A Place of GraceMelrose Baptist Church

Roanoke, Virginia

Melrose Baptist Church Profile

Table of Contents

• Heritage

• Purposes

• Worship

• Fellowship

• Discipleship

• Ministry

• Missions

• Ministries for Serving God

• Church Committees and Councils

• Mission/Evangelism

• Church Administration

• Ministerial and Support Staff

• Vision of New Ministries

• Attendance and Financial Giving

Melrose Baptist Church came intobeing because God gave 21 brave soulsthe vision of a new church fornorthwest Roanoke City. OnSeptember 15, 1907, they met in a one-room building on Gilmer Avenue toorganize Melrose Baptist Church. Fromthose 21 charter members, thecongregation has grown to an enrollment of more than eleven hundred.

In 1917 the church moved to new Sunday School space at Twelfth Street andMelrose Avenue, Northwest. A new sanctuary followed in 1925 that wouldeventually see crowds of more than one thousand on Easter and in

special citywide revivals. Manymembers cherish fond memoriesof the old church’s sanctuary withthat huge balcony. Anothercongregation is now experiencingthe magic of “old Melrose.”

In response to the needs of anearby community, Melrose began a

mission ministry in 1952. That ministry grew and prospered so that in 1970 themission work begun by Melrose members became the Forest Park BaptistChurch

In 1970, Melrose relocated to its current site at 3520 Peters Creek Road on 19acres of land in Roanoke County. The church added educational space in 1980and again in 1993 when the sanctuary and offices also were remodeled.

In 2005, a new wing wasadded which encompasseda new Media center, aconference room, and achildren’s area. The formerchildren’s areas wereremodeled for youth andadult educational space.

Heritage

Our Mission Statement

The Mission of Melrose Baptist Churchis to share Christ’s love as we serve others.

We will fulfill our mission by the power of the Holy Spirit throughworship, fellowship, discipleship, and missions.

Our Core Values

1. To provide Bible-based educational and worship opportunities and social activities for all ages.

2. To be a caring and loving support to members during times of difficulty, loss, and hardship.

3. To show the love of Christ through our commitment to missions and outreach in our local community and beyond.

4. To be a welcoming grace-filled body that is Christ-centered and grounded in prayer.

Our Vision Statement

1. Fill and maintain adequate staff positions.

2. Establish a working social media communications team.

3. Strengthen our mission efforts by partnering with Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, Baptist General Association of Virginia, and local organizations.

4. Establish a long range planning committee to develop plans for future building projects which may include renovations to front office and hallway for a large welcome center leading into the sanctuary, increased parking in front with a covered portico, and a mission activities center.

5. Increase efforts to reach young families and build community through multi-generational programs and activities.

PurposesWorship: Planned for God’s Pleasure

Fellowship: Formed for God's Family

To worship and praise God should be the goal of all who know and love Jesus. There is no better way to praise and honor God than through consistent Bible study, prayer and worship with fellow Christians. Sunday morning worship at Melrose is a highlight of the week for members and guests.

The morning worship service begins at 10:45. The service is planned to help the congregation focus on God and His salvation. Traditional hymns as well as contemporary music provide a worshipful atmosphere for all age groups. From the opening greeting through the benediction, the ministers encourage worship and thanks to God for His Son, Jesus the Christ. Fellowship with others, prayer and praise to God, soul-searching through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and concern for lost souls help worshipers leave the service ready to reach out to others.

“Enter to Worship, Depart to Serve” continues to be the challenge of this ministry. All persons are invited to join in worship at Melrose.

God planned for us to love and serve Him and each other. Fellowship is a vital piece of the fabric of Melrose, and we are a welcoming, warm, and loving congregation. There is fellowship in corporate worship on Sunday morning, in small groups during the Sunday School hour, and on Wednesday evenings as individuals and families meet for a shared meal and participate in age-related activities.

Senior adults meet once a month with their group, Living Abundantly After Fifty, or LAAF. They gather for fellowship, inspiration, mission activities, and entertainment.

Mission groups meet monthly to learn about missions and share in opportunities for service.

