Comfort during times of suffering, hardship or grief.
Meets on Wednesday Evenings at 6:30pm in the Chapel
Solace, a weekly ministry focuses on faith-based testimony, music and meditation, praying with the body, bringing the Psalms to life through movement and small group discussions known as Matthews Promise Groups to discuss relevant topics.
God gives us collective wisdom that we can embrace. Each of our experiences and voices adds a unique thread to the tapestry of understanding. Together, in community, when we approach each moment with curiosity and an open heart, we allow space for hope and growth. We acknowledge that the journey is as vital as its destination, and it is through shared experiences that deeper connections are forged. We will let kindness, respect and humility guide our interactions, fostering an environment where trust can flourish, authenticity can thrive, and Solace can accompany us
Jeff Bates
FUMCWG Music Director
JEFF BATES is currently the music director at First United Methodist Church in Winter Garden. He is married to Ruth and has two children and two grandchildren. After 38 years of teaching band, orchestra, and choir,
he retired from his teaching career. He holds a bachelor's degree from Baldwin Wallace University. In Ohio, Ruth and Jeff were very involved in the local Methodist Church as youth leaders, coordinated vacation bible school and the Wednesday night supper and study program. They moved to Florida to be close to their children.
They feel blessed to have found a church home here in Winter Garden. After experiencing several serious illnesses, Jeff became interested in helping people with chronic conditions. He believes his recovery gave him the spiritual gifts that inspired him to start Solace.
Beth Knight
BETH KNIGHT is an ordained Chaplain with Federation of Christian Ministries, has practiced pastoral counseling for a decade, is a spiritual director of 21 years, and has a PESI Grief Certification. Beth ministers to clients both in person and online via zoom. She is hosted for in person offerings by Saint Michael’s Episcopal Church (College Park, FL) and Saint Matthias Episcopal Church (Clermont, FL). An alumna of Asbury Theological Seminary, Beth is ecumenically affiliated with Spiritual Directors International (SDI); Grafted Life (CSDA); and Shade and Fresh Water Respite Ministry FLUMC.
She has served with a variety of faith based small groups and retreats for 25 years. Beth is married to Gordon, they spent 19 years in Alaska, have one child and three grandchildren who live nearby in Central FL.