First United Methodist Church of Fort Worth recently received the Above and Beyond Award from Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County, commemorating 50 years of faithful partnership and dedicated service. This milestone recognizes a half-century of commitment to feeding and caring for homebound individuals in our community.

The recognition is the result of an initiative launched in 1975 by the United Methodist Women (UMW), whose visionary leadership and dedication to outward-focused ministry built a strong and enduring bond between our church and Meals on Wheels. Since then, countless volunteers from First Church have served with compassion and consistency, delivering more than just meals—they’ve offered hope, connection, and care.

Representing First Church at the award ceremony were Dr. Mike Marshall, Joe and Suzi Schlecte, Joy Brandon, Ralph Green, and Lynn Sullivan. In a symbolic gesture, Dr. Marshall held a commemorative brick that will be permanently displayed at the Meals on Wheels facility, honoring the church’s legacy of service.

First Church was joined by other United Methodist congregations in Tarrant County—Trinity UMC in Arlington and University UMC in Fort Worth—who were also recognized for their long-standing partnerships with Meals on Wheels.

We celebrate this incredible milestone with gratitude and renewed commitment to serve our neighbors in Christ’s name. Here’s to the next 50 years of compassion in action!