Outreach Ministries
The Missions Committee leads the congregation in its support of various local and international charities. Locally, the church provides funds, goods and volunteer labor for such organizations as:
Mt. Juliet Help Center that provides food and financial assistance to the needy.
Charis Health Center that provides medical care to low-income, uninsured individuals and families.
Brooks House, a shelter for homeless women and children.
Habitat for Humanity of Wilson County, providing low cost housing for people in substandard housing.
Community Cares, a United Methodist organization providing food, clothing, and blankets for Nashville’s street people.
Internationally we support Operation Christmas Child, Church World’s Crop Walk, and the Heifer Fund. Cook’s UMC also supports the needy through the apportionments that we donate to the United Methodist Church who then distributes the funds throughout the world.
The Nurture Committee provides fellowship, comfort and practical support to members of the church and their families. When there is illness or death in the families of church members, the Nurture Committee provides food and other care that might be needed. They also provide fellowship opportunities like the Beersheba fall retreat and church picnics to give our growing membership opportunities to become closer.
The Evangelism Committee seeks to introduce the church to our community and to give our visitors a warm welcome. Volunteers deliver cookies to first time visitors during a brief “doorstep” visit. Newcomers to the area receive a postcard from the church inviting them to attend and giving them information about the church.
The Parish Nursing Committee ministers to both the body and the soul of members of the church and the community by offering healthcare information and fitness opportunities. Those with medical problems can get assistance from the several nurses who are members of this committee. The Parish Nurse also visits those in the hospital, in nursing homes and assisted living facilities, and those recovering at home. Regular blood drives are conducted by the Red Cross. CPR and first aid certifications are offered several times during the year. Fitness activities, such as those listed below, are offered to church members and the community at a nominal charge:
Yoga – Instructor Lisa Decker has over 25 years experience leading group exercise and has practiced Yoga since 1995. She is also a Registered Nurse with a keen awareness of anatomy and physiology, body alignment and disease processes. Classes are a creative blend of meditation, physical poses, breath work and relaxation. Classes are for all levels. No experience or flexibility required. Please join us on Mondays at 9:00 am and 5:00 pm.
Tae Kwon Do – Cook’s Tae Kwon Do offers a family atmosphere for learning responsibility, sincerity, self discipline and respect. Our purpose for training is to enhance our mental and physical self. Adult classes are Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings at 7:00 pm. Cost for an individual is $25.00 per month or the whole family can come for $35.00 a month. Additional costs include AAU Membership and your uniform. Students may participate in testing to obtain belt ranking and compete in local, regional and national tournaments.
Little Dragons, an introduction to Tae Kwon Do for younger children (ages 3-7), meets on Wednesday evenings at 6:30 pm. Cost is $10.00 for one or $15.00 for the family plus AAU dues and uniform.
Body Recall – This is an exercise class geared to the almost old to the almost elderly. Open to all ages, men and women. Exercises are designed to reclaim the variety of movement and the strength that helps to make living pleasurable. Learn how to relieve aches and stiffness through proper exercise. The movements are safe, tested and possible for everyone. Come and join us for a breakthrough to a lifetime of fitness. Classes are Mondays at 9:00 am, Wednesdays at 8:30 am, and Fridays at 9:00 am.
Stephen Ministry provides support for those going through difficult times. Volunteers working as Stephen ministers receive training through the national organization and supervision from an experienced director.
The Nurture Committee provides fellowship, comfort and practical support to members of the church and their families. When there is illness or death in the families of church members, the Nurture Committee provides food and other care that might be needed. They also provide fellowship opportunities like the annual church-wide fall retreat at Beersheba Springs, church picnics and new member luncheons to give our growing membership opportunities to become closer.