Eastside UMC Embraces and Serves its East Atlanta Neighborhood
By Amelia Simmons
At the corner of Metropolitan and Moreland Avenue near East Atlanta Village, Eastside United Methodist Church catches the eye with its vibrant doors and the reassuring message, "You Are Loved," boldly adorning its entrance.
And the essence of Eastside transcends its exterior—it’s found in how it engages with and serves its community.
I visited Eastside and pastor Rev. Elaine Puckett showed me how this congregation is committed to listening and learning from the various voices within its neighborhood.
“This is a remarkable congregation,” said pastor Rev. Puckett.
Rather than imposing solutions, the church prioritizes building relationships and understanding the needs of its neighbors. This approach, guided by humility and empathy, has made Eastside a true sanctuary in East Atlanta.
The congregation offers a Free Pantry (open 24/7), a clothing closet, and sponsors a first Saturday lunch – all supported by the congregation and community. “We are in it together,” shared Rev. Puckett.
Every Thursday, a local non-profit offers yoga to the unhoused. An opportunity for a moment of physical and mental peace and wellbeing is followed by lunch that brings the unhoused and the ones who provide the lunch together around the table.
Rev. Puckett introduced me to Michael Nolan, he serves as an on-site social worker at Eastside UMC. Funded by Intown Cares, the City of Atlanta, East Atlanta Business Alliance, and East Atlanta Community Organization, Nolan’s role is part of a pilot program in the City of Atlanta.
Nolan recognizes the challenges faced by many in the community – from homelessness and addiction to mental illness – Michael acts as a bridge between those in crisis and those seeking solutions.
When confronted with the issue of used syringes littering the busy streets, Michael proposed installing sharps containers—a suggestion often overlooked elsewhere. The bright orange boxes were swiftly installed, resolving the problem within weeks and transforming that block into a safer space for families and children who make up a large segment of the community and congregation.
Michael also conducts de-escalation classes, equipping residents and church members with the tools and knowledge to navigate complex situations with compassion and understanding. By empowering the community to respond effectively to challenges, Eastside fosters a culture of mutual respect and support.
Looking beyond its outreach, Eastside's worship space blends tradition and creativity. The architecture and liturgy are rooted in tradition, yet the experience is relaxed. The church shares in holy communion every week.
Led by a dynamic ensemble featuring instruments like the mandolin, cello, and violin, the music resonates with the timeless melodies of hymns and the vibrant spirit of the growing congregation. The church fosters intergenerational worship by providing a space designed for children. Small tables and shelves at the back of sanctuary are stocked with books and art supples to keep little hands engaged during worship.
Eastside UMC leadership points to the transformative power of community-driven compassion and acceptance as the source of its growing membership and worship attendance. In other words, Eastside UMC has become a trusted neighbor in East Atlanta.
Amelia Simmons is a marketing and communications consultant—and active North Georgia United Methodist.