Jasper County GaArchives History .....Prospect United Methodist Church History1849-1994 
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File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by:
Rose Lewis rosehl@bellsouth.net September 30, 2008, 9:33 pm

Compiled & Written by Rose Lewis

What follows is a testimony of God’s faithfulness to His people. The history of 
Prospect United Methodist Church spans more than 150 years. Contained within 
these pages is a roster of leaders whom God has chosen to guide and instruct 
His people at Prospect Church. By retelling the history of the church and the 
stories of its leaders, we are reminded of King David’s admonition to "Let each 
generation tell its children what glorious things He (God) does." (Psalm 145:4 
LB) Knowing something of our history perhaps will provide us, not only with a 
sense of identity and heritage, but also a vision for our spiritual 
future.                                 
The Church In Its Earliest Years
Methodism found its way into Georgia in the late 1700s. Alfred Mann Pierce, in 
his book, Lest Faith Forget, The Story of Methodism in Georgia, stated that in 
1831 there were 21,385 Methodists in Georgia. He told of three great revivals 
in Georgia between the years of 1835 and 1852; and sometime between those 
years, Prospect Methodist Church was formed. Also during this period, a 
tremendous split occurred within the Methodist Episcopal Church which resulted 
in the majority of Methodist churches in the south becoming known as Methodist 
Episcopal Church, South.Prospect Church is located in northern Jasper County 
ten miles north of Monticello and eight miles south of Mansfield in what is 
known as Eudora or Prospect community. It is only a few miles from Dow’s 
Pulpit, the famous rock from which the great Lorenzo Dow preached between 1801-
1805. Jasper County, originally known as Randolph County, was created by an Act 
of the Georgia Legislature in 1807. It became known as Jasper County in 1812 in 
honor of Sgt. William Jasper who died in the Revolutionary War. On April 23, 
1844, a deed was recorded in the courthouse in Monticello, the seat of Jasper 
County, to the effect that a certain piece of property was to be used for 
Prospect Methodist Episcopal Church. The deed shows that Michael Barnes and 
Harris Allen donated approximately 15 acres of land. It is believed that the 
church had been formed at least a year earlier. The original trustees of the 
church were John Horton Sr., Bryant L. Allen, Harris Allen, John Horton Jr., 
Thompson Curry, Elisha Horton, and Charles E.W.F. Campbell. It is most likely 
that the first structure was a log building.The exact date that the church at 
Prospect was organized is not known. The itinerant preachers, unique to 
Methodism, made their way through the wilderness of Florida, South Carolina and 
Georgia in an effort to bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to lost souls. George 
G. Smith wrote in his book, The History of Georgia Methodism from 1786 to 1866, 
that in the year 1829, Monticello was not able to retain its position as a half-
church station. Apparently sometime later, the efforts were renewed, and 
churches began to develop, not only in the county seat, but also in the 
outlying areas. According to Smith, the Monticello Circuit was formed from the 
Cedar Creek Circuit in 1834. Prospect was founded some years later and the 
first pastor on record as serving the church, which was a part of the 
Monticello Circuit/Macon District, was Hinton Crawford in 1843 and 1844.Smith 
indicated that it was a period of prosperity following a depression. Railroads 
were beginning to stretch across the state. Only two churches in the state, 
however, were made of brick, and no church yet had an organ. An itinerant 
preacher was paid an annual allowance of $150, another $150 for his wife, and a 
small sum for each underage child. He was expected to preach somewhere every 
day of the month except Mondays.William Foster preached at Prospect in 1845 and 
Claiborne Trussel in 1846. A young preacher, by the name of Jackson P. Turner, 
came to the Monticello Circuit in 1847. According to George G. Smith’s book, 
The History of Methodism in Georgia and Florida from 1785-1865, Turner was 
admitted on trial at the age of eighteen in 1842. He was described as a "good 
thinker and a bold writer." It was said of him that he did not "hesitate to 
attack the views of any man, however great his age or elevated his 
place."Eustace E. Spear followed Turner in 1848 and J. Blakely Smith in 1849. 
Smith had just entered the conference in 1847 and served for 23 years before 
his death. George Smith described him as a "man of fine person, of fine 
business qualification, of great common sense, …and a moving and successful 
preacher."The most exciting discovery made by the researchers for this material 
was a yet-to-be-published diary of Isaac Boring, who served only six months at 
Prospect in 1850. He wrote about setting out for Conference in Marietta on 
January 7. He drove from his home that morning through "torrents of rain and 
reached Marietta by ten in the fournoon." Isaac Boring’s brother Jesse Boring, 
who later founded the Methodist Children’s Home in Decatur, attended the 
Conference with him and preached to the assembly on January 14. Their mother, 
who lived about 12 miles away, was present. "He was stoped (stopped) in his 
discourse, near the close, by the fainting of a lady. The conference was 
allowed to retire without prayer, it being thought necessary for the relief of 
the afflicted lady." Isaac and Jesse parted from each other on January 16. 
Jesse left to go to California as the superintendent of missions. Isaac said 
he "felt sad on parting with him, but hope we shall meet again on earth. If 
not, I think we shall meet in Heaven."Isaac left for his appointment to the 
Monticello Circuit; and it was Wednesday, February 6, when he first preached at 
what he called "New Prospect. Here met a good congregation. Preached on 1 Peter 
4:1. Spent the night at Harris Allen’s."The other churches on the circuit that 
Boring referred to in his diary included Hillsboro, Sardis, Elizabeth, Liberty, 
Concord, Midway, Mt. Zion (which later came to be known as Calvary), and New 
Hope. He also preached at Eatonton on one occasion; and every time he preached 
in Monticello, he mentioned that "in the afternoon, preached to the colured 
(colored) people in their own church…at night preached to the whites" using a 
different text each time. It has not been ascertained where he lived, but one 
entry said that he left home "by the dawn of day. Reached Hillsboro, about 20 
miles, by eleven."Boring came again to New Prospect on Wednesday, February 20. 
He read the general rules and stayed overnight at Dr. Perry’s. When he returned 
on Wednesday, March 6, he stayed overnight with the Allens and wrote that they 
were "pious parents. They have many promiscing (promising) little children."The 
travel by horseback or buggy from place to place must have been extremely hard, 
particularly in inclement weather. Oftentimes, when Boring arrived at the place 
of worship, no one, or just two or three people, would be there. He preached 
only two other times at Prospect. The last time, on April 10, his text was 1 
Peter 3:21. He wrote, "Once joined on trial. We had a good time. The bro. who 
joined experienced religion a few nights since. Went home with Bro. Connard. In 
the evening returned to Harris Allen’s and spent the night here. Sister Allen 
departed this life, the Monday morning previous. She died in peace."Isaac 
Boring left his family on April 19 to set out for the General Conference in St. 
Louis, Missouri. Their parting seemed almost ominous, for he penned, "It was 
painful to me and them for us to part; but I committed them and myself to the 
good Lord, to do with us as he may see best." After an eventful trip using 
various modes of travel – including buggy, railroad, omnibus, and steamboat – 
he arrived in St. Louis on April 30. The steamboat had been crowded with "a 
considerable number of California adventurors (adventurers)" and 20 preachers. 
One of the bishops had taken the opportunity to preach to those on board.There 
were no entries beyond May 1. A notation at the end of his diary indicated 
that "Isaac Boring, circuit, age 49, passed away with the illness, cloria 
(cholera), and was buried in St. Louis, Mo. His diary was returned to family in 
Georgia."Isaac Boring had served the Monticello Circuit for a total of 83 days. 
He had preached 57 times, conducted one wedding, held a prayer meeting and a 
quarterly Conference, administered the Lord’s supper, and endured a riot that 
broke out next to the church on one occasion.Later, in writing about Boring, 
George G. Smith noted that he was the son of "excellent Methodist parents." 
Boring had not had many educational opportunities, but he had begun preaching 
by the time he was 20. Smith said he was a "highly gifted man…one whose clear 
head, and whose determined will, and whose consecrated heart made him a most 
valuable man to the Church."James Harris was appointed to finish out Boring’s 
term, followed by Sidney Myers Smith in 1851-1852. Richard Lane, an officer in 
the war with the Creek Indians and a graduate of the Philadelphia Medical 
School, served the circuit in 1853-1854. William A. Florence was appointed for 
the years 1855-1856, and later died in Social Circle on June 29, 1879.

 THE CHURCH IN ANTE-BELLUM GEORGIA
The appointment for 1857 and 1858 went to John Boykin Mcgehee. Another exciting 
discovery for the researchers was an autobiography written by McGehee in 1915. 
He was 82 years old and had served 63 years in the ministry, 26 of those years 
as an itinerant preacher and 37 years as a presiding elder. McGehee was the son 
of Dr. Edward T. McGehee, who was born and raised in Jasper County. Dr. McGehee 
later moved to Perry where he preached, practiced medicine, and had a 
mercantile business.John B. McGehee’s autobiography is filled with humorous 
anecdotes and stories of his varied experiences as an itinerant preacher. The 
book is also sprinkled with sermons on topics ranging from his views of the 
Civil War to his opinions on communion.McGehee spoke poignantly of his 
conversion experience, which occurred after his graduation from Emory 
University. His father was preaching a revival, and McGehee said he felt "hard 
and seemingly hopeless." He described himself in the "sad state of the man who 
had known the ways of righteousness but turned from the commandments." He was 
crossing the street after the service when the question came to him, "Where am 
I going? What am I doing but resisting the only power that can save me?" Right 
there, in the middle of the street, he told God that if He would forgive him, 
he would serve Him the rest of his life.That was the beginning of a life 
totally committed to God. McGehee became a Methodist itinerant preacher. The 
Monticello Circuit was the fifth circuit that he served. He came to Monticello 
from Fort Gaines, and he said it was quite a change from "wiregrass and sand to 
rocks, hills, vales, and red mud." He described in detail his efforts to make 
his first appointment at Hillsboro. He and his family ended up in a ditch with 
a broken singletree. Help came and they made it to Hillsboro the next day. He 
described Hillsboro as "a small town, inhabited by a few elegant 
Christians."The McGehees boarded that first year with Thomas Jefferson Smith in 
Monticello, "a town of fair proportions and good business." He mentioned the 
good churches and schools and "refined, cultured people" of Monticello. He 
said, however that his predecessor, William A. Florence, was his one source of 
embarrassment. Speaking of Florence affectionately, McGehee wrote, "Uncle Billy 
Florence’ was so far ahead of me in the pulpit that it was hard for my people 
to know they had a preacher."McGehee also served Shady Dale, Concord, Sardis, 
Midway, New Hope, and Prospect churches. He spoke of John Wesley Cook, Sr., one 
of the local preachers, as "true and tried." He described several of the 
churches in some detail including names of families in each church. In writing 
about Prospect Church, he said, "the Allens abounded." He also mentioned Dr. 
Campbell, who often gave the congregation at Prospect "a word of 
exhortation."He related quite a humorous story of how he managed to secure a 
dinner invitation each time he went to New Hope church. He had been warned that 
he better take his lunch with him, that the folks at New Hope "had a reputation 
of being slow on entertaining preachers." When he announced after the service 
that he would be "glad to dine with some brother on the Hillsboro Road," 
everyone ignored him and began to move away from him. After a couple of tries, 
McGehee then stood on a pew, selected a man and shouted, "Yes, Bro. , I thank 
you, I’ll go with you." It worked, he said, "like a charm—and New Hope was ever 
after given to hospitality."In the second year that McGehee served the 
Monticello Circuit, a parsonage was purchased near the Monticello church. He 
stayed just two years, which was the time limit. His response to that 
was, "pity the limit was disturbed." Although he said he couldn’t report "any 
great success…(the) two years were greatly enjoyed."McGehee made reference to 
at least two other preachers who had earlier served the Monticello Circuit. He 
spoke of J. Blakely Smith, who had later become a presiding elder, as "well 
rounded in body, soul and spirit." McGehee also commented that the "South 
Georgia Conference loved and honored him. He certainly knew how to exhort and 
was at home in a revival." McGehee also wrote about Clairborne Trussel, who had 
preached in 1846 at Prospect and the other churches on the Monticello Circuit. 
He called Trussel "vulnerable and sainted."In addition to serving as an 
itinerant preacher and presiding elder, John Boykin McGehee was president of 
Andrew College for two years. He was also a trustee of Emory University for 47 
years.Robert Watkins Lovett became the itinerant preacher for the Monticello 
Circuit and Colored Mission/Macon District in 1859. Thomas N. Tyson served as 
the junior preacher that same year.According to George G. Smith, Lovett's 
family came to Georgia from Virginia after the Revolutionary War. Robert Lovett 
was born in Screven County near the Savannah River. The Lovett family had been 
members of the Church of England, but they became Methodists after moving to 
Georgia. Smith related that when Bishop Francis Asbury visited Georgia, he was 
a guest in the Lovett home in Savannah.Robert entered the Georgia Conference 
Manual Labor School at Covington in 1836 and later was one of the first 
students at Emory College. He also graduated from the Medical College at 
Augusta in 1844. Lovett was a local preacher for several years before being 
admitted to the Conference. Dr. Lovett was married three times and had seven 
children.The Special Collections Department of Robert W. Woodruff Library, 
Emory University, has an extensive collection of Robert W. Lovett's personal 
letters, wills, deeds, and other documents pertaining to his family and the 
family of Judge Thomas Molloy Meriwether. Lovett and Meriwether were close 
friends. According to information contained in the inventory of the Robert W. 
Lovett Special Collection, Lovett's three wives were sisters of Meriwether's 
three wives .Lovett wrote his parents from Newton County in February 1854. He 
had just returned from Augusta and had forgotten to buy the promised Irish 
potatoes for his parents. He commented that "oats were scarce and in some 
stores worth 75 cents a bushel." He had also purchased log chains. Lovett's 
father had apparently sent his grandson some honey, for Lovett wrote, "Bobie is 
very proud of his honey and says to tell Grandpa 'Thank you' for him. He and 
Lee are going to school. The teacher is an excellent man and takes pains with 
them."In another letter written to his parents from Covington in September 
1859, the year he was pastor of the Monticello Circuit, Lovett mentioned making 
plans to go see his ailing father. He talked about bringing Miss Sallie Price 
to meet his father. Lovett's first wife had died in 1856. Concerning his plans 
for marriage, Lovett wrote, "It is the conviction of my best judgment after 
serious reflection. I think she will be kind and affectionate to you...and will 
undertake the care of my children. We have known each other for some time." He 
concluded by saying, "We can talk better when we meet."When Lovett wrote again 
in November, his father was still sick, and Lovett was making plans to visit 
him after Conference. He said he felt he could not come sooner because "it 
would not be right to leave the circuit unattended." He also wrote that it was 
time for "the missionary collections and Conference collections...to be taken 
up and Sunday week is quarterly Conference at which I ought to be present." He 
closed the letter by saying that "Sallie and the children send much love to 
you."Robert Lovett served as an itinerant preacher for only five years. 
However, he continued to preach and practice medicine and involve himself in 
community affairs until he was quite old. He died in 1912 at the age of 
94.Appointed to serve the Monticello Circuit, and thus Prospect Church, for the 
year 1860 was Marshall S. Malsby. A story was told of Malsby that he fell into 
a pond and bargained with the Lord that if He would just save him, he would 
become a Methodist preacher. Malsby later became the first itinerant preacher 
in Georgia to be placed on a four-point circuit as larger circuits were broken 
up. He died in Social Circle on May 30, 1897. James L, Neese also served as 
Junior preacher during 1860.

THE CHURCH DURING THE CIVIL WAR AND THE YEARS FOLLOWING
Right on the brink of the Civil War, in 1861, Michael A. Clontz received his 
appointment to the Monticello Circuit, which was then in the Griffin District. 
Alfred Mann Pierce, in Lest Faith Forget, said that the "impact of the war upon 
Methodism in the South and in Georgia was...appalling, and...was little less 
than a miracle that the Methodist Church, South survived." He continued by 
saying that "in reality, it was a miracle; the miracle of the gospel that could 
implant in the human heart a devotion so deep that the most desperate 
circumstances could not uproot." Serving with Clontz during that perilous time 
was Walton Frank Holland as the Junior preacher. Holland married Sarah Binford, 
a Jasper County native, who died at Farrar in 1909.
In the midst of battle, Daniel Kelsey was appointed to preach during the year 
1862, and John E, Sentell, whose father was the first settler in McRae, 
Georgia, served in 1863-1864. George G. Smith wrote that when the Georgia 
Conference met in Macon in 1862, "the war was raging with fearful violence. 
More and more troops were sent to the front...and the stores were largely 
closed for want of goods, the factories were unable to supply the demand for 
their products, the price of everything was advancing with fearful rapidity, 
and all gold and silver had disappeared...but still the work of the Church went 
on. The people were never more religious, and faith in God was never at a 
higher point."
Pierce, however, painted a darker spiritual picture. He pointed out that since 
so many preachers, as well as laity, enlisted in the Confederate Army, that 
churches were "neglected, Sunday Schools disbanded, class meetings abandoned 
and on the part of not a few, Christian experience began to grow cold." He 
cited the widespread presence of such obvious sins as drunkenness, gambling, 
swearing, dishonesty, and "Sabbath desecration" as contributing to the moral 
decline. Still the Church continued to point out dangers and exhort its 
people, "reminding them of the gracious promises that never failed the 
faithful." As a result, "many not only maintained their spiritual integrity but 
grew into a richer experience."
The end of the War came in April 1865, and William Waters Oslin was in the 
pulpit at Prospect Church and again the following year in 1866. One can only 
imagine the struggles and disillusionment the southern churches faced in those 
days following defeat and surrender. Pierce, in Lest FaithForget, indicated 
that initially the whole outlook was dark, but then "the Church rallied 
magnificently; its leaders rethought their faith; restudied their Scriptures in 
the light of hard, inescapable fact and realized that it was their 
misinterpretation and not God's infidelity to His word that caused their 
dismay." Revivals soon swept across the state of Georgia, and membership in the 
Methodist Church increased by 2,303 in 1866.
That same year, the Georgia delegation to the General Conference requested 
permission to divide into two conferences. When they held their own Conference 
in 1867, the division was made into the North and South Georgia Conferences. 
Since Conference journals did not include a list of individual churches on each 
circuit, it is not certain which circuit Prospect was on at this time. Daniel 
Kelsey was appointed to the Monticello and Colored Charge/Milledgeville 
District for the years 1867 and 1868. William Waters Oslin was appointed to the 
Monticello/Athens District in 1868 and W. L. Davenport to the Jasper Mission in 
1868. The following year, A. C. Cason, served the Jasper Mission and Miles 
Wesley Arnold was appointed to the Monticello Charge/Atlanta District. Arnold 
was born in Putnam County, October 10, 1829, and died in Walton County, October 
5, 1894. He was buried in Norwood Cemetery, according to Methodist Preachers In 
Georgia, 1773-1900 by Harold A. Lawrence.
