Photo: Rick Penny presents a John Wesley Society Award to Vernie Cox, the longest serving member of Caseyville (Ill.) UMC.
 
CASEYVILLE, Ill. –– The Orville N. Mueth Chapter of United Methodist Men in Caseyville, Ill., presented their 13th John Wesley Society Award on December 12, 2010, to Vernie Cox, the longest-serving member of the 300-member congregation.

The UM Men’s group of Caseyville UMC was founded over 50 years ago by Orville Mueth who passed away in 2010. The Mueth Chapter has 50 EMS members enrolled for 2011.
 
The surprise award was presented by chapter president Rick Penny during the morning worship. Ms. Cox thought the family was there to share in the special music by her great nieces.

“She has been an inspiration to many younger people through the years by her willingness to serve the church, the community and God in a quiet selfless manner,” said Penny. “Thank God for people like Vernie Cox.”