Beech Tree News Network

Garry McKinney received a surprise Monday night, September 16, at the Morgantown Mission Board of Directors meeting when the meeting room filled with Garry’s family members and several local women. These visitors were in on the surprise as Phyllis Tate presented a Special Mission Recognition award to Garry from the Butler County United Methodist Women in honor of his faithful work at the Morgantown Mission. 

Mrs. Tate explained why the UMW group chose Garry for this mission award.  “Morgantown Mission tries to fulfill the challenge in Matthew 25:40 that reads, ‘Then the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.’  Under Garry’s leadership as director, the Mission has continued to expand its ministries and its Christian influence and outreach.  New programs have begun and older programs have been strengthened to meet current needs.  The old Mission building has been renovated into a Children’s Ministry building with seven classrooms, a kitchen and large gathering area that serves multiple purposes.  The food pantry space in this building has also been enlarged.  A newly constructed building houses the mission store with more room for displays, clothing and household items.  Many volunteers have helped carry out the work of the Mission along with Garry and other staff members.  To enhance its ministries, the Mission partners with the Food Stamp Office, K-Tap, the Housing Authority, Community Action, the Butler County Court, the Ohio County Court for Juvenile Offenders, Andrea’s Mission, and the Butler County Schools’ Family Resource Centers.”  

Gene Vaughn, Chairman of the Board of Directors, said, “Garry McKinney, under the leadership of our awesome God, has lead the work of Morgantown Mission to new heights, and we pray for greater things to come as we work in God’s will for the outreach of Morgantown Mission.”   

Story and photos by Elaine Daugherty, Beech Tree News/WLBQ1570AM