News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Upper Cumberland United Methodist Churches will remain closed until May 31st.
The First United Methodist Church of Cookeville Minister of Connection and Care Rob Wheeler said The Tennessee Conference of The United Methodist Church made the decision for the safety and health of the congregation.
“We are trying to be as cautious as possible for the people in our church and our community,” Wheeler said. “It is a effort for us just to be prudent based on the realities of what we are reading and what the experts are telling us to do.”
Wheeler said their online services are a success, but nothing can replace an in-person Sunday service. The First United Methodist Church of Cookeville will continue online services via Facebook and Youtube until meeting in person.
“Being around one another is a holy thing, especially in a church setting,” Wheeler said. “We certainly miss that part of our church life. We miss the fellowship. We miss the direct contact and friendships that we have.”
Upper Cumberland Methodist Churches fall under the Nashville Episcopal Area. Bill McAlilly is the Resident Bishop of the Tennessee Conference.
“If we pause services again, it is because we are trying to be safe and as smart as possible, not because we don’t trust in the love and grace of God,” Wheeler said.
