Our History

Late in the fall of 1962, a group of persons interested in organizing a second Methodist Church
began meeting in the youth building of First Methodist Church to formulate plans. It had been
fifty-four years since a Methodist Church had been organized in Giles County and they felt a
need for establishing another church. Under the direction of the Rev. William H. Moss, pastor of
First Methodist Church in downtown Pulaski, Tennessee, the group continued to grow and show
interest. In April, 1963, the meeting place was moved to the National Guard Armory. A fee of
five dollars per week was paid for the use of the building.
In June of 1963, an application to the District Superintendent to organize a new church was
submitted. Everyone who was interested in a new or second church in Pulaski was asked to
meet and sign an application. This was a very disappointing time because the application was
signed by only six persons: Mr. and Mrs. R. Morris Harwell (Thelma); Mary Theresa Smith
(Lowry); Mr and Mrs. Herschel Parker (Peggy) and Garland “Buster” Seiben, a student at Martin
College. Their faith that a second Methodist Church could be organized never weakened and
on June 12, 1963 under the direction of the Rev. Charles J. Hawkins, District Superintendent, a
second Methodist Church was formally organized with a charter membership of seventeen
persons. These member were:
Mrs. Anna Birdsong Mr. Hayes Gordon
Mr. John M. Clark Mr. and Mrs. Layton Holley
Mr. and Mrs. Herschel Parker Mary Theresa Smith (Lowry)
Mr. and Mrs. R. Morris Harwell Mr. and Mrs. George Worsham
Mr. Garland “Buster” Seiben Mr. and Mrs. James Treadwell
Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Butler
This charter was held open from June 12, 1963 until October, 1963 at which time eight names
were added:
Mr. and Mrs. Morris Ed. Harwell Mr. and Mrs Rivers Holley
Mr. and Mrs Richard Eubank Mr. and Mrs Brown Watson
Garland Rhea “Buster” Seiben, a ministerial student at Martin College, was appointed pastor of
the church; required Lay Leader and commission chairpersons were elected, including W. C.
Butler; Sunday School superintendent: George Worsham, Chairman of the Official Board and
R. Morris Harwell, Treasurer. Assisting in this organization was the Rev. William H. Moss; the
Rev. Cullen T. Carter, a retired minister; and the Rev. W.C. Westenberger, President of Martin
College.
On June 16, 1963 at the regular Sunday night services several names were suggested for the
church. After discussion, the congregation agreed to name it St. Andrew Methodist Church.
This was in hope of introducing many people to Christ just as Andrew, the disciple, introduced
his brother, Simon.
It was June 23, 1963 when W. C. Butler became the first member on profession of faith by
baptism. July 21, 1963 was the date when the Rev. Cullen T. Carter administered the first
Communion and delivered the message at the Pulaski Funeral Home which was the meeting
place at the time. The Communion set was given to the church by Mr. John M. Clark.
Membership at this time was twenty-seven.
As the church grew, a need was felt for a building of its own. On July 19, 1963, the Rev. Fenton
Warren, District Superintendent, and the Commission on Church Location of the Tennessee
Conference visited Pulaski to assist in the location of a suitable building site. After looking at
several properties, the committee agreed to take a three month option on the McGrew property,
belonging to Mr. William (Bill) Harwell. This property, located on the Minor Hill Highway,
included the dwelling and three acres of land at a cost of fifteen thousand dollars. At the end of
the option the Official Board would decide whether or not to purchase the property.
On August 1, 1963, work began on the old building under the direction of Mr. George Worsham
and Mr. Lester Goodman. Donations of furniture, labor, and money came every day; and on
August 25, 1963 the congregation met at this location for the first time. There were
twenty-seven members and a few visitors present. The next day Charter Member, Mrs. Anna
Birdsong died.
The first visiting minister to speak in this sanctuary was the Rev. Horace Bass, who was the
pastor of Ardmore Methodist Church. Several members of his congregation were present so
more chairs were needed. New chairs were purchased the following week and W.C. Butler
along with John M. Clark installed outside lights around the building.
