Members of Big Springs United Methodist Church recently welcomed the Rev. James S. Garvin Jr. and his wife, the Rev. Ann L. Garvin. The pastor, who served Pleasant Grove UMC in Dahlonega since 2006, is a native of Ocala, FL, and earned a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering from Georgia Tech, and worked with several Fortune 100 corporations before entering the ministry in 2001.

Ann is a licensed professional counselor and serves part-time as a private therapist with the Dawson County Drug Court in Dawsonville. She recently completed the certification process to be recognized as a United Methodist Local Pastor. Jim and Ann offer counseling for couples and conduct marriage and family workshops. Big Springs is at 2066 Sugar Pike Rd. in south Cherokee.

• • •

Toonigh Church of God to celebrate 100th anniversary

A celebration is planned for 10 a.m. today with guest speaker Dr. Michael Baker, administrative bishop of the North Georgia Church of God. The church is at 4775 Old Highway 5, Canton. For more details, email specialkcuts@windstream.net or call 770-845-1284.

• • •

Christian writer’s group welcomes guest Kim Ketola

The Christian Authors Guild will meet at 7 p.m. Monday, with guest speaker Kim Ketola, author of “Cradle My Heart: Finding God’s Love After Abortion.” The meeting will take place at Prayer and Praise Christian Fellowship, 6409 Bells Ferry Rd., Woodstock.

• • • 

Liberty Hill to distribute lunches during fall break

Members of Liberty Hill United Methodist Church will give out brown bag lunches to the community from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 18 and 20 from the church parking lot, 141 Railroad St., Canton. Everyone’s invited to join in for fun, fellowship and lunch.

• • • 

New ministry for tweens will begin at Sixes UMC

Studio 456, a new tween ministry for grades 4-6, at Sixes UMC starts at 4 p.m. Sept. 23. The focus will be learning the faith through artistic expressions, painting, drama, dancing and singing. Contact Brad Bunn at 770-345-7644 for more information.

Versions of these ministry notes previously appeared in the September edition of The Cherokee Vine, a monthly newsletter that highlights news and events from churches, ministries and charitable organizations in Cherokee County.