Audio-Visual Team Emelia Bruton Audio-Visual Team Emelia is a Georgetown native. She has been attending FUMC Georgetown with her family since 2012. She is the oldest of three children. As a child, she was part of the children’s choir and handbell ensemble and is currently a member of the church orchestra. Before being officially hired, Emelia edited the pre-recorded services posted during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. She continued to do odd jobs during this period, including the production of the virtual chancel choir and church orchestra performances released on FUMC’s Youtube channel. In August of 2021, she was officially hired and began creating the slide presentations used in every worship service. Every Sunday, she can be spotted in the sanctuary balcony, running the slideshow or manning the cameras for that service’s livestream. Emelia is studying English at Southwestern University and plans to graduate in 2025. She works at the Southwestern Library as a library assistant, and the Debby Ellis Writing Center as a writing consultant. She plays French horn and is a member of both the wind ensemble and the Band of Pirates, Southwestern’s pep band. Additionally, she is a member of the service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega and serves on the university’s Honor Code Council. In her free time, Emelia enjoys reading, watching television shows, and thinking very hard about the things she reads and watches. Next Item Previous Item

Senior Pastor Rev. Alan McGrath Senior Pastor alan@fumcgt.org Alan grew up in the Central Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church. His home church, New World in Arlington, introduced him to Glen Lake Camp, summer mission trips, and youth choir tours. Receiving his first appointment in 1999, Alan has served churches of all styles and sizes from a church start in Mansfield, a multi-staff church in Acton, a country church in Brock, a community-focused Hutto church, and most recently FUMC Killeen serving many military families. His sermons are likely to include encouragements to love our neighbor, serve in the community, and grow in understanding the grace of God open to all people through Jesus Christ. Alan met Traci at the A&M Wesley Foundation and they held their wedding in the chapel at Glen Lake Camp. Traci leads an enrichment program in Georgetown called Treehouse Learning Community. Their oldest son, Pax, loves baseball and basketball while their youngest, Beckett, is usually outdoors creating or learning more about nature. The McGraths love to camp in our Texas State Parks and frequently avoid the summer heat vacationing in New Mexico or Colorado. Next Item Previous Item

ADULT GROUPS ADULT GROUPS Join one of FUMC Georgetown's engaging adult groups and deepen your faith and sense of community. We offer various opportunities for fellowship, support, and spiritual growth, catering to diverse interests and schedules. Whether you seek connection with others or just a community with like-minded individuals, there’s a welcoming space for you here. For more information or to inquire about a specific class, please email adults@fumcgt.org United Women in Faith (UWF) Circles Hannah Circle meets on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 10:00 AM in the church Parlor. Lydia Circle meets on the 1st Tuesday of the month at 6:00 PM in the Parlor. Reading Circle meets on the 2nd Monday of the month at 11:30 AM in the Fellowship Hall. Susanna Wesley Circle meets on the 4th Monday at 6:00 PM in the church Parlor. FUMC Men's Ministry For questions about the FUMC Men's Ministry, visit fumcgt.org/men Class Meeting This group meets weekly on Sunday mornings in the Wesleyan style of a class meeting. Group members check-in with each other about the ways God is working in their lives, the faith struggles they are having, and the prayers they are praying. Group size maximum is 10 people, so when the group grows beyond that, they divide and start a new group. Location: Room 301. Covenant Groups Covenant groups, also known as accountability groups, Wesley class meetings, and reunion groups, are intended for people to draw on the strength of God and each other as they journey through life together. These groups are committed to creating a safe space for listening deeply, praying for each other, and keeping discussions confidential. The groups are ongoing. Those wishing to join them are welcomed with the expectation that group norms are followed. The Class Meeting and Sunday Morning Covenant Groups meet on Sundays from 9:40–10:40 AM. The Being and Becoming Covenant Group meets on Tuesday afternoons from 3:30–5:00 PM. Micah Workers A group that is devoted to creating God’s beloved community in our church and beyond. We are guided by the scripture from Micah 6:8 "And what does the Lord require of you, but to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God." Our mission is to provide scriptural and historical education about racial justice to inspire and encourage involvement in creating God’s beloved community. Check church communications for articles and events that will be offered throughout the year (e.g. book studies, forums, movies, classes, etc.).

