“I have filled him with divine spirit, with ability, intelligence, and knowledge in every kind of craft, to devise artistic designs…” – from Exodus 31:3–4


First United Methodist Church Alexandria is opening the new year with two public invitations to engage art, faith, and reflection through hands-on creative practice.


On Saturday, January 24, 2026, at 10AM, the Urban Sketching Art Ministry with Rev. Jean Sanders meets at Tamp & Grind Coffee in downtown Alexandria. The event is open to the public and free to attend, welcoming participants of all experience levels. This gathering marks the restart of the Urban Sketching cycle, returning to its original meeting place. Participants will meet for coffee and fellowship before heading out into the surrounding area to sketch together. No prior sketching experience is required; the emphasis is on presence, community, and creative engagement rather than artistic ability. 


Next month, FUMCA will host a Winter Art & Prayer Retreat titled “Visions, Dreams, & Schemes, Oh My!” on February 6–7, 2026.

Led by Rev. Jean Sanders and Beth Ferguson Moore, the retreat begins Friday evening from 5:30–7:30PM with “Visions,” a guided vision-board-making session facilitated by Moore. The practice is intended to help participants remain attentive to direction and intention after the early momentum of New Year resolutions fades.



Saturday’s session, “Dreams & Schemes,” runs from 9AM to 3PM and explores questions of identity, spiritual discernment, and the meaning of planning in a faith context. Through multi-media art-making interwoven with scripture, prayer, and meditation, participants are invited into a reflective, creative process. The retreat is designed as dedicated time for personal renewal and exploration.

Participation is $30. Call the FUMCA church office at 318-445-5696 to register. 



Together, these offerings reflect First United Methodist Church Alexandria’s ongoing commitment to creative ministry, providing accessible spaces where art and spirituality can be explored thoughtfully and honestly.

Visit www.fumca.org for more information on First United Methodist Church of Alexandria.