About us:
"Edgerton is a welcoming church in the heart of Selma where people come together to worship, support one another, serve the community, and grow in faith. Rooted in generations of love and tradition, Edgerton is a place where longtime members, new visitors, families, and neighbors can find friendship, encouragement, and a sense of belonging." Edgerton Memorial United Methodist Church has stood as a beacon of faith and unity in the Selma community for nearly 150 years. Rooted in the rich traditions of United Methodist worship and the beauty of time-honored hymns, Edgerton offers a reverent and welcoming space where people from all walks of life can encounter God’s presence. Guided by a commitment to inclusivity and compassion, the church seeks to unite God’s people under one roof, celebrating differences while fostering a deep sense of belonging and togetherness. At Edgerton, the doors are open wide to anyone seeking to grow in faith, find solace, and connect with a supportive community that values spiritual growth and fellowship above all. Beyond worship, Edgerton places a strong emphasis on education and community engagement, with enriching Sunday School programs that precede its inclusive worship service. These programs are designed to nurture faith, encourage questioning, and inspire a lifelong pursuit of knowledge and service. By joining Edgerton, individuals and families alike become part of a vibrant community committed to making a positive impact in the lives of its members and the wider world. It's more than a church; it's a place where faith and action come together to transform lives and build a brighter future for all.
Our Beliefs:
What We Believe God in All Creation: We believe that God’s presence is revealed in every part of creation—humans, animals, ecosystems, and all living things. We are called to care for the earth, practice sustainable stewardship, and celebrate God’s sustaining power. Stewardship and Generosity: As members of the United Methodist Church in Selma, NC, we recognize that everything we possess belongs to God. We commit to using our resources for God’s purposes and serving the community with generosity and care. Faith in Community and Social Holiness: We believe that faith is lived out through relationships—within families, neighborhoods, workplaces, and society at large. Inspired by John Wesley’s teaching that "there is no holiness but social holiness," we engage in acts of service, stand with the vulnerable, and build communities rooted in justice and compassion. Dignity and Human Rights for All: As followers of Christ, we affirm that all people are created in the image of God and deserve dignity, justice, and freedom. In partnership with Selma-area organizations, we seek to promote human rights and advocate for the well-being of all. Faith in Action: We believe that faith is not passive but active, always seeking ways to do good. Our church family engages in ministries like community outreach events, youth activities, and volunteer programs in Johnston County. Guided by Jesus's teachings, we work toward peace, justice, and reconciliation in all areas of life. The Triune God: We worship one God—Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer—revealed as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Through Jesus Christ, we are redeemed and empowered by the Holy Spirit to serve faithfully and recognize God’s gifts in the world around us. Commitment to Justice and Peace: We believe in working toward just, equitable, and sustainable economies that uplift the vulnerable and support the common good. As part of our mission, we care for God’s creation and seek to heal divisions in our community and beyond. Our Commitment to Making Disciples and Transforming the World At Edgerton Memorial UMC in Selma, NC, we align with the United Methodist Church’s mission to “make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.” Our faith leads us to live out this calling, not only in our church family but also throughout Selma, Smithfield, and Johnston County. We are committed to nurturing faith, fostering community, and spreading the love of Christ through service, justice, and outreach. Our Local Mission and Connection to the United Methodist Church These values reflect Edgerton Memorial UMC’s connection to the broader mission of the United Methodist Church while also focusing on our local commitment to honoring God, caring for creation, and sharing Christ’s love through: Worship: Creating sacred spaces where people encounter God through prayer, music, and Scripture. Community Engagement: Partnering with organizations across Johnston County to meet local needs, such as hosting volunteer events and supporting those in need. Compassionate Action: Living out our faith by advocating for justice, supporting the vulnerable, and fostering relationships that reflect God’s love and peace.
About Our Pastor:
Hello, my name is Pastor Kristina Yeatts. I was born in Frederick, Maryland and raised in Cary, NC. Growing up, I attended East Cary Middle School and Cary Senior High School. In 1992, I graduated from Campbell University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion and Christian Ministries. In 1996, I graduated from Duke Divinity School, with a Master of Divinity degree. In June of 2015, I was ordained a Deacon in Full Connection from the North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church. After becoming a Deacon, I served several churches in our Conference as an Associate Pastor in Children, Youth, and Education Ministry. In 2019, I received an inner call by God and an outer call from parishioners and colleagues in ministry to do something different, to transition to Pastoral Ministry. As a result, in 2020, I got appointed to serve two churches, Elizabeth UMC and Asbury UMC, both in Smithfield, NC (3/4) time, as Pastor. In 2023, I met once again with the Board of Ordained Ministry seeking to transfer from a Deacon to an Elder. To do that, I had to write another paper, interview with the Board, and they conducted a site visit with the SPRC at Asbury UMC. In June of 2024, I officially became an Elder in the NC Conference of the United Methodist Church. I completed my service to Elizabeth UMC, continued to serve Asbury UMC, and got appointed in September, to serve Lebanon UMC in Stantonsburg, NC. I am married to Jim Yeatts, an analytical chemist, who works at NC State University. We live in Pleasant Woods Subdivision in the Cleveland community, near Clayton, NC. We have two sons, Tyler, who is 24 years old and Timothy, who is 20 years old. Tyler graduated from Campbell University this past year with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communication Studies. Timothy will graduate from Johnston Community College with an Associate in Arts degree this December. Timothy then will enter Campbell University this Fall. In my spare time, I like to walk around my neighborhood, go to the beach, and watch Duke Basketball. My favorite snacks include Snyder’s Peanut Butter filled Pretzels, Planter’s whole cashews salted, and M&M’s plain. I am excited that the Bishop and Cabinet have appointed me to serve at Edgerton Memorial UMC in Selma, NC, alongside of you all in ministry. I look forward to getting to know each one of you better. Until then, I covet your prayers for me and my family as I transition into this new role of ministry. May God bless us as we strive together to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world!