Student Ministry Director Rev. Kellie Brewer Student Ministry Director kellie@fumcgt.org Kellie is thrilled to step into the role of Student Ministry Director here at FUMC. Kellie is currently completing her Master of Divinity degree from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary and is a certified candidate for ordination to the order of Deacon in the United Methodist Church, Rio Texas Conference. Originally from Georgia, Kellie spent the first years of her career as a professional church musician: directing choirs, playing organ and piano, and leading handbell ensembles. After years of teaching Vacation Bible School, working in the nursery, and chaperoning summer camps, she answered the call to a more pastoral role of serving children, youth and their families, where she discovered a passion for teaching young people about God’s love and relevance for their lives. Most recently she has been serving as the Children, Youth and Family Ministry Assistant and Children’s Choir Director at an Episcopal church in Austin, so she is very much looking forward to returning home to her family in the United Methodist Church. Outside of work, Kellie loves gardening, music, and watching comedies. Next Item Previous Item

Director of Congregational Care Kathy Pena Director of Congregational Care kpena@fumcgt.org Kathy Pena joined the Discipleship Team in July 2013 as the Director of Congregational Care. She serves as the staff representative for several of our caring ministries including lay pastoral care, Stephen Ministry, PALS, and prayer shawl ministry. She contacts persons who are hospitalized and those recovering from illness, injury, and surgery. She leads the staff in praying for the joys and concerns of the congregation. Next Item Previous Item

CONNECT WITH US New to FUMC Georgetown? If you have questions or want more information about our ministries and opportunities to connect, feel free to contact us at office@fumcgt.org . Online Connection Card We would love to hear from you! Whether you are in person or online, be sure to let us know you are worshipping with us! Please fill out the connection card here: Connection Card Sign up for Email Communications! Don’t miss out on our latest messages, updates, resources and more. Sign Up READY TO JOIN? Welcome! We are so glad you're here! First United Methodist Church Georgetown is a church united in our mission to be the hands and feet of Jesus, living out God's love everywhere we go! I'm New!

Media & Events Coordinator Jessica Trevarthen Media & Events Coordinator jessica@fumcgt.org Jessica is thrilled to step into the role of Media & Events Coordinator at FUMC. Before joining the team in 2023, she earned degrees in Journalism and a BS in Radio-TV-Film from UT Austin. She looks forward to creating engaging and uplifting videos that celebrate the church and its community. Outside of her role at FUMC, Jessica runs an online clothing store focused on sustainable fashion and works at special events as an EMT. At home, she enjoys relaxing with her dog, Beans, and her cat, Peaches. Next Item Previous Item