It became time to think of a building fund and the ones that contributed at this time were:
Rev. William H. Moss Rev. Cullen T. Carter
Mr. Frank L. Chaney; Donelson, TN Mr. Marcus Nichols
Miss Virginia Harwell Mr. Robert E. Curry
Mrs. C. B. Patterson Mr. and Mrs. George Seiben
Mr. and Mrs. Billy Zeigler Mrs. McClaurine; Mississippi
Miss Ann McKenzie Mr. W. R. Harris; Fayetteville, TN
Mr. Henry May Mr. and Mrs. Marvin May; Florida
Rev. Fenton Warren The anonymous givers
Many material gifts came almost daily. These gifts included the following items:
– Mr. Lester Goodman gave the Lectern, tile cross and labor
– Margaret’s Florist gave flowers
– Mr. and Mrs. Luther Harwell gave a handmade Lectern, two collection plates and glasses
– Mr. and Mrs. Bill Harwell gave loan of the house for three months, rent free
– Mrs. Irene Bumpus gave silver and dishes
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– Mrs. Larimore Brown gave a baby bed
– Rost Jewelry Store gave light fixtures and materials
– Mr. Joe smith gave labor on the building
– Mr. Foster Pope gave gravel for the drive
– Miss Rebecca May gave a child’s rocking chair
– Abernathy Hardware gave lighting fixtures
– Mr. and Mrs. Sonny Coggin gave a play pen for the nursery
– Mr. Bob Keller gave a table
– Mr. J. E. Turner gave a bench
– Mr. W. C. Butler, Sr gave labor
– Moore and Williams Lumber Company gave a table
– Ned O’dneal, on behalf of the city of Pulaski, supplied the water line ditch
– Mr. John M. Clark gave candle holders and baptistery bowl
– Ardmore Methodist Church sent a wall registry
– First Methodist Church of Pulaski provided hymnals
– Bennett-May Funeral Home donated fans
– The National Guard donated use of the Armory
– Scott True donated use of Pulaski Funeral Home
– Hayes Gordon gave a wall register
– Morris Ed. Harwell donated thirty chairs
– Mr. and Mrs. Donnie Shelton donated a piano
– John M. Clark provided carpet for the pulpit
On October 20, 1963, Roy Elder was the first Layman to speak at St. Andrew. On November 6,
1963, the official board of the church voted to purchase property from Mr. Bill Harwell for fifteen
thousand dollars. More anonymous gifts were presented and work on the old building continued
to make it more suitable for worship services. On January 24, 1964, St. Andrew received a
check for nine thousand dollars from the Bishop’s appeal of the Tennessee Conference. This
amount was paid on the note at the bank.
On January 26, 1964, eleven women met at the home of Mrs. Morris Ed. Harwell, and
organized a Wesleyan Service Guild. Mrs. Brown (Elizabeth) Watson was elected president.
Membership in the church was now forty and interest in starting a new building was being
expressed. Mrs. C. B. Patterson had shown interest in the church and suggested she would like
to see us build and name the church St. Andrew Methodist Church. It was to change at that
time to St. Andrew Memorial Methodist.
On April 14, 1964, the women of the church were host to the Giles County Methodist Men’s
Club. Ninety men were present for the meal on that date.
In June, 1964, a building committee was appointed composed of the following: Morris Ed.
Harwell; W. C. Butler, Jr. ; John M. Clark; Mrs. R. Morris Harwell; George Worsham; Lester
Goodman; Brown Watson; Layton Holley and Hershel Parker. This committee visited new
church buildings in a number of other towns and met with an architect to select plans.
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On June 12, 1964, we observed our first anniversary. Invitations were sent to everyone who
had donated gifts to the church. A picnic was enjoyed. Membership at this time was forty.
Members and guests assembled in the sanctuary and the introduction of guests was made by
Mr. R. Morris Harwell. Mr. John M. Clark gave the past year’s history. The Rev. William H.
Moss presented the church with books for the library on this day.
We were beginning a new conference year and set a budget for approximately six thousand
dollars.
June 28, 1964, The Rev. J. E. Bennett, our first full time minister, delivered his first sermon. A
house in Harwell Heights was rented to serve as a parsonage for the pastor and his family. Mrs.
Bennett, Joe and Marlene. At the end of December 1964 our membership had increased to
fifty-three individuals.
January 1, 1965 the building had decided on suitable plans and bids were accepted from
Brindley and Son, Pulaski Lumber Company and Moore and Williams Lumber Company. Moore
and Williams was the low bidder with a bid of seventy-eight thousand dollars.
On January 22, 1965, the Rev. Fenton Warren, District Superintendent, sent a check for one
thousand dollars from the Columbia District. There was also a check received from First
Methodist of Pulaski, for four hundred and fifty dollars as a partial payment on nine hundred
pledged for 1964-65. These checks were applied to the loan for the property and a balance of
five hundred and fifty dollars was left.