Frances Barton Davies received his appointment for 1870 and 1871 to the 
Monticello Circuit/Atlanta District. He died in 1881 at the age of 46 in 
Decatur, Georgia. Conference journals showed that Albert W. Rowland was 
appointed that same year to the Jasper Circuit/Atlanta District. Rowland had 
graduated hem Emery University in 1850 and had also taught school.
The next itinerant preacher, who apparently served Prospect Church as a part of 
the Monticello Circuit/Atlanta District, was Dr. Ebenezer G. Murrah in 1872 and 
1873. In a tribute paid to him at his death in 1912, the North Georgia 
Conference Journal recorded many interesting facts concerning his life. It 
stated he had a devoutly Christian mother and that he had joined the Methodist 
Church when he was ten years old and living in Madison; but after attending a 
camp meeting some years later in Cobb County, he was "soundly converted. When 
he told his experience of how he wanted to preach and of how he had neither 
education nor money, the Lord raised up
friends for him." After serving as a pastor for a number of years, he decided 
to also study dentistry. He became a traveling dentist for a while and later 
opened an office in Milledgeville. He continued to serve churches in the area 
during that time including the Monticello Circuit. Dr. George G. Smith wrote in 
the Conference journal that the holiness movement had begun in Georgia in 1880 
and Murrah was its chief opponent until he had his own unique spiritual 
experience. Then he became "one of the warmest advocates of the doctrine of 
entire sanctification as taught by Wesley...he traveled far and near, 
everywhere telling the story of his wondrous experience." Dr. Murrah authored 
many articles in the Wesleyan Christian Advocate.
It was also during the period of 1872-1873 that Conference journals revealed 
that a local lay person, John Wesley Cook, Sr., was appointed as local preacher 
for the Ocmulgee Mission/Atlanta District. John Boykin McGehee mentioned Cook 
in his autobiography. Cook died on March 6, 1892, and a resolution was written 
into the quarterly Conference minutes the following May that read, in 
part, "Resolved that while we feel very greatly his loss to us, yet we bow in 
humble submission to the will of Him who doeth all things well, knowing that 
our loss is the gain of him who was for many years a faithful Local Preacher, a 
valiant soldier of the Cross." Three of John Wesley Cook, Sr.'s great 
grandchildren, Ruth Kelly Kitchens, Cornelia Kelly Lewis, and John Ben Kelly 
ate among the oldest and longest-standing members of Prospect Church today. 
Also included in the membership are 12 of Cook's great-great grandchildren, 
four great-great-great grandchildren, and six in the seventh generation, three 
of whom are preparatory members.
Following Murrah as pastor of the Monticello Circuit was Willard W, Wadsworth 
in 1874, and Albert Gray, an Emory graduate, in 1875-1877. Tradition holds that 
the present church building was constructed in 1875. The foundation sills were 
donated by James Benton. They were hand-hewn and dragged by mules from his farm 
five miles away. The building measures 40 by 60 feet and is located several 
hundred feet east of the original log structure. When the second church was 
constructed, the log building was given to the black worshipers for their own 
church. Later, they built another church a mile further south on Highway 11. 
James A. Rosser served the circuit in 1878-1879.
THE CHURCH CONTINUES TO THRIVEThe year 1880 brought the famous evangelist, 
Samuel Porter Jones, to the Monticello Circuit for his last appointment as an 
itinerant preacher. Evangelism has been at the heart of Methodism from the 
earliest beginnings, and no one fulfilled that ideal more than Sam Jones.The 
Special Collections Department of Robert W. Woodruff Library, Emery University 
has a Samuel Porter Jones Collection containing many of Jones' letters, 
sermons, appointment books, and personal effects including two of Jones' bow 
ties. According to a newspaper article in the collection, Jones married in 
1869; and for the next three years, he drank excessively. In 1872, at his 
father's deathbed, he promised to reform.A short time later, he was converted 
at Felton's Chapel. That same year, he was licensed by the North Georgia 
Conference and was appointed to "probably the poorest circuit in the 
Conference. The previous year this charge had paid its pastor the handsome 
salary of sixty-five dollars; but despite some very unpopular preaching, when 
the end of the year had come, Jones had received $700. For eight years Jones 
served circuits, preached an average of 400 sermons every year, and received 
into the church 5000 converts."In a book published soon after Jones' death, 
Mrs. Sam P. Jones wrote about their circuit experiences, Before coming to the 
Monticello Circuit, Jones had served two years on the "Newberne" Circuit in 
Newton County. It was while he was serving that circuit that he began to do 
extensive revival work, visiting towns in nearby areas holding unprecedented 
services. In writing his impressions after a six-week revival services, a young 
lawyer wrote that "Sam Jones lit down in this veritable town of Thompson, and 
began to go for the devil and his angels in a manner which was entirely new to 
said devil; also new to said angels."From the Newborn Circuit, Jones was sent 
to the Monticello Circuit. Mrs. Jones said he spent his most successful year as 
a pastor on the Monticello Circuit. She wrote that the people of Monticello 
were "among the noblest in Georgia." Mr. Jones was noted for the amount of time 
he spent visiting, and concerned friends tried to discourage him from working 
so hard. He recalled another preacher whose doctor, out of concern for his 
health, told him that he could preach no more than four hours every day and six 
hours on Sunday. The preacher had exclaimed that he would rust to death. Jones 
felt the same way and went right on preaching every day, visiting the sick, and 
holding revivals in nearby towns.Mrs. Jones said that the Bible was the basis 
for all that Sam Jones preached and the inspiration of all his hopes. He never 
wavered from its truths, and that seemed to be the key to the success of his 
meetings. In summing up his pastorate on the Monticello Circuit, Mrs. Jones 
noted that Monticello and Jasper County were "noted for their wickedness. The 
people were intelligent, well to do, worldly and wicked." However, 700 people 
were converted while Sam Jones was pastor. She told the story of two of those 
converts, and said that "revival was carried on by (all) the converts which 
revolutionized the county." The saloons were soon closed and the influence 
extended to adjoining counties. When Mrs. Jones wrote her book, Life and 
Sayings of Sam P.Jones, she stated that there "are no more religious and 
spiritual people to be found anywhere, after a quarter of a century."Jones' 
success on the Monticello Circuit gave him prestige at the annual conference; 
and he was appointed to the agency of the North Georgia Orphanage, which later 
was known as the Methodist Children's Home. Since he no longer had the 
responsibility of a circuit, the world became his parish for the next 20 years. 
Jones preached in nearly every state of the nation, to crowds of 10,000 to 
20,000, without the aid of modern-day amplification. His converts numbered 
700,000, with sometimes and many as 2,700 in a single revival.Jones' 
appointment book for 1884 revealed that he preached 29 times in Waco, Texas 
from September 28 until October 7. He became sick, and his wife, Laura, arrived 
in Waco on October 9. They left for home in Social Circle on October 17, 
arriving on the 19th.Other notes indicated that Jones used some of his earnings 
as an evangelist to pay the operating expenses of the Methodist Children's 
Home. The home was nearly bankrupt when Jones was appointed an agent in 
1881.Jones' own explanation for his success was that "every power he possessed 
was so dedicated to God that it was held subject to his unquestioned will." 
When he died in 1906, his death was headline news across the nation. At the 
request of the mayor and the city council of Atlanta, his body was brought to 
Atlanta on a special train from Cartersville. Thousands of people lined the 
streets with their heads bowed. Sam Jones' body lay in state at the capitol, 
and an estimated "30,000 people, old and young, rich and poor, white and black, 
many of them in tears, passed his bier."The following two years, 1881 and 1882, 
found John Malachi Bowden at the helm of the Monticello Circuit. Charles T. 
Jones served as junior preacher in 1881, and Thomas S. Hubert was junior 
preacher in 1882. Hubert later became a frequent contributor to the Wesleyan 
Christian Advocate.Theophilus S. L. Harwell was appointed pastor of the 
Monticello Circuit in 1883, with Michael Dennis Turner as the junior preacher. 
The Shady Dale Circuit was formed the next year, 1884, with Harwell receiving 
that appointment. It is assumed that Prospect was a part of this new circuit. 
Harwell was born in Newton County and attended Emory College. He had a twin 
brother who was also a preacher. They died just a few days apart in 1895 at the 
age of 71.William A. Farris served the Shady Dale Circuit in 1885 and 1886. 
Then the appointment went to Marion H. Eakes in 1887 and 1888. According to 
Conference minutes recorded after his death in 1912, Eakes was converted at age 
12 at a camp meeting through the counsel of his older brother. When his brother 
asked him if he were saved, his response was, "I think I am." His brother 
said, "Here, this will never do." He took him by the arm and said, "Come on, 
you must know it." After a few moments, he was "gloriously converted." it was 
also stated that "his call to the ministry was in direct answer to the prayers 
of his godly mother." Eakes was spoken of as a moral hero. "He accepted, 
preached, and lived the doctrine of holiness as taught by the Bible, and the 
standards of his church...His love for the church amounted almost to a passion, 
and his grief was intense whenever any sort of compromise was made with the 
world." He often expressed the desire to die in the pulpit; and on January 28, 
1912, God granted him that wish. Eakes was preaching on Matthew 7:24, 27 in a 
little country church in Morgan County. At the end of the service, after he had 
made the announcements and pronounced the benediction, he died. In writing 
Eakes' memoir in the North Georgia Conference Journal, J. H. Mashburn 
said, "His loving Father gently released the pure spirit from the frail body, 
and he ceased to live and work."Following Eakes as pastor was Osgood Andrew 
Thrower in 1889 and 1890. Later, Thomas J. Warlick was given the appointment as 
pastor of the Shady Dale Circuit in 1891 and 1892. The factor that makes the 
next twenty years, beginning with 1892, so interesting is that the quarterly 
Conference minutes are in the possession of the Shady Dale Circuit. Charge 
Conferences were held in a different local church every three months. The 
minutes contained statistics concerning the pastor's salary, other financial 
records, and trustees' reports. They also included written reports of the state 
of the Sunday Schools, the pastoral instruction of children, and the general 
state of the church. Occasionally, there were written reports on secular and 
Christian education and on missions.The Shady Dale Circuit began to make a 
concentrated effort to raise money for a parsonage. The 1892 minutes made 
several references to parsonage monies being collected. The churches included 
on the charge at that time included Pennington, Prospect, Calvary, Liberty, 
Midway, and Concord. Their total assessment for the pastor's salary was $715 
for 1892; records showed the final settlement was $656.85.The third quarterly 
Conference for 1892 was held at Prospect. Apparently Pastor Warlick had been 
quite ill, for there was a resolution written into the minutes that 
stated, "Whereas it has pleased Almighty God to afflict our pastor, Bro. T. G. 
Warlick, we feel that we owe to him who cares for all in both sickness and 
health our praise and gratitude that he has helped our brother through this 
long spell of fever--and be it resolved that we pray for his speedy recovery--
that he may be speedily returned to his work"Apparently he did recover speedily 
because revivals were held in all the churches previous to the fourth quarterly 
Conference in October 1892, and 65 new members were added to the rolls. In 
those same minutes was a report of the trustees of Prospect. It stated that the 
seating capacity for the church building was 450. The building was in need of 
repair and was valued at $1,500. Warlick died in 1933 and was buried in Oxford, 
Georgia.Charles L. Pattillo became pastor in 1893. Pattillo wrote concerning 
church discipline in the minutes for May 1893. "We have some violations of 
church discipline. Some people in the church, who are an evil to the church, 
and the church is no blessing to them." He then listed three people whose names 
were dropped from the roll. At the next conference, he mentioned that a doctor 
was expelled.The Sunday School reports for Prospect Church almost always seemed 
favorable. W. H. Thompson was named for a good number of years as the 
superintendent. In comments made at the quarterly Conference in October 1893, 
Pattillo said that some of the Sunday Schools "were doing well. Some are 
languishing. All of them might be successes if the whole church would cooperate 
with the faithful few who work in the Sunday School."In memoirs written at his 
death, Pattillo was described as very evangelistic. It was noted that, "As a 
preacher, he was direct, simple, scriptural, strong and helpful...the 
evangelistic note was constantly sounded in his sermons...and he deplored what 
he considered the lack of the evangelistic passion among his younger brethren." 
Pattillo died in Decatur in 1923. He had nine children; two sons had become 
ministers, and one son was a doctor.W. C. Dunlap, who became the pastor in 1894 
was also concerned about the state of the Sunday Schools. He said that some of 
the churches on the circuit were "practically without any Superintendents, the 
Brethren elected having refused to serve." Another time he wrote that Prospect 
was the only church that went all winter without suspending the Sunday School 
program. The weather often played a big part in the continuation of services. 
Dunlap said, "I suppose this school has not suspended for years. It is well 
organized and doing good work. We greatly need a revival at nearly all our 
churches in Sunday School work. I make it a point to attend Sunday School and 
take part in the services."It is not clear just when the public school was 
constructed on the same property as the church at Prospect, but Dunlap called 
special attention to the fine literary school at Prospect taught by Christian 
teachers. He wrote, "May the Lord turn the hearts of the parents yet more and 
more toward their children in the matter of Christian education."Dunlap wrote 
another time about the spiritual state of the church. He indicated that he 
attempted to inquire into the lives of the members and ascertained that most of 
them lived moral lives. He did say, however, that the "spiritual tone of the 
Charge is not up to a high standard, not many fast at stated times. We are not 
searching the Scriptures as we should." The next quarter, he wrote that the 
protracted meetings had not brought the results he had hoped, that people felt 
compelled to continue to work their crops. He expressed a need for a day of 
fasting and prayer. Dunlap was a native of Jasper County, was converted at the 
age of 14, and died at the age of 58 in Covington in 1896, according to 
Lawrence's book, Methodist Preachers in Georgia.The problems had not changed 
when Oliver Cromwell Simmons became pastor of the Shady Dale Circuit in 1895. 
It might be noted here that Monticello had become a station church the previous 
year. Simmons wrote in the minutes that the trouble in some of the churches was 
the lack of leadership. He said the children were "anxious to go, and if we 
would give God a chance the next generation would be far better than this." The 
tone had changed somewhat by the next quarterly Conference. He wrote, "The 
church is not dead. Her life blood is health and the membership for the most 
part endeavors to be loyal to God."James Benton, who had contributed the 
foundation beams for the church in 1875, died in December 1895. When the 
quarterly Conference met in April 1896, a resolution commemorating his life was 
included in the minutes. It described him as a "quiet, modest Christian 
gentleman." His generosity, spoken of at length, was summed up by noting that 
one of his last acts was to "see that the preacher was provided for." It also 
stated that, "in his death, Prospect Church, of which he was a member, lost its 
oldest and one of its most liberal members." Today, James Benton's great 
grandson, L. O. Benton III, and great-great grandson, L. O. (Chip) Benton IV, 
are members of Prospect Church.The Conference minutes in November 1896 included 
Simmons' report on missions. He admitted that not a great deal had been done 
toward the support of missions, even though he had often preached on the 
subject. He stated his desire that God would "hasten the time when church vows 
mean something and when all shall give because of a consuming love for Jesus 
Christ, and throbbing, anxious hearts for the regions beyond."Andrew Dayton 
Echols was appointed to serve the Shady Dale Circuit for the years, 1897-1900. 
In the Conference minutes in February 1897, he wrote about the "warm Methodist 
welcome" his family had received. He also made a number of suggestions 
concerning the Sunday Schools. He encouraged the participation of the older 
members, punctuality on everyone's part, and the use of Methodist literature. 
He said he personally had spoken with many of the children about the importance 
of being Christians. After visiting extensively in the homes, Echols found 56 
children under the age of 12 who had not been baptized. He realized that there 
was much work to be done. The next quarter, he told of holding family class 
meetings in 20 new homes and of finding family altars in only five. Apparently 
his home visits were successful because one quarter he recorded 13 infant 
baptisms and added other new members to the rolls.The missionary spirit had 
improved. Echols noted an increase in giving and reported that at least one of 
the Ladies Missionary Societies was flourishing. He reported that in the 
Society at Prospect, "there is only one member, but she is faithful."The 
churches on the charge at that time were Calvary, Liberty, Prospect, Midway, 
and Concord. Echols reported that there were six Sunday Schools on the charge, 
including ones at Maxwell and Aikenton. Aikenton was in the process of 
acquiring materials to build a church.Politics entered the picture at the close 
of the quarterly Conference in 1899. A resolution was entered into the minutes 
encouraging every member of the church to consider it a "duty to do everything 
in their power to have the anti-barroom bill, now pending in the Legislature, 
pass, and we respectfully request our honorable representative for Jasper 
County to vote for its passage."When the Conference met again in January 1900, 
Echols said, "If every member of this Conference will start to do his part of 
duty, with faith in God, this closing year of the 19th century will be a good 
year for the Shady Dale Circuit." Another time, he wrote that he had tried to 
bring the matter of education before the people "in connection with the 20th 
Century Movement." He continued by reporting that several of the young people 
on the charge were attending college. Also, the possibility of building a 
parsonage seemed stronger than ever. Echols said the funds were available and 
it should be accomplished that year.In September 1900, Echols gave his "last 
and sixteenth report to this Conference." He wrote, "I feel thankful to God for 
his blessings." He had just finished a series of protracted services and felt 
that they had been the best since he had been pastor of the circuit. He had 
baptized five infants and 28 adults. THE CHURCH AT THE DAWN OF THE 20TH 
CENTURYAccepting the appointment as pastor of the Shady Dale Circuit in 1901 
and 1902 was Frederick W. McClesky. The circuit consisted of Calvary, Midway, 
Liberty, Concord, Prospect, and Godfrey. Weather still played a big part in 
church attendance as indicated in McClesky's remarks in the spring of 1901. He 
said he trusted that "since the bright beautiful spring time had come, the 
attendance and interest will increase and grander things will be achieved for 
the glory of God and the salvation of the precious children." He expected the 
summer protracted meetings to bring about a spiritual revival and requested 
earnest prayer "that God would kindle and spread all over this circuit a 
gracious revival of religion, and that Christ may be glorified, and that 
immortal souls be saved within the bounds of this charge this year as never 
before in its entire history." Godheard those prayers; six months later 57 
people had joined the churches.However, by October 1902, the situation did not 
seem so promising. There was a report that the stewards had not paid the 
pastor's rent; and in his remarks on the spiritual state of the churches, 
McClesky commented on the lack of support from the congregations. He seemed to 
have faced tremendous opposition from a number of different sources 
including "the devil...and wicked men" and "indifference and desertion from 
church members." He was quick to thank God for the blessings bestowed upon him 
personally and upon his "dear little family." His desire was that in the future 
the circuit would "stand by its pastor in a more courageous and Christ-like 
way...and be more faithful to Christ, more missionary in spirit." He went on to 
say, "I also hope that those members on this circuit who have failed me, their 
pastor, and which is far more, failed the lovingJesus, may go quickly to Him on 
their knees in prayer, get the long suffering Savior's forgiveness and be ready 
to face Him in peace on that awful and fiery day of final judgement."By the 
time Atticus Burton Sanders, who was appointed for the years 1903-1905, 
commented in the Conference minutes in May 1903, the spiritual state of the 
churches was much improved. He said there were many "with rich Christian 
experience which they are not ashamed to relate...The people delight to 
assemble in the House of the Lord." Three months later, he wrote favorably 
about Saturday services and prayer meetings. He even commented that he had 
never served a work where there were so many who would pray in public. He said 
the people responded "liberally to every call made on them and show a 
willingness to co-operate with the pastor."The winter of 1903 apparently took 
its toll on Prospect's Sunday School, since Sanders wrote in January 1904, that 
the Sunday School had "gone into the winter quarter, or the grave, we can't say 
which." By August, however, it had been re-organized. The attendance only 
averaged around 20, but he said, '"The interest those few manifest is beautiful 
to behold."The combined assessment for the salaries of the presiding elder and 
the pastor was $685 for 1904, with Prospect's portion only $145. Sanders wrote 
in October 1904, that his last regular appointment at Prospect was "decidedly 
the best in the two years of my pastorate. The music was inspiring, the feeling 
fine and the giving liberal."The need for a parsonage had been discussed for 
years. Finally, at the October Conference, parsonage trustees were elected 
and "instructed and authorized to proceed at once to the purchase or erection 
of a parsonage." There was also mention of a stove being purchased for Prospect 
at the cost of $5,Speaking on the spiritual state of the church, Sanders 
wrote, "With few exceptions, peace and harmony prevail throughout the circuit, 
and our people continue to manifest a spirit of loyalty to God and his church. 
