July Newsletter, 2026 ✦

Why Every Church Needs a Mid Year Assessment

Rev. Dr. David S. Bell, President & Executive Director

Most churches naturally evaluate their ministry at the end of the year. Annual reports are prepared; financial statements are reviewed; and leaders reflect on accomplishments and challenges. While year-end assessment is important, waiting until December to evaluate the health and direction of a congregation often means opportunities for adjustment have already been missed.

Healthy churches regularly examine whether their activities are producing the outcomes that they hoped to achieve.

The midpoint of the year provides an ideal opportunity for pastors and church leaders to pause, evaluate, and realign. A mid-year assessment is not about criticism or fault-finding. It is about faithful stewardship. It is an opportunity to examine whether the church’s actions are aligned with its mission and whether its resources are being deployed in ways that advance God’s work.

John Wesley was known for regularly asking difficult questions about spiritual growth, accountability, and effectiveness. Methodism itself was built upon the practice of intentional reflection and examination. Wesley understood that faithful discipleship requires more than good intentions. It requires honest evaluation and a willingness to adjust when necessary. The same principle applies to local church leadership.

Annual Report

Strong Returns*Disciplined Stewardship

At the United Methodist Foundation of Michigan, we take pride in our ability to deliver impressive long-term results, even amidst the complexities of today’s financial landscape.

Our steadfast commitment to a values-aligned investment strategy ensures that churches and ministries can not only sustain their worship and service but thrive for generations to come. By keeping our focus on the long-term rather than getting caught up in fleeting trends, we empower congregations to navigate uncertainty with confidence, allowing them to channel their energy into meaningful ministry rather than financial anxieties.

Learn more about our 2025 accomplishments and what we are looking forward to in 2026.

Learn More

Don't Miss These Opportunites

Join Our Team

The Foundation is seeking an Account Relationship Specialistin our Grand Rapids office.

This full-time position will serve as the primary contact for incoming calls and routine inquiries, maintain contact records within Salesforce, and provide administrative support for investment accounts, loan fund operations, scholarships, and grants.

Learn More

Education Debt Refinancing

We provide a faith-driven program to help ordained clergy manage educational debt. Eligible elders and deacons can confidentially refinance up to $50,000 in student loans at a fixed interest rate of 1.5 percent. The Foundation is dedicated to supporting clergy’s financial journeys with compassion and community values.

Learn More

Igniting Imagination

Rev. Joel Fitzgerald, Vice President Church Relations & Leadership

My youngest son will go to kindergarten this fall. He is not happy about this situation. He articulately explains why he does not want to go, “I’ve never been before.”

As funny as it is, he is right. He lacks experience with kindergarten; it will be a sharp departure from everything he has known to this point, and that can be scary.

As adults will also struggle imagining the future. Research and studies of the brain show that for most, it is impossible for us to envision ourselves in future. When change comes, we often respond like my son, declaring that we will do everything in our power to resist change from happening.

We Celebrate Graduates

Dakota Wesleyan University

Pictured at Dakota Wesley University Graduation: Rev. Sarah Alexander, Rev. David Bell, Rev. Susie Hierholzer and Rev. Julie Elmore. Not pictured is Rev. Joel Walther

Rev. Dr. David S. Bell, President and Executive Director of the Foundation, celebrated at the Dakota Wesleyan University with our Michigan pastors who have recently graduated with a Master of Business Administration degrees with a concentration in practical church leadership.

Beginning in 2022, the Foundation has invited pastors to participate in this program and offered major grants and financial assistance.

Tailored for working ministry professionals, these graduate courses aim to enhance skills in:

Financial development
Governance
Talent management
Communications
Project management

Throughout the course, participants benefit from the support of peers, professional coaches, and coursework that significantly enhances their ministry impact.

Congratulations on your graduation!

Please note our offices will be closed July 29, 30 and 31 for a move to our new office space. Effective August 1, Our New Address: 3347 Eagle Run Dr NE, Suite A Grand Rapids, MI 49525