A bear in church!

Thanks to the AI skills of the Albert Lea-Freeborn County Chamber of Commerce's Executive Director, Glenville UMC is now part of the local social media interest in Todd the Bear!

Todd, a real black bear, began hanging around Todd Park in Austin, Minnesota a few days ago and has been spotted in Freeborn County. And now, he has begun "appearing" via social media in settings across southern Minnesota!

Big news in Albert Lea!

Charles took a big step into the public eye yesterday by filing for one of the Albert Lea city council seats! An article in the Albert Lea Tribune (about half-way down the page) has a write-up and Charles' photo. 

There will be a primary for the three candidates on August 11 with the top two vote getters going into the general election in November.

Note: A surprise was ours when on Thursday, the incumbent withdrew from the race making the primary unnecessary. Charles will be on the November ballot!

19th Annual Thorne Crest Care Show

We were happy to see the annual car show hosted each year by Thorne Crest. One of the Glenville UMC members, Sid Troutner, was there with his beautiful Corvette!

Memorial Day art project

Charles was down in the basement studio this morning, putting gesso on the first batch of ninety-nine light switch and outlet covers. The covers will eventually be painted with rainbow colors and will be sold at the Albert Lea Art Center's booth at the Albert Lea Pride Festival in June.

A stormy night

For the third time, we spent some time in the basement due to the threat of tornados in the area. We are fortunate to have a place where we can wait out the weather with Wesley.

A busy day in Glenville

Our church is that way!

Welcoming the 2026 Patriot Tour riders

167 cycles came along Main Street in Glenville!!

Items of every sort.

A steady stream of customers.

In addition to the Art Center's Church Tour today, there was a lot happening in Glenville. The Nation of Patriots 2026 Patriot Tour began its 17th annual ride across the USA today in Glenville and we saw 160 motorcycles pass by on Main Street. Also taking place this morning was Glenville's annual bulk trash collection. This just happened to take place right across the street from the church and was quite the sight! 

Church Tour 2026

Come and see!

A beautiful morning in Glenville

A friendly smile!

Lots to share!

Belinda greets visitors

The Albert Lea Art Center (Charles is a board member) held its first Church Tour fundraiser today with six churches taking part. We were both present at the Glenville UMC to share with visitors some of what makes our church so wonderful!