On moral lines, a great progress has been made. Dram-drinking, dancing, 
profanity, and such are rapidly disappearing. Spiritually, we are growing. Our 
people seem to realize more and more the worth of the Divine life and they are 
fixing their affections on things above."Great strides had obviously been made 
in the Sunday School at Prospect. Sanders said it was one of the best schools 
the church had ever had, with 35 pupils enrolled and five teachers and 
officers. He praised the enthusiasm of the workers and recognized that the Lord 
was blessing their efforts.No details were given, but mention was made in July 
1905, that Prospect's records had been destroyed by fire. It is to be assumed 
that they were in the possession of a church member and his home had burned. A 
report was given that $45 had been spent on Prospect Church. The church was 
valued at $1,200 and there was no insurance. The notation also reported that 
the title papers were lost.Ben Graham became pastor of the circuit in 1906; and 
according to the March 1906 quarterly Conference minutes, his family became the 
first to reside in the newly purchased parsonage in Shady Dale. It was 
described as a "suitable cottage...containing four rooms with out buildings of 
stables and two tenant houses located on an acre of land." The churches on the 
charge had raised and paid the sum of $1,100. The ladies on the circuit pledged 
to raise money to pay for the parsonage furniture. Graham said he felt this was 
a "fine showing, for when you go into a man's pocket book, you find him out 
real soon."In writing about the Sunday Schools in November 1906, Graham 
expressed the desire that the teachers would be more aggressive in getting all 
the children in reach of the Sunday School to attend. He said that many of the 
children "of our people stay at home without excuse."Haynes Walton Morris was 
appointed to the charge in 1907 and served only a short time before his death 
at the age of 49. William E. Venable had replaced him by the time the quarterly 
Conference met in April. A resolution was written into the minutes 
commemorating Morris' life. Venable began his appointment with a sincere and 
humble spirit. He stated that "no preacher in the bounds of the North Georgia 
Conference has a better class of people to serve than this humble 
servant.''John Moses Sewell became the new pastor in 1908. The tenant houses on 
the parsonage property had apparently created some problems. It was decided 
that the pastor had the right to object to disagreeable families. Sewell also 
found dissatisfaction with some of the church members. He wrote, "The 
indifference to church duties, especially on the part of many male members is 
deplorable and should arouse us to earnest prayer."The churches listed on the 
charge at that time were Calvary, Godfrey, Liberty, Midway, and Prospect. There 
were protracted services at each of the churches during the summer. Sewell said 
many had shown "evidences of the love of God in their hearts." The stewards for 
Prospect Church were listed as W. C. Jones, R. G. Chafin, and W. C. Campbell. 
W. C. Campbell was also mentioned as the Sunday School superintendent.David 
Bane Cantrell became the pastor in 1909-1911. His earliest evaluation of the 
charge was not entirely favorable. He pointed out that there were "some good 
people in each congregation who are both loyal and love the church. But there 
seems to be a spirit of general indifference throughout the circuit." The 
church at Aikenton had obviously not been successful. Plans were made to 
sell "the old church...for not less than $100 and use the money on the M. E. 
Church at Shady Dale." There was also a $10 claim against the church.However, 
conditions began to improve throughout the circuit. Cantrell later wrote about 
several regular prayer meetings, even though he felt attendance was not what it 
should be. Thirty one new members were added to the rolls preceding the fourth 
quarterly Conference in 1909. The membership for the circuit totaled 485. It 
must be noted that quite often names were also removed because people moved out 
of the communities.Prospect's assessment for 1910 was $185 for both the pastor 
and the presiding elder. In February 1910, Cantrell commented on the spiritual 
state of the church. He had seen no improvement and felt that, even though 
there were a few loyal members, there were many who were "indifferent and 
worldly and cared very little for the church." He said it had become "alarming 
in some places." He wrote in the same vein in June 1910, saying that they were 
in need of "a great spiritual awakening in every church in the charge."In his 
evaluation of the public schools, Cantrell said they were "fairly good. Most of 
our people are trying to educate their children." He reported a number of 
students going away to school, including three at Methodist schools.Cantrell's 
summation of the general state of the church at the close of his tenure in 1911 
was favorable. He stated there had been a "gradual improvement in every 
interest of the church for the two years we have been laboring together and the 
circuit is in the best condition materially and spiritually than at any time in 
its history."When Cantrell died in 1934, he was described in journal reports 
as "a very active, vigorous, alert pastor, looking out after the needs of his 
charges." He literally helped build 19 churches and nine parsonages. During his 
ministry, 1,000 people were received into the church on profession of faith.The 
report on the following years, 1912-1923, would most likely have been erroneous 
had it not been for the excellent memory of Prospect's longest-standing member, 
Cornelia Kelly Lewis. Lewis joined Prospect Church when she was nine years old 
in 1915. She recalled the pastor's name and the fact that he came to Prospect 
from the Mansfield Circuit, as did the succeeding preachers for a number of 
years. During this time, the North Georgia Conference journals still did not 
list the individual churches on the circuits; and there are no local records 
either at Prospect or Mansfield to substantiate this report. However, the 
researcher went to the courthouse in Monticello and searched through old copies 
of The Monticello News. In every instance, there were recorded in the news 
columns for Prospect or Eudora Community accounts of the preacher from 
Mansfield having filled his regular appointment at Prospect.Therefore, it can 
be reported with confidence that Zebulon Vance Hawkes preached at Prospect in 
1912. Lewis Boyd Linn was the pastor for the years, 1913-1916. William A. 
Simmons served the Mansfield Circuit/Decatur, Oxford District from 1917 until 
at least the spring of 1921.Following Simmons was Samuel Davidson Cherry who 
filled the pulpit at Prospect from 1921 until 1923. There were several news 
items that spoke of Cherry preaching at Prospect. One entry from Prospect 
community, dated November 3, 1922, read, "Rev. Cherry, of Mansfield, filled the 
pulpit here Sunday. A very interesting sermon was rendered." Other news items 
often mentioned A. T. King who led the singing at Prospect for a number of 
years. His musical specials were sometimes mentioned and the fact that he was 
teaching music to the children on Saturday nights. King's great granddaughter, 
Lisa Hipps, and her family are active members of Prospect Church today. It is 
also interesting to note from the news items that the popular social events of 
the day were singings held in homes, possum dinners, and box suppers.  
 
THE CHURCH DURING THE GREAT DEPRESSION AND WORLD WAR IIThe next year, 1924, 
Prospect Church was moved back to the Shady Dale Circuit/Oxford District. J. W. 
Coffman filled the appointment in 1924, and J. Bunyan Gresham served from 1925 
until 1927. It was while Gresham was at Prospect that the frosted windows were 
installed in the church.Quarterly Conference minutes of the Shady Dale Circuit 
are available for 1928-1935. The churches included on the charge in 1928 were 
Shady Dale, Midway, Godfrey, Liberty, and Prospect. Oscar L. Kelly was the 
pastor-in-charge in 1928. He was a widow and had a little white dog, which he 
took with him everywhere as a companion. On one occasion, not wanting to make 
the late trip back to Shady Dale after a revival service, Kelly stayed 
overnight with one of the families at Prospect; and the little dog stayed 
too.In a Prospect Sunday School report dated October 24, 1928, Superintendent 
William Farris Thornton reported an average attendance of only 14, but he said 
it is "one of the best little Sunday Schools as you can find, one and all are 
interested." He said most of the collection was needed for supplies, but they 
had raised $6 for the orphan's home. Another report indicated that the 
literature for the year cost $16.26.William Farris Thornton's son, John Harris 
Thornton, Sr., lives in the Bethel community. In an interview with him, 
Thornton said, although he moved away from the county when he was 17, he 
remembered well his father serving for a number of years as Sunday School 
superintendent and also leading the singing. He recalled the fact that the 
preachers didn't have much money in those days, and his father would collect 
chickens and whatever else he could and then carry those things to Shady Dale 
to the preacher's family. Thornton had in his possession what appears to be a 
rough draft of a document dated in 1894. The document had been drawn up to 
replace the deed which was believed to be lost. It served to clarify where the 
boundaries of the church property existed. Thornton gave this unsigned document 
to Prospect Church for display.In 1929, Walter E. Brown received the Shady Dale 
appointment. In writing his first report in February 1929, Brown commented that 
none of the Sunday Schools on the charge were as efficient as they could be. A 
week-long Sunday School institute was planned for March with a Cokesbury school 
or a teacher training class available for the entire circuit. It was hoped 
to "enlarge the scope of the Sunday School work and improve the 
quality."Reporting on the general spiritual state of the charge in October 
1929, Brown commented at length. He said he really believed that most of the 
people wanted to "know the mind of the Master and serve both him and their 
fellow man better." However, he also wrote, "Our people perish for the lack of 
vision...I find that some of our best, especially our men, are not seeking 
places of leadership in the church. As a result, the churches are not 
prospering as they should and will not prosper as they might until our laymen 
catch the vision and accept the challenge and lead us into larger and better 
and bigger achievement." He concluded by reporting that the churches had not 
paid assessments for the support of ministry for the year.In 1930, the 
appointment went to C. A. Reese. When the third quarterly Conference met in 
June, the pastor wrote in his report that there had been a Cokesbury Teachers' 
Training School at Shady Dale and that five hours of training had been given to 
the Prospect Sunday School. As a result, they had organized a new class in the 
school and had decided to buy chairs for the Beginners' Class. The minutes 
recorded in the fall indicated that the training had been effective. Reese 
wrote that "the people are more interested in the Sunday School work than they 
have been heretofore." Reese left at the end of 1930.J. E. Ward was appointed 
to serve the Shady Dale Circuit in 1931 and 1932. Talmadge Church had been 
added to the circuit by that time. Between the first and second quarterly 
Conferences, the pastor had visited in 64 homes. Ward held revivals in all the 
churches that first summer and commented that the "spiritual life in each 
church was uplifted." By the next spring, he was planning revivals again and 
said that more people were attending church than they had when he first 
arrived. Ward, as other preachers before him, always stressed the need for good 
Christian literature in the homes, particularly theWesleyn Christian Advocate. 
Subscription drives for the Advocate were held once a year, just as they are 
today.The stewards for Prospect Church, listed in the minutes of the fourth 
quarterly Conference, November 1932, were John Herschel Kelly, J. K. Alien, G. 
C. Lunsden, and George Lewis. The trustees listed were G. C. Lunsden, W. F. 
Thornton, and J. H. Kelly.John E. Hartsfield served the charge in 1933. In the 
minutes of the first quarterly Conference for that year, he pledged his service 
and asked for the faithful cooperation of the "flock of our great Shepherd." 
The people had apparently responded generously to the parsonage family, for he 
wrote, "their kind expressions are causing us to love them very dearly. Several 
poundings have been given, however, we are still physically able to stand 
more." Although, in at least two of the reports, no members were added to the 
charge, the final tally for the year was 50 on profession of faith and 25 by 
certificate.Receiving the appointment for 1934 and 1935 was Zebulon Vance 
Hawkes. He included a Sunday School report for Prospect in the Conference 
minutes in the fall of 1934. The average attendance was 19 and they had given 
$2.75 to the orphans' home. A total of $818.20 was pledged for ministerial 
support for 1935. Prospect's portion was $125.The appointment for the next 
three years, 1936-1938, went to Julius S. Sprayberry. One of the long-time 
members recalled the fact that each time he prayed from the pulpit, both he and 
his wife knelt.Sprayberry died in Shady Dale on August 13, 1938. At his death, 
he was described as a "son of gentle spirit...wherever he went he carried with 
him an atmosphere that caused men and women to feel that here was a man of 
God." Sprayberry was also noted as a man of prayer and his habit of prayer was 
reflected in every aspect of his life.Charles R. Williams, of Newborn, finished 
out Sprayberry's term. Williams was a young man who was just entering seminary 
at Emory. He recalled that he was probably selected to fill that spot because 
he was single and lived nearby. Because he had a residence, Mrs. Sprayberry was 
allowed to stay in the parsonage in Shady Dale until Conference in November. 
Williams said he did not own a car at the time, but he borrowed his brother's 
car to drive from Newborn to the different churches on the circuit.Williams 
also remembered that Sprayberry had arranged for a revival to be held at 
Prospect in August. Instead of preaching the revival himself, Williams invited 
W. D. Mills of Covington to preach. There was a thunderstorm the opening night, 
and the rain on the tin roof was so deafening that no one could hear Mills 
preach. Williams decided they would sing until the rain stopped, but no one 
could even hear him call out the hymn numbers.At that time, preachers were 
expected to collect money for missions and carry it to the General Conference 
which met in November. Williams explained that the time for Conference was set 
in November because of the farm economy. Crops would be in by then and money 
could be paid out. The pledges for missions for that year had been given to 
Sprayberry, and Williams had to collect it. He still has the little notebook in 
which he recorded the members' contributions of 50 cents or up to $2. He was 
able to carry the pledges marked "paid in full" to the General Conference.That 
was the middle of the depression, and Williams said the preachers always went 
to Conference with their pockets filled with money from the churches in order 
to pay their bills to Cokesbury and also to pay their apportionments for the 
year. He recalled, too, that the churches on the Shady Dale Circuit had not 
collected all of Sprayberry's salary before he died. However, by Conference, 
the churches had managed to collect all that was due him. Williams rode a 
streetcar from Decatur to Stewart Avenue in west Atlanta where Mrs. Sprayberry 
had moved. When he handed her the balance of the money due Mr. Sprayberry, she 
wept because she had never expected to receive it.Williams lives in Newborn 
today after serving 43 years in the North Georgia Conference. He remains quite 
active as a retired preacher.The year, 1939, was eventful for the Methodist 
Church. Since 1844, the Methodist Church in Georgia had been known as the 
Methodist Episcopal Church, South. However, in 1939, the Methodist Episcopal 
Church, the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, and the Methodist Protestant 
Church merged to form the Methodist Church. It was a grand reunion, according 
to The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church.It was during that 
year that Thomas H. Wheelis served as pastor for Prospect Methodist Church and 
seven other churches on the Shady Dale Circuit. Included were Calvary, Andrews, 
Godfrey, Liberty, New Hope, Talmadge, and Hillsboro. Wheelis was again the 
preacher-in-charge in 1940. M. M. Brackman was appointed for 1941; and although 
Rudy M. Bangert was appointed for 1942, none of the older members on the charge 
remembered him. There was no record of who actually served the circuit that 
year.Emory S. Elmore received the appointment in 1943 and 1944. Augustus 
Ernest, who had been the pastor of the Monticello Methodist Church for five 
years, starting in 1923, served as Elmore's assistant. Since he had made 
Monticello his home after retirement, he continued to assist the Shady Dale 
Circuit pastors until 1950.The Shady Dale appointment went to T. L. Roper in 
1945, and to Thomas Edward Sherwood in 1946-1948. In a copy of the pastor's 
report to the quarterly Conference, Sherwood mentioned an active Sunday School 
at Prospect and plans to begin personal evangelism. Spoken of at his death in 
1950, Sherwood was said to have "rendered a faithful service to the rural 
charges among people he knew and understood, and by whom he was loved. He was 
described as "a man of unsullied character...he loved God and served Him to the 
limits of his ability."http://www.gbgm-
umc.org/prospectga/the_church_continues_to_change.htm
 
THE CHURCH CONTINUES TO CHANGEThe Georgia Conferences began to be held in the 
summer, instead of the winter, in 1947. Thereafter, the preachers assumed their 
appointments in the summer instead of the first of the year. Consideration was 
given for the children in the pastor's family who had to change schools in mid-
term.W. Haywood Thompson was appointed as pastor in 1949. Beginning in 1950, 
Prospect was placed on the Monticello Circuit/Decatur, Oxford District along 
with Hillsboro, New Hope, and Talmadge. Clyde H. Dunn, a student minister from 
Emory University, was appointed to serve the circuit from 1950-1953. During 
World War II, Dunn served with the U. S. Marine Corps in the Pacific. John Ben 
Kelly and his family recalled the time Dunn was spending the night at their 
home and their three boys, Johnny, Jimmy, and Bobby, got in a pillow fight 
after Dunn had gone to bed. John Ben kept calling to the boys to be quiet or 
they would wake the preacher. A little while later, he discovered that Dunn was 
right in the middle of the pillow fight.After graduating from the Candler 
School of Theology, Dunn married Elizabeth Ziegler from College Park. He then 
served for six years in the North Georgia Conference. In 1959, Dunn volunteered 
to the Methodist Board of Missions. After a year of language study, he and his 
wife went to Taiwan as missionaries to the Chinese, They had five children 
while serving on the mission field. Dunn retired from the ministry in 1993 and 
lives in Raleigh, North Carolina.Bob Gorday became the new student-pastor in 
1954 and 1955. Charles Piggot filled the spot in 1956 and 1957. He was 
remembered for having a special rapport with the young people. The very first 
Methodist Youth Fellowship at Prospect was organized. Sarah Johnson and Carmie 
Kelly served as their adult sponsors, and Rachel Kitchens was the youth leader. 