Groups of youth and adults enjoy fellowship through participation in retreats and special projects, and in helping to repair homes and church facilities in other localities.

Fellowship through the music ministry includes choirs for adults, youth, children, and preschoolers as well as other instrumental groups.

Discipleship: Created to Become Like Christ

Ministry: Shaped for Serving God

Bible study is the backbone of the church’s mission to reach and win the lost. Sunday School is the primary Bible teaching tool. Melrose has many small groups organized for all ages from preschool through senior adults. There are coed classes for youth and adults as well as individual classes for men and women. All the groups or classes seek to find innovative methods that will interest members and prospects in the study of God’s Word and its impact on their lives.

In addition to Sunday morning studies, there are classes at other times throughout the year to study the Bible or other inspirational training books. Discipleship training is an ongoing process for Christians to grow in the wisdom and knowledge of Christ.

The Melrose heritage is one of caring and giving. Many volunteers gladly perform tasks every day without any thought except to use their talents for the Lord’s service. They often work behind the scenes to ensure this busy congregation continues to thrive and reach out to the community. Volunteers among the church members take care of numerous tasks of upkeep to the church property. They attend to the emotional and physical needs of the church family. They also provide a variety of services to assist in the worship experience. A Prayer Line is available through the church office to request prayer or to give information about specific needs. All of us are shaped for serving God. Even though our services may be diverse, the love for God and for God’s children should be the same in every heart. Melrose is full of volunteers whose many talents serve God in this church.

Youth volunteers assisting with Extended Session

Craft station volunteers at our annual Easter Event

Missions: Made for EvangelismOutreach activities are ongoing at Melrose. In addition to the Sunday morning worship services that seek to minister to those who need to make a commitment for Jesus or to find a church home, several groups have specific programs to enlist members or assist those who need help.1. The WMU provides opportunities for learning about and doing missions in small groups:

Women on Mission for adults, Youth on Mission, and Children in Action/Mission Friends.

2. Members support the Roanoke Valley Baptist Association’s various ministries. For example, they donate Bibles, food, and toiletries for the Truck Stop ministry to help truck drivers, their families, and other travelers who may need emergency assistance. Another example is the collection of children’s books to be distributed locally and through mission trips to Southwest Virginia through the Book Net ministry.

3. Church members and mission groups regularly volunteer time, financial aid, and supplies to support Keystone Community Center and Friendship House in intercity Roanoke.

4. The congregation donates various items throughout the year to the Roanoke Rescue Mission and other local agencies. Youth regularly serve meals at the Mission.

5. Members enjoy filling shoeboxes with toys and other items for Operation Christmas Child sponsored by Samaritan’s Purse, an organization founded by the Rev. Franklin Graham.

6. Youth participate in Appalachian Outreach so they may become aware of the suffering and needs of hurting people and learn to help alleviate those needs.

7. Adults participate in mission trips to help renovate or rebuild church facilities and other structures in various locations

8. Members support various ministries of the Baptist General Association of Virginia such as disaster relief and construction projects in areas across the state.

Operation Christmas Child (above)Appalachian Outreach (below)

Operation Christmas Child (above)Rise Against Hunger (below)

CIA & Mission Friends (above)Rise Against Hunger (below)

Ministries for Serving God

Sunday School

Sunday Morning Worship

Sunday School is exciting for preschool children as they enjoy Bible stories, sing-a-longs, playacting, and other learning experiences.

Four and five year-olds love to go to the “big church” to hear a children’s sermon and interact with the Minister of Youth and Children. Many times his sermons and the children’s answers provide a teaching moment for adults as well as the children. While their parents worship, the children continue to receive care and nurturing in their classrooms in “extended session.” Childcare is also provided as needed for Sunday and Wednesday evening activities and for other events.

Melrose Baptist Church understands that God created man to serve Him. Whenever we serve others, we are serving God. Following are Melrose

ministries listed by age groupings:

PRESCHOOL (Birth through Five Years)

Sunday Evening ActivitiesPreschoolers participate in CIA’s/Mission Friends where they learn about missionaries and missions around the world. They also enjoy a music learning time which includes singing. They occasionally sing during the morning worship service.

