Rev. Tammy Scott marked her first anniversary as pastor at Wesley United Methodist Church in Aurora July 7 and again Sunday, July 14.
July 7, a congratulations graphic was projected on an overhead screen during announcements. Then she was honored by Michelle Curiel, children and family director, who thanked Pastor Scott for her service and invited congregants to sign a greeting card.
Sunday, July 14, Jim Merk, Wesley governing Board member, read a Board statement citing Pastor Scott’s achievements. He said in part, “This year she has added several new sermon series that have been thoughtful, Biblically-based and certainly thought-provoking. (The series) challenged the congregational involvement in our spiritual growth and our interaction in the world.
“She has also started new book studies, attended city hall meetings and (established) a new fundraising committee. In addition, she and (daughters) Hannah and Haylee are always willing and able to help with all our events and Wesley happenings. If that isn’t enough, she personally fills the communion cups on Sunday mornings.
“We are very fortunate to have Tammy, she is a blessing to have her here at Wesley. I hope our relationship continues to grow for many more years to come,” Merk said.
The celebration ended with a reception.
Writing in her “Pastor’s Column” in the July Wesleyan, the church’s monthly print newsletter, she said, “It’s hard to believe we have been doing ministry together for a whole year.
“As I look back over the past year, I am grateful for the ways Wesley UMC has welcomed me, (daughters) Hannah and Haylee into this family! I am amazed at the ways that Wesley has been and continues to be a vibrant part of the community.
“I am proud of the ways that Wesley has and continues to provide for people in need: Emergency shelter on some of the coldest nights and making sandwiches for the community fridge. I am inspired by the conversations and learning that happens in our small groups: United Women in Faith, Children’s Sunday school and book studies. What a year it has been!
“As I look ahead to the coming year, I hope that Wesley finds new ways to be a partner with organizations which share our space: ECHO Development, Shine Within, AID Stars, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and so many others.
“I hope that members and friends of Wesley deepen their relationships with God and one another. I hope that each person who calls Wesley home thinks about a friend or neighbor to invite to worship, fundraisers, and book studies. What we have is something special and it needs to be shared!”
Reverend Scott began her Wesley ministry July 2, 2023, after serving as lead pastor at Sugar Grove UMC. She resides in Oswego with her daughters, Hannah and Haylee.
A native of Lockport, Pastor Scott has served Methodist churches in Sugar Grove, Joliet, Wilmette, Bolingbrook, Minooka, and Naperville. She is chairperson of the UMC Northern Illinois Conference Council on Finance and Administration.
Her ministry areas have included children, youth, families, administration, Bible studies and confirmation. Rev. Scott holds a bachelor’s degree from University of Illinois-Chicago and a master of divinity degree from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary in Evanston. She was ordained a Methodist elder in 2021.
Wesley holds Sunday services online at 9:30 a.m. and in person at the Church at 14 N. May Street in Aurora. The public is invited. Admission and parking are free.
—Al Benson