About Us
Who We Are
Beach UMC’s mission is to grow and serve together and to share the love of Jesus with everyone, every day, everywhere. We are a Christ-centered, Bible-believing rural church family of 125 members, rooted in faith, fellowship, and service. Generations worship side by side here, sharing life’s joys and burdens. Our doors are open to all: neighbors, farmers, workers, and families seeking hope and belonging. We value simple worship, strong relationships, and practical ministry that meets real needs. Guided by Scripture and prayer, we strive to love God wholeheartedly and serve our community faithfully. We are not a large church, but we are a committed one—growing together in grace, extending kindness freely, and reflecting Christ’s light in our rural community.
We serve a Community Friendship Meal the first and third Wednesday of each month. We partner with businesses and families to serve a Christmas Day dinner and play bingo. We offer a grief support group the third Sunday of each month. We have an active ladies' group who meets the second Wednesday of each month. As well as a busy Sunday school for ages 3 years through 6th grade and a Confirmation class for older kids. Youth group is for junior and senior high students. God's Beach Bucket is a 24-hour roadside food pantry on the northwest side of the church, for those who may have food insecurities.
You are welcome at Beach United Methodist Church!
About Our Pastor
Pastor Diane Stangohr
Pastor Diane Stangohr has called Howard “home” except for the year and a half she attended nursing school in Sioux Falls. Marrying the “farmer boy” down the road brought her back to Howard. The first forty-one years of her career were spent as a nurse, nurturing and caring for others. Diane spent thirty years doing lay ministry in her home church and surrounding towns during this time.
Her call to full-time ministry began in July of 2022 when she became a Local Licensed Minister and was appointed to serve her home church at Beach United Methodist in Howard. Diane loves connecting with her community and congregation and sharing her love for the Lord and what He has done in her life!