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April 23, 2026
We continue to celebrate the Season of Easter known as “The Great Fifty Days,” which runs through the Day of Pentecost. During these Sundays we encounter accounts of Jesus’ post-resurrection appearances that occurred between the Resurrection and his Ascension and the ten-day waiting period for the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. It is a joyous and festive time in the liturgical year. Thank you for making it so memorable and special as we serve together to share the Good News of the Risen Christ.
Because of the faithful dedication of people and churches like you, this year Epworth Children’s Home is celebrating 130 years of serving children and families across South Carolina, providing care, guidance, and hope.
Alongside celebrating the service of Epworth Children’s Home, the Epworth community and many across the State of South Carolina and beyond continue to wrestle with profound loss following the death of the Reverend John Holler Jr. on March 27, 2026. Prior to serving as President and CEO of Epworth Children’s Home for 15 years, he pastored local churches for three decades. It was noted that he “was one of those rare leaders – pastor, mentor, advocate, and friend – whose life bore witness to the love of Christ in ways that will continue to echo across the South Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church and far beyond.” (UMCSC) Described as one who “listened well, loved deeply, and helped others see the light of Christ in themselves,” his service will continue to have a positive impact for generations to come.
Thank you for also being among those who have answered the call to follow Christ and “go” to be about making disciples of Jesus Christ, reflecting and carrying the light of Christ into the world where it continues to shine brightly.
There are many ways to engage in mission and ministry as we move through the weeks of Easter. How good it is to continue celebrating together the gift of the Resurrection of Christ.
Guest Preacher this Sunday – The Reverend Tom Pietila, Retired Elder in the South Carolina Conference of The United Methodist Church, will preach in The Sanctuary on Sunday, April 26. The Reverend Pietila is a native of Ohio, graduate of Duke Divinity School, and served several churches throughout South Carolina. He is the senior pastor with whom the Reverend Will Malambri served his first eight years of ministry.
United Methodist Men will meet this Monday, April 27 at 6 PM in the Family Life Center. The speaker will be Ricky Sapp, former linebacker in the NFL who played college football for the Clemson Tigers. For more information or to RSVP, please contact Gordon Myers at (gordonmyerspresident.belinumm@gmail.com; 843.344.4256).
Rollie Hanna Breakfast – Wednesday, April 29 at 8:30 AM in the Family Life Center. The guest speaker will be Mason Eslinger, a second-year student at Horry-Georgetown County Technical College, presenting on oyster shell recycling and building oyster reefs to support marine habitats in Murrells Inlet. There will be information on how to become involved.
Grace Circle Blessing of the Inlet Strawberry Shortcake – always a favorite. The Circle welcomes help cleaning and slicing strawberries on Friday, May 1 at 9:30 AM in the Family Life Center.
Blessing of the Inlet Preparation Team – on Friday, May 1 at 5 PM – join in the preparations by setting up tents, tables, and chairs – and more.
Blessing of the Inlet – Saturday, May 2, 9 AM – 2 PM – Complete with a FREE Family and Children’s Fun Zone. Come out and enjoy delicious food, arts and crafts by local artisans, music, and more. Mark your calendars for a wonderful day on the Inlet.
Senior Bus Trip – scheduled for Thursday, May 7 – leaving at 10 AM from the Family Life Center and returning around 3 PM. Join the group for a fun day of picking strawberries in Salters, SC, followed by a stop at Cooper’s Country Store for lunch. The bus trip is FREE. The ONLY COST is for the berries picked and lunch. For more information, please contact Mary Mallick, Director of Adult Ministries (marym@belinumc.org; 843.357.5185).
Graduate Recognition Sunday – is May 17. Please submit information for 2026 graduates no later than Monday, May 11. For more information, please contact Brandy Streett, Director of Youth Ministries (brandys@belinumc.org; 843.357.5177).
Epworth Children’s Home -
Mother’s Day Offering – Sunday, May 10 – Because of your support, Epworth continues to ensure that children, youth, and families experience hope, care, stability and opportunities to heal, grow, and build a brighter future. On behalf of these families, thank you!
“May on Millwood” – Saturday, May 30, Epworth will be celebrating the significant milestone of 130 years of service 11 AM – 2 PM at 2900 Millwood Avenue, the Columbia Campus. Thank you for being a dedicated part of this vital ministry. Reservations are not required but are preferred for food preparation. Lunch will be provided by Shealy’s BBQ and will be made available “while supplies last.” Reserve your ticket at friendsofepworth.org/may-on-millwood
Vacation Bible School – Registration is now OPEN – “Rainforest Falls” starts Monday, June 22 and runs through Thursday, June 25. Please register BEFORE June 1 to assist with planning. For more information, contact Kim Oakley, Director of Children’s Ministry at (kimo@belinumc.org; 843.357.5194).
Shalom,
Sandra
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