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REV. DON HANSHEW, SENIOR PASTOR
REV. RACHEL COLLINS, PASTOR OF DISCIPLESHIP
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27 Lives, One Powerful Step Toward God
This past Tuesday night was a powerful and encouraging moment for our Celebrate Recovery community as twenty-seven individuals made the decision to pick up a blue chip. Each blue chip represents far more than a simple token. It marks a life-changing decision to turn away from old patterns and begin a new journey of healing, hope, and restoration through a closer relationship with God.
The significance of this moment is beautifully captured in James 4:8, which reminds us, “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.” Every person who stepped forward to receive a blue chip took that first intentional step toward God. In response to that step, we trust in His promise that He meets us with grace, mercy, and love. This is the foundation of recovery, not striving alone, but moving toward a God who is already reaching toward us.
This truth also reflects what John Wesley taught about prevenient grace, the grace that goes before us. Wesley believed that before we ever take a step toward God, God is already at work in our lives, drawing us, inviting us, and giving us the ability to respond. As Wesley described it, God’s grace is present in the very first desire to turn toward Him. In other words, even the decision to pick up a blue chip is not made alone, it is a response to God already reaching out.
For many, making this decision requires courage, humility, and faith. It means acknowledging the need for change and believing that God can do what we cannot do on our own. This week on Tuesday night, twenty-seven individuals demonstrated that kind of courage. Their willingness to step forward is a testimony to the work God is already beginning in their lives.
We celebrate each of these individuals and the decisions they made. Moments like this remind us that recovery is possible and that transformation begins with a single step of obedience and trust. As a church and recovery community, we are honored to walk alongside them, offering support, encouragement, and the hope found in Christ.
This is what recovery looks like; lives being changed, hearts turning toward God, and people discovering that when they draw near to Him, He faithfully draws near to them.
In View of God’s Mercy,
Seth Charles
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This June, we're doing something a little different. We want to know the songs of faith that have shaped you, moved you, or stayed with you through the years. Starting this Sunday, all four of our worship services will have a chance to vote on their favorite hymns. The songs with the most love behind them will inspire a brand new sermon series, with Pastor Don and Pastor Rachel digging into the history and meaning behind each one.
There's actually a word for what we learn through the songs we sing together: hymnody. And we think it's worth a few sermons.
Dust off your hymnal, flip through your Spotify playlist, and start thinking about the songs that matter most to you. Your vote shapes what we preach.
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Second Sunday Bible Study
Easter and Evidence
April 12 at 9:45 a.m. | Wesley Hall
Easter is central to the Christian faith, but why do we believe it actually happened? This Second Sunday Bible Study will explore the historical foundations of the resurrection and help us think clearly about faith, doubt, and hope. Whether you have questions, want a stronger foundation, or simply want to learn, this class will offer a thoughtful and approachable place to begin. Facilitated by Rev. Don Hanshew.
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Growth & Connection Discipleship Class Room 138 | April 12-May 17
Beginning this Sunday, join a six-week class examining personality, communication, and relationships. No pressure. No perfect people. Just growth. Not a church member? You're welcome. New to Bible study? You're welcome. Don't have it all figured out? Neither do we!
The book I Said This...You Heard That by Kathleen Edelman is the basis for this class to help people improve communication by understanding how their temperament (or "wiring") affects how they speak and how others hear them. No registration necessary. Just show up! Learn more on the FCUMC website.
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Fountain City Fellowship on Wednesday Nights
Our fellowship meal and discipleship classes bring meaningful opportunities for children, youth, and adults - all in one evening. This semester offers a rich variety of ways to learn, grow, and connect, along with a tasty, shared meal.
Join the 5:30 p.m. dinner, followed by classes at 6:30 p.m. Whether you're coming for the food, the fellowship, or the chance to deepen your faith, there is a place for you. Meals are $5 per adult, and children 18 & under eat free.
April 15 Menu: Breakfast for Dinner! Sandra Hatcher’s Egg Bake (recipe by Debby Dykeman) Meal Registration >>
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Looking for a way to bless the church above and beyond your normal giving? We are in need of Get Well, Sympathy and Thank You Greeting Cards. Please drop them off in the church office. Thank you!
