First UMC Jackson has many diverse interest groups. Some are mission based, others highlight fellowship or common interests. Many have been around for years, evolving as times change. Others are fairly new and have begun out of the necessity for fellowship or as creative outlets. If you can't find a group that suits your needs or interests, maybe you would like to start a new one. Please contact the church office to publicize your new group idea. Groups that fall under the umbrella of United Methodist Women are denoted with (UMW).

Fellowship Based

Evening Guild (UMW)

This women's group meets at the church the second Monday of the month September - June with a meal beginning at 5:30pm followed by a speaker/program. There is a charge for the meal. Occasioanally they will take a field trip somewhere. Their special projects include providing Christmas cookies and May baskets for senior citizens and shut-ins.

Never Without A Friend

This group is a fellowship of women who meet each month on the third Thursday at 6:00pm for a relaxing evening at a different area restaurant. Reservations are not required, but assist in providing adequate seating for the group. Each person chooses from the menu and is responsible for her own expenses. Watch the bulletin, Parish Tidings or the website (News and Events page) for monthy locations, or ask to be put on the email list.

Women's Support Group

Formerly the Widows' Support Group, they provide upllifting conversation and sharing. They meet the first Tuesday of the month at 3:30pm. Non-members are welcome.

Round Table

This group has a long-standing history at First UMC Jackson. Open to men and women, they meet the third Friday of the month from September - May at 6:00pm for dinner with a speaker/program to follow. There is a charge for the meal. They are also responsible for the hanging and removal of the greens in the Sanctuary at Christmas time and the delivery of the altar flowers each Sunday to members of the congregation. They also sponsor occasional pancake breakfasts to raise money for church projects. The meetings are open to all, but reservations are requested. Please contact the church office.

Common Interest

Praise Knitters

The Knitters meet every Wednesday during the school year from 4:00 - 6:00pm, with some flexibility. They take a break during that time to enjoy the Whatawednesday dinner. Individuals work on their own knitting, crocheting or craft projects. You do not have to know how to knit or crochet to belong to this group, as they have all skill levels and help each other. This group has a strong fellowship focus. Bring your own supplies, or just come, sit and visit.

Mary Martha Quilters

The quilters welcome anyone to join them, but quilting experience is needed. This group finishes quilt tops for other people, for a fee and they donate the money to various charities. They meet on Wednesdays at 9:30am - noon, year-round with a coffe break included.

Mission Based

Friends In Mission (UMW)

This group meets at the church the first Thursday, September  - May with a luncheon at noon. There is a charge for the meal. A program following lunch explores an area of the mission field with speakers, DVDs or discussion.

Friends 'N Deed (UMW)

Providing love and outreach to homebound or semi-homebound persons is the focus of this group. The friendship of a phone call or home visit provides a gift to these individuals. Volunteer friends meet as needed for group sharing, and their visits to individuals are self-determined. A June indoor picnic rounds out the year.

Serving Church Needs

Stuffers

Stuffers meet once a month at 9:00am to prepare the church newsletter for mailing. They enjoy a time of fellowship in addition to providing this necessary task for the church. Everyone is welcome to participate. Please call the church office if you are interested.

Kitchen Volunteers

This social/service group provides help and workers for our kitchen ministries. Volunteers sign up to work as needed and at their convenience. Everyone, including men, are welcome to participate. Please contact the church office for more information.