Frequently Asked Questions

Back to top
Q. What's going on for children?

A. Under the leadership of Director of Children’s Ministries Sarah Sumner, Myers Park reaches out to children in a number of ways. Sunday School is at 9:45 a.m. each week, a time when several hundred children learn about God and the church and participate in joyful activities. Programs all year long emphasize learning and giving, from special Christmas pageants to the popular Vacation Bible School each summer. To reach Sarah, call 704-295-4814 or sarah@mpumc.org.

Back to top
Q. Who’s preaching?

A. Dr. James C. Howell, the senior pastor, delivers the sermon at the majority of services on most Sunday mornings. A graduate of Duke Divinity School, he teaches a preaching class at Duke Divinity School, is the author of several books and is considered one of the most dynamic pulpiteers in United Methodism.

Back to top
Q. How can I get involved?

A. More than 100 ministries and missions emanate from Myers Park United Methodist Church, serving our brothers and sisters in Charlotte and all over the world. Each ministry welcomes volunteers and newcomers. Opportunities are shared elsewhere on this Web site and in a Get Involved Guide available at the church, listing each ministry. Michelle Shrader is Minister of Missions and can be reached at 704-295-4816 or michelle@mpumc.org. She’s eager to share news of local ministries, mission trips and more. There are plenty of educational opportunities as well, from Sunday School classes to Disciple Bible Study. Contact Rev. Barbara Barden at 704-295-4813 or bbarden@mpumc.org.

Back to top
Q. Can I talk to somebody about my faith or a challenge I'm facing?

A. All clergy and counselors on the church staff are ready to talk with you, and help you deal with life’s inevitable challenges. Rev. Bill Roth handles much of the pastoral counseling on staff. He can be reached at 704-295-4835. You can call 704-376-8584 at any time to reach a pastor. We also have a prayer team of volunteers that prays for the needs of others.

Back to top
Q. What’s available for Young Single And Married Adults?

A. Ryan Blalock, Director of Young Adult Ministries, reports that there are many ways for young singles to get involved, from service opportunities and fellowship gatherings to small group studies and Sunday School. Living It, an informal gathering for young adults in their 20s, meets for dinner and discussion/study on Sundays from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. in Room 103 in the Parish Life Building. Short-term, small-group studies are formed several times a year on various topics. Local service projects and mission trips are planned throughout the year. For more, contact Ryan Blalock at 704-851-1115 or rblalock@mpumc.org.

Weekly Sunday Groups:
Young Adult Class, 9:45 a.m., Youth Building Room 259 (for singles and couples, 20s and 30s).
Samaritan Class, 9:45 a.m., Parish Life Building Room 108; (for young couples).
Living It, 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., Parish Life Building Room 103/104; (dinner, discussion for 20-somethings).
Women’s Book Study, 5:00 p.m.

Monthly Opportunities:
Young Adult Lunch, third Sunday of each month.
Young Couples Fellowship Dinner, second Wednesday of each month.

For information on upcoming retreats, service opportunities and mission trips, short-term small group book studies, and social events, go to: www.mpumc.org/youngadults or contact Ryan Blalock at 704-851-1115 or rblalock@mpumc.org.

Back to top
Q. What about getting married?

A. Staff member Rebecca Kerley is glad to talk with you about your wedding plans, and the magnificent venue of the Sanctuary. Reach her at 704-295-4812 or rebecca@mpumc.org.  Volunteer wedding planners are here to serve you as well.

Back to top
Q. What’s available at the church for youth?

A. During the school year, Director of Youth Missions and Outreach Lauren Taylor reports, you’ll find youth meeting Sunday mornings for Sunday School, Sunday evenings for fellowship and other nights of the week in homes and at the church for small groups and Bible studies. Youth participate in worship by serving as acolytes and singing in the Youth Choir. They also volunteer to tutor children from the South Tryon community through Freedom School CHAMP (Children Achieving Maximum Potential). During the summer, we add a variety of week-long mission trips to communities near and far. To get involved, contact Lauren Taylor at 704-295-4832 or lauren@mpumc.org.