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Interested in serving as a Shepherd at Fountain City United Methodist Church? Come to Shepherd Training which will equip you to help create a safe, welcoming, and Christ-centered environment by guiding guests, responding to needs, and supporting the flow of services. Whether you’re new or currently serving, this is a great opportunity to grow, connect, and step into this important ministry role. Lunch will be provided. Come be part of helping others feel seen, safe, and welcomed!
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For decades, Holston Conference has made a significant impact on children in Liberia and Zimbabwe through Hands-on-Mission kits.
This year, we continue the special tradition but with a new twist. FCUMC will assemble kits for children in Liberia, however, we will also provide $5 virtual kits to Zimbabwe. We encourage Sunday school classes, small groups and individuals to participate in this special mission of the Holston Conference. The deadline to turn in buckets and checks to the church office is May 2. For details and the bucket supply list, please visit our website.
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Fountain City UMC's Grow Group
We appreciate everyone who came out to mulch! There will be many more opportunities to serve as the seasons change. If you would like to join the Grow Group, email Prudence Spencer or Nancy Nolen!
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Camp Wesley Woods Golf Tournament | Monday, April 27
To Benefit the Camp Wesley Woods Scholarship Program
Summer Camp can be expensive for some families, but Camp Wesley Woods believes every child should have the opportunity to experience summer camp. The Scholarship Program is a need-based program designed to make a session at Camp Wesley Woods available to every child. By participating in the 22nd Annual Camp Wesley Woods Golf Tournament, you're helping children in East Tennessee experience the joy of Camp Wesley Woods. For more information on sponsorship and tournament details, please visit the Camp Wesley Woods website.
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Blessing Box Needs:
- Chef boyardee products
- Juice boxes
- Snack crackers (not saltines)
- Cereal
- Toothpaste
Thank you for all the amazing meal packs and hygiene bags! So many anonymous givers, so greatly appreciated!
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Connect With One Tap
See the small sticker on the chair or pew in front of you? Just tap it with your phone and you'll instantly have access to online giving, our calendar, events, sign-ups, and more. No app, no download, no QR code to scan. It takes about two seconds and works on any smartphone. Whether you're new to Fountain City UMC or have been here for years, this is an easy way to stay connected to everything happening in our church. Give it a try!
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FOUNTAIN KIDS & FOUNTAIN LITTLES
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Fountain Kids Weekday Schedule
• CR Fountain Kids (5th grade and under) | Tuesday Nights from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
• Kids Club | Wednesday Nights at 6:30 p.m.
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Wacky Wednesday Summer Day Camps at Fountain City UMC
Fountain Kids Summer Day Camps offer opportunities for kids to get active, build friendships and explore Bible stories with their Fountain Kids friends. With three themed Wacky Wednesdays, your kiddos will enjoy this time to engage in something they already love or find new interests! Make plans now to join the summer fun! Register for each day camp on our website!
June 10 | Sportmania
Lots of sports fun with basketball drills & competitions, a Bible lesson, lunch, & a trip to Topgolf!
June 17 | Cooking Class, Picnic and Sky Zone
Come to a cooking class with a lesson about food in the Bible led by FCUMC’s amazing Chef Teshia, followed by a field trip to Beardsley Farm with sack lunches for a picnic. Next, we will travel to Sky Zone Trampoline Park. What a fun day!
June 24 | Sportalooza
Let’s play basketball. Let’s play pickleball. Fun and run! Join in for a Bible animal lesson, followed by an early lunch before departing for Pigeon Forge to ride go carts, grab some ice cream and have more fun!
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Rainforest Falls VBS
July 20-23 | 6:00–8:15 p.m.
Registration is Open!
Step through the mist into Rainforest Falls, overflowing with wild waterfalls, towering trees, and colorful creatures. Beneath a canopy of chattering birds and howling monkeys, kids plunge into a lifelong adventure of discovering the nature of God. They’ll explore what it means to be rooted in a relationship with God, their creator, a safe place in life’s storms. Join Fountain Kids for Rainforest Falls Vacation Bible School! Register >>
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Fountain Littles and Fountain Kids have a special prayer request
Our numbers are growing and we are loving it and would love to see more! We hear comments from parents that kids love it here, they love the leaders, they ask to come here and they do not want to leave. And hey, we have room for more!
