Grace United Methodist Church
Located next door to Southwestern College. Go Builders!
While College students are our neighbors, Grace is a community of diversity and inclusion.
We are an affirming congregation of The United Methodist Church
The United Methodist Church shares a great deal
with other denominations.
United Methodists believe that the mission of the Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
We believe all means ALL.
#BeUMC
The People of Grace United Methodist Church honor and cherish the core values that connect the people of The United Methodist Church (The UMC). The UMC was founded on a Wesleyan theology of grace, anchored in Scripture, and based in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and the continuing movement of the Holy Spirit.
Grace UMC is committed to remaining faithful to The UMC
while also faithfully witnessing in our context
and remaining fervent to our baptismal vows.
Our Staff
Our Pastor
Pastor Charles McKinzie was appointed to serve Grace on July 1st, 2021. Along with his spouse; Carrie, and their three children; Cambria, Catriona and Charlie, they love the Grace community and being active in all that Winfield has to offer. If you'd like to know more about Grace or are interested in visiting, Charles would love to meet for a cup of coffee across the street at College Hill!
Director of Family Ministries
Chloe Speer joined the Grace UMC staff in summer 2023. She has a passion for children's development: especially through faith-based curriculum and hands on learning. If you have littles and would like to know more, please reach out!
Office Administrator
Stephanie Nellsch began as our Office Administrator in August of 2022. If you need anything regarding church information, she's the friendly voice on the other end of the line!
Choir Director
MJ Harper took over the responsibilities of Directing the Grace Chancel Choir in the summer of 2022. MJ holds her BME from Pittsburg State University and MA of Music with emphasis on Elementary Music Education and Choral Music Education from Knt State University. No matter your level of experience MJ would LOVE to have you join our choir!
Organist/Pianist
James Leland, D.Mus, serves as the Organist and Pianist for Grace worship and its choir. Additionally he is Music Affiliate Faculty, Organ and Harpiscord at Southwestern College. Dr Leland earned his B.Mus., Oberlin College, his M.Mus., Northwestern University and his D.Mus., Northwestern University. Additionally he studied at the Mozartaum in Salzburg; Fulbright Fellowship at State Academy in Berlin; Visiting Fellow at Yale University; Cabell Fellowship in Edinburgh. Professionally he has served as Professor Emeritus at Hollins University, Virginia; Detroit Symphony, Atlanta Symphony, and Roanoke Symphony; Robert Shaw Chorale.
Over his fervent protests the choir members of grace simply refer to him as "the greatest musician in the world!"
Grace Ringers
Tony Gropper has served for over 10 years leading the Adult Bell Choir Director. Whether you've been ringing for your whole life or are interested in trying for the first time you are welcome to join this group as they share the ministry of music!
In addition to leading our Bells, Tis serves as the Director for Academic Technology at Southwestern College.
Custodian
If you've ever visited our historic building you'll probably note what excellent condition it is in. That is thanks, in great part, to our Custodian John Elam who has served the people of Grace faithfully for over a decade and a half.