Bill Kelly directed the choir and made choir robes for the group of 
approximately 23 young people. A period of a couple of years was filled with 
numerous activities, including a retreat at Rock Eagle, caroling by candlelight 
at Christmas, hay rides, and other fun times. Piggot often played ball with the 
guys and taught folk-dancing. A story was told which demonstrated his 
willingness to always want to help. On the way back to Emory one Sunday night, 
he picked up a hitchhiker. Yet, as a result, he was left beaten and robbed.When 
student minister William (Bill) L. Knecht filled the post in the summer of 
1957, he had never preached a funeral. One of Prospect's members died in 
August, and Knecht had the pastor of Monticello Methodist Church conduct the 
service. William James (Jim) Roherts became the student pastor in the summer of 
1958. W. Melton McNeil was appointed in 1959, and later went on to become the 
District Superintendent for the Shady Dale Circuit.Larry M. McIntosh was the 
student pastor in 1960. McIntosh resides in Covington now and is pastor of 
North Covington United Methodist Church. In an interview with him, he said he 
often told the story that he preached his "coldest" sermon at Prospect that 
year. He described the pot-bellied stove, the cracks in the floor, and the 
extremely cold temperature, McIntosh said it was the only time he preached in 
his overcoat, He easily recalled names of those members who were so faithful to 
be there every second Sunday night and fourth Sunday morning.When the North 
Georgia General Conference met in the summer of 1961, Herbert A. (Andy) Summers 
was appointed to the Monticello Circuit/Griffin District. He remained through 
the summer of 1963. Copies of Summer's reports on the work and programs of the 
churches are available. In September 1961, he wrote about revivals in all four 
churches. He reported on ''outstandingly large congregations--overflowing the 
churches on two occasions.'' Plans for improvement of the church building at 
Prospect were mentioned, as well as the funeral that summer of "Mr. Grady 
Lewis, a dedicated and beloved member at Prospect."Summers' report in April 
1962 seemed favorable also. He did mention that "additional work at Prospect 
and Hillsboro is in order and is being planned." He offered special thanks to 
Grace Middlebrooks and Bobby Sauls in the area of music. They were given 
special mention in each of his reports. The September 1962 minutes reported on 
the completion of the parsonage project. The circuit parsonage had not been 
occupied by a Methodist minister for 41 years. It was located in the lower 
corner lot of the First Methodist Church in Monticello. Each of the four 
churches--Prospect, New Hope, Talmadge, and Hillsboro--had assumed 
responsibility for remodeling one of the four rooms at the total cost of 
$1,200. Since Summers got married thatsummer to Katrina McCay of Covington, the 
project completion was right on schedule. In that same report, he wrote about 
the circuit-wide youth fellowship. There had been numerous activities, with 45 
young people in attendance on at least one occasion.In May 1963, the report 
concerning Prospect Church was rather ominous. In fact, Summers said it 
was "nearing the critical list." He stated that it might be best if Prospect 
would lower its budget and "drop back to one preaching service per month." 
There were only two services a month, and one of those was at night. They both 
were poorly attended with only about four families represented. The night 
service had especially poor attendance.Serving the Monticello Circuit for the 
next four years, June 1963 until June 1967 was Omer Lester Vickery. When 
General Conference met in June 1967, Prospect Church was taken from the 
Monticello Circuit and placed back on the Shady Dale Circuit.Thomas E. Smith, 
Jr. came as pastor of the Shady Dale Circuit in June 1967 and remained until 
June 1968. Hubert Dodd, a retired supply preacher from Forsyth, was also 
appointed as an associate pastor for the Shady Dale Circuit. He filled the 
pulpit at Prospect on a regular basis.Another great change took place in The 
Methodist Church in 1968. The Methodist Church and the Evangelical United 
Brethren Church merged and became known as The United Methodist Church. They 
had long held the same fundamental doctrines of faith and had shared a common 
historical and spiritual heritage, according to The Book of Discipline.Also, in 
that same year, the Monticello Circuit was disbanded. Hillsboro, New Hope, and 
Talmadge were placed on the Shady Dale Circuit with Calvary, Godfrey, Liberty, 
and Prospect. Andrew Church was closed. Thus, the total number of churches on 
the Shady Dale Circuit was seven.Karl C. Evans received the pastor's 
appointment from June 1968 until June 1970. At that time, there were only two 
families in the church with young children. For a couple of years, Janis Lewis 
taught a Sunday School class for her two sons and Loice Allen, Jr.'s five 
children. On some occasions, when there was not a preaching service and when it 
was too cold to heat the church, Lewis would teach them in her home.Robert W. 
(Bob) Smith became the student pastor in 1970 and served through June 1971. 
While Smith was pastor at Prospect, some much-needed improvements were begun on 
the church building. The ceiling was lowered, new putty was put in the windows, 
sheet rock was placed over the plastered walls, and a new hardwood floor was 
installed.Timothy English filled the pastor's role for six months, from June 
through December 1971. It was during this time that Prospect Church sold a 
corner lot to the community for a new community center to replace the old 
Prospect schoolhouse on Highway 11 that had been used for community purposes 
for a number of years.Robert R. (Bob) Moore became pastor in January 1972 and 
remained through June 1975. According to financial records, a new roof was put 
on the building at Prospect in 1973. Moore held a Sunday afternoon Bible study 
at Prospect for several months while he was pastor. Preaching services were 
held two Sundays a month with one of those services at 10 a.m. and the other at 
11:15 a.m.The Sunday School program was also renewed. Not since the mid-fifties 
had there been a full-scale Sunday School program with classes for all ages. 
Classes began to meet September 1, 1974, in the four corners and middle section 
of the large sanctuary. There were 40 students enrolled in five classes.About 
the same time, a community-wide youth group was formed. Rose Lewis led the 
group with Bible study. They held their meeting in the community center. 
However, on some occasions, the group met in the different homes of the young 
people. The youth group also participated in a county-wide evangelistic program 
sponsored by Campus Crusade for Christ. There were many opportunities for 
recreation that included cook-outs, swim parties, softball games, and trips to 
Stone Mountain and Six Flags. There were also spiritual retreats to a 
conference center in Chattanooga. The group remained active for a number of 
years,In the midst of this growth and renewed interest, Rodney Daffron was 
appointed as student pastor in June 1975. Talmadge Church closed in 1975, and 
the circuit consisted of Calvary, Hillsboro, New Hope, Godfrey, and Prospect. 
Daffron served until June 1978. In his Conference report in 1975, Daffron 
commented on the tremendous growth at Prospect. He said that additional room 
would soon be needed. For the first time in many years, the church held a 
Vacation Bible School. For several years, it was organized as a community Bible 
School, in cooperation with New Rocky Creek Baptist Church. There has been a 
Vacation Bible School at Prospect every year since 1975.In 1976, Joe Duke, III 
served as a special summer worker with the youth on the Shady Dale Circuit. He 
worked very closely with the young people at Prospect. The church had two 
weekend revivals that summer, and Duke led one with a special emphasis for the 
youth. Daffron's report from 1976 indicated there were 70 members at Prospect. 
He said, "The church has several young adults with children, and the future 
looks good."Charles Page II served the Circuit as its student pastor only six 
months, June 1978 through December 1978. In his Conference report in the fall 
of 1978, Page stated that Prospect was "making great strides." For the first 
time in its history, the church had begun to have a worship service every 
Sunday. This was made possible through the assistance of Gus Cole, the pastor 
of the First United Methodist Church of Monticello.Renovations and additions 
that would continue for a number of years had also begun. Sunday School rooms 
were added within the existing structure of the building. The front of the 
church was changed to make this possible. There were two front doors, one on 
the left and one on the right. Early Methodist Churches had the two doors in 
order for women to enter by one door and men to enter by the other door. They 
then sat on opposite sides of the church. Those doors were replaced with a 
double center door. Three rooms were constructed downstairs. A portion of the 
suspended ceiling was removed creating space for three rooms upstairs. A cement 
porch with wrought iron railings and brick steps were also added. This created 
an entry way or foyer just inside the church between the new Sunday School 
rooms. Fund raisers--such as barbecues, bake sales, and yard sales-were held to 
finance the project.The student pastor appointment for the Shady Dale Circuit 
went to Dale Mathis in January 1979. Ruth Kitchens, Prospect's oldest member, 
fondly remembered Mathis for the fact that he was so kind during the illness 
and death of her husband, Colvin. Every day, for 11 weeks, after Mathis 
finished his classes at Emory, he would go by Emory Hospital, spend time with 
Colvin, then drive Ruth home, sometimes stopping for groceries on the way. 
Mathis remained on the charge until June 1981. During that time, the Sunday 
School rooms at Prospect were completed, the church was underpinned, water 
lines were run from the well, and a bathroom was installed in the corner of one 
of the downstairs rooms. According to minutes taken at an administrative board 
meeting in January 1980, $5,906.23 had been spent on remodeling the 
church.There was a burglary at the church, and the antique chairs and communion 
table on the pulpit were stolen. New furniture was ordered from a local cabinet 
maker. By the time the furniture was delivered, all of the pieces were paid for 
by contributions from church members in memory or honor of their loved ones. 
The paint on the altar rail was stripped, and the rail was stained to match the 
new pulpit furniture. A sign was ordered to be placed near the road with the 
name of the church and the founding date on it. It erroneously read 1875, the 
date the present church building was constructed; it remained that way until a 
new sign was ordered in 1994.Weekly preaching services continued with the aid 
of Jan Devereaux, pastor of First United Methodist Church of Monticello, and 
Art Lackey, a lay speaker from Covington. There was also a Bible study two 
Sunday evenings a month. Mathis reported two six-day revivals in 1980 and 1981. 
Prospect's total budget, according to the charge Conference minutes for 1980, 
was $2,408.79 with $1,488 of that designated for pastor's salary and 
expenses.Roger Mays served the circuit from June 1981 until June 1984 as its 
student pastor. In his report in 1982, Mays described Prospect Church as a "Mt. 
St. Helens in miniature." He said the church had so much potential "that it is 
almost heart-breaking." He wrote that it was "extremely frustrating to a pastor 
whose time is divided among six churches to see a church just sitting there 
waiting to erupt into a dynamic, vital force in the community." He also 
commented that the people at Prospect were to be "commended for all they do 
with so little pastoral attention. They conduct Vacation Bible Schools, 
Christmas programs, and other activities with a great deal of enthusiasm, and 
yearn to do much more." Mays often met with some of the members of the church 
for prayer concerning the future of Prospect Church.Art Lackey suffered a heart 
attack in the spring of 1982 and could no longer conduct one of the worship 
services at Prospect. A general church meeting was held on May 17, 1982, during 
which the situation was discussed. Mays was in attendance, as well as the 
district superintendent, Frank Jenkins. It was expressed to them that the 
church desired to have worship services every Sunday. Some different options 
were presented and discussed.  
 
THE CHURCH DURING A DECADE OF SERVICE UNDER MIKE WILLARDAs a result of that 
meeting, Michael K. (Mike) Willard, of Eatonton, was appointed in June to serve 
as associate pastor for the Shady Dale Circuit. While playing football at 
Presbyterian College, Willard earned a bachelor's degree in English. He later 
studied two years at the Candler School of Theology. When he first came to 
Prospect, he was an English teacher and football coach at Putnam County High 
School. Later he was employed at Horton Homes in Eatonton. He preached at 
Prospect two Sundays a month and Mays preached the other two Sundays. The 
services were at different times in order to allow Mays time to travel to the 
other churches on the circuit. Willard also preached at one of the other 
churches on the charge on a regular basis.When Mays was scheduled to leave the 
circuit in 1984, the members of Prospect Church requested that Willard be 
appointed as a part-time local preacher who would serve Prospect full time; 
that is, he would preach every Sunday, and the services would be scheduled for 
1l a.m. Dr. Thompson, the district superintendent at that time, agreed that it 
could work but stated that Prospect would need to remain on the Shady Dale 
Circuit. Then Prospect would gradually phase out of that position over a period 
of years until the church could meet the criteria to become a station church. 
For the first time in the history of the church, Prospect had an 11 a.m. 
worship service every Sunday of the month.Also during that time, the women of 
the church began to host a monthly program, the purpose of which, according to 
the bylaws, was "to help women to continue to develop mentally, socially, and 
spiritually, to pray, to apply Bible teaching to their lives, to minister to 
one another in unity and love and to serve others in ways that will glorify 
Jesus Christ." The program was called Women Alive, and the first meeting was 
held in March 1983. Rachel Cunard served as the first president. Speakers were 
invited each month to share their testimonies. Also, a guest was invited to 
provide special music, and another was asked to present a brief program on 
something that would be of interest to those in attendance. Once a year, a 
dinner program was planned which included the entire family. Special guests 
were invited to entertain and speak. Some keynote speakers included Marion Bond 
West, a well known writer, and Greg Brezina, a former linebacker for the 
Atlanta Falcons. Women Alive continued to function and offer ministry to the 
women of Prospect and the surrounding area for eight years. Lack of 
participation and leadership on the part of the membership brought it to a 
close.1984 was another year that saw tremendous improvements in the physical 
plant of the church. The old wood slat pews were removed and sold as mementos. 
Upholstered pews were ordered and paid for through donations in honor or memory 
of loved ones, and appropriate plaques were placed on the ends of the pews. The 
church was completely carpeted and central heating and air conditioning were 
installed. Although the windows had new putty placed in them again, they were 
still fragile. In order to protect them and provide insulation, screens and 
storm windows were installed. These improvements cost a total of $17, 803.85.An 
adult Bible study class began to meet on Wednesday nights initially under the 
direction of Stephen Soulen, who was the pastor of the Shady Dale Circuit. It 
was agreed that the children needed to be taught at the same time, so a group 
of 1l or 12 children met in one of the upstairs rooms with Pat Harris and Ellen 
Boyd as leaders. The children called themselves "Children Alive." Later when 
Willard was able to conduct the Wednesday night study, his young son, Caleb, 
called the children's classroom the "upper room."Notes from an administrative 
board meeting in March 1985 indicated numerous ideas were offered for 
additional improvements. One notation suggested that a parsonage for Prospect 
Church become a prayer priority. Improved insulation, landscaping, painting the 
outside of the church, and the need for nursery facilities located away from 
the sanctuary were some of the ideas discussed in that meeting. As a result of 
that meeting and others that followed, a mobile unit was purchased at the cost 
of $4,061.29. It was used for a nursery and additional Sunday School rooms. 
Also during that year, the church grounds were landscaped.In his report at the 
charge Conference in November 1985, Willard remarked that "the state of the 
church (Prospect) is promising...the future looks bright as this congregation 
rallies to fulfill a dream." He mentioned the Wednesday night family 
activities "being used as a worship experience" and having family night suppers 
once a month. He concluded by saying, "We are trying to reach our full 
potential as a church family, and God's house in our community." Prospect's 
1986 budget, which was presented at that meeting, was $9,336 including $6,500 
for the pastor's support.Ministry became a real focus in 1987. The church 
hosted its first Lay Witness Mission in May. Approximately 20 lay people from 
different areas visited the church for the entire weekend. They stayed in 
members' homes and presented programs for all ages at the church and in homes 
on Friday evening, all day Saturday, and on Sunday morning. The Mission weekend 
was a success for a number of reasons. The participation of the church 
membership was unprecedented and indicative of a desire for genuine spiritual 
renewal. Several follow-up activities resulted, such as the men's breakfast 
group and a short-term, home Bible study called "Ten Brave Christians." Pat 
Harris, the local coordinator for the event, later expressed in a letter to the 
team that, "many special needs were met...and many received a blessing and 
renewal of faith."The need for larger facilities soon became even more evident. 
Although, according to the minutes of administrative board meetings, plans for 
building a parsonage were still discussed, the construction of a fellowship 
hall was a more frequent topic of discussion. After many planning meetings, 
several fund raisers, and much hard work, an addition to the church became a 
reality. Under the supervision of Hubert Cunard as contractor, a 2,700 square 
foot building was constructed. The building contained four classrooms, two 
bathrooms, a modern kitchen, and a large adjoining dining area with a wood-
burning fireplace. A breezeway was built connecting the fellowship hall with 
the rear of the sanctuary. One of the doors that had been removed from the 
front of the church in 1978 was brought out of storage and used as an entry 
into the church from the back. The total cost of construction was $61,200. A 
consecration service, attended by more than 100 people, was held November 8, 
1987. Pastor Mike Willard recognized those people who had made significant 
contributions; and Roger Mays, former pastor, delivered the sermon for the 
homecoming crowd.The estimated value of the new building was much more than it 
actually cost. Many church members had contributed labor or materials. Most of 
the furnishings were donated. The loan interest was offered at a minimum 
through the Farmers and Merchants Bank of Eatonton, Willard challenged the 
different groups within the church to raise $1,000 each that first year toward 
the cost of the building. One significant effort toward that end was the 
cookbook that the ladies of the church compiled and had published. It was 
titled, "Bountiful Blessings" and featured drawings by Paige Kelly. A memorable 
event was the mystery dinner which the senior ladies prepared and served.As a 
result of the enlarged facilities, opportunities for ministry became unlimited. 
In the years that have followed, several seminars have been held at Prospect. 