Mrs. C. B. Patterson, who had contributed each month to the church, died in a Memphis hospital
on February 12, 1965. Mr. Robert E. Curry and Mr. Parmenas Cox, administrators of her estate,
informed the church that Mrs. Patterson had left St. Andrew Church approximately eighty
thousand dollars to be used for a new building. After the will was probated the church received
a check from her estate in the amount of seventy-four thousand, one hundred and fifty dollars
and fifteen cents which was deposited to savings.
In May of 1965, we had our first Vacation Bible School with an average attendance of fifteen.
On June 1, 1965, the minister’s salary was increased from twenty-five hundred dollars to three
thousand dollars in addition to what the Conference contributed. The Rev. Joe. E. Bennett
moved to Clifton, TN at the end of June, 1965. We started a new conference year with a new
pastor, the Rev. Ed. Spiva. He and his family came from Williamsport Methodist Church. On
July 1, 1965 a budget of eight thousand, one hundred and seventeen dollars was planned for
1965-1966.
On October 1, 1965, the Rev. Fenton Warren, District Superintendent, met with the church and
discussed the building program. Also, on this date Dr. William K. Owen made a contribution to
the church. December 1, 1965 the building committee withdrew all previous bids and contacted
a representative from Design Supervisors Accounting of Cleburn, Texas. Many contributions
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and gifts were being given to the church at this time. Whatever the need we received from
interested persons.
On February 1, 1966 the church paid their total debts at the bank and on this same date the
building committee met with Mr. Larry Smith of Cleburn, Texas and instructed him to design a
building for approximately eighty thousand dollars. On March 1, 1966 a church conference was
called to discuss the preliminary plans for a new building. Plans were for a 7,933 square food
brick veneer building to consist of a fellowship hall that would seat approximately one hundred
and fifty people, a baptistry, two mechanical rooms, utility rooms, one class room 18×20, one
18×19, one 18×17, one 18×17 1⁄2 and a 6 foot hall. The sanctuary was to be 70 x 33 1 ⁄ 2 with a
speaker system and would seat approximately one hundred and ninety-two with two choir
rooms of 13 x 8. A 17 foot steeple was to be erected on tops of a high pitch roof. Also, there
were to be five bathrooms, foyer and pastor’s study room. We were advised the furnishings
would cost approximately ten percent of the cost of the building. The vote was unanimous to let
DSA of Cleburn, Texas have the contract. In April, 1966, a building fund drive was started and
church members were asked to pledge for 156 weeks. A total of eleven thousand, four hundred
and seventy-three dollars and sixty cents was pledged. On April 10, 1966, at 3:00 pm, a
groundbreaking ceremony was held Those participating were:
The Rev. Fenton Warren, District Superintendent for the Methodist Conference
The Rev. Fred Blankenship, Pastor of First Methodist in Columbia, Tn
The Rev. Billy Craighead, Pastor of First Methodist in Pulaski, Tn
Mr. John Church, Mayor of Pulaski, Tn
Mr. Julian Johnson of First Methodist of Pulaski, Tn
The Rev. Hoyt Wilson, Pastor of Highland Baptist Church, Pulaski, Tn
The Rev. William H. Moss, Pastor of St. Marks Methodist, Murfreesboro, Tn.
Construction of the new building was started the next day, April 11, 1966; and it was completed
in October, 1966. On May 8, 1966 another church conference was held to discuss plans for a
parsonage. It was voted to buy a lot, not to exceed two-thousand dollars, build a three bedroom
brick house, approximately 2,000 square feet and borrow three thousand dollars to buy the lot.
Three women were added to the building committee: Mrs. Bettye Spiva, Frances Harvey and
Mary Theresa Smith (Lowry). A lot was bought in Green Acres subdivision for one thousand,
seven hundred dollars. The contractors, Tucker and Wilson were awarded the contract to build
the parsonage for thirteen-thousand, eight hundred dollars. The contractors deducted one
thousand dollars as a donation to the church reducing the cost to twelve thousand, eight
hundred dollars. This building was completed in seven weeks and the Rev. Ed. Spiva and his
family moved into the parsonage on July 7, 1966. Membership on this date was sixty-two.
Open house was held at the parsonage on September 25, 1966 with a large crowd attending.
