland High School. This year, Central pastor Bobby Lorton was invited to preach at the service prior to the cookout. About 160 came to the cookout, including 50 church members who provide all the food and serve as hosts, according to Betty Munsey.

On the last day of Vacation Bible School, Bishop’s Chapel UMC provided.