SERVE OUR COMMUNITY There are many ways to serve at our community in Georgetown and it's surroundings areas. For more information about these opportunities, email missions@fumcgt.org. Disaster Relief The Disaster Relief team at First United Methodist Church Georgetown is dedicated to providing critical support and assistance in the wake of emergencies. When disaster strikes, United Methodists have a long legacy of helping their neighbors and communities, and this team continues that tradition by offering aid, resources, and compassion to those affected. Through coordinated efforts and a spirit of service, they work tirelessly to bring relief and hope to those in need. See below to learn how we use our hands and feet to 'Live Out God's Love Everywhere We Go.' Learn More Education Connection Our Mission is simple, straightforward, and achievable…every child reading by the end of 3rd grade. Join us as we combat childhood literacy, one of the largest problems in our community, by equipping volunteers to read one-on-one with students at Annie Purl Elementary School, while supporting educators as they help children to learn and grow. Volunteers meet with one child once a week to help them improve their reading skills. Please consider giving 30 minutes per week to help us reach our goal—to have every child reading by the end of third grade. You just need a willing heart, a background check, and a video or in person training. For more information or to volunteer, visit https://www.education-connection.org Project Transformation Project Transformation envisions a world that is rooted in love, pursues the equity of all people, and amplifies God’s call on every life. PT’s mission is to transform communities by engaging children, college-age young adults, and churches in purposeful relationships. PT’s program goal is to empower children, through relationships, to discover and live their God-given potential in mind, body, and spirit for future success. If you are interested or have questions, contact children@fumcgt.org Getsemani Community Garden Founded in 2012, Getsemani Community Garden grows food for those in need, offers neighbors a place to garden, and provides lessons on how to garden. Garden volunteers meet Tuesday and Friday mornings at Getsemani Community Garden, 412 E. 19th St, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM. Quail Valley Neighborhood Ministry The Quail Valley Neighborhood Ministry, a partnership between FUMC Georgetown and The Salvation Army Georgetown Service Center, is focused on providing meaningful recreation and social opportunities for kids and families within the greatest area of need in the Annie Purl Elementary attendance zone. All events are located at the corner of Quail Valley and Katy Lane unless noted. For more information or to volunteer, contact bobkalka@gmail.com or sign up HERE . Backpack Buddies The Backpack Buddies Program is a volunteer organization that provides food each weekend to food-insecure students. In collaboration with the GISD administration, counselors at each elementary, middle, and high school campus determine which students are in need of food on the weekends and invite them to participate in the program. Over 47% of the Georgetown ISD students are eligible for the free or reduced-price school breakfast/lunch program and are therefore eligible for the Backpack Buddies Program. FUMC volunteers pack food bags each week for Wagner Middle School. There are approximately 110 volunteers from ten Georgetown area churches that pack food bags for all the Georgetown ISD schools—currently over 900 bags per week. For more information or to volunteer, contact info@georgetownbackpackbuddies.org Helping Hands of Georgetown Helping Hands of Georgetown is a mobile food pantry dedicated to breaking down barriers to essential resources in our community. We provide crucial food support to those in need, ensuring that everyone in Georgetown has access to nutritious meals. Join us in our mission to make a difference and support those who need it most. For more information or to volunteer, contact Sasha Christensen at Executive@helpinghandsgtx.org Texas Ramp Project Serving 139 counties in Texas, the Texas Ramp Project is a nonprofit organization that provides handicapped ramps for low income adults and children with disabilities. If you are interested or have questions, contact Volunteer@texasramps.org Sleep in Heavenly Peace Serving all of Williamson County, Sleep in Heavenly Peace builds and provides free beds to families with children who do not have a place of their own to sleep. Their mission is simple: "No Kid Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town!" For more information or to volunteer, contact Ben Lake at ben.lake@shpbeds.org Georgetown Helpers Georgetown Helpers is an all-volunteer service group made of men and women from Georgetown and its surrounding areas, providing minor home maintenance and repair services with a key focus on safety issues in the home. Most of their work supports senior and those with disabilities. No experience necessary! For more information or to volunteer, contact Jim Ruth at GeorgetownHelpers@gmail.com The Caring Place Since 1985, The Caring Place has provided for the basic human needs of all people in our community in a welcoming, respectful and caring way. The Caring Place is a community-based, community-supported, and community-serving organization located in Georgetown, Texas. The success of The Caring Place depends on the dedication and professionalism of our volunteer workforce. The Caring Place has hundreds of volunteers who give of their time every year. For more information or to volunteer, contact Rita Turner at rturner@caringplacetx.org Isaiah 117 House The Isaiah 117 house provided physical and emotional support in a safe and loving home for children awaiting placement. They aim to to reduce trauma for children awaiting placement, lighten the load on welfare services, and ease the transition for foster families. Volunteer positions include hosting donation drives, leading engagement activities +more! Care Giving volunteers (those who work with the kids in the home) must be 18+ and complete a full background check . For more information or to volunteer, contact WilliamsonTX@isaiah117house.com Wesleyan Senior Healthcare Volunteers at The Wesleyan utilize their skills and talents to nourish the mind, body, and spirit of those who call The Wesleyan home. From providing personal companionship to grounds beautification, there are ample service opportunities for individuals, church congregations, civic groups, and local businesses. For more information or to volunteer, contact Life Enrichment Director Carly Gurgin at Carly.Gurgian@wesleyanhomes.org Faith in Action Faith in Action Georgetown is a non-profit organization helping seniors maintain their independence and quality of life. Volunteers are needed to provide transportation to medical appointments, grocery stores and various other errands. This volunteer opportunity is very flexible and extremely rewarding. Volunteer drivers are scheduled online at your convenience. Volunteers establish their own limits of time and driving areas. You will enjoy spending time with these gracious and delightful individuals. For more information or to volunteer, visit https://www.faithinactiongt.org/volunteer Carver Center for Families The Carver Center for Families (CCF) in Georgetown, Texas is a family resource center (FRC) that nurtures the health and well-being of children, youth, and families, and builds on the strengths of our community’s parents, caregivers, and residents, as well as the organizations that support them. For more information for to volunteer, visit https://carvercenterforfamilies.org/affiliates/