On October 2, 1966 the first service was held in the new church with our pastor, Rev. Ed Spiva,
delivering the impressive message. There was beautiful music from the Hammond organ
played by Mrs. Donnie Shelton. Twenty-two people became members of St. Andrew during the
month of October that year and were all transfers from other churches. Membership rose to
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eighty-four members by the end of the year. The baptistry was used by Frankewing Methodist
Church in the afternoon of October 2, 1966. Charles W. Palmer, Jr, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles
W. Palmer and Ricky Coleman Dale, son of Mr. and Mrs. Coleman Dale, were baptized into the
faith.
On November 20, 1966, a Consecration Service was held with Bishop Ellis Finger officiating,
assisted by Rev. Ed Spiva. A finance report was given on the cost of the new church and
furnishings. The total cost of building, furnishings and outside of the building was approximately
one hundred and thirty-thousand dollars. Total indebtedness at this time was fourteen thousand
dollars. The following individuals gave pews:
Charlie Ball Dr. and Mrs. William K. Owens
Mr and Mrs. Gary Summerall Mr. and Mrs. R. Morris Harwell
Mr. and Mrs. Brown Watson Mr. Robert. E. Curry
Mr. John M. Clark Mr. Maurice Roberts
Mr. Goldmer and Mr. Kitwell (Salesmen from Franklin, Tn and friends of Mr. Morris Harwell)
The Stained glass windows back of the sanctuary were given by Mr. Morris Ed. Harwell.
December of 1966 saw the membership increase to eighty-five members.
May, 1967 a proposed budget was presented at nine-thousand dollars. In June, 1967, Rev. Ed
Spiva was moved and the Rev. Marshall Moss came to St. Andrew. At this time, Rehobeth was
added to the charge. A Methodist Youth Fellowship was organized on July 6, 1967 (St. Andrew
and Rehobeth combined) with eleven members.
On February 4, 1969 the Administrative Board voted to allow Rev. Marshall Moss to dispose of
the old building for the materials and to fix the ground in the back of the new building.
In May, 1969, the first church sign was erected at a cost of sixty-one dollars. The Wesley Class,
W.C. Butler and R. Morris Harwell shared the expense. The Wesleyan Service Guild paid
$150.00 for a pew on the same date.
In June of 1971, Rev. Marshall Moss moved to Tracy City, TN and the Rev. William Moss came
to St. Andrew from St. Marks Methodist Church, Murfreesboro, Tn. The membership at this time
was ninety-two. We were blessed with so many gifts that same year. Shrubbery was given and
planted by Mr. Clarence Rich, George Kimbrough, Mr. and Mrs. L. D. Gaines and Rev. and Mrs.
William H. Moss. Gravel for the driveway was given by W. C. Butler.
Rev. William Moss returned as pastor in June of 1972 and in July, 1972 there was an exchange
of ministers. Rev. and Mrs. Moss went to Margate, England and the Rev. and Mrs. Albert Parkin
of Margate came to St. Andrew for six weeks. They gave us a great appreciation of England as
well as our own heritage by their warm and gracious spirit and their deep dedication to God and
his service. We know that Rev. Moss and Mrs. Moss did the same for the people of Margate,
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England. Margate was only seventy miles from London, England. During this year, St. Andrew
pledged one thousand, six-hundred and fifty dollars to Martin College.
In June of 1973, Rev. Moss returned as pastor and on June 17, 1973, our tenth anniversary
celebration was held. A Memorial Service was held for members gone on to glory: Anna
Birdsong; Hayes Gordon, Eva Butler, Rev. William H. Mansfield, Rivers Holley and Debra Mae
Porter. This service was conducted by our former pastor, Rev. Ed. Spiva. A note burning
ceremony was held that afternoon with Rev. J. Paul Williams, District Superintendent presiding.
He was assisted by Morris Ed. Harwell, Chairman of the Building committee and John M. Clark,
charter member and trustee. Many gifts continued to come into the church: Mr. and Mrs. Willis
Herndon gave a stove and refrigerator for the kitchen. Mrs. Alvina Barkstrom gave the Cross,
candle holders, vases, choir robes, flags for the church and later gave two pews to put in the
foyer. Butch Treadwellpresented two collection plates to the church from the MYF. Many
hymnals were given in memory of loved ones and a Bible was given by John M. Clark and Dr.
William H. Mansfield. A bible was also given to St. Andrew by the Masons.
William (Doak) Mansfield was ordained a Methodist minister on June 19, 1974. A Baldwin piano
was presented to the church early in 1976 by Ralph and Charles Smith and Mary Theresa Smith
Lowry in memory of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. C. D. Smith.
