Sr. Director of Church Relations
One of my favorite books to read to my 5-year-old son is The Rabbit Listened by Cori Doerrfield. It’s the story of a little boy who gets mad when his block tower collapses.
A series of animals come by offering their solutions: blame someone else, rage against the unfairness, make plans to build again. None works until a rabbit comes along and just sits next to the boy, listening to his feelings. Eventually the boy is able to work through his emotions and build again.
This is of course a good lesson for kids to learn, but also, like many good children’s books, a lesson that adults need as well. Too often, when someone comes to me with a problem, my first instinct is to immediately jump to fix it– to analyze the issue and find the most cost-effective path forward. But as Doerrfield teaches us, sometimes that’s not what’s most needed.
The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan have been working with the Texas Methodist Foundation to offer C3: Courageous Congregations Collaborative.
This program equips congregations to strengthen five essential “muscles” for ministry:
Walking Alongside, is essentially the lesson of learning how to listen deeply to our neighbors. We in the church sometimes approach our neighbors as problems to be solved, or sources of volunteer hours, or pots of money. We often talk about welcoming and being friendly, but we often want it to be on our terms; we want folk to fit themselves into our molds.
But what if we did things differently? What if we approached our neighbors with humility, offering to walk alongside them?
This can be a challenge. It involves letting go of our need to look for quick fixes. It means putting the needs of our neighbor above our own.
Want to learn more? Contact Joel@UMFMichigan.org.
The Wayne C. Barrett Steward Leader Award was established by action of the Board of Directors of the Foundation upon Dr. Barrett’s retirement as President and Executive Director. The purpose of this award is to honor up to four United Methodist congregations across the Michigan Conference for their exemplary stewardship ministry and culture of generosity.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity for your church to thrive with the favorable loan rates.
We are thrilled to announce our limited-time loan special, running until June 30, 2026, where we will generously cover your closing costs—up to $3,000—so you can access our low-interest loans without the burden of extra expenses.
This is not just a financial offer; it’s a partnership rooted in our commitment to support your church community’s growth and sustainability.
Act now to relieve financial pressures and enhance your ministry’s opportunities!
For more details, please reach out to Info@UMFMichigan.org.
The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan is partnering with six other United Methodist Foundations to elevate the fundraising potential of pastors and laypersons alike, emphasizing our shared commitment to financial stewardship and endowment growth.
This event is an opportunity for church leaders eager to enhance their fundraising capabilities, with the esteemed Dr. Stan Copeland as the keynote speaker. Dr. Copeland, the former 27-year Senior Pastor of the renowned Lovers Lane UMC in Dallas, Texas, brings a wealth of experience and success, having led his congregation to raise an astounding $55 million in five capital campaigns and grow their endowment from $2.2 million to an impressive $30 million.
Set against the backdrop of Lakeside Chautauqua, a serene haven that has nurtured the mind, body, and spirit since 1873, this gathering promises not just insightful learning but also a chance to rejuvenate and connect with fellow church leaders in a spirit of community and partnership.
We invite you to take advantage of this opportunity to gain experience from leaders and access resources that can transform and help your church grow a culture of generosity and sustainability that will enrich your congregation for years to come.
The Foundation will pay the $395 early bird registration fee for the first twenty-five participants (this includes 2 nights lodging) who respond prior to May 1st.
Contact Marian Coles to confirm your grant eligibility and reimbursement.
Click below for more information.