Every week Faye Sweet, age 98 prepares the bulletin for Iroquois UMC. At a time in life when many people would retire from volunteer work, Sweet works with joy from her home office preparing the content and printing the 80 bulletins needed each week in Iroquois, South Dakota.  “You have to be dedicated, you can’t really retire from the Lord,” said Sweet.

On a Saturday morning in September, Sweet travelled to Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to the Dakota Marketplace.  There she was bidding on items at the live auction with another member of the Iroquois congregation.  The purchases will be placed at the church to give away to those who are in need of the quilts, blankets and other items.  Sweet has attended this event for several years.  Reaching out to others in need is part of who she is. Photo: Faye Sweet applauding a successful sale, and keeping a watchful eye on the upcoming quilts at the Dakotas Marketplace live quilt auction on Sat., Sept. 19, 2015 in Sioux Falls, SD.

Pastor Kris Larson who serves the Iroquois larger parish, describes Sweet as inspiring and as a good friend.  “Faye sees her work as important.  She often says ‘there is no free lunch',” said Larson. “Faye is one of the pillars of the church and my best friend.”

Faye Sweet had a long career as a teacher in the secondary grades and also as the business manager for the local school district.  When she retired from her 40-plus years of working in schools, she set up an office in her home to serve the church.

“We got her a computer. She learned the programs,” said Larson.  “I give her the  basic content for the bulletins and newsletters and she does the work.”

Sweet has been involved in many aspects of her local church.  She has been the secretary and treasurer.  She has been active in the United Methodist Women’s group and teaching Sunday School, where she still helps with the adult class.

“My faith grows when I keep involved with the church,” said Sweet. “It is all about dedication to God.”

Iroquois UMC is alive and doing well according to Sweet.  “The church ministers to all ages,” she said.  One of her favorite ministries of the church is the “SONshine Gang.   The SONshine Gang meets once a month at the church.  Elementary youth from the community are invited to come to the church for a lesson, crafts and music.  Each month 25-30 youth wander over to the church to be part of the SONshine Gang.  “Everyone is welcome,” said Sweet.

A highly respected member of the Iroquois community for over 60 years, Sweet is not ready to slow down.  “I would say our church is friendly,” she said. “I want to stay dedicated to our church. I would truly miss it if I quit.”

Pastor Larson is grateful to Sweet for her dedication and service. “There is no one more Methodist than Faye,” said Larson.  “She is highly respected by me, the members of our church and the entire community.”