The Rev. William H. Moss served five years, leaving in June 1976. Membership at this time was
one hundred and forty-five. The Rev. David P. Comperry and family came to us from Franklin,
Tn. Gifts were continually coming to the church which included: a desk stand from Betty
Masters in memory of her husband, Rev. Wayne Masters. A table for the fellowship hall was
given by Anna Lou Carter and Mrs. V. L. Davis (Margaret) in memory of their brother, James
(Jim) Carter.
June of 1978, St. Andrew pledged two hundred and fifty dollars to help support Dr. and Mrs.
Stephenson of Gallatin, Tn to go to Liberia as medical missionaries. The same year a
scholarship fund for one thousand dollars was established at Martin College for the Giles
County Scholarship Fund. April of 1978 included the addition of a patio at the back of the
parsonage and paid for by the Comperry’s. Rev. Comperry moved to Newbern, Tn in June of
1978.
Rev. Glenn Bonner came to St. Andrew from Waynesboro, Tn. with his wife, Nettie. At this time
a Lay Witness Mission was held at St. Andrew early in 1979 with witnesses coming from
several states. Thirty people were added to the church the two years he was pastor.
Membership at this time was one hundred and seventy one.
Rev. Glenn Bonner moved to White House, Tn in June 1980 and the Rev. Jimmy Bass came
from McMinnville, Tn to pastor St. Andrew. A new roof was put on the church building in March,
1981 at a cost of ten thousand, six hundred and fifty dollars. In September 1982, a drive was
started to get pledges for a new organ. The Administrative Board Chairman, Carl Barkstrom
appointed a committee to work on this: Brown Watson; Nita Worsham; Morris Ed. Harwell and
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Ken Lowry. A total of eight thousand, nine hundred and eighty-five dollars was pledged and in
November, 1982 a new Rogers organ was purchased for thirteen thousand, nine hundred and
eighty-five dollars.
In June, 1983 the Rev. Jimmy Bass moved to Savannah, Tn and the Rev. Michael O’Bannon
along with his family (Dee and Amy) came to St. Andrew Church from Wesley foundation in
Murfreesboro, Tn. There is much enthusiasm among church members with the able leadership
of the Rev. O’Bannon. We say as Paul of long ago said: “We press toward the mark for the
prize of the high calling of God in Jesus Christ.” Membership at the end of December, 1983 is
one hundred eighty-two.
History from Elizabeth Watson and Beth Garner
Church Historians, January 13, 1984
And the story continues……………..
The next chapter of our history began as Michael O’Bannon and his family were assigned to St.
Andrew Memorial United Methodist Church in 1983 and remained until 1987. Rev. O’Bannon
was a part of numerous activities as he was ministering to the Rehobeth and St. Andrew
Church charge during his time in Pulaski. St. Andrew Church underwent some needed
changes with the addition of the carport, addition of a lightning rod to the roof and addition of an
individual to work with the youth. It was at some point during this time that a couple from Martin
Methodist by the name of Jaye and Alan Reisinger were hired to form an MYF at St. Andrew
and provided a weekly gathering for the youth of the church.
Rev. O’Bannon was also noted to be very active within the community, often working with the
Rotary Club activities, having a clown ministry and often cooking for a variety of activities in the
churches as well as the city. He also served on the Martin Methodist Board of Trustees and
along with his wife, Dee and daughter, Amy were active with the children and youth programs.
Throughout this time, Rev. O’Bannon was a dedicated teacher at Martin Methodist College,
committed to community activities and active with Rotary. Membership for St. Andrew at the
end of 1986 was at 194 on the roll. In June of 1987, the church won the Small Membership
Church Award which was presented at the Annual Conference at West End UMC.
During the time of Rev. O’Bannon’s pastorate at St. Andrew, the dream of having a Methodist
Men’s Choir came to fruition. Men from many different United Methodist Churches were invited
from Giles County. This had been a request from Bro. Bill Moss and was a success from the
start. The men practiced and prepared under the leadership of Merry Merle Sigmon ( St.
Andrew Choir Director) who led this group for many years. The Methodist Men’s Choir was
known for their red jackets, use of old time songs along with having the largest membership
from St. Andrew Church. The group totalled 19-23 individuals from the beginning. Morris Ed.
Harwell booked the choir to churches large and small, as well as Nursing facilities and even
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were invited to perform at Annual Conference. They performed from Kentucky to Alabama and
a wide variety of churches in Tennessee.