Always open to the community, the seminars have focused on prayer, finances, 
counseling, and evangelism. Teacher training sessions have been conducted with 
instructors from Luther Rice Seminary, Child Evangelism Fellowship, and 
neighboring churches. The church has hosted several video series, including 
Focus on the Family's "Turn Your Heart Toward Home," and Billy 
Graham's "Christian Life and Witness Course." There have been Wednesday night 
fellowship suppers, barbecues for fund raising, and barbecues for fellowship 
with people in the community. Before it discontinued,Women Alive used the 
building for several years. One summer, the church hosted monthly fellowship 
suppers and invited special music guests. The church has hosted Easter parties 
for the children, breakfasts following Sunrise services, special Thanksgiving 
dinners, and countless other activities,Children's ministry became an emphasis 
when the church purchased a van in 1990. Although the original purpose for the 
van was to provide transportation for outings, it soon became clear that it 
could be used to bring to church children whose parents did not attend. Joe 
McLendon has served as the primary driver of the van for transporting children 
to Sunday School and worship services on Sunday and to the Wednesday night 
activities.Vacation Bible School has become a highlight of the church year, not 
just for the children, but for the adults and teens, as well. When VBS was 
still held in the mornings, the program was expanded to include a mother's 
class. Later, when it became necessary to conduct VBS in the evening, it seemed 
only natural to offer something for the entire family.The summer of 1987 was 
when the change was made. Rose Lewis, long-time director of VBS, remembered it 
as the summer when Prospect almost did not hold a Vacation Bible School. The 
mobile unit had been sold to make way for the new fellowship hall, so space was 
limited; and workers were fewbecause nearly all the mothers were working 
outside their homes. Discouragement reigned until Lewis encountered two little 
girls, Heather and Becky Andrews, and their mother in the grocery store parking 
lot. The girls were seated in the car while their mother, Linda, was unloading 
the grocery cart. Lewis was met with sweet, smiling faces and animated waves 
from inside the car; and the mother, instead of saying "Hello," simply 
said, "These girls talkabout Vacation Bible School all year long." The 
response, as Lewis walked away, was, "Yes, Lord, we will have a Vacation Bible 
School this summer." Three weeks later, with the help of Eric Arena, who had 
been hired to work with the youth, and by changing the time to evening in order 
for the working moms to participate, the first Vacation Bible School involving 
the entire family was held. That has been the pattern for a number of years. 
The adults and teens sometimes meet together to enjoy the same special music 
guests and speakers. It must be noted also that the mother that Rose Lewis 
encountered in the parking lot that day and her girls are members now and are 
very much involved in the other programs of the church.When the number of 
children coming to church on Sunday increased, a Children's Church program was 
organized under the leadership of Pat Harris. There have been a least 100 
different children who have had the experience of a worship service designed 
for their age level since the Children' s Church program began.At one time, the 
Wednesday night activities became so crowded with children that plans were made 
to bring the children from school on Wednesday afternoons for an extended time 
of Bible stories, games, recreation, music, and crafts. The children also 
visited the nursing home in Monticello once a month, followed by a trip to the 
Dairy Queen. This program involved a number of adult leaders, including Lisa 
Hipps, Pat Harris, Joe McLendon, Robin Hill and Rose Lewis. Even though it was 
a meaningful and successful experience, the program returned to Wednesday night 
after about six months.There have also been puppet shows and other special 
events for the children. Christmas programs have been presented by the children 
for several years. A music camp was held one summer under the direction of Judy 
Rupard, program director for First United Methodist Church of Covington. The 
children have gone on special trips to the Atlanta Zoo, the Yellow River game 
ranch, Stone Mountain, and the skating rink. Playground equipment, costing 
$2,200 was purchased in 1991. There are now plans to extend the play area 
behind the fellowship hall.The youth have experienced several years under the 
leadership of successful directors. Ricky Nelson led the group for a couple of 
years. As mentioned earlier, Eric Arena was hired as a youth worker one summer. 
Jim and Betty Daniel served for a number of years as the youth leaders. 
Presently, Lisa and Randall Harper, Danny and Helen Wild, and Rachet Cunard are 
the youth coaches. Lisa Harper is the youth leader. The youth group has been on 
several ski trips, one visit to the beach for a retreat, and several outings to 
concerts. They have had swim parties and cookouts and have gone tubing down the 
river on several occasions. The youth group has held numerous fund raisers to 
support their programs. Probably the ones that have been the most fun have been 
the pizza sales. Each time, the group spent several well-supervised hours in 
the fellowship hall adding various toppings to pre-made crusts, and shrink 
wrapping the finished product. Before delivering the pizzas to their customers, 
they had their own pizza party.The youth have also been involved in ministry 
within the church, have offered service in clean-up of the church and grounds, 
and have lent assistance at fund raisers. Several teens occasionally have 
assisted in Children's Church and Vacation Bible School. Seven young people 
received training by attending, along with several adults, an 11-week course 
offered by Child Evangelism Fellowship in Atlanta in 1993. Over the years, a 
number of teens and adults (approximately 50% of the active membership) have 
attended the week-long Institute of Basic LifePrinciples held in Atlanta every 
summer. Rachel Cunard has coordinated the event every year.In 1991, a highlight 
of the youth ministry was an outdoor pageant portraying the Easter story. It 
was directed by Lisa Harper and was held on the hillside near the Pruett's 
lake. Elaborate props were constructed, costumes were sewn, and a sound system 
was set up. The pageant was well attended by the entire community.The Bible 
costumes, which were sewn by several ladies of the church for the Easter 
pageant, have been used on a number of occasions since that time. One summer, 
the VBS theme was centered on Bible times; and all the teachers and children 
dressed in costume. The costumes have also been used for impromptu skits and 
Maundy Thursday observances.The Holy Week services were a new experience for 
the church. For several years, special services have been held leading up to 
the sunrise service at the Pruett's lake.Ministry has extended to all ages at 
Prospect. The senior adults have been on several outings, including a one-day 
trip to the mountains. They have especially enjoyed the fellowship and luncheon 
offered at New Rocky Creek Church once a month by Mary Williams. Other groups 
of adults have participated in a number of trips away from the church for the 
purpose of fellowship and inspiration. The ladies of the church have enjoyed 
several weekend retreats. There have been church picnics, Christmas parties, 
and New Year's Eve parties hosted by different members. Groups of adults have 
made trips to Stone Mountain, Indian Springs Camp Meeting, and to various 
restaurants in the area. Several couples in the church renewed their marriage 
vows in special services held at the church.The members of Prospect made a 
pledge in 1989 to begin to tithe the income of the church for support of 
missionaries or ministries that had some connection to the church. This would 
be in addition to missionary support provided through the Conference 
apportionment's. The amount of money that is sent each quarter is not 
significant, but the outreach is tremendous. As a result of that pledge, the 
church has regularly sent offerings to Child Evangelism Fellowship, a ministry 
that has provided much training for those who work with children in the 
church.Others whom the church supports are Beth Wilson, a native of Monticello, 
who works with Campus Crusade for Christ; Barbara Hardin, a friend of Beth 
Wild's daughter, who is a Wycliffe Bible translator in Papua, New Guinea; Bill 
and Elsie Turpin, Mike Willard's aunt and uncle, who are OMS missionaries in 
Hungary; and Dick and Faith Weber, OMS World Intercessors. The Webers, who live 
in Canton, Georgia, have conducted prayer seminars at Prospect.The church also 
sends offerings to Gail and Dean Davis, OMS missionaries in Ecuador. They have 
visited the church on several occasions to report on their work among the 
Saraguro Indians. Representatives from Gideons International are invited to 
present a program once a year; and their organization receives a portion of 
Prospect' s tithe.The church is also involved in local ministry and outreach 
through the Jasper County Care Corps. Mary Mildred Walden and Florence Harris 
regularly attend those meetings to keep the church informed of local needs. 
Used Sunday School materials and other Christian literature are sent 
periodically to the Reverend Samuel Thiong'o in Kenya, East Africa. Thiong'o 
recently paid a memorable visit to the church.An additional measure of support 
goes to Lyle Allen, a student minister at the Candler School of Theology. Allen 
is the son of Loice Allen, Jr., one of the descendants of those "Allens who 
abound" that John Boykin McGehee spoke of in his autobiography. Allen pastors 
Cokes Chapel United Methodist Church in Sharpsburg, Georgia.Colin Kelly, 
treasurer of Prospect UMC for over 20 years, reported to the 1990 charge 
Conference that a total of $1,776.50 was given through October for mission 
specials and local benevolence. In addition, $200 was sent to the United 
Methodist Children's Home. The pastor's salary, including travel and utilities, 
was $8,125. In October 1993, Kelly reported that the mission specials and local 
benevolence totaled $3,099.97. The pastor's salary was $10,000 in 1993 and was 
increased to $11,300 for 1994. The Methodist Children's Home offering for 1994 
was $445.42. The mortgage for the fellowship hall was paid off in May 1993. A 
couple of Sundays later, the pastor and congregation went outside the church 
after the worship service, burned the mortgage papers, and dedicated the 
building to God's service.Prospect's outreach has also extended into the 
surrounding community. The church has held revivals almost yearly, and has 
hosted evangelistic and inspirational films and New Year's Eve Watch Night 
services. There have been a number of special speakers invited to the church, 
including several of the missionaries. A Lay Shepherd's program was instituted 
in 1989 to assist the pastor in caring for the needs of church members and 
others in the church family. Sarah Hinnant, a student at the Candler School of 
Theology, was hired to serve the church as music director. She remained for a 
number of months. An Adventure in Discipleship weekend was held at Prospect in 
1992. Outdoor baptisms have become an annual tradition. Sunday evening 
serviceswere held for a couple of years, and prayer meetings have also been a 
part of the life of the church.The church has always been quick to respond to 
the needs of others, whether it was someone in the church family or people 
elsewhere who were affected by floods or tornadoes. For example, on Sunday, 
January 30, 1994, the church participated in the "Souper Bowl," an 
international effort to help others by encouraging people to give one dollar as 
they leave worship service. The program which was begun in 1990, had nearly 
1,000 churches around the country to participate in 1994. The money that was 
collected at Prospect was sent to the Jasper County Care Corps. More recently, 
$527 was collected and sent to aid victims in flood-ravaged south Georgia.In 
addition, a small group of women, including Bill Kelly, Rosemary Pruett, and 
Mary Ann Nelson, have regularly visited the nursing home in Monticello and 
presented a musical program for the residents. Bill Kelly has provided music at 
the piano and organ for worship services at the church for 54 1/2 years. Misty 
Boyd, a high school senior, has served as pianist for several years. Misty is 
also chairperson of the worship committee.The church has continued to make 
improvements when necessary. The ceiling of the sanctuary was insulated in 1992 
and new wiring and light fixtures were installed. A new piano and a new organ 
have been purchased for the church. There has been much work done on the 
cemetery, including organizing the Plots and adopting some rules pertaining to 
who can be buried there. A perpetual fund has also been established. The church 
and fellowship hall were painted again in 1993. Two different sound systems 
have been placed in the church. The first system which was installed in 1986, 
was stolen in a second burglary that occurred in 1988. Many other valuable 
items were also taken from the fellowship hall, including a microwave oven, 
television, video cassette recorder, and vacuum cleaner. They have all since 
been replaced.Along with the sound systems came the tape ministry which Mary 
Mildred Walden has maintained for a number of years. She purchased the 
equipment necessary to copy tapes. She files copies for reference and 
distributes other copies of taped services to those who have missed services 
because of illness, jobs, or Children's Church. Walden has also organized the 
church's library that contains 225 books and 28 video tapes, most of which have 
been donated.An earth-moving experience at the close of a worship service in 
early January 1992 brought about other necessary repairs, this time to the 
foundation of the church. The entire congregation that morning had been 
requested to come to the altar. While everyone was in prayer, the floor began 
to creak and groan rather loudly. After very careful inspection, it was decided 
that the long center beam had given way due to termite damage and needed to be 
replaced along with six supporting columns. The church was closed for a couple 
of weeks while those repairs were made. In the interim, worship services were 
held in the fellowship hall.After 12 years of service to Prospect Church, 
Willard wrote a letter to the district superintendent stating that he would not 
be available for appointment back to Prospect. Copies were sent to members of 
the Pastor-Parish Relations Committee. Willard wrote, "I believe for the church 
to grow, a change is necessary. Until the bird is pushed from the nest, it will 
not try to fly. Prospect needs to fly...With the proper leadership, help from 
the district and Annual Conference, plus the ever present moving of the Holy 
Spirit, Prospect can move toward reaching her vast potential."A glance back at 
the accomplishments of the previous 12 years is all that is needed to evaluate 
Willard's service to Prospect Church. His wife, Shanon, was as much a part of 
ministry as Mike. Her music often added to the worship service, and her talents 
for working with the children in musicals at Christmas and during Vacation 
Bible School will long be remembered. The presence of the Chrismon tree at 
Christmas is due to Shanon's initiating and organizing the efforts of the women 
to make the ornaments for the tree. The candlesticks and cross that adorn the 
altar were given by the Willards in memory of Mike's mother. Mike had wanted 
the church to have parament sets symbolic of the different religious seasons. 
Beth Wild provided the funds for those and she and Mary Mildred Walden sewed 
them and had them embroidered.Mike and Shanon's children, Caleb and Kelly, were 
born after Mike and Shanon came to Prospect. They provided many anecdotes for 
Mike's sermons, and they hold a special place in the hearts of the members of 
the church.After much prayer and a meeting in March with District 
Superintendent Dean Milford, the church learned that Milford had already begun 
the search for someone who could fill the unique needs of the church. Prospect 
still was not in a position to become a station church with a membership of 
only 108, but the dream for a pastor to be able to live at least part-time in 
the community was soon to become a reality.
HISTORY — 1995    True to the tradition of the past several years, 1995 has 
been productive and fruitful in the life and ministry of Prospect United 
Methodist Church with much accomplished in the spiritual and physical 
dimensions.DISTRICT CHURCH AWARD    Prospect UMC was named "Small Membership 
Church of the Year" for 1995 in the Griffin District. The annual award is 
presented to a church of 250 members or less for outstanding achievement in 
ministry. The plaque of distinction was presented to the church in a 
celebration of God’s faithfulness.A PARSONAGE FOR PROSPECT       The ground 
breaking for Prospect community’s first parsonage was held on April 2, 1995. 
The renovations will total 1900 square feet of heated space with a brick 
exterior, three bedrooms, 2 baths, modern kitchen, great room with a fireplace, 
and a deck. The building committee appointed to oversee the project was Hubert 
Cunard as chairman, Edwin Allen, Kyle Allen, J. R. & Bert Cobb, Rachel Cunard, 
Jim & June Dalton, Pat Harris, Elizabeth Harrison, Colin Kelly, Rose Lewis, 
Billy Pruett, and Danny Wild. Hubert Cunard was asked to serve as the 
contractor. The untold hours he has donated to the building of a home for God’s 
minister only the Lord knows, and the church stands in grateful appreciation of 
his service.    Other church members have consistently given their financial 
support, time, and skills. They have done clean up regularly, and are presently 
painting. Billy Pruett has completed grading and is installing the septic 
system. Charles Lewis is doing the plumbing, and Frank Harrison has donated the 
installation of the wiring. Pat Harris and Rosemary Pruett organized a gigantic 
rummage sale at the Harris Warehouse with 100% participation from church 
members. Hutch and Flo donated many items form their house sale. As a result of 
the efforts, a total of $2004.00 was raised for parsonage furnishings. 
Additional donations include: L. O. & Nancy Benton — a set of patio furniture 
and all the appliances; Jimmy and Amy Cunard — living room furniture, a bedroom 
suite, and kitchen table and chairs, Pat and Jerry Harris — a bedroom suite. In 
addition, Joe McLendon secured a donation of hard wood flooring, and Flo and 
Hutch have donated various items including a freezer and microwave. Bert Cobb 
is heading up a committee to collect funds for landscaping. She and J. R. have 
purchased a cast bronze plaque for the front entrance.    On July 1, 1995 the 
Church relinquished to the Shady Dale Circuit all rights and responsibilities 
of their portion of the Shady Dale Circuit parsonage and property.‘SAM JONES’ 
MINISTRY    Prospect has a ministry to send forth The Prospect Players drama 
group. In early February Lisa, Randall, Sandi, April, and Lacey Harper began 
their ministry of presenting the story of Sam Jones, the famous Methodist 
evangelist of the nineteenth century to varied audiences. "Sam Jones — The 
Wonder of the Ages," written and directed by Rose Lewis, has been presented 
seven times in churches around the state. The highlight of the year was the 
performance in San Jones’ Cartersville home, Roselawn, for the Sam Gamble Jones 
family reunion. Kevin Glaze printed publicity brochures, Hubert Cunard built 
sets, costumes were sewn and purchased, an informative display was prepared, 
and permanent props were accumulated. Lisa and Randall designed and ordered 
special T-shirts for the cast and crew. There are also some available for 
sale.    The stage crew has included at various times Rachel and Hubert Cunard, 
Helen and Danny Wild, Mac McLendon, Gene Lee, Alex McLendon, Misty Boyd, Joe 
McLendon, J. R. Cobb, and Jan Williams. Different members of the crew and cast 
that have been called on to present the closing musical number include Flo 
Hutchings, Helen and Danny Wild, Misty Boyd, and Jan Williams. Prospect Church 
members donated funds to help begin the ministry. Money was also raised with 
the dedication of Easter lilies. Since that time, every church has graciously 
received a love offering for the group to help offset the expenses. The group 
prayed for a trailer to transport the set and props, and two have been 
miraculously provided for their use.!SPECIAL SERVICES FOR 1995    Easter was a 
highlight of the church experience with the Lenten Tree of Symbols and the Holy 
Week services of Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday. The early 
morning "Sonrise" service overlooking the Pruett’s lake was followed by 
breakfast in the fellowship hall. The adult choir presented an Easter 
musical, "From Glory to Glory," under the leadership of choir director Flo 
Hutchings. They were dressed in new choir robes sewn by ladies in the church. 
Fabric and materials for the robes were also donated by church members. Judy 
and Butch Roberts carpeted the stairs, an upstairs room was converted into a 
choir room, and the choir made its grand entrance from the second floor.    The 
children’s workers hosted an evangelistic Easter party for the children of the 
church and community. There was the traditional Easter egg hunt with a surprise 
visit from a larger than life bunny, the sharing of the Easter story, and a 
cookout under the new pavilion. The next evening, the children of the Big "C" 
Club along with the Youth presented their first annual Easter 
musical, "Footsteps of Jesus" directed by Ellen & Misty Boyd, Lisa Harper, and 
Helen Wild.    Other special services included the National Day of Prayer 
Service for children and adults planned by Margaret Scandrett. Special 
recognitions were made on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. A "Bill Kelly Day" was 
held in honor of Bill’s service as church pianist for 53 years, Bill was 
presented with a plaque and a corsage by Ellen and Misty Boyd. "Hutch Day" was 
held honoring Hutch on his 75th birthday and marking his 50 years in the 
ministry. The church presented to him a beautiful hall tree with engraved 
plaque to be placed in the parsonage.    Prospect’s fall revival services were 
preached by John Beck, a co-worker of Edwin Allen, and Charles Roper, an 
evangelist from New Rocky Creek Baptist Church. Highlights of the year’s 
services included the baptismal services for Edwin Allen, Heather Andrews, 
Jennifer Bowling, Amy Stewart, and Gene Lee, as well as an infant’s christening 
for John Wesley Cobb, grandson of J. R. and Bert Cobb.    Special events 
included the youth group hosting a dinner party for the senior citizens of the 
church and community under the leadership of Youth Director, Lisa Harper. The 
delicious meal was prepared and served by the youth and their sponsors. The 
fellowship hall was beautifully decorated, there was special music, and a 
photographer spent the evening posing individuals and groups in front of a 
lovely backdrop. Additional special occasions included a wedding shower for Amy 
Stewart, Amy and Mac McLendon’s wedding and reception, and a baby shower for B. 
