The first service I attended at FUMCR was from a seat in the choir loft. When the doors to the sanctuary opened and I caught a glimpse of the grandness and beauty of the sanctuary, it literally took my breath away. 

I imagine many people who walk into our church for the first time have a similar experience. But the physical allure of this place isn’t why my family and I have decided to make FUMCR our church home. It’s because someone saved me a seat in choir rehearsal when I was brand new and didn’t know anyone. It’s because a Sunday school teacher made an extra effort to get to know my kids so they felt more comfortable going to a new classroom. It’s because a greeter in the balcony remembered our names and told us how happy she was to see us again. It’s because the communion servers look my kids in the eyes and tell them “Jesus loves them.” 

We’ve felt welcomed and loved by the people at this church and that’s why we want to grow and serve here.  

As FUMCR begins a Year of Service, I’m excited by the possibilities for growing deeper into our culture of kindness and service. Since joining the staff in 2018, I’ve started to understand that loving and serving others has been part of the identity of FUMCR for a very long time. I’ve learned about people that have served in positions for decades and have met people that are just starting to think about ways that they can serve others. 

This church is a place where people of any age or ability can find a way to reach out to others around them. During the Year of Service, I’m looking forward to finding ways my family and I can be part of FUMCR’s mission of “serving others with Christ.”

-Rohini Drake, FUMCR Engagement Coordinator