It was during the early part of 1988 that St. Andrew learned of the loss of Reverend William H.
Moss. Brother Moss was such an integral part in starting our church and the Moss’ were always
considered to be part of our church family. Even in his parting of this life, the family made a
memorial contribution to St. Andrew in his memory. The William H. (Bill) Moss Ministerial
Scholarship Fund was started at Martin College following his death.
In June of 1988, Rev. O’Bannon was transferred to Nashville and St. Andrew’s new pastor was
the Rev. Peter Furnier. Rev. Furnier and his wife, Carol along with their daughter began the
ministry following a term of service at Cookeville First Methodist Church. One of the many tasks
undertaken by Rev. Furnier was the implementation of a Day Care Center in our church. The
Administrative Board wrote a resolution and began the process of investigating the needs of the
community along with the needed licensure. A fire alarm was needed as required by the State
of Tennessee but with all safety items complete the starting day was October 1, 1989. Roxie
Green was named as first Daycare director.
Following a building program that began in 1987, dedication of the newest part of the education
wing as well as the small chapel was realized on October 8, 1989. The Thelma Marks Harwell
Memorial Chapel was completed with funds presented as a challenge gift from R. Morris
Harwell. Two new classrooms and a Pastor’s study along with a storage closet and the chapel
were completed and ready to be occupied. The design committee included: Morris Ed. Harwell,
Building Chairman; Bob Marbury, Design Chair and committee members, David Howard;
David Roberts and Jeri Brown. Construction Committee included: David Lee, Chairman; Glen
Young, Nancy Roberts and Ken Lowry. Many aspects of the construction were undertaken by
members of the above named committee including electric works and lecterns for the
classrooms just to name a few. Our church is filled with people who use their talents for
glorifying his building and our God.
The Rev. Furnier stayed with us until 1992 then transferred to the Nashville area. In June of
1992, the Reverend Russell Cain came to lead our congregation. Throughout the next 3 years,
Rev. Cain and his wife Stella, saw the continued growth with 12 individuals brought into our
church through baptism. During this time frame our Day Care Center was required to close due
to the multitude of improvements and construction needed along with the enormous expense
that was required to maintain as per State of Tennessee Regulations.. It was not feasible to
continue. Rev. Cain was joined in this work by his wife who was pianist for his stay at St.
Andrew. During his time at St. Andrew the choir got the much needed new robes that had been
wanted along with increased use of the choir for local events.
In 1992, Terry Smith, a member of our church, asked for entrance into candidacy for becoming
an ordained minister. Through the Pastor/Parish Relations Committee, Terry sat for the interview
with his local church and was wholeheartedly recommended to become a candidate for the
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ministry in the United Methodist Church. He was noted to be the second individual from St.
Andrew to enter the ministry with Doak Mansfield being the first.
In 1995, the Rev. Paul Allen and his wife Wynelle, came to St. Andrew staying from 1995 until
1997. He was known as a true motivator for his congregants. He was found to actively engage
his church and participation for committees and activities was very high during this time. Bro.
Allen was a native Giles Countian and followed in the footsteps of many of the Allen’s who went
into ministry. Following his passing in September, 1997 many church members along with
members of the community were an active part in his service. During his stay at St. Andrew,
Bro. Allen had the church actively involved with the Senior Center, Laity Club of Giles County
and maintenance of the Church building and parsonage. It was decided that the parsonage
which was not being used would be rented and the money placed in a building fund for future
needs.
Following the retirement of Rev. Allen, the UMC appointed Rev. Larry Fletcher to serve St.
Andrew. He and his wife, Denise were present for that year . Work continued with Martin
Methodist College as St. Andrew always participated in monetary donations to the Giles County
Scholarship fund at Martin College Rev. Fletcher was remembered as a man of good humor
and was a Doctor of Optometry. During his time at St. Andrew, one of our members became ill
and was in need of a liver transplant, the Ernest Scott Liver Transplant Fund was developed and
all monies were to go to Ernest or to another Giles Countian in need. St. Andrew was never
short on helping hands when asked or when a need was observed they donated time and
money. A build for Habitat for Humanities in Giles County was just one example.
During this time frame, Gerry Wayne Davis was hired as a part-time Youth Director to start on
June 1, 1997. In June of 1999, The Fletcher’s moved from the parsonage and Rev. Fletcher
continued his ministry at Lynnville UMC as a part-time position and continued his practice of
Optometry.