Children’s Choir CIA and Mission Friends

Vacation Bible School

Special Activities

Preschoolers enjoy this week long event offered in the summer. Curriculum includes Bible stories, music, and hands-on crafts, snacks, and science as well as structured play time. VBS closes with lunch on Friday for the children and their parents.

Periodically, the children, along with their parents, enjoy offsite outings.

Sunday Worship

Children attend the worship service andparticipate in the Children’s Sermon.

CHILDREN (Grades K through 5)

Sunday SchoolBible study and age-appropriate activities are offered in separate classes for grades 1–2 and grades 3–5. They have loving teachers to instruct and guide them.

Virtual Sunday School during the pandemic

Skit performed by youthand Pastor Greg

Craft Station

Sing and dancing at the beginning and end of VBS each day.

1st and 2nd Grade Sunday School

Children’s Sermon

Vacation Bible School

Special Activities

Children enjoy this week long event offered in the Summer. Children from two mission centers are invited to participate. Curriculum includes Bible stories, music, and hands-on crafts, snacks, and science as well as structured play time. VBS closes with lunch on Friday for the children and their parents.

Periodically, the children, along with their parents, enjoy offsite outings.

YOUTH (Grades 6 through 12)

Sunday Activities

Youth have their own suite in the church where they are divided by middle school (grades 6-8), and high school (grades 9-12). In Sunday School Bible study, their well-trained teachers serve as good role models for the young people.

A Day at the Stables

Reflection Time

RecreationBible Story with Pastor Greg

Movie Outing

Wednesday Activities

On Sunday evenings, the Youth gather for SOY (Seeds of Youth). The Minister of Youth and Children provides Bible study and fun activities to increase awareness of their place in God’s world. The Minister of Music offers a variety of musical opportunities as well. Volunteers provide dinner for the Youth..

5th Block is offered for Melrose Youth and their guests each Wednesday after school from 3:30-6:00. This program includes time for homework, recreation, devotions and dinner. The program is supervised by the Minister of Youth and Children as well as volunteers from the congregation. From 6:00-7:15, the Youth meet for missions awareness and other interest related seminars.

Summer OutreachAppalachian Outreach is a week-long mission endeavor to renovate homes for needy families in East Tennessee. Our Youth also participate in local, short term construction projects through Impact Virginia.

Youth ChoirVirtual SOY during the pandemic

Tearing down the original porch

Building the back deck

Group Picture

Discipleship Training

Wednesday night Bible study, prayer, and discipleship training is held weekly as well as at other times. Studies focus on learning more about Christ and our service for Him. Classes are open to all interested individuals.

ADULT

Sunday SchoolThere are coed as well as men’s and women’s classes for various age groups. Dedicated teachers encourage learners to participate in Bible study and in class discussions. These small groups also provide opportunities to socialize and form friendships through outreach projects and activities.

Pairs and SparesWomen of Faith

Flautist, Janice White

Music

The Sanctuary Choir meets after Wednesday night Bible Study. Auditioning is not required and the Minister of Music welcomes new voices. The choir uses contemporary as well as traditional selections in order to present a varied program. The one-hour rehearsals are lively and interesting. The Organist and Pianists serve faithfully and well. Various other instrumentalists add their talents to enhance the worship experience. The Senior Adult “Sonshine” Choir meets for weekly rehearsals on Tuesday mornings. They enjoy singing familiar favorites at an occasional morning worship service in addition to performances at assisted living and nursing homes.

Adult Choir

Fellowship of Deacons

The congregation nominates men and women to serve in the Fellowship of Deacons. Deacons assist the ministerial staff in shepherding the church membership. They do this in teams organized for specific duties. Deacons choose their service according to their individual gifts and interests. The Deacons welcome other church members to join them on any of these teams. Following are the teams currently serving in the Fellowship:

•Baptism – assists candidates in the baptismal services.•Communications – improves methods of communication for church members of all ages and interests, revitalizing the church website, and using Realm to its fullest capability.•Communion – prepares the communion elements for the Lord’s Supper ordinance.•Courtesy – greets and assists members and visitors arriving and departing the church.•Helping Hands – offers assistance to members needing small repairs or maintenance on their homes which they may be unable to perform or afford.

