Dear Friends,

As I look back on the past year, I want you to know how grateful I am for you and for the many ways you have lived out your faith as the Church. Whether your service has been visible or behind the scenes, planned or spontaneous, every act of love has mattered - and has made a difference.

Thank you for the countless ways you have shared your time and gifts. From teaching and leading, to caring and serving, to showing up faithfully week after week, you have helped make this church a place where people are welcomed and encouraged to grow. Your generosity - through giving, serving, and prayer - has enabled ministry to happen in ways both seen and unseen.

I am especially grateful for your witness beyond these walls. Through your steady commitment to love your neighbors, you reflect Christ in our community and are living reminders that the Church is not just a building, but a people sent into the world to bear hope, grace, and healing.

Thank you for trusting God and for walking together through both joys and challenges. It is a privilege to serve alongside you, and I give thanks for the ways God continues to work through this congregation.

As we step into a new year, may we remain open to the Spirit’s leading, grounded in Christ’s love, and eager to share that love with others.

With gratitude and hope,

Pastor Jenene

We believe that serving is one way we grow as disciples of Jesus. As we start a new year, we invite you to prayerfully consider where your gifts and interests might meet the needs of our community. Then look through the following list of ministry areas and check any roles that interest you. There is no obligation - checking a box simply lets us know you’d like more information.

Completed forms can be dropped in the box at the Welcome Table or at the Church Office.

To access the list/form, click the button below.

Join us every Sunday at 8:30 am to study along with the series
"The Chosen."

We will be watching and discussing the series along with reading scripture passages that coincide with the events in each episode.

Bring your bible, notebook, writing utensils, and join us.
Everyone is welcome.

Youth in grades 6-12 are invited to join churches from across the region for Winter Connection on January 30-31, 2026. Cost is $40 per participant.

This year’s theme is “Functioning Parts” based on Romans 12:4-8. Activities include worship, a mission project with Habitat for Humanity, and a trip to Jump & Slide Adventure Park.

See the flyer on the bulletin board for full details and registration information. 

Singers are invited to join the 2026 Easter Cantata Choir. 

Practices will be held every Sunday from 1:30-3:00 pm beginning Feb. 15 – March 22 at Grace Lutheran Church in Sturgis.  Performances will be March 29 and 31.

All interested singers must contact Marlene Kotab at kotabgmc@rushmore.com or 605-347-1375 by January 25^th.

Come share the Easter message with our community.

Our Free Little Pantry is available for anyone who may need a little extra help.

Please feel free to take what you need, that’s what it’s here for. If you are able, you’re also welcome to give what you can.

Donations of non-perishable food, snacks, toiletries, and hygiene items are always appreciated.
For larger donations, please coordinate with the church office staff.

The UMC - Alter Youth Group has installed the pantry at the entry of the church parking lot. 

Tuesday, Jan 6 & 20 - 9:00 am,
Craft Group 

Tuesday, Jan 6, 13, 20, & 27 - 3:30 pm,
Treehouse After-school Program

Wednesday, Jan 7 & 21 - 7:00 AM
United Methodist Men

Wednesday, Jan 7, 14, 21 & 28 - 5:30 pm,
Youth Group 

Thursday, Jan 8 - 1:30 pm,
United Women in Faith Unit Meeting

Monday, Jan 5 - 6:00 pm,
Leadership Team Meeting

1/2            Jean Hadrick
1/2            Rita Harrison
1/6                  Lily Glodt
1/13         Alma Chesnut
1/18      Rodney Lamont
1/22     Tawnee Harrison
1/29       Quinten Apland

None this month!