Reflecting on Written with Love

WUMC partners with UMO to launch year-long “Written with Love” project

Westminster United Methodist Church and the University of Mount Olive have launched a year-long “Written With Love” project designed to introduce a transformative approach to spiritual engagement.

Funded by the Eli Lilly Corporation, the program includes God's vision for inter-generational learning through dinner gatherings, creative thought-provoking programming, and leadership. It is an opportunity for pre-school families to deepen their spiritual connection and to build Christ-centered homes.

The Rev. Shannon Marie Berry, WWL director, started WUMC's journey Oct. 10, 2024, in the church fellowship hall.

The program aims to inspire new friendships in churches, preschools, and the community. The United Methodist Connection introduced WUMC to Berry and the Lilly Endowment.

“We thank our United Methodist Connection and the endowment through UMO for their journey,” said Dennis Peay, WUMC  pastor.

The program met for a short Advent series in December. We began the new year with January and February monthly gatherings on Wednesdays before launcing a six-week Lenten series that began on Ash Wednesday.  

“Being part of the 'Written With Love Project' has been special, and I love the closeness it has brought with my fellow church members,” said local coordinator, Blair Hamilton. “Each week, sharing a warm meal with both familiar faces and new ones creates a sense of belonging. Inviting those around our table into our life for the story time portion has allowed me to get to know stories about them that likely wouldn't come up in everyday conversation.

“Its during those moments, when we're sharing stories and faith together, that I feel like we really start to see each other,” she added. “We've laughed, cried and learned so much about the beautiful hearts around our table. It's been a powerful reminder that God works through connection; through community; and through the simple act of being present with one another.”     

Its format, which lasts from 5:30-7:00 pm, includes a free dinner catered by local restaurants; grounding exercises and exploring the senses to help participants relieve tension and induce calm; heartwarming fellowship and crafts; meaningful conversation or telling stories encouraged by the leader's prompts; practical insight; and time for reflection and healing. 

“A delicious meal and warm hospitality is always a good start,” said Nancy Saunders, retired journalist.

“Participating in this program has helped me reconnect with myself in ways I did not expect,” she continued. “The leader's style of sharing her own stories made it easier to dig into my memories and share in my small group around our table.”

Saunders said she found a connection with them in ways that were “surprising and gratifying, and rediscovered past memories that were joyful and meaningful” to boost her spirit for the days ahead.    

Karyl Willis, a fifth-grade teacher at Banks School in Kinston, said,“The 'Written with Love' project has given me strategies I can use, not just with my family but also with my students. I have tried several of the resiliency techniques with my students and can't wait to try the 'humming' one soon!”   

She loves the story prompts, too.

"This time has also given me the opportunity to meet more members of our church, and also talk with those who are new,” she added, noting that two students from her school also attend the program.

“I make it a point to speak to them when I see them, building relationships,” Willis said.     

Hollie Ayers, also a Banks School teacher, concurred.

“'Written with Love' has helped us put into practice some really nice things,”  she said. “We have learned strategies to use within our home with our toddler and each other, as husband and wife, as well as with our children at school.”

The project will continue at Westminster through 2025. It is open to all interested persons.  

Westminster's goal is to encourage participation. Activities are designed to be easy and engaging, and the program provides ideas participants can take home to grow their faith for all ages.

For more information, contact Blair Hamilton at (252) 549-4303 or blair.hamilton@westminsterumc.net.

Gratitude to Mary Ellison Turner, a longtime resident of Kinston and member of Westminster, who has a passion for writing and was a journalist with the Free Press, for writing this post.

Our last Spring Written with Love Gathering will be on Wednesday, May 14. WWL will return after a summer hiatus. You can reserve your meal by registering online.