Church History

 

In the early 1930's, the men and women of the Brashiers Chapel community began to realize the need for a building adjacent to the cemetery in which funeral services could be held.  Donations of lumber and labor made the dream a reality in February 1934.  The funeral service for Mrs. Ella Riddle Cobb was the first to be held in the new facility.

That building stood until February of 1952, when it was destroyed in a severe storm. Once again, a new building was needed. Laying the foundation with faith, prayer, donations and dedicated people, another building began to take shape. 1956 brought the completion of the new building, fittingly named New Brashiers Chapel Church. The conference assigned Pastor Ebb Cryer, who remained until 1958.

A period of growth was experienced under the guidance of Pastor T. E. Bartlett (1962-1966). God moved greatly during this time as evidenced by the addition of over 60 new members to the congregation. God's blessings were also seen in the completion of both the Sunday school rooms and the church kitchen, as well as a new visitor's register, a new communion set and an outdoor bulletin board.

The new growth also allowed for a new parsonage. It was completed in 1965 at a cost of $20,000 and furnished with all new furniture. The committee was allotted $1,500 for the furnishings. Sadly, T.E. Bartlett and his wife, Louise, spent only one night in the new parsonage before leaving to pastor another church.

Over $4,000 was spent on improvements in 1966. The floors were refinished, carpet was laid in some areas, a padded altar rail and stage curtains were added, and the pews, choir pews, pulpit furniture and piano were replaced. Gutters made a new addition on the exterior of the building.

The parsonage was dedicated on Sunday, June 29, 1975. A note burning ceremony celebrated full payment on the parsonage note.

More improvements were made in 1985. A steeple was mounted on top of the building. The interior took on a whole new look as improvements were again made to the sanctuary and basement. Under the leadership of Pastor Tommy Gray, more new growth was experienced. God was still moving in New Brashiers Chapel Church.

January of 2001 brought more changes. Under the dedicated direction of Melissa Driver, a Praise & Worship team was formed. Growing rapidly and improving constantly, this talented team has brought new life to an old church. Other new projects include Performing Arts Team, Children's Hand Bell Choir, Bible Study for All Ages, Seniors Ministries, Clown Ministry, Children’s Voice Choir, Prayer Line and a Flute Ensemble.  In addition, a web site has recently been established at http://newbrashierschapelumc.faithweb.com/

The blessings continued with the arrival of new pastor, Sammy Hayes, in June 2001. With a youthful outlook, an open ear, a ready smile and strong leadership ability, it is obvious that God's hand is upon this man. It is equally obvious that His hand is upon New Brashiers Chapel Church.

 

PASTORS

Ebb Cryer 1956-1958J. D. Lott 1958-1960

Charles Chatham 1960-1962

T. E. Bartlett 1962-1966

W. L. (Bill) Gunn 1966-1968

Jerry Croft 1968-1969

Charles Miller 1969-1971

Kenneth Weldon 1971-1973

Myron & Ruth Morris 1973-1975

Vernon Blakey 1975-1976

Gerald Eddleman 1976-1977

James Godbey 1977-1978

Ervin Fuller 1978-1980

William H. (Bill) Rose 1980-1983

Jimmy Howard 1983-1985

Tommy Gray 1985-1991

Michael H. Griggs 1991-1992

Roy Bryant 1992-1996

Woodrow Franklin 1996-1999

Arthur J. Hudson June, 1999-Dec.1999

Jerre Rhoades Jan. 2000-June2000

Dwight NeSmith 2000-2001

Sammy Hayes, current pastor 2001-