Advent Celebration & Tree Lighting Saturday, November 29 from 9:00 AM-2:00 PM All are invited to help decorate the church and have a Chili Cook-Off November 29 at 9:00 AM. Bring your family Chili recipe in a crockpot to share. We will provide a Frito Pie bar and drinks. There will be activities for the children, and teams of volunteers will work with the Liturgical Arts Team to decorate the sanctuary, the MCMC, outside, and the library area. We will conclude with a celebratory lighting of the trees and garlands in the Sanctuary. RSVP HERE Jingle Mingle December 4, from 5:30-7:30 PM in the MCMC The Learning Tree’s annual Christmas gathering is now the Jingle Mingle! Join us December 4 from 5:30-7:30 PM in the MCMC for a pancake supper, photo with Santa, and a silent auction to benefit The Learning Tree Preschool. 🎟️ Tickets are $8 each and may be purchased by CLICKING HERE. Children's Christmas Pageant December 7, during the 10:45 Contemporary Service This year's Children’s Christmas Pageant will be December 7 at the 10:45 Contemporary service in the McKinney Center. It is open to all children ages 3-4th grade! Children are asked to arrive at 10:15 AM to receive costumes and lyric sheets. Additional optional rehearsals will be held on November 16 during Sunday School (9:40-10:40 AM) and November 30 12:00 PM-1:00 PM. No signup needed, just show up on December 7! Love's Pure Light: A Service of Hope December 7, at 4:00 PM in the Sanctuary For some, the Advent season doesn't feel quite so joyful. Join us for a special Service of Hope on Sunday, December 7, at 4:00 PM in the sanctuary. This service is for those who may struggle at this time of year with grief, family issues, loss, or struggles that make the “jolly” season feel not-so-jolly. We will have a short message of hope, music, time for remembering loved ones, candle lighting, and refreshments afterward. For more info email Pastor Tina at tina@fumcgt.org . Nativity Open House December 13, from 9:00 AM-6:00 PM in the MCMC An exhibit of over 100 nativity sets from around the country and the world will be held in the MCMC December 13, from 9:00 AM-6:00 PM. There will also be children's activities and refreshments. This event is brought to you by FUMC Georgetown and Hope United Church. If you would like to loan your nativity set(s), pick up a form in the church office or contact Camille Harmon at camilleharmon@gmail.com . Loaned Nativity sets can be brought to the church December 1-3. The deadline for submissions is December 5. Vivaldi Gloria December 14, during the 8:30 AM & 11:10 AM Worship Services The FUMC Georgetown Chancel Choir, along with guest musicians, will present Vivaldi Gloria December 14 at 8:30 and 11:10 in the FUMC Sanctuary. Join us for a stunning performance of one of the great masterpieces of the Baroque era, and an inspiring morning of worship through music as we continue through the Advent season. Christmas Eve Worship Services 10am -11am - Traditional Service in the Sanctuary Traditional Christmas Eve worship with music and candlelight in the historic FUMC Sanctuary. 3pm- 4pm Family Christmas Eve Worship Join us for a Family-friendly Christmas Eve worship in the FUMC Sanctuary, followed by a Birthday Party for Jesus in the FUMC Fellowship Hall. 4:30pm - 5:30pm - Contemporary Service in the MCMC Traditional Christmas Eve worship with music and candlelight in the historic FUMC Sanctuary. 6pm -7pm - Traditional Service in the Sanctuary Traditional Christmas Eve worship with music and candlelight in the historic FUMC Sanctuary. 8pm - 9pm - Traditional Service in the Sanctuary Traditional Christmas Eve worship with music and candlelight in the historic FUMC Sanctuary. Christmas Eve Worship Services Join us for Christmas Eve worship Wednesday, December 24: 10:00 AM Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary 3:00 PM Family Christmas Eve Worship in the Sanctuary 4:30 PM Contemporary Worship in the MCMC 6:00 PM Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary 8:00 PM Traditional Worship in the Sanctuary 2025 Advent Events No events at the moment

Media Director Lisa Blake Media Director lisa@fumcgt.org Lisa serves as Media Director, managing FUMC’s print and digital presence. Prior to joining the FUMC staff, Lisa worked in the Architecture industry in DFW, with corporate clients such as Randall’s/Tom Thumb stores, Whole Foods, and United supermarkets. After moving to Georgetown in 2008, Lisa focused her talents on branding and graphic design for freelance clients. Then in 2011, Lisa joined the staff at FUMC as Graphic Designer, where she established the church’s visual identity, redesigned the church newsletters, created an eNews option, and developed the church’s social media presence. She is grateful for the opportunity to serve her church with her skills in design. 
In her spare time, Lisa enjoys mid-century modern art, Craftsman-style architecture, music (especially Lord Huron and Head & The Heart), hiking, kayaking, and traveling. Next Item Previous Item

