Ministry snapshots - Weekday works - Wilburton UMC

Holy C.O.W. (Church on Wednesday) has been the response by rural Wilburton UMC to a drop in Sunday School attendance.

"From this program we have seen an increase in growth in our youth, deepening of both youth and adults’ faith, and an effective ministry tool to invite people in our community to share their gifts with the church," stated Pastor April Coates.

About 30 youths and adults participate in the Christian education program. Classes are presented by lay leaders, clergy, and professionals from the community.

A concurrent program is offered for children, and a nursery.

"I am proud of the creativity, gifts, and initiative of our laity to teach and learn from one another, in addition to learning from their pastor," said Rev. Coates.

Life-skills classes and theological or Bible studies are offered on a rotating schedule.

Topics for the skills classes have included: Cooking on a budget, conversational Spanish, restorative justice, parenting, self-defense, financial planning, care of creation, and grief support.

Among the theological topics: Exploring the Psalms, the Lord’s Prayer, and art and theology.

Artwork produced in a Holy C.O.W. class has been used in Wilburton’s church bulletins and more.