campbellsburg UMC Embraces “Service Sundays,” Expanding Ministry Beyond Financial Giving
CAMPBELLSBURG, KY – Campbellsburg United Methodist Church is deepening its commitment to service through a new initiative called “Service Sundays,” launched this summer under the leadership of Pastor Laurel Crimm. Building on the congregation’s established tradition of supporting the Kentucky United Methodist Children’s Home through a Fifth Sunday offering, the church is now dedicating every fifth Sunday to hands-on ministry, both within its walls and in the wider community.
Pastor Crimm, who began serving the church in March, was inspired by the congregation’s consistent generosity to explore additional avenues for outreach. The first “Service Sunday” in June focused on hospitality, with members of all ages and abilities contributing to improvements at the church building, which regularly hosts groups like alcoholics Anonymous and supports the Blessings in a Backpack program. Tasks included watering flowers, filling potholes, rearranging furniture, preparing meals, mopping, and sweeping, culminating in a shared potluck.
In August, the congregation expanded its reach, forming a prayer circle outside the local fire station and city hall. Children and adults used chalk to write messages of blessing on Main Street sidewalks, while others refreshed ministry spaces within the church. The day concluded with a shared meal and food packed for a recently hospitalized member.
“It really was all ages and abilities, giving hands and feet,” Pastor Crimm said. “We can do more than just keep things going.We can grow.”
The initiative aligns with the Kentucky conference’s priorities of a “Culture of Call” and “Spiritual Leadership Development,” encouraging intergenerational participation in meaningful ministry.
“We help with our money. Now we’re helping with our feet, too,” Crimm added.”and the response has been gorgeous.”
