Who We Are
We are an open and friendly community, sharing God’s love with all people. We care for our neighbors and are dedicated to being the light of Christ in Etters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time are services? We meet for traditional worship in the church sanctuary at 9:00 am on Sundays.
Can services be viewed online? Yes, most Sunday services can be found on our Facebook page (Paddletown St Paul’s UMC).
Can a visitor take communion? Yes, in the United Methodist Church, all are welcome at Christ’s table.
What do you offer for children? During the worship service, children of any age are invited to the front to listen to a short “Children’s Moment.” Following that message, they can go downstairs for Children’s Church, which may include a short lesson, craft or games. A nursery is also available downstairs for babies & toddlers. Throughout the year, we host an Easter Egg hunt, Vacation Bible School, Trunk or Treat, and the Upward basketball & cheerleading program, among other activities.
What do you offer for adults? In addition to weekly services of worship, we have a small group Bible study, special seasonal Bible studies, an adult choir, a dartball team, and the opportunity to be involved in one of our regular community events. The Christian Education (CE) Center is the site of an annual spring flea market, our Apple Dumpling Festival in September, and a fall craft show.
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Does Paddletown Church sponsor fundraising events? We have several fundraising events throughout the year. There is a spring flea market and a fall craft show held in the CE Center. Our largest fundraiser is the Apple Dumpling Festival held on the 3rd Saturday in September. There are over 3000 Apple Dumplings prepared along with chicken corn soup, pies, food, crafts and assorted vendors; there is live Christian music throughout the day.
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What should I wear? Our church is open to all – there is no dress code. On a typical Sunday morning, you will see people wearing anything from shorts or jeans and a t-shirt to khakis & dresses.
Is Paddletown Church a modern or traditional United Methodist church? Paddletown is a traditional small town country church with a friendly & welcoming hometown charm.
What happens at a typical worship service? We usually have a few announcements, a responsive reading, prayers & discussion of any prayer concerns, special music, a scripture lesson & the pastoral message, as well as an offering. Throughout the service, we sing 3-4 songs from our 2 hymnals – a variety of traditional hymns and more modern songs. Communion is generally celebrated monthly.
How old is Paddletown Church? Our church forefathers were meeting by the mid 1800’s, led by circuit riders who traveled many miles to preach God’s word. By 1873, they began building the original stone building that is our current main sanctuary. Prior to this time, they met in a schoolhouse that was located within the footprint of the Paddletown Cemetery. We celebrated our 150th anniversary in 2023.
What other facilities are available? Our Christian Education (CE) Center is available for rent, with the kitchen available for an additional fee. The building is climate controlled and has hosted funeral luncheons, wedding receptions, school and family reunions, and scrapbooking events. It is also used as a polling location for Newberry Township. For smaller or more intimate functions, the church basement can be rented for showers, birthday parties or meetings. In addition, the church sanctuary is available for weddings or funeral services.