John Abernathy Smith and his wife, Helen joined our ranks in 1999 and stayed with us until
2001. They worked as a team with him bringing individuals to Christ and her bringing us lovely
piano music. At this point in our history, St. Andrew was seeing attendance at worship
averaging approximately 100 individuals. Some of the activities that were present during his
time at the church included a Boy Scout Troop, a food source pick-up and a March Madness
event to incorporate all ages in the church. As with other years, the annual Spaghetti Supper
was held and insurance was paid. Brother Smith enjoyed the engagement of all members and
was a true supporter of Martin College.
2001 saw the appointment of Reverend Dr. Mark Brown to fill the pulpit at St. Andrew. He
brought with him his wife, Dr. Frances Berry-Brown and during their time the adoption of two
beautiful girls, AnnKathrine and Sarah added to the joy. Activities continued with Boy Scouts
meeting each week and the Celebration of 40 years as a church. Rev. Brown was able to hire
an intern who was interested in pursuing work with Christian Education in the Methodist Church.
Russell Hale, from Martin Methodist, was given a stipend and placed in charge of the Children’s
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Church, youth activities and fundraising for the youth. Russell was instrumental in starting a
“Meet you at the Pole” at the local high school. The Church Photographic directory was
completed to add to the history. As Bro. Mark stated in the directory, “ this directory is one way
we can all stay connected to one another.” Many of the activities of the church continued from
one pastor to another such as the “food source pantry” and the continuation of the Spaghetti
Suppers. The Brown family left St. Andrew in June, 2005.
In 2004, Brad Smith, an active member of St. Andrew, and active with the outreach and witness
program, heard the calling to become a pastor. In 2005, he began to attend Vanderbilt and was
confirmed in 2008. Rev. Brad Smith now preaches in Giles County.
Following the Annual Conference in 2005, Rev. Chris Seifert was brought to our congregation
where he remained until 2009. Some of the ministries included mission trips, boy scouts and
the Annual Spaghetti Supper which was held to raise the funds needed to cover church
insurance. March Madness for Basketball saw weekly activities to engage the church
throughout March. During one Vacation Bible School event, a Hot Air Balloon was used as a
part of the programming which brought great visibility to St. Andrew. This had been the brain
child of Sarah McMasters who served as director of VBS for many years. In 2005, the United
Methodist Conference made the appointment of Laura Kirkpatrick (McMasters) to St. Andrew
as a Secondary Appointment along with being the Chaplain at Martin Methodist College. 2008
saw Laura being ordained as Deacon with a full connection to the UMC. .
The Reverend Moses Han was assigned to St. Andrew in June of 2009 by the annual
conference of the UMC. He brought with him his wife, Esther and children, Joshua and Anna
along with his mother. Some of the many activities that were put into place during his tenure
included a “Paper Pantry” for individuals who were on food stamps but were unable to use these
stamps to purchase needed items such as toothbrushes/toothpaste, paper towels, feminine
hygiene items, toilet paper and laundry detergent to name a few. This was a successful
monthly event and a blessing to many. Additional programming included the use of Financial
Peace University for several weeks to assist others in finding financial stability.
In 2010, a new program was initiated at the church by Cindi Dennison (Administrative Assistant)
that provided ballet classes to low income students for free. These were highly successful and
provided a great avenue to positive interactions and Christian fellowship for many youngsters.
Allan Shedd began attending St. Andrew in 2006 and became a Lay Leader/Speaker in 2007.
His work with the youth of St. Andrew was building significant relationships with the teens and
the UMYF attended Warmth in Winter, helped with Vacation Bible School and did individual
fundraising activities. Following his work at St. Andrew, Allan wanted to pastor and in
September, 2021 became pastor for Beechgrove Church in Lincoln Co. He continues to preach
today.
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All of these activities were under the auspices of Bro. Han and in 2013, he was transferred
knowing that 13 individuals had been baptized into the faith at St. Andrew. Bro. Moses and his
family moved to the Church at Fairfield Glades.
The summer of 2013 saw a new pastor take the pulpit at St. Andrew. Rev. Brandon Bass along
with his wife, Dianne and two daughters became a part of the ministries at the church. One of
the first church initiatives was the “Backpack Program” that provides food for children in need
over a weekend when no school food is provided. Bro. Brandon partnered with Southside
Elementary and for several months prepared these packs. The program continues until this day.
Laura McMasters and members of the Martin Methodist outreach program were there to pack
each week. When the MMC changed to University of Tennessee-Southern, Tommy and Kim
Taylor took over and as of 2023, the Garner Girls (Allie, Katie and Kristen) are taking the
responsibility for making sure that those in need at Southside are covered.
