HR254 Summary

• Recognizes the 100th anniversary of Lester Memorial Methodist Church in Oneonta, Blount County, to be observed in April 2024

• Chronicles the church's history from the organization of the First Methodist Episcopal Church in 1887 through construction of "The Little Brick Church" in 1913 and establishment of the current Sanctuary in 1923, named in honor of pastor Samuel Robert Lester

• Documents significant milestones including the 1938 unification of three Methodist congregations, major expansions in 1948 and 1966 (Fellowship Hall and Education Building completed at $100,000 cost), and property acquisitions in the 1970s and 1980s

• Highlights the church's community programs including a kindergarten and daycare begun in 1977, establishment of a contemporary worship service in 1986, and construction of the Upper Room and Children's building in 2001

• Notes the church's 2022 disaffiliation from The United Methodist Church and subsequent joining of the Global Methodist Church in 2023