Caney Fork River District
B.K.W.U.M.C
Algood, Sparta
and Cookeville
About Burton’s, Kynett, and Wright’s
We are a triune community of churches in the Caney Fork River District of the Tennessee Western Kentucky Conference of the United Methodist Church — Burton’s Chapel United Methodist Church, Kynett United Methodist Church, and Wright’s Chapel United Methodist Church.
Burton’s Chapel was established in the early 1900s by the Burton and Burgess families, and holds a significant historical legacy. James Burton, a former slave who fought in the Civil War, returned home as a free man after the abolition of slavery. He became one of the first freedmen in Putnam County, Tennessee to purchase land and engage in entrepreneurship. With his wife Margaret Burton, they generously donated the land where Burton’s Chapel United Methodist Church still stands until this day. Kynett United Methodist Church traces its origins back to 1880 when it was initially organized in a log cabin. Three years later, the congregation moved to its first building, led by Reverend Holder. In 1960, under the guidance of Reverend J.B. Royal, the present-day building was constructed. Wright’s Chapel United Methodist Church has a long history in the community with its foundation beginning in the late 1890s. In 1913, the building was reconstructed under the leadership of the late Reverend T.H. Hanna, and in 1959, the present structure was erected with the guidance of the late Reverend Jessie P. Miller.
All together we are vibrant and community-centered church located in Algood, Tennessee (Burton’s Chapel); Sparta, Tennessee (Kynett); and Cookeville, Tennessee (Wright’s Chapel). With a rich history of almost 130 years, the three churches have become a cherished community pillars for those seeking Christ, seeking meaning, spiritual growth, community, and service opportunities. Committed to spreading love, compassion, and the teachings of Christ Jesus, Burton’s Chapel, Kynett, and Wright’s Chapel welcome all who seek to deepen their connection with the divine. We look forward towards seeing you soon.
Pastor Diantha McLeod
A Shepherd For over 25 years
Reverend Diantha McLeod is an Ordained Elder in The United Methodist Church. She has resided in Cookeville, Caney Fork River District, in the Tennessee Western Kentucky Annual Conference since June 2017.
Serving as the proud pastor of Burton’s and Wright Chapel and Kynett United Methodist Churches, her passion is spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ and making Him known to all.
Diantha attended Vanderbilt Divinity School, and graduated with a Masters of Divinity in 2003.
In 1994, Pastor McLeod earned her Bachelor of Arts in Theology from the American Baptist Theological Seminary College, minoring in Social Science.
She is a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, Cookeville-Putnam County 56AA-B. She is an Executive Committee member for Putnam County.
She is the Founder and Executive Director of Healing Broken Vessels, Inc., a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) organization that provides educational services for women that uplift, equip, and empower women in Wilson County. It has been in operation since 2008.
Reverend McLeod is married to Robert McLeod. She has two adult sons, Brad and Derrick Ewing, three grandchildren, and a great granddaughter.
VIDEO GALLERY
Wright’s Chapel 9:00 AM (October 29, 2023)
5th Sunday Worship at Wright’s Chapel
- Men’s Day (Reverend Jerry Myers – Preacher)
- Music (The Algood, Cookeville, Sparta Charge Church Men’s Chorus)
- Celebrating Pastor’s Appreciation Day for The Reverend Diantha McLeod
- Celebrating September-December Birthdays: Fellowship and brunch, following the morning worship service.
2023 Women’s Conference
We had a really, REALLY had a great time at this year’s first annual Women’s Conference. Every one present experienced an incredibly good time at the inaugural Women’s Conference at Sparta First United Methodist Church in Sparta, Tennessee. The turnout was remarkable, and participation exceeded our expectations, igniting high spirits among attendees. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and inspiration throughout the event. Our participants were not only happy, but they left the conference feeling invigorated.
The conference offered a wealth of valuable information, fostering an environment where attendees could learn, connect, and have fun. It was an enriching experience that allowed women to establish new connections and strengthen existing ones.
Stay tuned for updates, as we’ll be sharing the video of the conference soon. We’re already looking forward to our next Christian Women’s Conference in 2024, building upon the success of this year’s event.
Recent News & Events
Introducing The New Website, BKWUMC.org
In an era where technology more and more intertwines with spirituality and worship, Burton’s Chapel, Kynett, and Wright’s Chapel United Methodist, three beloved local churches, proudly announce the launch of its new website https://www.bkwumc.org. The website’s name is derived from the first letter of all three churches — Burton’s, Kynett, and Wright’s, ending with a UMC suffix for United Methodist Churches. This digital gateway aims to bridge the gap between physical and virtual spaces, inviting both congregants and curious souls to embark on a transformative spiritual journey, on site at church or online.
Career Day at BKWUMC
We will be hosting a career fair in July 2023 for residents of all ages. This event is a great opportunity to learn about different career options, meet with potential employers, and find out about paid training programs.
At the career fair, you will have the chance to meet with representatives from a variety of businesses and organizations. You can learn about their job openings, ask questions about the company culture, and find out about the qualifications they are looking for.
The career fair will also be a great place to learn about paid training programs. There are many programs available that can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in your career. These programs can be paid for by the employer, the government, or even yourself.
SOCIAL MEDIA FEEDS
Cookeville Parish UMC
We, the churches of the Cookeville Parish, are committed to extending God's love and grace to you and all persons through Jesus Christ our Lord.
www.resourceumc.org
Watch live video coverage of the General Conference of The United Methodist Church.
twkumc.org
The new online home for the legacy Memphis and Tennessee Conferences
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