Kick-Off Recap

Sep 3, 2025 | by Dr. Darren M. McClellan

No distrust made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. 

                                                                                   –Romans 4:20-21

Dear Family of APUMC, 

Last Sunday’s “Kickoff Cookout” was a blast! Special thanks go out to… 

●      All who showed up with their tents and tailgate fixings to cheer on the friendly competition. 

●      The 12 teams that participated in our flag football tournament. I loved seeing the mix of all ages on the field at one time.

●      Guest referees Jamie Waldhour and Jere Beasley and scorekeeper Morgan Taylor.

●      Harper Ann Booker for her beautiful job in singing our national anthem.

●      The Doc Rodgers Band for their live entertainment (and putting up with the drummer).

●      Joe Stuart, Bry Stuart, Bob Sharp, Max McClellan, Beth Morrow and the Missions team for the supply of burgers and hotdogs.

●      Erica Tanner, Mae Winters, Leslie Johnston, Emily Moore, Jennifer Porto, Dale McClellan, Linda Noble, Kim Brown, and Lorie Evans for hospitality setup, recruitment, and registration support.

●      Chad Stewart, Eric Cooper, Eric Chitty, and Rob Johnston for the jambalaya.

●      Cammie’s Old Dutch for the delicious ice cream. It went fast!

●      Representatives of the Mobile Fire Department who brought the truck (and inspired several future firefighters).

●      Danny White, Caitlyn Lambeth, and Joseph Griggs who set the stage in so many ways, from tent assembly to bounce house coordination to equipment provision to trophy design.

●      Beth Sumlin, the talented face painter.

●      Patrick Garstecki for painting our two fields (which are still there, youth group!)

●      Our Ascension band for their excellent leadership in our worship service.   

●      Everyone who planned, hoped or prayed for what was a truly fantastic event…and then invited their neighbors!

Congratulations to “Team Copes” for being awarded champion of this inaugural contest!

Flag Football Fall Kick-Off

I’m not suggesting that their victory had anything to do with the fact that Aubrey Copes joined the church last Sunday, or that he invited 20 of his friends to join us for worship, but it sure was a great sight to see! 

Best of all, there are more signs of God’s grace and growth in the weeks ahead. Baptisms, new members, the return of the Women’s Bible study (Sept. 8) and Wednesday night supper (Sept 10) are all on the horizon. As we continue to reach out, good things are happening here at APUMC. 

Does any of this surprise us? Or are we “fully convinced” that God is working among us…just as he promised! 

I hope to see you this Sunday.  

Last week we heard the call of Jeremiah and of his resistance. This Sunday, we may be shocked to discover what the Lord has to say through this meek messenger, one who considered himself to be “just a boy.” Who knows what other musical references may come to mind between now and Sunday, but I can say that we will be digging into this story with a little help from Jerry Seinfeld. 

Come and see!

Darren