Participants in the STOMP exercise ministry at Johns Island Parish in South Carolina. (Photo Courtesy of South Carolina Advocate)
South Carolina Advocate | Nov. 28, 2025
In October 2024, the Johns Island Parish—Bethlehem-St. James and New Webster United Methodist churches—started a new exercise ministry.
Called STOMP (Stepping Toward Our Master’s Purpose), the Health and Welfare initiative was created with an emphasis on community outreach and wellness. Today, the ministry is still going strong.
STOMP received a grant from the Belin Trust, which has been instrumental in supporting the program’s mission to promote health, fellowship and physical activity. Initiated under the leadership of the Rev. Pattie E. Gordon and supported by the Belin Trust Grant Board, the Johns Island Parish created an on-campus gym that offers twice-weekly fitness classes led by Sam Brown Jr.
This facility aims to provide a safe environment for physical fitness and community interaction, serving both members and the broader community. Additionally, through the Belin Trust Grant, a community line dance class led by Ann Bellamy was established, broadening the range of fitness opportunities available.
The line dance segment of the program typically includes about 20 regular participants, while approximately 15 individuals use the gym facilities.
These programs have seen steady participation and have encouraged intergenerational involvement, supporting general well-being and healthy lifestyles.
The STOMP Exercise Ministry continues to focus on integrating spiritual and physical health and, with ongoing support from the congregation and partners, plans to expand its activities in the future.
“To God be the glory for the great things he has done through STOMP,” said RoShonda Brown, STOMP coordinator.
This article is republished with permission from the South Carolina Advocate website.