Knoxville First United Methodist Church Community Meals Serve Over 3,000 Meals in 2025

People from all backgrounds continue to gather twice a month for the Knoxville First United Methodist Church community meals. These meals, offered on the first and last Wednesday of each month, are prepared and served by volunteers from various local churches. In 2025, the church served 3,314 meals, and this year alone has already exceeded 3,000 meals served.

The meals are open to anyone in the community, regardless of religious affiliation. They are held in the basement of the church at 313 E Montgomery St., from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm. Deb Greiner, a representative of First United Methodist Church, emphasizes the value of these gatherings as opportunities for fellowship.

“For me, that is so heartwarming to see different, you know, people from the community, different churches coming together as one, and just having time to talk and laugh and enjoy each other’s company. It really is—it’s a great thing,” Greiner said.

The church actively seeks volunteers to assist with meal preparation, cooking, and serving. This collaborative effort reflects a spirit of neighbor-love and shared responsibility, aligning with the biblical call to care for others in need.

These community meals serve as a practical expression of mercy and hospitality, embodying the principle found in Matthew 25:35, where Jesus reminds us to welcome the hungry and the thirsty. By providing nourishment and companionship, the church demonstrates a commitment to serving those in need.

The initiative also fosters unity among diverse groups, creating a space where individuals from different backgrounds can connect and build relationships. This aligns with the teaching in Galatians 6:10, which encourages believers to do good to all people, especially those in the church.

Through consistent service and community engagement, the Knoxville First United Methodist Church continues to embody the values of compassion and outreach. Their efforts reflect a dedication to practical neighbor-love, ensuring that no one is left without support or connection.

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