J. and Greg Matkovich. Lib Harrison’s recent donation of 100 glass plates and 
punch cups has made such occasions especially attractive. Flo and Hutch 
presented the congregation with a beautiful set of stainless steel flatware in 
a handsome wooden storage chest. The silverware had been purchased with 
a ‘miracle 15 cents’. They challenged someone to take the same 15 cents and add 
to it every day for a year. The challenge was accepted by Danny, Helen, Josh 
and Courtney Wild.ONGOING MINISTRY    All the regular areas of ministry have 
continued and grown with five regular Sunday School classes held each Sunday, 
and Wednesday night programs for children, youth, and adults. The youth held 
several fund raisers and had their annual ski retreat in March. Children’s 
Church is still offered during the sermon time. The church van, driven by Joe 
McLendon or J. R. Cobb, transports children in the community to services. 
Vacation Bible School classes were held for the children. In preparation for 
VBS, Jim Dalton painted a beautiful backdrop. Kyle Allen, Duane Pitts and her 
daughter Chrissy, along with her friends, also did some additional artwork. 
Danny Wild led the children’s music and kept the nursery. Ellen Boyd told the 
missionary story, Lisa Harper taught the Bible verse, and Rose Lewis presented 
the Bible lesson. Pat Harris and Misty Boyd assembled crafts with the children. 
Rosemary Pruett, Merry Faulkner, Julie and Christen Altman were the puppeteers. 
Refreshments were also served by Rosemary, Merry, and Julie. Kevin Glaze 
coordinated speakers and music for the youth and adult classes. The highlight 
of the week was a cookout organized by Kyle Allen. The VBS offering will go to 
provide for a handicap entrance ramp into the church and fellowship hall.    
The young adults have enjoyed many social outings and host a Bible study twice 
a month at Kyle Allen’s home. A Friendship Bible Coffee, "Christ, the Theme of 
the Bible," has been offered for the ladies of the church and community. The 
study has been well attended and meets twice a month on Wednesday mornings. The 
Men’s Breakfast has met most months of the year. Additionally, the Senior 
Ladies Sunday School class has paid regular visits to the nursing home in 
Monticello and had quite a memorable trip to the Cherry Blossom Festival in 
Macon.    Kevin Glaze, who handles the weekly bulletins and inserts, printed 
newsletters on several occasions. Rose Lewis maintains photograph albums that 
have documented nearly every event mentioned in this yearly report. Hubert 
Cunard recorded the worship services and Mary Mildred Walden has made copies of 
the tapes for distribution. She is currently processing the many books donated 
to the library by Kevin Glaze. Another member, Andrea Fann, has begun a 
clowning ministry and his visited with the children on several occasions.    
Ministry is indeed ongoing. At the present time, plans are underway for a 
wedding shower for Amy Kelly, a Thanksgiving service, Hanging of the Greens, 
caroling, and a Watch Night Service. Also, practices are being held for both a 
children’s and youth play and an adult Christmas musical. As a supplement to 
the written history of the first 150 years, Rose Lewis has begun work compiling 
all the information available concerning the church cemetery. It is projected 
that the cemetery history will be completed in 1996.MISSIONS    Support has 
continued for Beth Wilson with Campus Crusade for Christ; Barbara Hardin who is 
with Wycliff Bible Translators in Papua, New Guinea; and Bill and Elsie Turpin, 
Dick and Faith Weber, and Dean and Gail Davis, all OMS missionaries. Lyle Allen 
did not accept another student/minister appointment in June and has devoted 
full time as a student at Candler School of Theology in order to complete his 
divinity degree. The church doubled its support during this time. The church 
also supports Child Evangelism Fellowship, a ministry that has provided teacher 
training for several church members. Special offerings were collected for the 
Gideons and the Methodist Children’s Home. Gifts and food were given to the 
Jasper County Care Corps at Christmas time. "Souper" Bowl Sunday provided an 
opportunity to restock the JCCC pantry shelves last January, and a successful 
food drive was held again this fall.    The Lay Shepherd ministry has proven to 
be vital for the church and the community. Numerous meals have been taken to 
Eloise Loyd’s while her husband has received hospice care. J. R. and Bert Cobb 
have filled an essential role in Lauren Windburn’s life. They have offered 
emotional support, seen to his everyday needs, and were the catalyst for his 
spiritual birth when he entered the hospital. They have subsequently moved him 
to a nursing home. The church and community provided a vital support for Rachel 
Cunard during the time of her recovery from serious injuries received in a 
automobile accident. Some of the other members who have received lay shepherd 
care during the past year are Liz Harrison, Robert Lewis, and Ellen Boyd.OUR 
THANKS    The church itself is often on the receiving end from those outside 
the church. After the burglary last October, it was decided that a burglar 
system was needed. David King of Trust Security, Inc. installed the equipment 
necessary at his own expense and provides the monitoring fee free of charge 
each month.    There are not adequate words to express the gratitude of an 
entire congregation of believers to our pastor E. G. Hutchings, Jr. and his 
wife Florence. They both have fit into this church as beautifully as a hand 
fits into a glove. Flo has served as choir director and Sunday School teacher. 
The strides the choir has made have been phenomenal. J. R. Cobb, our 
professional musician, has said he has learned more about music from Flo than 
he has in all his years in the business. Hutch’s dedication and service to 
Prospect and God in the face of his own health crisis have endeared him to his 
congregation. He has exhibited a single mindedness of purpose that we all would 
do well to follow in our own lives. We have know his love for us as individuals 
and as a church. His praises and compliments have been never ending. Flo has 
told some of us that when they are with family, she warns them not ask how 
the "little church" is doing because Hutch will talk the rest of the afternoon 
about Prospect. Hutch’s life is an inspiration. His own words from the Pastor’s 
Corner in a bulletin some time back express what we so often need to be 
reminded of:Live is so fragile for all of us. How important to make decisions 
each day that count for eternity! Eternity is waiting for all of us, but if we 
can accept the pain that comes in this life and choose to react positively we 
can avoid misery. We always have the option to choose joy and hope. Yes there 
are days when we all have our pits, our low days. It is at these times we need 
to pray more and reach for the hand of Jesus to lift us. His hand is already 
extended. We need only to grasp it. Try it and you’ll see. He is there.
 
The Year of 1996Since the last charge conference, God has done much in the life 
and ministry of Prospect UMC. At that conference, held November 5, 1995, the 
church received a gift of $2500 from the district fund toward the construction 
of a parsonage.Following the conference was the usual festive season of 
Thanksgiving and Christmas services, including a special Thanksgiving meal in 
the fellowship hall, a children’s program, observance of Advent, and a 
Christmas cantata presented by the adult choir. Lynda Williams hosted a Sunday 
School Christmas party at her home. In cooperation with the Jasper County Care 
Corps, the church collected food and gifts for two Jasper County families. One 
Sunday afternoon several adults and children delivered fruit baskets to shut-
ins in the community and to residents of The Retreat.In the meantime, much hard 
work went into completing the parsonage before New Year’s Eve, the goal date 
for occupancy. Many church members and some non-members contributed time and 
skills. Furniture donated by Amy and Jimmy Cunard and the appliances donated by 
L. O. Benton, III were delivered and placed. Carolyn Goolsby also crocheted and 
donated a beautiful afghan for the parsonage.On Sunday, December 31, 1995, 
District Superintendent Dean Milford and his wife were present for E. G. 
Hutchings, Jr.’s last day as pastor of Prospect UMC. After serving the church 
for 18 months, Hutch was retiring due to health reasons. After appropriate 
recognitions were given to Hutch and Flo, D. S. Milford delivered the morning 
message. The announcement was also made that Mack Barnes, Jr., who was present 
for the occasion, would finish out the term of E. G. Hutchings, Jr. beginning 
January 1, 1996. The entire congregation then made its way to the nearby 
parsonage where a beautiful consecration service was conducted. That same 
evening, the church hosted a New Year Eve’s party in the parsonage; and 
afterwards, Hutch and Flo spent the night and New Year’s Day there.Mack Barnes, 
Jr., a student minister at Candler School of Theology, began his ministry at 
Prospect by preaching at the January 14 service. Although his home was in 
Atlanta, he stayed several nights a week in the parsonage.Many events 
characterized the next few months. On January 21, Colin Kelly, who had 
faithfully served as church treasurer for over 20 years, was honored during the 
worship service. Colin later died in August after a brief illness.For the past 
three years, Prospect has participated in "Souper Bowl Sunday", a project for 
supplying local food pantries. Each member of the congregation is asked to give 
just one dollar as they leave church. This year, we contributed $57.25 to the 
Jasper County Care Corps.Other highlights included Easter with its usual 
observances. The children had their annual Easter party, there was a "Sonrise" 
service with breakfast following, and the choir once again presented a cantata 
during the morning worship.A parsonage workday was held in May in an effort to 
complete any unfinished work. Edwin Allen installed a light for the playground 
area.Mother’s Day was festively observed with a breakfast prepared by the men 
and corsages for special moms. A fish fry, which provided a great time of 
fellowship, was also held in May. On Father’s Day, Lisa, April, and Lacey 
Harper provided a fun way of recognizing dads in the congregation.Mack’s 
appointment at Prospect ended with the June term. A cookout was held in his 
honor on Saturday evening, May 15; and on Sunday, Mack was recognized for his 
ministry at Prospect during the worship service.Lyle Allen, a former member 
whom the church had helped support during his last year of seminary, graduated 
Candler School of Theology. On June 2, he was invited to deliver the morning 
message. His commendation was read, and the church enjoyed a covered dish 
dinner afterwards.Elton Lawson, a member of the North Georgia Conference and a 
resident of Monticello for five years, was appointed as pastor of Prospect 
beginning June 23. He had been granted disability leave by the North Georgia 
Conference in December, 1994, but had experienced a miraculous improvement in 
his health. He and his wife Vergie moved into the parsonage in June.An 
extremely busy summer followed with a successful Vacation Bible School the very 
next week. Many adults, teens, and children attended. The theme for VBS 
was "Going for the Gold", in keeping with the centennial summer Olympics held 
in Atlanta. Lynda Williams painted several beautiful oil paintings which 
illustrated the crowns that Christians may earn. Larry Bowers from Red Oak UMC 
was the guest teacher for the adults and teens. After their session each 
evening, many of the adults participated in making 650 salvation bracelets 
which Child Evangelism Fellowship teams later distributed during the Olympics. 
CEF is just one of the ministries that Prospect supports on a regular basis. On 
the Sunday following VBS, Elton baptized his infant grandson; and Paden Davis 
was baptized in his family’s private pond that afternoon.Jerry and Pat Harris 
hosted an adult Sunday School party at their Lake Oconee house. A group of 
adults went to Indian Springs camp meeting in August. J. R. and Bert Cobb 
hosted a church-wide cookout at their home. Randy and Debbie Martin invited the 
children and youth to their home for a swimming party before school began.The 
church held a successful fund-raising barbecue on September 14. The Jonesmen 
Quartet form Jones Memorial United Methodist Church provided some special 
outdoor entertainment. Revival began the next evening with Scott Brown from 
Turin United Methodist Church as guest evangelist and his wife Amanda as 
musician. The choir from Monticello First United Methodist Church and Lindsey 
Tyler presented special music on Sunday evening. A time of fellowship was held 
each evening.On September 29, Misty Boyd, who has served beautifully as pianist 
for a number of years, was honored with a special day and a gift of money for 
school. A covered dish luncheon was held afterwards.A need in the family of 
Randall Harper’s brother was made known and the church responded with Christmas 
in September for the children in the family. Lynda Williams went back-to-school 
shopping with funds collected for that purpose. Prospect also donated $500 
toward the United Methodist Children’s Home Workday Offering.The debt on the 
parsonage has been lowered to $5500. Work is continuing there including the 
recent addition of window treatments sewn by Rose Lewis and her friend and 
neighbor, Thelma Ferguson. Robert Lewis, Debbie and Randy Martin. J. R. Cobb, 
and Liz Harrison were all involved in the tremendous task of hanging rods and 
valances. The landscaping was accomplished along with the special flower garden 
honoring Hutch and Flo. At this writing, Hutch’s health is consistently 
deteriorating.The men’s breakfasts have begun again with the women also 
invited, giving them an additional opportunity to pray for the needs and 
concerns of the church. Lynda Williams has spearheaded an effort to improve the 
nursery facilities, including painting, new curtains, and the collection of new 
toys. Friendship Bible Coffees, the home Bible studies sponsored by Stonecroft 
Ministries, have also resumed at Debbie Martin’s home and at several places in 
Monticello. Stonecroft is another of the ministries which Prospect supports 
that reaches people for Christ outside the parameters of the Prospect 
community. Other plans are being implemented to enrich the life of the church 
through the Thanksgiving and Christmas seasons.There has been much sadness in 
the church this year with the homegoing of several members. Eloise Loyd, who 
had cared for her terminally ill husband for many months, preceded him in death 
by several weeks. Florence Harris, who had been a member of Prospect since 
moving to Jasper County in 1984, died in April. A beautiful tribute was paid 
her at a memorial service at the church on April 14. As mentioned earlier, 
Colin Kelly died on August 10. With so great a cloud of witnesses, ministry 
must and does continue."Blessed are the people whose God is Lord." Psalm 
144:15http://www.gbgm-umc.org/prospectga/the_year_1997.htm
 
Holding Forth The Word Of Life - 1997Historical reports are prepared for each 
charge conference, not only to inform the District Superintendent of what God 
has done in and through the church for the past year, but also to serve as a 
reminder to the local congregation. As always, there is much to relate from 
this past year because Prospect united Methodist Church is an extremely active 
church, and God has accomplished great things once again in the life of His 
church.The last charge conference was held in the afternoon of November 10, 
1996. Later in the evening, a county-wide service and covered dish dinner were 
hosted by Monticello Methodist Church with thirteen members from Prospect 
attending. That particular day seemed to serve as a kick off for the gatherings 
that usually highlight the holiday season along with some new activities. The 
ladies of the church held their first prayer breakfast in the church library 
that morning while the men were enjoying their monthly breakfast together.The 
annual pilgrim dinner and a candlelight worship service were held the Tuesday 
before Thanksgiving. Just a few days later, fellowship and food provided the 
background for the Hanging of the Greens, decorating the church and fellowship 
hall for Christmas. Debbie and Randy Martin hosted a church-wide Christmas 
party. There was also Christmas visitation, caroling, and delivering fruit 
baskets to shut-ins and residents of the Retreat. Several of those who were 
visited last year have since gone home to be with the Lord. Several children 
participated and were a blessing to those who were visited. They enjoyed the 
trip out for pizza afterwards.The adult choir presented a Christmas cantata 
entitled "The First Noel." Observance of Advent was also a highlight of the 
Christmas season with different families lighting the candles each week. The 
end of the year was celebrated at Randall and Ann Chancey’s home at Jackson 
Lake.Elton Lawson announced in early January that he was resigning as pastor of 
Prospect effective in June. In a church bulletin, he expressed his thanks to 
God for giving him the opportunity to preach the gospel. He also said, "I thank 
each one of you who has recognized my disability and my inability to be as 
active as I want to be...I wish and pray for your continued growth in 
ministry.E. G. Hutchings, Jr., beloved former pastor, died January 15. Several 
members attended his service in Decatur and the memorial service at his home 
church in Deep Step, Georgia.Church officer training was held in January with a 
representative from the District Office conducting the workshop. It was 
determined that a different format was needed for our size church. A called 
charge conference on February 16 approved the new structure.Special offerings 
were received for the annual Souper Bowl Sunday with $117 going to the local 
Care Corp. The annual Workday offering for the united Methodist Children’s Home 
was promoted as well as the United Methodist Homeless special offering.The 
church honored Elton’s birthday with a covered dish luncheon on March 16. He 
noted that Prospect was the first church to ever celebrate his birthday. The 
children’s annual Easter Party was held March 22, which included a Bible 
lesson, egg hunt, and entertainment by Molli, the rabbit. Palm Sunday followed 
with the children marching through the sanctuary with palm branches. The 
Pruetts once again hosted a "Sonrise" service at their lake. Breakfast was then 
enjoyed in the fellowship hall.Spring was marked with a children’s trip to 
Discovery Zone in Atlanta, a Vacation Bible School Workshop in Atlanta, and the 
beginning of another ministry outlet for the women. The ladies held the first 
of several salad luncheons on April 30. Flo Hutchings was invited to come and 
share with the ladies.Additional work was accomplished at the parsonage. Flo 
and Hutch had given money for trees to be planted in honor of their daughter 
Florence and in memory of their son, E. G. Hutchings, III. Those were planted 
along with the flower garden. The mortgage on the parsonage was also paid in 
full. It is significant to note that in ten years, Prospect has built and paid 
for a fellowship hall, a pavilion, and a parsonage.Cornelia Lewis’ home was 
completely destroyed by fire on June 4. The church and community rallied around 
her with substantial monetary gifts, a shower that helped to replenish many 
lost items, and much physical work that enabled her to get into a new house as 
quickly as possible. One church member provided interest-free loans that made 
it possible to finance her new home before the insurance company could settle 
the claim. Cornelia was established in her new home in less than three weeks 
after the fire. God is still in the miracle business!Dr. John Sorrow and his 
wife Helen came to Prospect in June. John retired from Gordon’s Chapel in 
Athens and asked to be appointed to a part-time pastorate in the Griffin 
district. He has a Master of Theology degree and a Doctor of Ministry degree 
from Candler School of Theology. He began pastoral work in the United Methodist 
Church in 1964. John said he appreciated "the heritage of Prospect and the 
opportunity to be a part of it." A picnic was held at J. R. and Bert Cobb’s 
June 29 in order to welcome the Sorrows to our church.A VBS kick-off swim party 
and cookout were held at hunter Pope Country Club in Monticello. A successful 
Vacation Bible School followed the next week. Once again the entire family was 
involved. Randy Martin had recently volunteered to work with the youth; 
therefore, he taught the youth class. Larry Bowers from Red Oak UMC returned to 
teach the adults a series of lessons on evangelism. The children’s theme 
was "Proclaim Christ Around the World, Around the Corner." Many volunteers were 
involved with the children’s program. In a planning session several weeks 
before, the VBS committee was discussing how to use the children’s missionary 
offering when a missionary appeared at the door, heard the word "missionary" 
and said he was a missionary looking for support. He was Terry Smith with Light 
for Living Missions. The committee later unanimously decided that God was 
directing them to donate the week’s offering to his mission. Terry attended 
Sunday School and worship service two weeks before VBS, then preached in the 
morning service the Sunday before VBS and again to the children on Thursday 
night during VBS. It was an exciting time as most of the children that night 
indicated that they would like to become missionaries and others prayed for the 
first time to receive Jesus as their Savior. The children and teens donated a 
total of $184.24, which was given to a children’s home in India. Adults 
contributed another $100 for India national missionaries. Later, Terry wrote 
about his experience with Prospect in the Light for Living newsletter. He 
said, " Everyone was aware of God’s Spirit moving in many areas of the church. 
