Margaret Alice Jones Inspires the “Do Unto Others” Kindness Campaign at Milford First
“Do Unto Others as you would have them do unto you.”
- Matthew 7:12
Many fondly remember the kindness, love, and joy that Margaret Alice Jones brought to Milford First UMC during her long and active membership until her passing in 2021. She dedicated many years to her role as Executive Secretary at Graybar Electric, where she began working in 1943 at just 18 years old. Her dear friend, Sally Gilchrist, reflects on Margaret's character:
“Margaret did live by the Golden Rule. She was very kind and humble...She will be remembered by me as a gentle and caring person who showed love by her manner. The United Methodist Church was an important part of her life [where she learned to] embody the Golden Rule.” Another long-time friend of Margaret writes: “She was always smiling; always happy; always pleasant.”
Recognizing the profound impact Milford First UMC had on her faith journey, Margaret left a generous bequest in upwards of $50,000 to the church to help develop new ministries. In her honor, we are excited to launch the “Do Unto Others” Kindness Campaign, kicking off during worship on World Communion Sunday, October 6, 2024.
As we know, our culture has become increasingly divisive and less considerate. The constant barrage of oppositional rhetoric, especially during election seasons, often overshadows kindness. We frequently see exaggerated claims made from behind screens, leading to a culture that prioritizes being “right” over showing respect and civility to one another.
This campaign aims to counter that trend. We’ll offer T-shirts, yard signs, and stickers to promote kindness throughout our community and beyond. Each item will proudly display our church logo, helping to raise awareness of our values and inviting others to join this movement inspired by Margaret’s generosity.
Gilchrist adds, “I’m so glad she’s being recognized for her wonderful qualities,” highlighting the privilege of celebrating someone who embodied the kindness of Jesus so completely. We invite you to join us for worship each weekend in October to explore how your acts of kindness can help bring God’s Kingdom to earth, one moment, one conversation, and one life at a time.
All the best,
Rev. Kenneth Stewart
Resources for Individual & Community Growth
“Do Unto Others” Worship Themes
Week 1: The Power of Kindness
Week 2: Finding Common Ground
Week 3: Malice Toward None, Charity for All
Week 4: Jesus and Politics
Week 5: All Saints Day
Downloadable Resources