Wellsboro United Methodist Church Embraces History of Resilience and Commitment to Community

By Liz Lennox, Director of Communications

Nestled on a corner in one of the most picturesque towns in Pennsylvania, The United Methodist Church of Wellsboro stands not just as a place of worship, but as a hub of community activity. This congregation is deeply proud of their history, while exemplifying what it means to be United Methodist in their commitment to community outreach.

Embracing a History of Resilience

The church has its roots in the tradition of circuit riding preachers in the Genesee Conference, which was organized in 1810. Incorporated in 1834 as The Methodist Episcopal Church in Wellsborough, the church’s long history reflects an ingrained spirit of faith and resilience. The first church building, described as a modest structure, was dedicated May 21, 1842, but burned to the ground in 1867. A second building was dedicated in 1869 but faced structural issues, leading to construction of the current building in 1905.

The church has developed a small but rich history center with artifacts from over the years. Some of the items include written narratives, photographs, directories, small bibles carried by soldiers, books, and so much more.

During a tour of the history center, Lay Leader Lori Albin brought attention to an emblem of the church’s historical resilience unearthed during the recent COVID-19 pandemic—a quilt from the 1918 influenza pandemic adorned with the signatures of congregation members of that era. This discovery inspired the creation of a companion signature quilt with signatures of the current members, demonstrating an abiding faith that has endured despite contemporary challenges. These quilts now hang on opposite walls of the church’s rotunda, and the symbolic nature bridges the past and present while serving as powerful testaments to the congregation’s lasting resilience and unity.

This quilt was created after the 1918 influenza pandemic featuring signatures of the church members.

This quilt was created after the recent COVID 19 pandemic featuring signatures of the church members.

A Commitment to the Community

The United Methodist Church of Wellsboro’s commitment to the community is evident in its long list of outreach programs. It houses the Wellsboro Area Food Pantry and hosts significant community groups like Narcotics and Alcoholics Anonymous, the Girl Scouts, and groups supporting those who are survivors of suicide or domestic violence. These programs underscore the church’s role as a crucial support system in Tioga County and acts as a place where people can feel safe to share their innermost vulnerabilities. 

It also provides space for community-oriented events and workshops, ranging from Bible studies to Tai Chi classes open to the public.

One of the church’s unique outreach initiatives provides love and support to people in the community. They do this by regularly placing teddy bears around town, adorned with tags printed by the congregation, that offer a word of hope and comfort. Other individuals hand-knit shawls for those who have suffered a loss or are battling an illness. These comfort items are blessed and prayed over before they are given out, and while those involved in these ministries don’t often see the impact of their labor because of the anonymous nature, they have on occasion received heartfelt gratitude from recipients across the community.

During important events in the community, such as the annual “Dickens of a Christmas” celebration, Wellsboro UMC throws open its doors and welcomes hundreds of visitors for musical performances and hospitality. 

When jokingly asked how the congregation has the time and energy for their vast outreach efforts, a small group of laity laughed but emphasized that it takes a lot of people working together. 

Pastor Elizabeth Jackson prays over new members.

A Diverse and Growing Family

The congregation prides itself on its congregational makeup, representing people of all ages, life experiences, and socioeconomic backgrounds; doctors and farmers, young families and long-time members, those confident in their faith and those still exploring. The congregation continues to see growth and regularly welcomes new members into their faith family. 

“What makes your church special?” the group was asked. They gave nearly identical responses to this question: their identity as a welcoming community is what makes them special. 

The United Methodist Church of Wellsboro represents more than just a place of worship; it is an active center for hope, unity, and outreach.  This church is not just a building; it’s a thriving, living community dedicated to serving and inspiring. The doors remain open, welcoming anyone seeking solace, support, or a chance to give back.

How Do You Like Your Coffee?

Doug Hoy, SUSUMC Disaster Response Coordinator

In the fall of 2020, as I was delivering hand sanitizer around the Conference, I found myself listening to a podcast about doing ministry and mission. The presenter compared ministries of the church to coffee. As a coffee drinker myself, I listened closely as he explained there are many kinds of coffee: roasted, blended, cappuccino, espresso, mocha, and traditional— the list went on and on. He pointed out that the selection of a coffee is followed by the method by which it is prepared — brewed, filtered, poured over, French pressed, cold brewed, or percolated. Once brewed, some prefer to drink it directly without any enhancements, while others chose to mask the “bitter” taste with sugar, milk, or a flavored creamer. And, adding to the story, he noted that some enjoy a nice cup of “Joe” to start their morning, while others enjoy it throughout the day or while relaxing after the evening meal.

As the presenter continued, he explained that community ministry is very similar. There are many different kinds of ministry in the church. Congregations then develop, prepare, and offer those ministries based on the preferences found within their communities, offering them at the convenience of those who will benefit the most. As I listened, I was reminded of a church I attended for several years that operated a coffee shop. We literally used coffee to reach the community. It provided us with a platform to connect and share the love of Christ with people who would otherwise never set foot in a church building.

Scripture tells us “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them.  There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work” (1 Corinthians 12:4-6).

Grace UMC in Lemoyne recently opened its doors to host a community vaccination site. Pastor Jason Schwartzman explained, “Our church is in a great location to meet this need because we are very close to Route 83, near a local bus stop, and right in the middle of our community.” 

After multiple e-mails with state officials, they were partnered with a pharmacy and set up a date. They opened their doors shortly after services on Sunday, June 27, and Schwartzman waited outside to greet those who came for their vaccination.

“From the start of the pandemic, Grace has been looking for ways to serve,” Schwartzman said. “This was a great way to reach our community and let them know we care. And, it gives us an opportunity to show and share the love of Christ.”

It is just one of many examples of the church using its gifts in service. You have been faithful stewards and used the gifts God gave you to engage others. You shared the love of Christ in your communities. Over the past 18 months, the people of the Susquehanna Conference have served their “coffee” and continued to “brew” for Christ. You opened your churches to support on-line and home-school learning. You supported students as they continued to pursue the arts. You fed essential workers on the pandemic front lines. You made and delivered blessing boxes filled with cookies. And, you volunteered your time and resources to support COVID-19 vaccinations sites.

As you move forward in mission and ministry, serving in your communities, continue to look for the kind of “coffee” your community needs. Then, put your love into action by brewing and serving it. “Never be lacking in zeal, keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need” (Romans 12:11-13). Practice “caffeinated” zeal and hospitality.

Visit the Disaster Response website: www.susmb.org/drm

Loving Their Neighbors

Dalton and Factoryville United Methodist church friends baked cookies (30 people), packaged them (6 people) and delivered them on Valentine’s Day (8 other people) to local fire companies, police, EMTs, county dispatchers, local governments, medical caregivers, community seniors and homebound friends – to thank them for all they do. Their kindness shared God’s love throughout their community!