MissionsThe Baptist Men’s group organizes Prayer breakfasts and sponsors special activities throughout the year. Women On Mission groups meet monthly to support missions locally, statewide, and worldwide. All groups enjoy doing mission activities in the local community while praying for and supporting missionaries around the world. These groups are listed below along with their meeting times:

• Beth Callaway/Day WOM – first Wednesday, 3:00 p.m., at church• Alma Hunt WOM ¬ – second Thursday, 10:30 a.m., at church• Lavora Sprinkle WOM – second Tuesday, 7:00 p.m., at church

Senior Activities

•Hospital Visitation and Follow-up – visits members confined to hospitals and contacts members after hospitalization to offer whatever assistance may be required.•Outreach Ministry/New Members – presents gift bag to first-time worship service visitors and welcomes new members with information about Melrose to assure their smooth transition into the church family.•Pastoral Care – provides assistance to the pastor, family members, and guests attending funeral services conducted at the church.•Safety – assists with opening the church building on Sunday mornings, monitors security concerns, assists courtesy team, and locks all doors of building at end of Sunday services.

A very active senior group meets at 10:00 a.m. on the third Tuesday of every month. LAAF (Living Abundantly After Fifty) is geared for adults age 50 and above. It focuses on fellowship, inspiration, mission activities, and entertainment. Members and guests enjoy interesting programs, daytime excursions, and luncheons prepared by members or local restaurants. Melrose church membership is not a requirement, and new members are always welcome. This group contributes food items every month to the church benevolent pantry. Members of the Homebound Ministry regularly visit the church’s shut-ins with small gifts to cheer and encourage folks confined to their homes or nursing facilities. Through this ministry, the homebound members know their church appreciates and cherishes them. Visitors themselves receive satisfaction in helping to brighten the day for once-active persons now unable to take part in many church activities.

Welcome Bags for First-time visitors

Buildings and Grounds

The Property Committee, composed of nine members, is responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the entire church property. In addition to routine maintenance and repairs to this large expanse of buildings and acreage, members of the committee keep the lawns mowed, the weeds under control, the lights burning, and the parking lots cleared of snow and ice. They also take care of the heating and ventilation systems and oversee the cleaning operation. This committee is constantly on the job to make sure the facilities are safe and conducive to worship. They welcome volunteer helpers for grounds maintenance, painting and repairs, or for any of the many tasks associated with enhancing this valuable church property.

Aerial view

Fellowship HallSanctuary

Eagle Eyrie Baptist Conference CenterSince 1957, Melrose has owned a lodge at the Eagle Eyrie Baptist Conference Center, a beautiful mountain-top conference area near Lynchburg, Virginia, owned by Virginia Baptists. The lodge has been used extensively over the years for retreats and summer camps for Melrose members as well as other groups who rent the lodge through the Eagle Eyrie management. The Eagle Eyrie Committee ensures the lodge is well maintained and available for use.

Melrose Lodge

Media CenterThe Jessyee Walker Ramsey Media Center is located in the new children’s wing next to the Stella Burruss Conference Center/Opal Johnston Parlor. It offers a quiet environment conducive for study. It offers up-to-date reading materials for all ages and a fine collection of study materials, cassettes, videos, and CDs.

Van ServiceThe church provides van transportation for members needing a ride to church services and church related activities. Volunteer drivers must have a valid driver’s license. The Van Coordinators and Committee have oversight of this ministry.

Church Committeesand Councils

Committees

AudiovisualAcquires, maintains, and supervises the use of all audiovisual equipment during worship services, business meetings, weddings, celebrations, and other special events.

AuditingAudits the Treasurer’s books and documentation.

BenevolenceMaintains and administers the church food pantry to persons in need of such assistance.

Children’sAssists Minister of Youth and Children in planning and coordinating activities of children in grades K-5.