ADULT STUDIES Discover a deeper connection to your faith by joining one of FUMC Georgetown's engaging adult studies. Whether you’re looking to develop your personal spiritual life, connect with others over a Bible study, or explore current events through a biblical lens, we have something for everyone. Our small group opportunities, provide a supportive environment to grow alongside others on similar journeys. For more information or to inquire about a specific study, please email adults@fumcgt.org Develop Your Personal Spiritual Life The means of grace taught by John Wesley are among the ways God works invisibly in each of us. Our giving attention to these hastens, strengthens, and confirms our faith as God’s grace moves in and through us. Wesley divided the means of grace into two categories as “works of piety” and “works of mercy.” The individual works of piety include reading, meditating on, and studying the scriptures, prayer, fasting, regularly attending worship, and sharing our faith with others. Communal practices that Wesley recommended include regular participation in holy communion, Christian conferencing (accountability to one another), and Bible study. Resources for the individual practices of reading, meditation, and prayer are available from many sources. A list recommended by the staff at FUMC Georgetown listing various books, blogs, email feeds and podcasts can be found here. Master's Men Bible Study The Master's Men Bible study group meets on the second Tuesday of each month from 6:00-7:00 PM. Join us in the Main Building Parlor for a light meal, fellowship, and discussion. RSVP to adults@fumcgt.org to assure there will be enough food. For more information about Men's Studies, click here. Men's Backyard Bible Study The Men's Backyard Bible Study meets on the last Thursday of the month near the MCMC to grow their relationship with God by committing to daily Bible study using The Upper Room devotional booklet. They gather monthly to discuss, reflect and sometimes vent; sharing both the burdens and joy in how God is moving in our lives. This is a no pressure space for men to be real, honest, and supportive of one another. For more information about Men's Studies, click here. Together Gathered In Faith (TGIF) Bible Study TGIF Bible study welcomes ladies of all ages, and we focus on living out God's love in our everyday hustle of motherhood. TGIF meets once a month on Friday from 10:00 - 11:00 AM in room 209 . To inquire about specific dates, email adults@fumcgt.org. There is childcare offered, we just ask you to RSVP to plan for staff. Please email children@fumcgt.org if you plan to attend and need childcare. Current Events Bible Study Group - Faith Meets the Headlines Join us on Tuesday evenings from 6:30–8:00 PM in a Room 301/302 or via Zoom for a thought-provoking Bible study that connects real-world events with timeless biblical wisdom. Each week, we explore a current news story or cultural issue, reflect on what Scripture says, and discuss how we can respond with Christ-like character in today’s world. Expect honest conversations, practical faith applications, and a supportive community. Reading material is emailed in advance so you can come prepared to share your thoughts or simply listen and learn. Whether you’re a news junkie, a deep thinker, or just looking for a meaningful midweek connection, there’s a seat at the table for you. Contact adults@fumcgt.org for more information.

MUSIC MINISTRY At the center of the FUMC Music Ministry is worship. We offer a diverse array of opportunities for individuals of all abilities and interests. Our hope is that everyone who participates will deepen their connection with Christ and experience God’s unconditional love. Please contact Marc Profant, Director of Worship Arts at Music@fumcgt.org for more information or to get involved in our Music Ministry! Chancel Choir The Chancel Choir sings at the 8:30 AM and/or 11:10 AM worship services in the Sanctuary from September through June. The Chancel Choir also presents larger works with instrumental accompaniment during the major occasions of the church season, including Advent, Christmas, Holy Week, and Easter. All musical levels are invited. Chancel Choir rehearsals are Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:00 PM during the fall, winter, and spring. If you have thought about joining the choir for the first time or are coming back to the choir after some time away, now is a great time and we would love to have you join us in choir this season! Handbell Choir FUMC Georgetown has an amazing and talented handbell ensemble. The ensemble plays during worship at during special times of the church season in the Sanctuary from September through June. Rehearsals are Wednesdays at 5:30 PM. This talented group of ringers is awesome and has some amazing music to rehearse and share with our congregation. We are always on the lookout for new ringers to join us! Orchestra The FUMC orchestra rehearses on Sundays at 12:15 PM in the choir room immediately following the 11:10 AM service. From tubas to violins to oboes, we have a wonderful group of musicians that come together to play for worship several times throughout the music season under the skillful direction of Mick Pierce. Praise Band Our contemporary praise band, The Stirring, leads the 10:45 AM Contemporary Worship Service in the McKinney Christian Ministry Center. If you enjoy singing along with contemporary music and feel at home in a contemporary service, this group is for you! The Stirring is supported by a group of volunteers who help run the Audio/Visual side of things. If you are interested in getting involved within the contemporary service, please contact mandi@fumcgt.org.