Ministries
Children's Ministry
Nursery Through Elementary:
During both worship services on Sunday morning, we offer age-appropriate care and activities for your child. Our programs include a loving nursery for infants and toddlers, and dynamic pre-school and elementary programs designed to engage children and help them grow in their faith in a fun, learning environment.
Fourth & Fifth Grade:
We created Club 45, a junior youth program that meets on Sunday evenings at Grace for our fourth and fifth grade students.
Grace also provides special children's events throughout the year. These include Summer Camp, Sports Camp, and Vacation Bible School.
For more information please email
children@gracecommunityumc.org
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Student (Youth) Ministry
Middle & High School:
Our active student ministry is designed to meet the needs of students in grades six through 12. Our programs seek to inspire our youth to journey closer to God and to develop lasting and positive friendships. We meet every Sunday at 6 pm to hang out, play games, eat food and participate in an active Bible lesson. We also offer a variety of teen-geared activities throughout the year, such as concerts, lock-ins, and local outings like bowling and canoe trips.
If your youth would enjoy attending a class during worship, we have separate classes for High School and Middle School aged students.
During the summer, youth have the opportunity to deepen their faith and friendships though participation in summer camps and mission trips.
For more information on our student ministries, please email studentministries@gracecommunityumc.org.
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Missions Ministry
Are you looking for a meaningful way to touch the lives of others? The Missions Ministry strives to do so every day through various programs and services. Join us and make a difference in our community. By sharing just a little bit of your time, you could greatly impact a life – maybe even your own!
Adopt-A-Family:
This program originated at Grace as the result of the growing needs in our community. It includes Back-To-School-Supplies (collections and donations of supplies to local elementary schools); and Adopt-A-Family Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas (collections and distribution of food toys and items to local families in need). In 2008, we joined Feed The Bay, a group of 23 area churches that collected more than 270,000 lbs of food and over $5,000 in gift cards. These donations benefited 12 local agencies!
Habitat for Humanity:
What is Habitat for Humanity, you ask?
Habitat brings families in need together with volunteers and resources to build decent, affordable housing. It is a Christian organization that welcomes volunteers from all faiths who are committed to Habitat's goal of eliminating poverty housing. Last year, Grace built an entire house!
Life Care of Brandon:
Located in our community, this center provides many services and assistance to women who are pregnant and without resources. Grace supports the Life Care of Brandon by collecting and donating necessary baby items, like diapers.
Adopt-A-Road:
This year, Grace dedicated over 70 hours to keep our community clean!
Culinary Comforts:
This group helps members and friends of Grace by preparing and delivering meals in times of need.
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Women’s Ministry
Getting together with the girls – is there anything more fun? Our Women’s Ministry is open to all women of Grace. It is our purpose to support women in their relationship with God so that through spiritual friendship, mentoring, and teaching one another, we might experience the freedom to become all that God intends us to be.
Quarterly Luncheons:
We gather quarterly on a Saturday to share a meal, spend time with friends, and create new friendships. This is a relaxing afternoon and a wonderful way to meet your sisters in Christ.
Bunco:
A great way to enjoy food, fun and fellowship in a Christian environment. We have monthly and quarterly groups. Once per quarter, we play marathon Bunco.
Hobbies:
Scrapbooking, quilting, and stamping are just a few of our regular activities. Or teach us one of your favorites!
Bible Studies:
We offer a variety of studies during the day and evening so everyone has the opportunity to join us. Our programs range from short self-exploration studies to in-depth programs such as those created by Beth Moore.
Retreats & Conferences:
Together, we grow in our journey of faith by attending annual retreats and events like the Women of Faith Conference.
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Men’s Ministry
The Men’s Ministry at Grace offers a variety of opportunities for fellowship, service, outreach, and spiritual growth. As a growing organization within our congregation, we strive to provide men of all ages with ways to use their talents, share their experiences, give their time to help others and support church programs and needs.
G3 – Guys Grilling @ Grace:
Men, meat and an open flame. What a better way to experience the Men’s monthly fellowship dinner. Bring a steak, a piece of chicken or anything to throw on the grill, and enjoy a great meal with great guys. We meet the third Thursday of every month at Grace. A good time is guaranteed… grunting is optional.
Men’s Breakfast:
On the first Saturday of each month, join us at Grace for breakfast and a devotional. The food is always good, and the fellowship is fantastic.
Promise Keepers Small Group:
A weekly breakfast to stoke your faith walk year-round. Open to all men, we gather to eat, pray, and share fellowship at Panera Bread on Lithia Pinecrest. Based on your sleeping habits, you can choose the “early riser” group at 6:30 a.m., or the “hit the snooze alarm” group at 8 a.m.
Help A Brother Out:
Sign up online or at Grace to seek assistance from your brothers in Christ if you need help with odd jobs – heavy or light. Need a power tool? Ask someone to “help a brother out”.
Special Events:
The men also participate in the Promise Keepers Conference, golf outings, and host Grace events such as the Mother’s Day Annual Brunch.
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Discipleship & Fellowship Ministries
Adult Bible Study:
Our adult Christian Education programs offer a variety of classes designed to help you know God, understand the role of the church in the world, and feel yourself grow through fellowship and spiritual enrichment. Classes are offered during both worship services and several evenings throughout the week.
Grace 101, 201 and 301:
At Grace, we are committed to helping you grow in your faith. That’s why we offer a series of classes designed to introduce you to Membership (Grace 101), Growing in Faith (Grace 201), and Ministry Involvement (Grace 301). Call our church office at 813-661-8858 for class times and program information.
Wednesday Night Programs:
Our Wednesday Night series is a wonderful opportunity to visit with friends and meet new ones as we gather for food, fellowship, and great study opportunities. Our programs are relevant to the ever-changing needs of our faith community. Children’s programs and nursery care are also available. Call our church office at 813-661-8858 for schedule times and program information.
Small Groups:
Found to be one of the most powerful ways for people to feel connected, gathering in a small group setting provides a caring environment where participants receive support and encouragement to grow in their faith. There are many small groups available at Grace, so you’re sure to find the one you’re looking for.
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