Dear Friends of Grace,
For over
a century, Grace Methodist Church has served God, its members, and the
community—both local and universal. She has a rich history of influencing the
lives of others far and wide. Many saints, disguised as ordinary people, have
led this congregation in its quest to spread the Gospel and to act as God
directs His followers. And many of these saints have delighted fellow church
members over the years by relating stories of times gone by in the life of Grace
Church. Sadly, many of those who held wonderful memories of Grace have gone on
to be with the Lord. Unfortunately until now, this history that makes our church
so unique has gone unchronicled in written form.
However, the Lord works in marvelous ways. When
appointed to serve as Church Historian for Grace Church, Mr. Jack Gantt took on
the project to preserve and record the wonderful history of our church. Aided by
several members of Grace, the Pickens community, and others, Jack has compiled
the book, Grace United Methodist Church, Serving God and the Pickens
Community Since 1868.
The
History of Grace has been a labor of
love. Untold hundreds of hours of research, drafting, and editing have gone into
its preparation. While the book does record a history, it certainly is not dry.
Filled with lists, anecdotes, and stories that will for many of us evoke
memories of times spent in Sunday School, circle meetings, or Celebration
services, it will bring smiles to the reader as he or she remembers a special
event or special person that touched a life in an extraordinary way. Over 400
pictures and drawings help to make this book a treasure. The sermon on the
church's stained glass windows is a blessing in itself.
It is with pleasure and pride that Grace United Methodist Church offers Grace United Methodist Church, Serving God and the Pickens Community Since 1868, for purchase. Copies are now available.
The
History of Grace will make a
meaningful gift for your family and friends. Limited copies have been being printed.
Please place your order now. We are sure that anyone who has a connection with
Grace Church, Pickens, or Methodism in general will find Jack's work a real
blessing.
The above picture was taken in the 'new' church in 1949 . Edwina Garrett married Bucky Crane with Evans Boozer and Hawley Lynn presiding. Notice the back paneling (below the stain glass window) is covered with white sheets -as is the flooring- and draped with greenery. This was the last time this was allowed in the new sanctuary. The white sheets and greenery were customarily done by florists for weddings to cover the bead board walls. Mozelle Cole decorated the sanctuary for this occasion. No carpet had been installed at this time.
Editor's note:
This book now has even more special meaning since we lost Jack to cancer in 2007.