Memorials

Williamsville United Methodsit Church has a Memorial Team that is reponsible for determining the appropriate use of gifts and donations to the Memorial Fund. This team carefully considers the donors’ wishes and the best interest of the church and congregation when planning and overseeing purchases made with the Memorial Fund. New memorial items are publicly dedicated once a year during a special ceremony held on All Saints' Sunday.

Selecting Memorials

It has been my honor to serve as chairperson of the Memorial Committee for several years, along with a loyal group of committee members for the same period. Together with a pastor, we meet regularly to discuss church needs and share any input received from the congregation about selecting mew memorial purchases. Memorial gifts to WUMC enable us to console each other at the loss of our loved ones and affirm our belief in the goodness of God and the church during a time of sorrow. These gifts also enable us to create something positive out of our loss.

At the time of funeral and memorial services, cards for contributions to the WUMC Memorial Fund are made available. Gifts we receive are acknowledged promptly with a grateful note to the donor. Sometimes we receive a call from a relative of the deceased asking for suggestions on what WUMC feels would be a fitting tribute to honor their loved one.

Listed below are examples of purchases approved by the Memorial Committee over the last few years using the thoughtful memorial gifts received by WUMC:

· Beautiful four-sided mobile bookcase that can be secured when not in use. This bookcase is used for educational materials and books appropriate for early grades.

· Refurbished the church library to create an attractive room for resources and a comfortable meeting area

· Portable tables and chairs that are used in various church settings

· Armless chairs that are perfect for instrumentalists in the coming holiday season and other occasions

· Additional bells for the Memorial Handbell Choir

· Colorful, seasonal banners

· Restoration of some frames and mats for religious photography or prints

· Improved capacity for the sanctuary sound system

· A substantial pledge to help replace the church sign facing Main Street

Currently, the Memorial Committee is proud to share new additions in 2009. Each idea was presented and researched before receiving an affirmative vote to be purchased by the Memorial Committee.

· Replaced coffee urns

· Added meaningful posters in the church

· Purchased a new computer and projector that are both in regular use

We are also grateful to Rev. Gail Lewis for her thoughtful gift of a six-piece communion set of matched pottery that is utilized each week at the altar.

If anyone has questions regarding the purpose of the Memorial Committee or suggestions for future consideration, kindly call me at home.

Sally C. Jost
Memorial Committee Chair