Constitution and BylawsKeeps the Church Constitution and Bylaws up to date at all times.

Denominational RelationsServes as liaison to associational, state, and national levels of the denomination.

Eagle EyrieHandles the maintenance of the Melrose Lodge at the Eagle Eyrie Baptist Conference Center near Lynchburg, Virginia.

FinanceConsiders all matters pertaining to expenditures outside the routine work of the organizations of the church, prepares an annual operating budget, and together with others, seeks to secure pledges to underwrite the budget.

Floral and DecoratingOversees and prepares seasonal decorations in the sanctuary, assembly areas, and hallways of the church.

KitchenSupervises the operation of the church kitchen regarding church meals and other special events.

Media CenterSupervises the operation of the church media center regarding purchase, use, and care of books, tapes, and other materials.

Mission TripsCoordinates the adult mission trips of the church, from gathering information to planning and carrying out approved trips.

MusicIn cooperation with the Minister of Music, this committee has general supervision of the music program for all age groups.

NominatingSecures and recommends officers, teachers, and committee members for most church positions.

PersonnelMakes recommendations to the church regarding the duties and employment of all paid staff positions except that of Senior Pastor.

Preschool Extended SessionProvides workers and supplies to care for children in preschool extended session during the Sunday morning worship service.

Property

Has general supervision of the use of church buildings and property, and ensures the church

facilities and grounds are safe and conducive to worship.

Pulpit Supply

Arranges for guest speakers in the absence of the Senior Pastor.

Recreation

Plans, organizes, and implements church wide recreational programs and events.

Special Events

Cooperates in planning church wide special occasions and serves with Floral and Decorating

Committee.

Stewardship

Develops, presents, and maintains a stewardship program of systematic giving.

Ushers

Greets and seats visitors at church services.

Van/Bus

Schedules the use of the church vans and bus; enlists, schedules, and oversees drivers; and

arranges for repair, maintenance, and fueling of the vehicles.

Wedding Host

Serves as host when church facilities are used for wedding events, providing assistance to

the wedding party as needed.

Coordinating Councils

Church CouncilConsisting of major officers and organizational directors, the council coordinates the church calendar and organizational activities.

Mission Activities Council Coordinates church-wide mission activities in order to avoid scheduling similar activities within the same time frames.

Senior Adult Ministries CouncilCoordinates all senior adult activities.

Youth Council Plans and promotes the educational, training, social, and recreational programs for the youth.

MISSIONS/EVANGELISMMelrose Baptist Church actively supports mission work locally, nationally, and internationally through the Roanoke Valley Baptist Association, Woman’s Missionary Union, the Baptist General Association of Virginia, and the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship. The WMU helps lead the church in mission education, mission involvement, and special mission offerings. Whether the activities are church wide projects or those of individuals, Sunday School classes, or mission groups, Melrose members are generous with their time, money, and expertise in supporting numerous worthwhile projects. Following are some of the church’s mission activities:

Adult Mission ProjectsCoordinated by the Mission Trips Committee, volunteer church members work to remodel and restore church buildings and other structures in need of repair in out-of-town locations. The major outreach of these trips is a community block party to offer fun and fellowship to the area’s neighbors and to interest them in attending that local church. In addition, teams provide similar tasks in our local community.

Appalachian Outreach MinistryHands-on experience in which the youth help in the renovation of homes for needy families in Tennessee.

Backpack MinistryMembers volunteer and support this ministry by packing and delivering food bags for students at area elementary schools. This food enables the children to have nutritious food on the weekends.

Bereavement MealsThis is a ministry in which meals are provided at church for bereaved families of church members or church members’ families following funeral services. This service offers a relaxed meal in a convenient setting for loved ones and friends.

Book NetA project sponsored by the WMU of the Roanoke Valley Baptist Association. Children’s books for preschool through grade 7 are collected for distribution to underprivileged children in the local mission centers. Books are also distributed by mission teams as they participate in trips sponsored by the RVBA.

Fall FestivalA Back-to-School outreach event, held in August, in which the entire community is invited to join the Melrose family for food and fun.

