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July 2, 2026
Happy Fourth of July weekend!
On July 4, 2026, the United States will commemorate and celebrate its 250th birthday, a milestone known as the Semi quincentennial. While this is not a word that “rolls off the tongue,” it marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
As we gather with family and friends, fire up the grills, sing, and watch the fireworks light up the sky in celebration of this historic day, let us pause to give thanks for those who have served and serve along with the families who support them in honoring and protecting the freedoms we enjoy.
As United Methodists, we believe in and live out a faith that is filled with grace and active in the world, as we strive to love God and neighbor in all that we do. We look back and thank God for immense blessings of freedom and community. As we look forward, we humbly pray for wisdom, justice, and peace for this land and for all people, that all may grow in love, peace, and kindness.
As Christians, we are grateful for and give thanks to God, who holds the past, the present, and the future. We give thanks for God’s faithful generosity and bountiful blessings and our ultimate freedom through Jesus Christ. May our celebrations be reflections of that deep, unending joy.
“Of Thee We Sing” – Start your holiday weekend off with a special concert presented by the Belin Memorial Chancel Choir TONIGHT at 7 PM in the Sanctuary. Wear your red, white, and blue and sing along to beloved patriotic favorites.
Church Offices Closed tomorrow, Friday, July 3 in observance of July 4.
Starting Point – a casual gathering to learn more about the church and membership is scheduled for Sunday, July 12 at 10 AM in Room 13 in the Family Life Center.
Thank you for your patience as the trustees work to refurbish The Sanctuary.
Beginning July 12, the worship schedule will be:
· 8:45 AM - Modern Service - in The Harbor
· 11 AM - Traditional Service - in the Family Life Center
· Both services will be livestreamed.
Book Talk & Signing Event with UMCSC Resident Bishop Leonard E. Fairley for his memoir, Silver Linings (Advocate Press) – Monday, July 20 at 7:30 PM in the gym in the Family Life Center. Books will be available for purchase, $25 (cash, check, credit card). Hosted by Belin Memorial UMC.
School Supplies Collection begins this Sunday, July 5 through July 31. Collection bins are available in the Family Life Center. Help make the beginning of the new school year more exciting through supplying necessary materials for enhanced learning. Supplies will be distributed to local schools. For more information, please contact, Kim Oakley, Director of Children’s Ministry (kimo@belinumc.org; 843.357.5194).
Creekfront Salkehatchie opens at Belin Memorial on Sunday, July 19 to renovate four homes in the community. One way to support this ministry and those who will be serving on sites is through the donation of 12 oz. bottles of Gatorade and bottled water. Donations may be dropped off at the Family Life Center or church office.
VBS – THANK YOU - Thank you for the incredible help and support during VBS! We truly could not have made this week so special and impactful for the children (and adults) without your time and dedication. Because of your help, many children learned about “The Nature of God” and made wonderful memories! Some of the materials and decorations have been passed on to other churches so that the Good News continues to be shared. Thank you for your generosity and response to The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20)!
Children’s Book Collection – Thank you for contributing over 350 books during VBS to support teaching and coaching reading skills for Horry County students. THANK YOU for your generous response. The books were distributed in support of the Summer Reading Camp at Socastee Elementary and The Shepherd’s Table summer food program in Conway. Enjoy a picture of the collection results HERE.
From the Heritage Team – Belin Memorial maintains a portion of the church history through loose leaf binders housed in the Library in the Family Life Center. A few of the binders are missing; and, while they are enjoyable, to keep the historical record as complete as possible, it would be most helpful to have them returned through the FLC Office.
Brewing at Belin – meets each Thursday in Room 12 in the Family Life Center from 9 AM – 10:30 AM. Come enjoy free cups of coffee during a casual and relaxed time of fellowship, conversation, and connection.
Celebrating the Retirement of Wendy Zulanch, who served Belin Memorial faithfully for 18 years. At the close of June, Wendy entered a new life chapter through a well-deserved time of retirement. We are grateful for her service, support, and dedication. After a delightful celebration with Wendy and the staff to recognize her significant service, Cindy Mullins moved into the position as Director of the Family Life Center. For information regarding the Family Life Center, please now direct inquiries to and contact Cindy Mullins (cindym@belinumc.org; 843.357.5176).
Shalom,
Sandra
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