Rev. Bass was noted to be active with Martin Methodist College since his wife was employed
with the school and he attended the school there as well. He pursued reaching out in the
community by helping the church in supporting Mission trips, supporting sports teams and
providing support to those within the congregation if needed. Bro. Brandon was also a part of a
challenge for “Talents Ministry” in which a member had given families $ 100 dollars in which to
build using their gifts and then return the profits to St. Andrew. This did raise a great deal of
money for the church.
It was in 2020 that the United States started along a slow path to combat a new virus called the
Coronavirus. This virus stopped all activity in the US including contact in large groups such as
Worship Services, shutting schools, businesses and restaurants. For St. Andrew this meant
that Rev. Brandon Bass had to be creative with service and his ministry. For approximately all
of 2020, he had an online presence for worship each Sunday. The Methodist Conference highly
suggested that the church be closed and that when meeting in person that mask should be worn
therefore Bro. Brandon began the practice of having Sunday Services on Facebook. Rev. Bass
left St. Andrew in December, 2021.
St. Andrew was hard hit with repercussions of the pandemic, losing a number of members to
illness and several who left the church as a result of the changes in programming. The
Methodist Conference required the use of hand sanitizer, individual communion set-ups that
were disposable and limited personal contact. Masks were more than highly recommended and
many churches had requirements for spaced out seating.
The year of 2021 saw many changes including the loss of our beloved organist, Rita Parker.
She originally was asked by Bro. Bill Moss and his wife, Jane to substitute for her when unable
to play the piano for worship services in 1970. They had originally met when Rita was a
teenage member and pianist for First Methodist of Winchester where Rev. Moss was pastor.
Once married to Alan Parker and moving to Pulaski in 1971, she was asked to fill in, but then
became a full-time organist starting around 1973. Rita continued to play for St. Andrew up until
12
the time of her passing. She was noted to be the longest continuing musician for St.
Andrew, serving over 50 years, even through her long illness.
In the Spring of 2022, the United Methodist Conference placed St. Andrew on a charge with
Lynnville UMC and their pastor was shared with our church. The Reverend Chris Blalock was
appointed and he, along with his wife, Cindy and grandson,, Parker began their ministry with the
Church. Following the pandemic, the Youth Fellowship was reactivated, Wednesday night Bible
Study was started and monthly activities were instigated. As Bro. Chris entered into St. Andrew
many changes were in the works.
In 2020, members of St. Andrew began to question aspects of the United Methodist Discipline
and began to examine other avenues of worship, even the possibility of leaving the United
Methodist Church. Following many meetings and churchwide discussion, an information
session was held on 10/12/2022 to get further information on disaffiliation from the United
Methodist Church. A church wide vote was taken on 2/4/2023 in the presence of Rev. Vona
Wilson, which resulted in St. Andrew no longer being a part of the United Methodist Conference.
St. Andrew was required to provide a check or “buy out” of the current property immediately. A
check was presented to the new conference (Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference) in the
amount of $28, 440. The conference then voted in June, 2023 at the annual conference in
Memphis to accept the disaffiliation. Prior to the dissolution vote another church wide meeting
was held on 4/23/23 with a majority of members voting to become associated with the Global
Methodist Church based in Lexington, KY. The Global Methodist organization officially
approved St. Andrew Community Church on 5/22/2023.
February 2022 started discussions regarding a “Rebranding” of the church by the Administrative
Council. A committee was formed to investigate and review options which included Tommy
Taylor, Allen Parker, Nancy Teeples, Mary Bass and Morris Ed. Harwell. Reasons for this
change was to have new outreach ministries due to the loss of membership from the pandemic.
By March of 2022, the committee had considered 4 names but “St. Andrew Community Church”
was the decision of the church wide ballot. Bro. Chris Blalock indicated the overall goal and
new name was to reach the community and share the gospel which was always the major
objective. With our new church name came the need to find an updated vision of how to
proceed. Committees were formed and new activities were put into place to work toward
building a church that will reflect a new vitality and our love for Christ.
For 60 years, the members and Pastors of St. Andrew Community Church have looked to their
God for guidance and direction in preparing for what will be next. As we move into our 61st
year, it is our hope that you will find a blessing each and every day as well as become closer to
those who believe in the way of the Church and the Kingdom of God.
September, 2023
Sharon Harwell, Historian