Hands for ChristA project in which past Sunday School literature is donated to this international ministry to be distributed in foreign countries for use as a Christ-centered means of teaching the English language.

Hope Tree Family ServicesThe church financially supports Hope Tree Family Services, and members participate in a work day on the campus and in their annual Walk-a-Thon fundraiser.

Keystone Community Center and The Friendship HouseThese are mission centers funded by local congregations. Melrose members and mission groups donate food, clothing, supplies, money, and other items. They also volunteer their time to teach or otherwise assist in the operation of the centers.

Meals on WheelsA program of the League of Older Americans to distribute meals to needy seniors in the community. The church provides free office space for a distribution center.

Melrose Food PantryA food distribution ministry stocked by donations from the congregation to furnish food staples to needy community families.

Packing bags for pick-up Youth helping organize the shelves

OktoberfestA seasonal event to engage the church family in food, costumes, fun, and games.

Operation Christmas ChildA project in which the entire congregation may prepare shoeboxes of toys and clothing for the Samaritan’s Purse organization to distribute to children throughout the world.

Stitch and A Prayer

Several ladies meet monthly to knit or crochet prayer shawls for delivery to church members, extended family, and friends in times of health crises. Each shawl is adorned with a cross. Caps and scarves have been provided for children at the two local Community Centers we support.

Roanoke Area MinistriesA local organization that assists homeless or needy individuals to

pay utility bills, find shelter or food, purchase medicines, etc. The church donates money to help with these expenses.

Roanoke Rescue MissionA local ministry that serves men, women, and children who need housing, jobs, food, health care, or counseling. Individuals and groups donate food, clothing, money, and time to support this vital ministry.

Truck Stop Ministry This ministry is supported by the Roanoke Valley Baptist Association and coordinated by a member of Melrose. It offers counseling, emergency funds or other assistance to travelers. For drivers passing through the Daleville exit from Interstate 81, this is a great Christian witness. Individual Melrose members donate money for the purchase of Bibles and religious tracts for distribution to drivers and families.

Church Administration

Affiliation Melrose Baptist Church is a member of the Roanoke Valley Baptist Association, the Baptist General Association of Virginia, and the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship.

BudgetThe church budget for 2020 totals $700,543.00.

Business MeetingsRegular business meetings are held on the third Wednesday night of each month. Special called meetings may be scheduled with proper notice to the congregation.

CommitteesMelrose Baptist Church is a committee-driven entity, and all committees function cooperatively for the church’s best interest. Members are elected by the church to serve for a three-year term.

DeaconsThe Fellowship of Deacons assists the ministerial staff in shepherding the church membership. Deacons serve on ministry teams, according to their gifts and interests, in order to minister effectively.

Governing DocumentsThe church is governed by a Constitution and Bylaws. Among other things, these documents delineate the duties and responsibilities of church officers, teachers, leaders, and committees.

Leadership TeamSince the retirement of our previous Senior pastor of 31 years, Melrose has been led by a Leadership Team elected by the church and tasked with completing an Intentional Interim Process during this time of transition as well as the search for our next Senior Pastor.

OfficersElected by the congregation, the Church Officers are Senior Pastor, Fellowship of Deacons, Trustees, Clerk, Assistant Clerk, Treasurer, Assistant Treasurers, and Director and Assistant Director of the Emergency Preparedness Team.

TrusteesFive Trustees, elected by the membership for indefinite service, represent the church in all legal matters.

Ministerial and Support Staff

Ministerial Staff

Senior Pastor: (vacant)

Interim Associate Pastor/Minister of Music: The Reverend Dr. James Gregory Denton

Greg Denton joined the staff of Melrose on September 1, 2019. Greg has a bachelor's

degree in Music Education from the University of Tennessee, a master's degree in

Educational Administration and Supervision from the University of Virginia and a D. Min.

degree from Andersonville Theological Seminary. After 36 years as Director of Bands at

Northside High and Middle Schools, Greg retired from Roanoke County Schools. During this

span he also served as Supervisor of Fine Arts for four years. Before coming to Melrose he

had previous experience as Director of Music and Worship Leader at the following Baptist

churches: Fort Lewis, Virginia Heights, Enon, and First Roanoke. Greg and his wife, Debbie,

have been married since 1984. They have one daughter, one son, and three grandchildren.

