Great Decisions is America's largest discussion program on world affairs. The program model involves reading the Great Decisions Briefing Book and meeting in a Discussion Group to discuss the most critical global issues facing America today. 

This mid-January begins again with a hybrid Great decisions group that meets at the FUMC library and on Zoom for seven more consecutive Sunday evenings at 7pm. We enthusiastically welcome new or returning participants to join our lively and informative discussions. 

Please contact Alison Burke at aeb@shunbu.com for further information. 

The briefing books are available at FPA.org. Each year, eight topics are chosen by experts. You can go to website for detailed information on each topic: https://www.fpa.org/news/index.cfm?act=show_announcement&announcement_id=472

This year the topics are:

•  American Foreign Policy at a Crossroads - Author: G. John Ikenberry

• U.S. Changing Leadership of the World Economy - Author: Daniel Drezner

•  U.S.-China Relations - Author: Thomas J. Christensen

•  India: Between China, the West, and the Global South - Author: Leslie Vinjamuri

• International Cooperation on Climate Change - Author: Josh Busby

• The Future of NATO and European Security - Author: Kori Schake

• AI and American National Security - Author: Julie George

• American Foreign Policy in the Middle East: Taking Stock and Looking Ahead - Author: Daniel Kurtzer

In Event of Inclement Weather Leading to Closing

At First United Methodist Church, we are committed to the well-being of our beloved community, and we want to assure you that we are diligently monitoring any potential inclement weather situations that may affect our gatherings. Your safety is our top priority, and we will keep you informed about any necessary closings or adjustments to our worship services. A constant contact message will be sent out by late Saturday evening/early Sunday morning should we decide to cancel our In-Person Worship. 

Below is the Zoom Link we will use if our in-person worship is cancelled:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86560992340?pwd=NjFxK0NIRWZPZW5rTXlnOGR5a05Kdz09

Should we go ahead with our in-person worship service, and you decide it best that you don't travel, you can worship with us Live via our YouTube link:

https://www.youtube.com/@645fumcmelrose/streams

Whether we meet in person or connect virtually, we are dedicated to providing a space of support and connection for everyone.

Melrose Community Freezer  

November 2024 update

Huge thanks for keeping the Melrose Community Freezer stocked with healthy homemade meals! In 2023 we provided over 2500 meals through this program, and we’re able to do this because of YOU. We’re providing an average of 60 to 90 meals each week.

Meal donors should deliver DIRECTLY to the Community Freezer at Melrose First United Methodist Church, 345 Main Street Melrose.    Donations are no longer being taken at Sargent Street.

Meal Drop off Days and Times as of November 1, 2024

Monday & Wednesday 12:30pm - 3pm

Tuesday & Thursday 9am - 1:30pm

Friday 12:30pm - 2pm

Note:  call Margo in the church office at (781) 662-7060 in advance on weekdays to confirm the hours.  

Process:

Park in the circular driveway in front of the church.

Ring the buzzer at the front door, and Margo will answer.

Place your meals in the “Incoming” freezer at the end of the first hallway on the right.

Text us at (781) 214-1030 with your name and the meal name(s).

Know that you’re making a tremendous difference!

Sign Up Genius Link: 

The SignUpGenius link is the following, and we would still love for you to sign up so we can anticipate the number of meals each week. Here’s the link:   https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D44A8AA22ABF8C70-community#/

Details for Meal Preparers:

COOK a meal to donate, double your dinner recipe for donation, or save extra dinner portions. 

PACKAGE individual meals in single-serve microwave-safe containers. Takeout containers are ideal, so reuse clean ones you’ve collected, or use the containers we’ve provided at Melrose FUMC next to the freezer. Family-size meals can be packaged in aluminum containers for the oven, but please note that otherwise we are not able to accept styrofoam, aluminum, or Ziplocs.

LABEL each container with your name, the donation date, the meal name(s), any dietary specifics: GF (gluten f ree), VE (Vegetarian) VG (Vegan), LS (low salt)

Important Requirements

Meals must be complete, including protein, veggie and starch
Meals should freeze well and reheat well
Meals must be individually labeled to enable guest choice
Make what you love to eat!

Most Requested Meals
Roasted/grilled meat & fish of all types with accompanying potatoes/rice & veggies 

Soups & stews of all kinds 

Macaroni & cheese, plus protein (chicken, pulled pork, etc.) & veggies 

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for making this mission a success in our community!