They prayed and worked very hard. It is a privilege to have had a part in the 
work of such dedicated saints. Thank God for seasons of blessings." A cookout 
and commencement program, which were well attended by parents, were also held 
that last night.A group from the church attended a Friday evening service at 
Indian Springs Camp Meeting. Pat and Jerry Harris hosted a fish fry at their 
lake home on Lake Oconee on August 23. The ladies continued their monthly salad 
luncheons and also made trips to Lane’s Peach Packing Plant in Fort Valley, the 
Georgia National Fair at Perry, and Juliette. Friendship Bible Coffees were 
held at the church, at Bert Cobb’s home, and more recently at Judy Robert’s 
home. The men’s breakfast resumed along with the ladies’ prayer breakfast.The 
Prospect Players were invited to perform "Sam Jones, the Wonder of the Ages," 
for the Chattahoochee Valley Historical Society in Lanett, Alabama, on 
September 21, in celebration of Sam P. Jones’ 150th birthday. He was born in 
nearby Oak Bowery and many people in the area are familiar with his ministry. 
Since the play had not been presented in a while, the Players gave a 
repeat, "dress-rehearsal" performance on September 14 for Prospect. On October 
23, the Players performed again at nearby Bethlehem Baptist Church. Schedules 
are being worked out for additional performances next year.Prospect continues 
to support several different missionaries on a regular basis as stated in the 
financial report. The church had the opportunity this summer to lend support to 
Andrea Fann, a former member, who made a short-term missionary trip to Estonia 
and Poland with Operation Mobilization. The adult Sunday School class has made 
a contribution toward another missionary trip that Andrea and June Dalton are 
making to Romania in December with Leadership Training International in order 
to minister to the children in orphanages in Romania.Ministry plans are 
continuing at Prospect with Thanksgiving services, Christmas celebrations, and 
plans for the New Year. Ellen Boyd and Lisa Harper are working with the 
children and youth on a special Christmas musical to be presented December 
14.Physical needs of the church are still being met. A handicap ramp was 
designed and built under the supervision of Randall Chancey at the cost of 
$2,901.03. Randall and Ann did much of the work themselves. The most pressing 
need at this time seems to be a new roof for the sanctuary. Several estimates 
have been obtained, and the average estimate is approximately $14,000. It was 
decided that the church would try to raise that amount through pledges and 
donations before work is actually begun. The building fund had a reserve of 
$4,000 toward that goal and an additional $6,014.40 has been donated.I never 
fail to be amazed at the lists of accomplishments and new goals and visions 
that arise during the course of a brief year. May Prospect continue to be a 
church "Holding forth the Word of Life." (Philippians 2:16) 
 
The Year 1998The members and friends of Prospect UMC have accomplished much in 
the way of ministry and physical improvements since the last Charge Conference. 
Prospect has continued its course to "hold forth the Word of Life."Sunday 
School classes, along with worship services each Sunday morning, have continued 
weekly. The children have enjoyed a special time during the worship hour with 
the pastor. Brother John’s treasure box has had a wide appeal, sometimes 
reaching into the adult congregation. The Wednesday evening programs for 
adults, teens, and children have prospered. The Men’s Fellowship Breakfasts and 
the Ladies Prayer Breakfasts meet each second Sunday morning. Taking time out 
for the summer, the ladies meet monthly for lunch and have featured the 
following speakers: Helen Sorrow, Rosemary Pruett, Debbie Martin, Ellen Boyd, 
Carole Wilson, Rachel Cunard, Carol Kurz, Bert Cobb, and Bill Kelly. A ladies’ 
exercise class began in September. Throughout the year, there have been several 
wedding shower/luncheons to honor those couples who have gotten married: David 
and Susie Greene, Jamie and Rachel Pitts, Terry and Misty Lamb, Jayson and Dawn 
Dalton. In lieu of a shower, Howie and Holly Feinsilber were sent gift 
certificates from the church. .Special services throughout the year have 
included the annual Pilgrim’s Supper, the children’s Christmas Program, and a 
three-day revival last March that featured John Ozley, Sr. as the guest speaker 
and his son John Ozley, Jr. as the music leader. A special "Sonrise" service 
was conducted at Billy and Rosemary Pruett’s lake. In August three young 
people, Kyle Lewis, Rodney Gentis, and Jesse Gentis, were baptized in a special 
service at J.R. and Bert Cobb’s lake. A group of adults attended the annual 
services at Indian Springs campground. In November, the church conducted a 
dedication service of 40 Christmas boxes which the children had prepared during 
Vacation Bible School for Operation Christmas Child. Those boxes are destined 
for children in foreign countries to make Christmas a special time for them. 
The adult VBS class contributed numerous items and $200 toward the shipping of 
the boxes. The Telephone Committee was recognized and honored during Worship 
one Sunday morning. There was also a special acceptance service of a 
substantial gift of stock from Randy and Debbie Martin. The sale of the stock 
provided for many physical improvements that have taken place.Besides the 
children’s Christmas musical, Christmas ‘97 was celebrated through the lighting 
of the Advent candles, "Hanging of the Greens," and a Christmas party hosted by 
Jan and David Williams. Members of the church, including Brother John and Helen 
Sorrow, spent an afternoon visiting shut-ins and the residents of the nursing 
home, delivering fruit baskets, and singing Christmas carols. The children who 
also came along made it a very special time. Another unique occasion was the 
Christmas dinner hosted by the church for the foster families of Jasper County. 
The employees from the Department of Family and Children’s Services were also 
invited. Church members served a wonderful meal, and a Christmas lesson was 
presented to the children. Santa Claus paid a surprise visit to the delight of 
the children.The New Year was ushered in at the Chancey’s home on Jackson Lake 
followed a few days later by a "Taking Down the Greens" supper. Later in the 
month on "Souper Bowl Sunday," $97.46 was collected for the local food pantry 
along with donated canned goods. Other special offerings during the year 
included $256 for the Homeless, $315 for the Methodist Children’s Home, and 
$258 for Wesley Homes.The children’s annual evangelistic Easter Party, which 
featured a gospel presentation by chalk talk artist and speaker, Gloria 
Malcolm, was held two weeks before Easter. During the spring holidays that 
followed, several adults carried the children to Lake Varner in Newton County 
for a picnic. Vacation Bible School was given a kick-off in July with a swim 
party and cookout at Hunter Pope Country Club. Again, VBS was a family affair 
with classes for every age group. The attendance for the week, including the 
workers, averaged 75. Larry Bowers from Red Oak UMC returned to teach the 
adults. In addition to preparing the Operation Christmas Child boxes, the 
children gave $163 to an orphanage in India through Light for Living ministry. 
Terry Smith, a missionary with Light for Living, wrote a personal missionary 
story that was presented each night by Brother John.Prospect has been called a 
giving church. Besides the special offerings already mentioned, the church 
voted at a recent council meeting to send the first of five special offerings 
of $420 to help with the renovation of Camp Glisson. The church helped to 
sponsor June Dalton and Andrea Fann’s missionary trip to Romania in December, 
1997. Prospect has continued to support missions beyond the Methodist Church. 
The Gideons are invited annually to visit and conduct the worship service where 
a special offering is received for their support. Child Evangelism Fellowship; 
Barbara Hardin with Wycliff in Papa New Guinea; Beth Wilson with Campus 
Crusade; Dick and Faith Weber, OMS World Intercessors; Dean and Gail Davis, OMS 
missionaries in Equador; and Bill and Elsie Turpin, OMS missionaries in Hungary 
are sent a portion of our tithe quarterly. Barbara Hardin with Wycliff sent a 
plea for bed sheets for the jungle people of Papa New Guinea. The church gladly 
collected dozens of sheets for that cause but have been unable to find an 
economical way to send them.Many physical improvements have been obvious ones 
such as the increased playground area and the paving of the parking lot. A new 
metal roof covering all the facilities is the most recent renovation. The year 
began with $11,557 collected toward the new roof. The Martin’s gift made it 
possible to complete that goal including covering the fellowship building. 
General repairs have been made regularly in both the parsonage and the church 
buildings. Those included the remodeling of the bathroom in the sanctuary, new 
air-conditioning unit and repairs, new lawn mower for use at the church and 
parsonage, and extensive termite treatment for the church buildings. When a new 
stove was purchased for the fellowship hall, the old one was donated to a needy 
family. A new copying machine was purchased to replace the one that Harris 
Sample Book Company had donated several years ago. The old one was donated to 
the Salvation Army. A new church sign was purchased, some electrical work was 
done, and much work was done frequently in the cemetery and on the grounds 
surrounding the church. Many people have contributed to all the above 
endeavors.Ministries could not continue in a place where there were not 
laborers of every kind. There always seem to be those who give of themselves 
week after week and their names are not on any officer’s list. J. R. Cobb, 
assisted by Rodney and Jesse Gentes, has worked the sound system each Sunday. 
Bill Kelly, with over 50 years of service, has stepped back in as regular 
pianist and organist. Rosemary Pruett continues to lead the choir. God has 
given Prospect many people who are willing to serve Him in various ways. 
Nineteen hundred ninety-eight has been another wonderful year in the life of 
Prospect United Methodist Church.	Prospect UMC Historical Report — 1999
	It has been said that “a people not conscious of their past are adrift 
without purpose.”  As we approach a new millennium, I believe that is truer 
than ever.  Therefore, the goal of this report is to preserve all accomplished 
in the Lord at Prospect UMC during the past year. 	December 1998 was a 
very busy month, as usual.  The Church Council was held during the evening of 
December 9.  The church had recently been involved in sending study Bibles to 
Fort Knox, Kentucky, at the request of one member, Pvt.  Joseph McLendon.  
District Superintendent Jim Mitchell asked that the offering go to some special 
cause.  The story of the study Bibles was related, and the offering of $300 
went toward the expense of the 26 study Bibles that were eventually sent to 
Pvt.  McLendon for distribution to his bunk mates and even his platoon 
sergeant.  The account of the requests for Bibles was submitted and published 
in the Advocate.  The children’s Christmas play, “A Lamb’s Tale” was presented 
just prior to the Church Council.  Fruit baskets were delivered to several shut-
ins on December 12.  A number of people enjoyed the annual adult Sunday School 
breakfast.	Jan and David Williams hosted the New Year’s Eve party at their 
home.  The children enjoyed an outing at Kidz City before school began again.  
The church was un-decorated with a “Taking Down the Greens” fellowship supper 
on January 6.  Gene Stone with the Red Cross presented a program on disaster 
relief to the church one Wednesday night.  Many members were interested, with 
the church ultimately agreeing to serve as a disaster relief center if the need 
should arise in the community.  “The Ride,” a World Wide Pictures film was 
shown to a large audience in January. “Souper” Bowl Sunday wound up the first 
month’s activities with a total offering of $108 designated to the Jasper 
County Care Corps.	  “Repeat Performance,” another WWP film was shown in 
February.  The adults in the church were treated to a special Valentine banquet 
prepared by Debbie Martin and Liz Harrison.  Later in the month, an offering 
for the homeless netted $250, and the Wesley Homes offering was $223.	  The 
ladies continued their monthly prayer breakfasts, luncheons; and they made 
trips to the DeKalb Farmers’ Market and the Vine’s Botanical Gardens in 
Loganville.  The men held their monthly fellowship breakfasts, as well.  
Several couples made the annual trip to Indian Springs Camp Meeting in late 
summer.	Early in the year the children who attended Sunday School and 
Children’s Church for a certain number of Sundays were rewarded with a pizza 
lunch in the fellowship hall and a trip to see the movie, “The Prince of 
Egypt.”  Spring began with the children’s Easter party and egg hunt, followed 
by a “Sonrise” Service at the Pruett’s lake and breakfast in the fellowship 
hall.	  May 2 was a very special day in the life of the church.  Bill Oberst 
from Pawley’s Island, SC, was invited to Prospect to perform his one-man “Jesus 
of Nazareth Experience Theater.”  The program was presented at the Pruett’s 
lake, which provided a natural setting for Bill’s presentation.  Dressed in 
authentic costume, Bill answered questions from the audience of around 100 
people using Scripture quotations delivered in such a way that made people feel 
as if they were truly experiencing an encounter with Jesus Christ.  It was a 
momentous occasion.  A picnic supper was held afterwards with an opportunity to 
meet and talk with Bill.	Brother John Sorrow had informed the church 
early in the year that he would not be returning due to his poor health.  A 
farewell fellowship supper was held on a Wednesday night.  On the previous 
Sunday, the church had presented him and his wife Helen with gift certificates 
to Home Depot for use in their new house. 	The Reverend Chuck Nave was 
appointed to serve Prospect for the new year beginning June 27.  He came to 
Prospect after serving eight years at Pleasant Hill UMC in Jackson, Georgia.  
Pastor Chuck, his wife Misty, and daughters, Erin and Keely, moved into the 
parsonage the preceding week.  They were quickly initiated into the church 
family since Vacation Bible School was planned for June 27 — July 1.  There was 
a VBS Kick-Off Swim Party the week before, and Erin served as life guard.  With 
classes for all ages, VBS proved to be another success.  Larry Bowers from Red 
Oak UMC, Covington, returned to teach the adult class.  Special music guests 
during the week were June Dalton, Bonnie Tanner, Deborah Marsh, and Ray and Kay 
Cason.  There were so many people involved with teaching and leading the 
children and youth that it would be impossible to name them all here.  The 
missions offering once again went to Light for Living Missions.  Terry Smith 
from Madison, who is with Light for Living, wrote the missionary stories that 
were used each night.  The children and adults gave $310 to be sent to an 
orphanage in India.  		Prospect has continued to be faithful to 
support its many missionaries, including those supported through the Conference 
Askings.  Child Evangelism Fellowship; Barbara Hardin with Wycliff in Papa New 
Guinea; Beth Wilson with Campus Crusade; Dick and Faith Weber, OMS World 
Intercessors; Dean and Gail Davis, OMS missionaries in Equador; and Bill and 
Elsie Turpin, OMS missionaries in Hungary are sent a portion of our tithe 
quarterly.  Mary Melton with Youth With A Mission (YWAM) in Arkansas has been 
added to that list.  Mary, a friend of several members of the church, visited 
during the year and presented her mission program describing a recent medical 
mission to India.  The church supported Mary several years ago when she had 
served with the same mission.  In addition, the church gave $150 support to 
Lisa Orgo, a former youth of the church, when she made a South Africa 
Missionary Trip to Johannesburg, South Africa in May.  It should be noted that 
Gail Davis suffered a stroke when she and her family were en route home for a 
furlough visit.  Due to her tremendous progress, they will be able to return to 
Equador in January, only six months behind schedule.  Dean plans a visit to the 
church on October 20.	As always, there have been many physical improvements 
to the church during the past year.  The new playground equipment may be the 
most noticeable, but there have been many general repairs including new columns 
and some new boards on the front of the church and in other places where 
needed.  New ceiling tiles in both buildings have replaced stained or damaged 
tiles.  A new drilled well has been added at the parsonage serving both the 
parsonage and the church.  A new kitchen range was purchased for the parsonage, 
and a storage building has been bought to be placed in the parsonage yard.  
Major repairs were needed on the air conditioning unit in the fellowship hall.  