Associate Pastor/Minister of Youth and Children: The Reverend Gregory A. Hetherington

Greg Hetherington joined the staff of Melrose upon accepting the church’s call on May 4,

2009. Greg is a graduate of Stetson University and The Southern Baptist Theological

Seminary. He brought with him his wife, Kim, and their two children, Erin and Joel. Greg

returned to the ministry full time with this call after having served in many lay ministry

opportunities at various churches in both Kentucky and Virginia since his graduation from

seminary. Greg has previously served as a youth minister in Plantation, Florida, and as a

Student Summer Missionary in both Clearwater, Florida, and The Northwoods Baptist

Association, Minnesota/Wisconsin.

Pastor Emeritus: The Reverend Larry E. Sprouse

Larry Sprouse joined the staff of Melrose as Senior Pastor on June 1, 1988. He retired on

June 30, 2019 after 31 years of faithful service to our congregation.

Support Staff

Office Manager/Financial Secretary: Mrs. Shelly Lane

Part-time Administrative Assistant: Mrs. Linda Saunders

Organist: Mrs. Susan Matney

Vision of New MinistriesFor more than one hundred years, Melrose Baptist Church has strengthened and expanded its ministries to reflect the changing needs of its congregation and community. Through the leadership of the Holy Spirit and the creativity, dedication, and enthusiasm of the staff and members, we continue to welcome visitors and new members. Melrose hopes to experience increased vitality from the input of its members with fresh ideas, dreams, experiences, and willingness to be innovative. New ministries might include the following:

• Adopt-a-Senior • Parents Night Out/Date Night• Multi-Generational Programs: work, mission, recreational, and field trips• Adult Enrichment Classes – computers, parenting, crafts, cooking, etc.• Bible studies other than at traditional times and at other venues• Support Groups – divorce, grief, single parent, financial, etc.• Arts, Music, and Drama Team:

• Enhance worship with increased multi-media • Drama included in worship• Sign language• Art appreciation• Concerts• Paint Night

• Scripture-based financial seminars• Young Adults: life transition seminars, break activities, and short-term jobs assisting

members• Communications Team that utilizes current social media avenues for all church wide

notifications and promotions• Recreational Tournaments/Events – golf, corn hole, putt-putt• Occasional Sunday Night special events

Attendance and Financial Giving

Attendance• Membership: 1,100 • Average Worship Attendance: 240• Sunday School Enrollment: 312 (Average Attendance: 190)• Wed. Night Bible Study: 65-75

Financial Giving

Church Budget2017

Actual2018

Actual2019

Actual2020

Budget

RECEIPTS $859,579 $742,766 *$1,104,765 $700,543

DISBURSEMENTS

Salaries $384,617 $383,870 $323,568 $289,523

Building & Office $169,262 $174,820 $171,865 $239,125

Ministries

Cooperative $66,524 $73,525 $67,158 $72,185

Local & Outreach $6,937 $7,340 $8,236 $8,900

Education $15,982 $9,611 $12,268 $14,100

Music $9,296 $5,765 $6,145 $9,950

Youth & Children $12,011 $11,721 $10,540 $17,710

Other $7,211 $6,398 $11,270 $10,100

Other (Committees, etc) $35,667 $27,112 $24,614 $38,950

TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS $707,507 $700,162 $635,664 $700,543

4/30/2020 Total cash reserves $717,323.70Designated funds $544,802.45Non-designated funds $172,521.25Mortgage $52,333.25

*Includes $428,564 bequest

Artwork from the children of Melrose Baptist Church.

What does Melrosemean to you?

Kiele D. (left)Carson J. (below)

Artwork from the children of Melrose Baptist Church.

What does Melrosemean to you?

Landon H. (left)Ryan P. (below)

Artwork from the children of Melrose Baptist Church.

What does Melrosemean to you?

Remington D. (left)Brooklyn T. (below)