Creation

Wesley UMC runs the largest private recycling center in Yakima County.  We recycle cardboard, paperboard, paper, aluminum cans and tin cans. Paper labels must be removed from aluminum pet food cans. All craft beverage cans with paper or plastic labels MUST have the labels removed or they must be placed in the steel recycling bin.  Please NO: plastic, glass, Styrofoam, batteries, bulbs, E-waste, or organic matter. 

Volunteers put in over 50 hours a week helping maintain the recycling program.  Each year we recycle over 800 thousand pounds.  The recycling center is open Monday 10 am-Saturday noon.  If the cardboard bins are full we may close earlier on Saturday.  During the winter months we may close the recycling center due to inclement weather. 

In 2010 we began our Solar Journey by hosting a well-attended Solar Forum open to the public. In 2013 we installed our initial 8-panel system. In early 2015 we expanded to 22 panels. In November 2015, we received a Pacific Power Blue Sky Grant. On Earth Day, April 22, 2016, we held a “Solarbration” to dedicate our now 56-panel system. By 2024 the solar panels have paid for themselves through savings.

In 2021, two couples built a temporary labyrinth during Lent.  They built it again in 2022 and 2023.  In 2024 plans began for the permanent Wesley Memorial Labyrinth which was dedicated in the fall of 2025.  The labyrinth is available for the community to use as well as for weddings, memorial services and other events.

The labyrinth is a testament to our commitment to serving creation as it was built using best practices to promote and celebrate creation.

In the video above you can learn about the creation of the labyrinth with Marcia McFee from Worship Design Studio.

Over the last 20 years we have worked to make our building as energy efficient as possible.  We have replaced windows, added insulation to walls, and replaced all lights with LED lights.  We have strived to eliminate the use Styrofoam and plastic utensils as best possible, as well as working with a local company to compost food waste.