Hayesville First United Methodist Church

Mission Statement

Hayesville First United Methodist Church is a spiritually empowered community equipping people, sharing gifts and caring with Jesus for the Church and the world. We, the fellowship of Hayesville First United Methodist Church, seek to build a vibrant, diverse, and welcoming faith community through worship, prayer, and study that nurtures us spiritually and strengthens us for Christian Service.

Mission work that is a force for social justice in our community and in the world. Active ministries that prepare the entire congregation, especially youth, to engage in every aspect of Church life. Responsible stewardship that sustains our historic building, provides abundant resources for ministries, and allocates those resources wisely. Responding to God's call, we will be a reflection of Christ at all times and in all places.

A CARING COMMUNITY

Hayesville First United Methodist Church has been a spiritual leader in Clay County for many generations. In a town often characterized by transience and change, Hayesville First has remained a steadfast beacon, long recognized for its commitment to the community, missional service, social justice, and reconciliation.

Our Pastor

KIRK HATHERLY
Pastor of Hayesville First United Methodist Church

Rev Kirk Hatherly has been the pastor of Hayesville First UMC since being appointed to serve the church and community in 2005. Previous appointments were in Asheville, NC and the Rockingham County Community of Oregon Hill.

Kirk, as he like to be addressed, believes that the church should not only be a community of faith where folks gather to worship, fellowship and learn together, but the church should also be active in the community. As such he serves on several boards and agencies in Clay County including: Communities in Schools, Juvenile Crime Prevention Committee (JCPC), Clay County Ministerial Association, and chair of the Advisory Committee for Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Charlotte: Far West office.

Kirk holds an undergraduate degree in Economics and Religion from Ripon College (Ripon Wisconsin) and a Masters Degree from Duke Divinity. His wife Darleen have three children, who attend Clay County Schools.