Melanie Smith

  • The Daily Examen: Practicing Gratitude, Noticing God

    September 14 – October 19 at 9:30 in the Parlor: In a noisy, fast-moving world, the ancient practice of the Daily Examen offers a way to pause, reflect, and become aware of God’s presence in everyday life. In this class, we’ll explore the origins of the Examen, learn its simple yet powerful steps, and discover…

  • True & Chosen Name: A Service of Naming

    Sunday, November 16, 2025 at 6 pm at Brecksville United Methodist Church (Note the new date!) Before God named him Abraham, he was called Abram. Before God called her Sarah, she was known as Sarai. Jesus recognized gifts in his follower Simon that Simon himself could not see, and Jesus renamed him Peter, to signify…

  • Spiritual Gifts

    You are gifted. You have a purpose. Discover your spiritual gifts today! About the Spiritual Gifts Inventory: God has made each of us wonderfully unique. We are called to be part of one body in Christ, each member serving with a purpose. Explore the spiritual gifts God has given you, and discover ways to serve…

  • Small Groups

    Seeing our friends at church on Sunday morning is great. But we may rush into worship with just a hug or a handshake before rushing out to attend to the plans of the day. Many of us are looking for a space for deeper connection. We’re looking for opportunities for learning, encouragement, support, and acceptance…

  • Fall Kick Off

    It’s a Back To Church Sunday, Fall Kick Off, September 7, 2025 Fall Kick Off Sunday is a joyful gathering for everyone. Join us as we celebrate the begining of a new program year. Come for one worship service at 10:30 and stay for the festivities, including a bounce house for the kids, yard games,…

  • Donation Drive for Victims of Human Trafficking

    September 2025 Human trafficking is the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act. It is a crime that affects millions of men, women, and children worldwide – including people right here in Ohio. It can happen in any community. Victims can be any age, race, gender,…

  • More Than a Name Tag

    You might think a church name tag is just a small Sunday detail, but it’s actually a quiet, powerful form of welcome and inclusion. Wearing your name tag says, “I see you. I’m open to connection. You belong here, too.” For a newcomer, a name can be the first doorway to feeling at home. It…

  • Church Beyond Walls

    August 2025 Leadership Board Report When school is out and families are taking summer vacations it may seem a bit quieter at church. But, there are still plenty of opportunities for community connection through Brecksville UMC. In June, Eric and I participated in Cleveland Pride. It was an absolutely wonderful day. Our group was small:…

  • Enjoy The Journey

    July 2025 Leadership Board Report Let’s face it, this is the time of year that we Clevelanders live for! We look forward all year to a respite from the chilly winds, gray skies and snow shovels propped in the corner. When we finally turn our calendars to these warm summer months, it is with great…

  • Love, Care, Comfort and Support

    Pastor Heidi and our terrific Church Staff Members have been through huge challenges this year. Their time, attention and hearts have been pulled in so many directions with the Holy Season of Lent, Palm Sunday, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Baptisms, Confirmation Class, Bible Studies, and the deaths of 14 people who call our church home…