We asked some members of the Gary family to share with others what drew them to our church and what keeps them there, worshiping and working to keep it vital. Most are members, some are not, although they call Gary Memorial their church "home".
- Maryland Comptroller and former Governor William Donald Schaefer is a frequent worshiper at Gary Memorial. These are his personal observations:
"What a place it is! I look forward to that hour on Sunday mornings when I can be with you. Your congregation is so welcoming. I have felt at home since my first visit...But its not just that I am made to feel at home; its the way people greet one another and are genuinely glad to be together. I enjoy your choir. They sing from the heart. There is nothing phony or pretentious about Gary Memorial. The congregation is as solid and as enduring as the stone the church is made from. My job involves making a lot of speeches. I listen to my fair share as well. Luther Starnes's sermons are some of my favorites. They are always interesting, down to earth. Often I feel as though he's talking directly to me. And, with his sense of humor and his practical wisdom, he gets through. I value his advice." - "We were raised in another faith... but we have found Gary friendly and welcoming. We enjoy everyone there and listening to the minister."
Sandy and Larry, Daniels Road - "Gary Memorial is very friendly...very welcoming. Our church closed, and we came back to Daniels and Gary where we grew up. We have now joined the church together."
Rachel and Bradley, Route 99 - "I just love the church. I grew up in Daniels, and it's like going home each time I go to the hill."
Ella, Bethany Lane - "...the minister, the fellowship, the worship, and people are wonderful. Joyce (the minister’s wife) is OK too!"
Monica and George, West Stayman Drive - "Gary is like family. I am regenerated each Sunday morning and find the hope to live the next week. When I miss one week, things just do not seem to go right. I look forward to getting up on Sunday and going to church."
Margaret, High Ridge Road - "We found Gary Memorial by accident. The members are friendly and welcomed us with open arms. We enjoyed our Sunday visits so much that we recently became members. It's great to be more than anonymous faces!"
David and Jackie, Ellicott City - "Before moving nearby, we had heard of the church and the minister from one member of the congregation. What we found was "love at first sight." As soon as we saw the historic church standing proudly atop the hill, we wanted to attend. Once we attended, we couldn't imagine not going back again and again. They say it takes a village to raise a child; we found that village for our children within Gary Memorial."
Lisa and Ken, Ellicott City