Plans have been discussed to paint the church in the near future and to install 
lighting at the entrance and on the playground.	The most recent major project 
has been carried out by the cemetery committee.  It was noted that there were 
26 graves in the cemetery without markers.  The church agreed to place a small 
granite marker at each grave.  Many family members were contacted; and without 
exception, they responded positively by contributing generously to the cemetery 
account that was opened at Newton Federal Savings and Loan Bank in Covington, 
Georgia.  Some family members paid for larger markers in order to include dates 
of birth and death.  Other contributors made it possible for all the markers to 
be paid for before ordering.  The markers have already been placed.  The goal 
is that contributions will continue to accumulate in order to eventually 
establish a perpetual care fund.   A documentation of the cemetery plots is 
being assimilated and should be ready by the end of the year.  The booklet will 
also include stories about some of the people who are buried in the cemetery 
and information that should be helpful in genealogy research.  	All previously 
written history beginning with the sesquicentennial history is now included on 
the church’s Web Page: www.gbgm-umc.org/prospectga.  I would like to repeat 
what was expressed in the beginning:   “A people not conscious of their own 
PAST have no purpose for the PRESENT and therefore no plans for FUTURE.”  May 
we at Prospect never be guilty of that.  Deuteronomy 32:7 commands us 
to “remember the days of old and consider the years of many 
generations.”                                                                   
   Rose 
Lewis                                                                      
Historian				Prospect United Methodist Church, 2000
	The year 2000 has been a difficult year in the life of Prospect United 
Methodist Church.  There have been many changes, some that have been pleasing 
to some of the membership and not pleasing to others.  The membership itself 
has changed, with some previously very active members leaving and new members 
joining the fellowship.	Ministry, under the continued leadership of Pastor 
Chuck Nave, has not changed, however.  The church has carried on.  Activities 
following last Charge Conference, October 3, 1999, proceeded into the new 
year.  Dean Davis, our OMS missionary to Equador, visited the church in late 
October for a fellowship supper and slide show reporting on his work among the 
Saguaro Indians in Quito and surrounding areas.  The church hosted a World Wide 
Pictures film, “Power Play,” on October 31.  The usual holiday events included 
the Thanksgiving Pilgrims’ Supper, Hanging of the Greens and fellowship supper 
in early December, the annual Children’s Christmas Play, Christmas breakfast 
for the Sunday School, and Christmas caroling and delivering fruit baskets to 
shut-ins followed by a trip for pizza as a treat for the children who 
participated.  The musical group, Milestones, presented a special worship 
service December 12.   The New Year’s Eve party was hosted again by David and 
Jan Williams.  Everyone in attendance participated in placing items and notes 
in a time capsule marking the beginning of the millennium.	The New Year 
began with a “Taking Down the Greens” chili supper.  A Valentine’s dinner was 
held February 14 in the fellowship hall.  Pictures for a church directory were 
taken in February.  The directory itself is still underway.  During spring 
break, the “Big C” Club, the Wednesday night children’s group, had a field trip 
and picnic at the nearby McBride sheep farm.  Easter was once again celebrated 
with “Sonrise” at the Pruett’s lake and breakfast following in the fellowship 
hall.  Bill Oberst from Pawley’s Island, South Carolina, returned in late May 
to present “Mark Twain Tonight.”  The supper and program were well attended.  A 
revival, with Ronnie Brannon preaching and Mac McKibben leading the worship in 
music, was held May 7-9.	The summer brought changes with the hiring of a 
youth worker, Chad Hargrove.  Along with Chad came his special friends, 
Caroline Davis, Nate Wagner, Russell Fair, and Nicholas Lynn, to help enhance 
the music on Sunday mornings.  They also began a Sunday night praise and 
worship service.  Two highlights of the summer were the family Vacation Bible 
School held in July and the End-of-Summer Bash 2000 held in August.  VBS was a 
tremendous success with good attendance of children and adults.  Terry Smith, 
Light of Life missionary from Madison, came each night to present a missionary 
story from India for the children.  Larry Bowers, from Red Oak UMC, once again 
taught the adult class.  VBS had its kick-off at a swim party/cookout at Hunter 
Pope Country Club and ended with a cookout the last night of VBS along with a 
brief program for the parents.  The Summer Bash 2000 event was held outside.  A 
sound stage was erected and several bands including Still Waters were invited 
to perform throughout the evening.  Stunt Warriors for Christ presented a 
pirate skit with a special message.  Chad gave the gospel message.  Free hot 
dogs, drinks, snow cones, and pop corn were served.  Publicity had been 
extensive and groups from many other churches came out for the event with an 
estimate of over 200 in attendance.	Recently, the husband/wife drama team, 
Sandi and Mark Remington, returned for the second year to present a thought 
provoking skit on forgiveness.  A covered dish dinner followed the Sunday 
morning service.   A successful fund-raising barbecue was held October 21.  The 
spirit of working together for the Lord continues at Prospect.	Physical 
improvements made to the property this past year have consisted of  the donated 
fence in front of the cemtery, the painting of the outside of the buildings and 
the inside of the fellowship hall, and the installation of additional flood 
lights on the playground area.	Prospect UMC has never failed to be generous in 
its support of special offerings and missionaries who are closely connected to 
people in the church.  Special offerings included the United Methodist 
Children’s Home; collection of coats, sweaters, etc. for the Task Force for the 
Homeless; collection of old Bibles for prisoners sponsored by Berean Christian 
Bookstores; the Souper Bowl offering for the local Jasper Country Care Corps; 
Operations Christmas Child boxes for Samaritan’s Purse; and the annual Gideons’ 
offering.  The missionaries that Prospect UMC continues to support are Terry 
Smith, Light for Living; Mary Melton, SafeHouse Outreach missions in Atlanta; 
Jasper County Care Corps; Beth Wilson, Campus Crusade for Christ; Bill and 
Elise Turpin, OMS missionaries in Hungary; Dean and Gail Davis, OMS; Faith and 
Dick Weber, OMS World Intercessors; Barbara Hardin, Wycliffe Bible Translators 
in Papua, New Guinea; and Child Evangelism Fellowship.	There have been times 
of sadness and times of joy this past year.  Several deaths and tragedies have 
touched the lives of members including the death of our own member, Mrs.  Mary 
Faulkner.  Also, several members have had serious surgeries.  In contrast, 
there also have been several weddings to celebrate in the year 2000.	Plans 
are being made for a live nativity to be presented in December in lieu of a 
children’s play.  All the community will be invited to attend. Prospect United 
Methodist Church looks forward to carrying on the work of Christ in 2001.
	                                                                        
        Rose Lewis, Historian							
		Prospect Untied Methodist Church 2001	The year 2001 was an 
eventful year at Prospect United Methodist Church.  It was discouraging in many 
ways with attendance still down, averaging 39 each Sunday for the past 53 
weeks.  However, when one looks at the overview of opportunities for ministry 
and accomplishments during the past year, there is a real sense of achievement 
and furtherance of God’s kingdom.	Special programs that have enhanced 
worship and fellowship were held periodically throughout the year.  They 
included the Masters Touch, a native American gospel singing group from 
Oklahoma; David Zauber, from Jewish Believers in Christ, who presented a 
program called Christ in the Passover; Dan Smith, a soloist from Kansas City, 
Missouri; Bill Oberst, who surprised his audience with his portrayal of Lewis 
Grizzard; and the Victors, a gospel group from North Georgia.	Opportunities 
for ministry and outreach in the community were possible in a number of 
effective ways.  For the first time, the church held a live nativity.  It 
proved to be one of the most special events ever held at the church in spite of 
the inclement weather that night in early December.  Some church members 
provided a petting zoo, authentic costumes were rented through contributions of 
other members, a stable was built with donated materials by several of the men 
and special music from several surrounding churches was presented.  Free hot 
dogs, hot cocoa, cider, and other refreshments were offered under the 
pavilion.  The highlight of the evening perhaps occurred after the program when 
everyone gathered inside the fellowship hall and listened to our black friends 
from Mansfield sing several songs.  Everyone agreed that it seemed to be a 
foretaste of what heaven will be like.	To further promote community spirit and 
Christmas cheer, several members including children, delivered fruit baskets 
and sang carols for residents of the local nursing home and shut-ins who have 
connections to the church.  The evening ended with a trip to the local Mexican 
restaurant.	Another successful Vacation Bible School closed out the summer 
in late July.  Prior to VBS, Jan and David Williams hosted a kick-off swim 
party and cook out.  The theme for the children was “Surfin’ God’s Word” and 
attendance was surprisingly comparable to previous years.  Larry Bowers taught 
the adult class again and special music was arranged each night for the teens 
and adults.  	An event involving community outreach was the church’s 
participation in the Jasper County Relay for Life, a nation- wide fundraiser 
for cancer research.  Prospect set up a booth and sold snacks and soft drinks 
throughout the all-night event, with at least a dozen people staying until 
closing ceremonies early the next morning.  The church was able to donate $2000 
as a result of contributions and sales.  According to a recent news article, 
Jasper County was awarded the #3 Relay in the nation, raising $97,590 and 
averaging $9.01 for every person living in the county.  It was exciting to be a 
part of that community event.	Prospect also promoted the recent Billy Graham 
Celebration featuring Ralph Bell in a crusade at the Olympic Horse Park in 
Conyers.  Several members attended the four-day event.	Opportunities for 
sharing a meal and fellowship are always special ways of drawing the church 
family together.  This past year was no different.  In 2001, members got 
together for the annual pilgrim’s supper prior to Thanksgiving; the Sunday 
School Christmas breakfast hosted by Rose and Robert Lewis; the New Year Eve’s 
celebration hosted by Jan and David Williams; several prayer breakfasts; a 
special valentine’s dinner held at Lisa Harper’s coffee shop in Monticello, 
with former Falcon player Greg Brezina as guest speaker; a fish fry hosted by 
Billy and Rosemary Pruett; “Sonrise” service at the Pruett’s lake with 
breakfast following in the fellowship hall; two Billy Graham films; and 
birthday luncheons for Ruth Kitchens and Cornelia Lewis, who both celebrated 
their 95th birthdays this summer.  Several ladies from the church participated 
in home Bible studies, many members were involved in periodic visitation 
programs, and the Wednesday night programs for children, youth, and adults have 
continued in spite of low attendance.	Maintaining the physical plant is 
always a part of the work of the church.  The interesting aspect of this year’s 
endeavors is that God provided the resources before the need arose.  Attached 
is a copy of the letter dated December 18, 2000 and addressed to Ruth Kitchens 
and Cornelia Lewis from L. O. Benton III.  Its essence is that Prospect was 
chosen as one of eight local churches to receive $31,250 from a foundation.  It 
was noted that the outside walls of the church, which was built around 1875, 
were leaning outwardly most than they had previously.  An inspection was made 
of the foundation of the church and extensive termite damage was discovered.  
Initial repairs were made and then the area under the church nearest to the 
cemetery and lowest to the ground was inspected.  The damage was much worse 
than expected.  Termites had destroyed part of the original flooring; an 
additional floor had been added in the 1960’s.  The only recourse was to remove 
the floor from inside the church.  Worship services have been held in the 
fellowship hall since the last Sunday in July.  In the process of removing 
carpet and pews, it seemed to be the sensible time to make other improvements 
with the hopes of reducing the expense of heating and cooling the church.  Last 
winter the gas bills were astronomical.  An additional wall and insulation were 
installed; sheetrock had been added to the plastered walls in the 1960’s 
without insulation.  Two windows, an outside door, and two interior doors were 
closed off.  The ceiling was raised to the original rafters; a suspended 
ceiling was installed in the 1960’s.  Lighting was also improved and enhanced.  
The church will have a whole new look including new carpet and reupholstered 
pews.  As of this writing, because of tremendous donations of labor by Edwin 
Allen, Hubert Cunard, and David Williams, the expenses will be covered by the 
grant and building fund.  A detailed report of improvements and expenses are 
included in the trustee’s report.  Two barbecues have been held since the last 
Charge Conference.  Both were successful fund raisers.  In addition to the 
renovations on the church, the parsonage was painted in the spring and the wood 
flooring in the kitchen was repaired.  	Prospect has continued to support a 
number of missionaries.  They include:  Mary Melton, Safe House Outreach 
missions in Atlanta; Jasper County Corps; Beth Wilson, Campus Crusade for 
Christ; Bill and Elise Turpin, OMS missionaries in Hungary; Dean and Gail 
Davis, OMS; Faith and Dick Weber, OMS World Intercessors; Barbara Hardin, 
Wycliffe Bible Translators in Papua, New Guinea; and Child Evangelism 
Fellowship.  Special offerings were collected for Souper Bowl Sunday, VBS 
offering for Terry Smith, Light for Living; and Children’s Home Work Day 
Offering.  Camp Glisson  receives a portion of our pledge each year.  Last 
December forty shoeboxes were donated to Operation Christmas Child and plans 
are being made to donate at least that many again this year.  A gift of $1000 
earmarked for benevolence was presented to the church last December and several 
recipients were chosen during the course of the year.	All in all, 2001 has 
been a full and productive year with the promise of a great future in the 
ministry of the Lord.  “Holding forth the Word of life” continues to be 
Prospect’s mission 
statement.                                                                      
           Rose Lewis, HistorianPROSPECT UNITED METHODIST CHURCH, 2002	The 
year 2002 was another eventful year at Prospect United Methodist Church.  
However, attendance was still down, with an average of 36 each Sunday for 44 
weeks.  There were many opportunities for ministry and celebrations of 
accomplishments and there continues to exist a real sense of achievement and 
furtherance of God’s kingdom.	Opportunities for ministry and participation in 
community events were effective.  Prospect was well represented at a community 
Thanksgiving service held at nearby Trinity Baptist Church.  Over 300 people 
were in attendance representing a total of thirteen churches. Prospect held its 
annual Pilgrims’ Supper the Tuesday evening before Thanksgiving. For the second 
year, Prospect hosted a live nativity service that was a wonderful outreach to 
the community. A stable was built with donated materials by several of the 
men.  Some church members provided a petting zoo that was especially popular 
with the children.  Children and adults portrayed the characters in the 
nativity scene.  The choir from Arms of Faith Tabernacle in Mansfield presented 
special music, along with Roger Harrison, the grandson of Elizabeth Harrison.  
Hot cocoa, cider, and other refreshments were offered under the pavilion.  
Approximately one hundred people stopped by for some part of the program.
	The recently renovated sanctuary was decorated for Christmas in early 
December at the annual Hanging of the Greens supper. To further promote 
community spirit and Christmas cheer, several members including children, 
delivered fruit baskets and sang carols for residents of the local nursing home 
and shut-ins who have connections to the church.  The evening ended with a trip 
to the local Mexican restaurant. The season of Advent was observed each Sunday 
before Christmas. A Christmas breakfast for the membership was hosted by church 
members just a couple of days before Christmas. The year ended with a New 
Year’s Eve party at the home of David and Jan Williams.	An event that could 
easily rival any previous special occasion was the dedication of the renovated 
sanctuary on January 27.  Letters of invitations were mailed to all the members 
and many friends and former pastors. The response was overwhelming.  Nearly 150 
people attended the special worship service that included music by the 
Stillwater Band, Don Troutman, and Roger Harrison.  Flo Hutchings, a former 
pastor’s wife, conducted a dedication ceremony.  A covered dish dinner was 
enjoyed afterwards. The renovations are spectacular with new inside walls, 
raised ceiling, new lighting, carpet, reupholstered pews, and other obvious 
enhancements. The improvements were made possible through a foundation gift of 
$31,250 in honor and memory of L. O. Benton of Monticello, Georgia.  Much of 
the labor was donated and what was estimated to be an $80,000 renovation was 
entirely paid for at the time of the completion.  The Griffin district also 
donated $2500 in April 2002. Surprisingly, another letter from Farmers and 
Merchants Bank arrived in early December stating that a second gift of $31,250 
was being awarded the church.  That money has been set aside for an addition to 
the fellowship hall.	Opportunities for sharing a meal and fellowship are 
always special ways of drawing the church family together.  On Valentine’s Day, 
several couples attended a dinner theater hosted by the drama department of 
Jasper County High School. The church hosted the Billy Graham movie, The Climb, 
and served hot dogs and popcorn in March.  The “Sonrise” service was held at 
the church due to inclement weather and a wonderful breakfast was served in the 
fellowship hall afterwards. The men have resumed hosting a breakfast on the 
third Sunday morning of each month and have invited a guest each time to 
present a devotional.  Newlyweds, Jody and Allison Claborn, were treated to a 
luncheon/shower this fall.  Covenant Players, an international drama ministry, 
performed recently on Wednesday night.  They presented three mini dramas with 
an evangelistic theme.	In April, the church hired music and youth leader, 
Brian Brock. Brian introduced praise and worship music to the service each 
Sunday and has worked to build up the youth group.  They have had several 
outings including a trip to Six Flags. A good portion of his support has come 
from pledges of church members.  	Vacation Bible School, an annual 
highlight of the church year, was held in mid-July.  Prior to VBS, Jan and 
David Williams hosted a well-attended kick-off swim party and cook out.  The 
theme for VBS was “A Cyberspace Adventure” and attendance was around 80 each 
night.  Larry Bowers from Red Oak Methodist Church was the guest teacher of the 
adult class for the fifth year. Terry Smith, missionary with Light for Living 
Missions, presented a missions emphasis for the children. Special guests 
presented music each night for the teens and adults.  	Prospect has continued 
to support a number of missionaries including a new one. Lisa Orgo, a former 
member of the Prospect youth group, has been called to serve with Campus 
Outreach, a college campus ministry with an emphasis on evangelism.  The church 
agreed to offer her the support that previously had gone to Mary Melton, who 
resigned from Safe House Outreach in Atlanta, Beth Wilson with Campus Crusade 
for Christ, and Bill and Elise Turpin, OMS missionaries in Hungary.  The church 
continues to support the Jasper County Corps; Dean and Gail Davis, OMS; Faith 
and Dick Weber, OMS World Intercessors; Barbara Hardin, Wycliffe Bible 
Translators in Papua, New Guinea; and Child Evangelism Fellowship.  Special 
offerings were collected for Souper Bowl Sunday, the Gideons, VBS offering for 
Terry Smith, Light for Living; and Children’s Home Work Day Offering.  Sudheer 
Muhanty of Christian Life Center presented a special message during a worship 
service. Also Camp Glisson receives a portion of our pledge each year.  Last 
December forty shoeboxes were donated to Operation Christmas Child.  In 
addition, a benevolence fund has been established to help meet special needs 
throughout the year.	The book, Prospect United Methodist Church Cemetery 
1882-2002, was completed and is about to go into its third printing.  Sales of 
the first two hundred books have been phenomenal. The book includes 
documentation of all the graves and a collection of stories about many of the 
people who are buried in the church cemetery. The information has been updated 
with each printing.  Sadly, two loved ones of the church have been buried since 
the first printing.  Donna Faulkner, the niece of Bill and Merry Faulkner, was 
a victim of homicide in May. Loice Allen, a member of the church for nearly 60 
years, was killed recently in front of his home on Hwy 11 hit in a 
tractor/truck accident. 	The year 2002 has been full and productive with 
the promise of a great future in the ministry of the Lord.  “Holding forth the 
Word of life,” continues to be Prospect’s mission statement.			
							Historian		
								Rose 
LewisPROSPECT UMC HISTORICAL REPORT 2006The apostle Paul wrote in Philippians 
3:13, 14 “…forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, 
I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ 
Jesus.”  The members of Prospect UMC perhaps could adopt those words as a theme 
for the next year.  The year 2006 has been a year of change.  Pastor Chuck Nave 
left in June after serving the church for six years. The Reverend Dr. Layne 
Jenkins was appointed as the new pastor after enjoying a year of retirement 
from active ministry.  Together, as a church, we are about the Lord’s business 
in “holding forth the Word of Life.”Since the last charge conference, ministry 
has been the primary focus. The men have continued their monthly breakfasts 
with a special speaker, and the women began meeting again each month for a 
prayer breakfast with a special speaker. Monthly visitation was also resumed. A 
Valentine banquet for the adults was a special event. In March the children and 
youth conducted a Tour of Italy fundraiser for the Methodist Children’s Home. 
Mary Ann Wyatt, an employee at the Methodist Children’s Home, gave a 
presentation of the purpose and programs at the Home. Easter was celebrated 
with the children and a sunrise service and breakfast were held Easter 
morning.  The highlight for the summer was the church-wide Vacation Bible 
School. The special winter holiday events that were held last year will be 
repeated this year with even more expectation of community outreach and 
involvement.  They include a Thanksgiving covered dish dinner after worship 
service, participation in Operation Christmas Child, hanging of the greens, 
caroling and delivering fruit baskets to shut-ins.  The highlight of the 
Christmas season is the Live Nativity that was begun a few years ago.  The 
community always responds well in coming to see the live animals and the 
ancient story acted out by the church youth and children.  The trustees have as 
their goal for the next year to install storm windows on the church, finish 
supplying the kitchen, and purchasing tables and chairs for the fellowship 
hall. Another goal that has almost been met is to finish paying the outstanding 
loan for the paint job in 2005.  Fire and smoke alarm protection were added to 
the burglar alarm system during the past year. The cemetery fund has increased 
tremendously over the past year with almost weekly contributions.  It has grown 
from $2018 in October, 2005 to $7249.The annual Charge Conference always 
presents an opportunity to look at past accomplishments and failures.  It also 
gives us as a church an opportunity to look ahead and press on toward what God 
has planned for us as His people performing His ministry.			
					Rose Lewis, Historian 

 



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