Hebron UMC in Roper, NC was the recipient of the 2024 Key Taylor Award. This award is given annually out of an endowment established by Rev. Key Taylor in 1958 to honor the mission work of rural churches faithfully serving their communities. The award was presented to Rev. Karen Pruette, pastor of the Albemarle Charge (which includes Pleasant Grove UMC and Mackeys UMC), on June 23, 2024, by Rev. Jaye White, outgoing NC Conference Director of Outreach Ministry. The award included a check for $1,567.00.
Rev. Pruette nominated Hebron writing, “Hebron has paid its apportionments in full for many years now. In addition, they have supported mission causes such as Rise Against Hunger, the Methodist Home for Children, and our local food pantry.” The Charge works together to make disciples, and the United Women in Faith have contributed funds to build a blessing box to distribute food, hygiene items, and winter clothing. They also plan to put up a community prayer wall for everyone to share concerns and praises.
The NC Conference Mission Team celebrates the ministry of all rural churches and was happy to give mini-grants in the amount of $500 to the other award applicants this year. Congratulations to Plymouth UMC, Fair Haven UMC, and Sharon UMC, all in the Beacon District!