Four inspiring stories were shared during the 2026 Tennessee-Western Kentucky Annual Conference, each highlighting how God continues to rekindle gifts, strengthen communities, and guide faithful ministry.
McCabe Temple United Methodist Church – Martin, Tennessee
Presented by William Brent, Lay Leader, McCabe Temple UMC
William Brent shared McCabe Temple’s journey of resilience, renewal, and faithfulness following the unexpected loss of its pastor in January 2025. Through seasons of grief, perseverance, provision, and renewal, the congregation remained united through the leadership of dedicated laity, the support of clergy, and a deep trust in God.
The church’s story illustrated:
- How God’s power was revealed through outreach, community partnerships, and youth ministry
- How God’s love was reflected through worship, discipleship, and leadership development
- How God’s gift of a sound mind guided faithful decision-making and organizational growth
McCabe Temple’s testimony reminded those gathered that God remains present and faithful through every season of ministry.
Russell Casteel – A Call to Lay Ministry
Presented by Russell Casteel, Site Director at Cedar Crest Camp and Executive Director of Conference Camp and Retreat Ministry
Russell Casteel shared a powerful witness about discerning God’s call and embracing his vocation as a lay leader in camp and retreat ministry. Although he once envisioned serving as an ordained elder or professor, God repeatedly led him in a different direction. After hearing a clear call to ministry during his college years, Russell entered seminary and began the ordination process. At the same time, he found himself unexpectedly drawn to camp ministry, where he witnessed young people discovering their gifts, faith, and sense of belonging.
As he wrestled with questions about his future, Russell recalled the guidance of a mentor who reminded him that the ministry of the laity is not “less than” ordained ministry. Rather, laypeople are called to educate the church, build community, and work alongside clergy to advance God’s justice, mercy, and mission. This insight helped him embrace his calling and step fully into camp and retreat ministry.
Drawing on nearly twenty years of service, Russell described camping ministries as sacred spaces where people are welcomed, nurtured, and encouraged to explore God’s call on their lives. His testimony challenged the church to reclaim and celebrate the vital role of the laity, reminding the Annual Conference that God’s call is faithful and that disciples are invited to respond, “Where and when, Lord?” rather than “Why?”
Church Grove United Methodist Church – Benton, Kentucky
Presented by Rev. Samantha Hall, Pastor, Church Grove UMC
Church Grove United Methodist Church shared a powerful story of faithful discernment. After 165 years of ministry, the congregation faced declining membership and limited capacity for future ministry. Rather than exhausting its remaining resources, members prayerfully chose to close the church building while investing their assets in ministries and organizations that would continue serving the community.
Church Grove transformed a season of grief into a lasting legacy of generosity and mission through gifts totaling $80,000. The church provided support to the Murray State Wesley Foundation, neighboring United Methodist churches, Third Place Ministries, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, and the Marshall County Exceptional School. Their witness demonstrated how the Holy Spirit can rekindle purpose and extend a congregation’s impact far beyond the life of a local church.
Elder’s Chapel UMC and Scott’s Chapel UMC – A Partnership in Feeding Neighbors
Presented by Rev. Virginia Yeargins, Pastor, Scott’s Chapel UMC, and Sheila Howse, Member of Elder’s Chapel UMC
Virginia Yeargins and Sheila Howse shared how Elder’s Chapel United Methodist Church in Smyrna and Scott’s Chapel United Methodist Church in Shelbyville faithfully responded to hunger in their communities through partnership, discernment, and service. What began as a small effort to support seniors struggling to afford both food and medicine grew into a decade-long ministry at Elder’s Chapel that now serves approximately 140 families each month.
Inspired by that example and guided by prayer, Scott’s Chapel launched its own food ministry, serving about 100 families monthly for the past six years. Together, the congregations demonstrated the strength of connectional ministry by sharing resources, volunteers, knowledge, and encouragement.
This story highlighted that ministry is not about competition or numbers, but about hospitality, compassion, and faithfully answering God’s call to care for neighbors in need. Through collaboration and trust in God’s guidance, both churches multiplied their impact and offered a powerful witness to the strength of working together in ministry.
Reported by Hannah Ensley, TWK Communications Intern
