l-r: Rev. Sharma Lewis (Pastor Wesley Chapel UMC - McDonough, GA), Norman Johnson (President Elect, - United Methodist Men of the North Georgia Conference), Jasper Russell (President, United Methodist Men of the North Georgia Conference), Rev. George Freeman (son of Rev. G. Ross Freeman for who the award was named), Tim McCray, (Pray Advocate, United Methodist Men of the North Georgia Conference), Tonja Johnson (President - United Methodist Men Fellowship at Wesley Chapel) 

article submitted by Rev. Dr. George Freeman.

Female Pastor Wins Freeman Award in North Georgia

The Rev. Sharma Lewis, Pastor of Wesley Chapel United Methodist Church in McDonough, GA, is the first woman to receive the G. Ross Freeman Leadership Award.  Since its inception nine years ago the recipients have all been male clergy.  The Southeastern Jurisdiction Conference Presidents of United Methodist Men (consisting of fifteen annual conferences) has joined with the G. Ross Freeman Foundation, Inc. in presenting this prestigious award for 2010 to Ms. Lewis. 

The precedent-setting award was given to the spiritual leader of one of the most dynamic churches in the North Georgia Conference on June 6. Following the 11:00 Service, Rev. Lewis was surprised by outgoing Conference President Jasper Russell, incoming Conference President Norman Johnson, and representative of the Freeman Foundation Board, Rev. Dr. George R. Freeman, Jr.

Senior Pastor at Wesley Chapel for three years, Rev. Lewis is a native of Statesboro, GA and second-career clergy woman.  She is a graduate of Mercer University, received a Master of Science degree in Biology from West Georgia College, and earned the Master of Divinity in Biblical Studies with honors from Gammon Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta. 

Sharma is being appointed Superintendent of the Atlanta-Decatur-Oxford District beginning July 1st by Bishop Mike Watson.  A recognized leader in her district, conference, and community, Rev. Lewis received the Harry Denman Evangelism award for the Griffin District in 2009 and North Georgia Conference in 2010.  Conference evangelism leaders presented the Denman to her at the 8:00 Service on the same Sunday she was surprised with the Freeman award at the close of the second worship!

Mr. Tonja Johnson, local president, said “The UMM of Wesley Chapel has carefully reviewed the 30 criteria as set forth by the Foundation and we believe that our Pastor is the perfect candidate for this year’s G. Ross Freeman Leadership Award.”  Johnson said, “Rev. Lewis boldly preaches and teaches with an unyielding desire for us as a church body to serve God and revere His Holy Name.  Her hands-on approach to day-to-day operations of our church and her sincere concern for our personal welfare and spiritual growth as men of the church is truly remarkable – she is always available to all of the UMM’s Fellowship.”

Among the many strengths of their pastor, Sharma is beloved by the men of Wesley Chapel because of her encouragement and support of their efforts in evangelism, missions and spiritual growth.  Some of her accomplishments were noted in this outstanding leader’s nomination:

• Over 525 new and restored members in 2.5 years!
• 76 Professions of Faith in 2009; 36 people baptized.
• 2009 Confirmation Class of 22 Confirmands – largest ever!
• Increased worship attendance from 450 to 715.
• Stewardship awareness and giving has increased dramatically during her tenure.
• Sanctuary balcony completed and laid foundation for the next building project, garnering near-unanimous congregational support – survey and vote secured.
• Challenged the men of Wesley Chapel is take a more active role in “Rock Eagle” men’s retreat – 30 men in 2008; 35 in 2009; and they will fill three cabins in 2010!
• Laity Sunday is held every 5th Sunday, with men giving strong leadership in worship.
• “One Man, One Boy” mentoring program.