Welcome

The Bethel-Emmanuel United Methodist Men (BEUMM) formed in the early 1960’s as a service group of three United Methodist churches; Bethel (Lively, VA), Emmanuel (Morattico, VA) and White Marsh (Lancaster, VA).

The churches are located in Lancaster County on the historic Northern Neck of Virginia. The Northern Neck lies between the mighty Potomac River, on the north side and the Rappahannock River, on the south. Isolated from the inland for over two centuries of our nation’s history, the Northern Neck thrived on the richness of the Chesapeake Bay and the fertile soils of its farmland. And today it remains a thriving area, dotted with small towns and communities, providing a vibrant lifestyle on the water. Boating, sailing and fishing are still very alive as activities of the area and farming and lumber are the most active industries. Watermen still ply the rivers and Bay making their living on the fish, crabs and oysters.

The BEUMM held its first meeting in the early 60’s to enjoy a crab picking where several potential members met. Soon the group evolved into about 6-8 men who rotated homes where they usually ate meals, enjoyed fellowship and planned their future activities. They applied for a charter and are part of the Rappahannock District of the United Methodist Men today.

The original purpose of the group was to help the youth and the needy in their community and the members personally funded most of the early efforts. However, in those formative days, something happened which changed the group forever. They were offered some household items, which they decided to auction to support their chosen projects. That auction evolved into a BI-monthly yard sale held now at their building located on route 201 south near Lively, Virginia and the proceeds from these sales go to support several charities, volunteer services and youth programs within the community.

Almost everything has been donated and sold over the years including cars, trucks and boats. Today’s staples include indoor and outdoor furniture, appliances, electronics, tools, sporting goods, exercise equipment and housewares. Linens, books, pictures and baked goods are sold by the United Methodist Women at the yard sales.

Other early fund raising included the sale of corn dogs (still the best in Northern Neck). Peanuts and wildlife calendars have also helped to fund local projects. A two-day Rockfish Derby is held on Thanksgiving weekend and other events are also held to raise money for local charities, youth and volunteer services supported by the group. BEUMM sponsors a Sweetheart Dinner in February, a church picnic in the summer and a Christmas Dinner in December which serve to recognize the women, the churches and the outstanding volunteers of the group.

Currently, the group is made up of over fifty men, mostly members of Emmanuel and Bethel United Methodist Churches. (White Marsh Church is no longer active). They meet once monthly for dinner, fellowship and a business meeting.