Kennett Square church welcomes all walks of life

Name of Church

: United Methodist Church of the Open Door.

Location: Kennett Square.

Denomination: United Methodist.

Size of congregation: More than 55 members and regular attendees.

Question: What is the history of your church?

Answer: In July 2002, under the leadership of the Rev. Anita Adams Powell, the United Methodist Church of the Open Door was formed in Kennett Square. From the beginning, our vision has been of a faith community that invites individuals into a relationship with Jesus Christ, lives and grows in a spirit of openness and caring to all people, and seeks to transform ourselves and our communities into God's image.

Our core values include spiritual growth, authentic relationships, unconditional acceptance, pursuit of peace, community connections and partnership, and fiscal responsibility.

Q: What makes you proud of your church?

A: When we asked our congregation this question, the most overwhelming response was that we are an intentionally diverse church community. We purposely seek out people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, experiences, ages and from all walks of life who seek to be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.

We have a small but growing congregation. We strongly emphasize building and maintaining relations, both within our church family and within the community. All members are encouraged to participate in small groups, also known as prayer circles. Prayer circles were developed with the intention of bringing our church members into closer relationships with one another.

During prayer circles (which meet weekly or bimonthly) we study and learn to apply the Word of God to our lives. Not only do the prayer circles serve the body of Christ, but we also have arms to reach out. Each prayer circle is involved in community service projects.

We are a family and, as such, we step forward and do whatever we can when someone is in need. We also encourage our members to participate in any one of our numerous community outreach ministries. We currently have outreach ministries that are focused on meeting the needs of the Kennett Square community.

For example, our Community Youth Fellowship is aimed at serving the youth of the area. The Community Team of Peace and Reconciliation promotes peace, harmony and justice in the community through the use of playback theater and diversity training. The H.U.B. of Hope is very active in the community and serves those affected, directly or indirectly, by HIV/AIDS.

Our pastor is always open to hearing suggestions from the congregation about ways in which we may better serve one another and the community.

Q: What do you see as your church's role in society?

A: We feel that it is our responsibility to show the world what God's love looks and feels like. We try our best to be living examples of God's love, love that reaches out to all of humankind; to the poor, the sick, the homeless, the forsaken, the accused, the unjust, the sinners and the repentant.

Personnel: Pastor: Rev. Dr. Anita Adams Powell; two deacons, an administrative assistant, office assistant, office volunteer, and a treasurer. The church is expanding its music ministry and is auditions for musicians and singers. Call the church office for more information.

Days and hours of services: Sunday school for adults, youth and children: Sundays at 9 a.m. Celebration worship: Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Locations: Church office; 110 E. State St., No. 10, Kennett Square. Sunday school and worship services are held at the Kennett Area Senior Center, 427 S. Walnut St., Kennett Square. Phone: 610-444-2400

Web site: www.umcod.org