Orange Circuit of UMC ‘steps up’ to help centenarian, others

By Billy Robinson

The Orange Circuit in North has been stepping up— literally—to meet some of the needs in their community.

On one occasion they built and replaced a set of very hazardous, worn out steps to a local home.

“We were next door taking down an aluminum wheel chair ramp for future use from a mobile home that was about to be moved. One of our members noticed the hazardous steps in and out of the home next door,” said the pastor of the charge, the Rev. Richard Toy. “Next week we were building two sets of steps and putting them in place.

“Our church is not just waiting for needs to come to us—we are going out and seeking mission needs and opportunities to be God’s hands and feet to everyone.”

On a separate occasion, members had the opportunity to help 100-year-old Mr. Wannamaker of Stafford Avenue in North. Wannamaker is well known around North for dressing sharply, as a World War II veteran and for riding his bicycle all over town. Recently someone purchased a battery-operated scooter for him, but he needed a ramp to get in and out of his home, as he had already fallen one time while attempting to do so.

In an hour’s time, members of North UMC had him all set to go with a ramp. Members said they were very honored to be able to serve him in Jesus’s name.

There are many opportunities to serve others in Jesus’s name every day. We simply have to open our eyes and then act upon God’s calling of service.

Robinson is North UMC trustee chair.