Our request is for prayer. Our request is not for money because God will honor our work and bless us with what we need. Our request is simple. As our leaders and small group workers teach about the life, love and sacrifice of Jesus, we ask that our church comes together and prays that God will send us more children.
We are asking that you stop at either 9 a.m. and/or 9 p.m. and pray that God moves in the hearts of grandparents, parents, aunts and uncles to see our church and the love and resources we have for children. Jesus said, let the children come. Fountain Kids says we are ready. Let more and more children come.
Miss Donna
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FCUMC Youth Late-Nighter Is Tonight!
We will play individual and group games with lots of prizes, and most importantly-have fun! The cost is $15 per student, which covers food and games. If a FCUMC Youth Group student brings a friend, both will receive a $5 discount on their registration when they sign up together! This event is open to all students grades 6-12. If cost is a concern or you have other questions, please contact Matt Randle.
Register >>
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Young At Heart Bible Study | April 16 | 10 a.m. in Room 138
Join the Young At Heart Group on April 16 for a Bible study. To prepare, please check out these Bible passages and reflection questions.
Lunch Bunch | Tomato Head | April 16 | 11:30 a.m.
The Lunch Bunch is all about good food and good company! We gather on the third Thursday each month to enjoy a meal together while exploring local spots. For April, we’re heading to Tomato Head on Market Square. Please consider carpooling or riding the bus, which will leave at 11:05 a.m. from the church. The Lunch Bunch is sponsored by the Young at Heart Group, and all are welcome. Come join in as we share a meal, laughter, and time together around the table!
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The Singers and Seniors ride again! On Saturday, May 9, the Chancel Choir and senior adults will take a coach bus to the Barter Theatre in Abingdon, VA. We will depart at 10 a.m. and return immediately following the show at approximately 6:30/7:00 p.m.
After a buffet lunch at Fiddler’s restaurant, we will see Always…Patsy Cline. Curtain time is 2 p.m. The cost for transportation & show ticket is $100. Individuals will pay for lunch on site ($15 or less). Reserve your spot soon!
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COFFEE & FELLOWSHIP ON SUNDAYS AT THE WELCOME CENTER
Stop by the Welcome Center before or after worship (8:00-10:45 a.m.) and let us bless you! See you Sunday!
SUNDAY SCHEDULE
8:30 a.m. Traditional Service in the Sanctuary
9:45 a.m. Sunday Morning Discipleship
11 a.m.Traditional Service in the Sanctuary
11 a.m. The Journey Contemporary Service in the Gym
Childcare and children's ministry is provided from 8:30 a.m. through the conclusion of the 11 a.m. worship services.
FOUNTAIN KIDS SUNDAY SCHEDULE
Fountain Kids Sunday School • 9:45 a.m.
Fountain Littles Sunday School • 9:45 a.m.
Fountain Kids Bible Experience • 11 a.m.
Fountain Littles Childcare • 11 a.m.
Sunday Bulletin for 12, 2026
THE SPIRIT NEWSLETTER
Check out the April 2026 edition of The Spirit Newsletter.
CHURCH OFFICE HOURS
Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
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NEXT UP AT FCUMC
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
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April 10: FCUMC Youth Late-Nighter | 5 pm-12 am
April 12: Second Sunday Study | 9:45 a.m. | Wesley Hall
April 16: Lunch Bunch | Tomato Head | 11:30 a.m.
April 26: Shepherd's Training | 12:15 p.m. | Wesley Hall
May 9: Singers and Seniors Day Trip to Abingdon, VA
May 15: Preschool Graduation | 11 a.m. in the Sanctuary
July 20-23: Rainforest Falls VBS
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Pastor On Call
After Hours & Weekends
When you need urgent pastoral care while the church office is closed, text or call 865-689-7894 to reach the
pastor on call.
Pastor Don's email:
Pastor.Don@fountaincityumc.org
Pastor Rachel's email:
Pastor.Rachel@fountaincityumc.org
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Live-Streamed Worship Services:
11:00 a.m. The Journey Contemporary worship and
11 a.m. Traditional worship
are live-streamed on our YouTube channel. Our Tuesday night Celebrate Recovery service is live-streamed on the CR North Facebook page and available on YouTube after its conclusion.
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