UM4GI

Newsletter Article for July

Many of you have heard murmurings about a new group in the midst of United Methodists in Grand Island, a group called the GI-UM Strategy Task Force but more simply called UM4GI – United Methodists for Grand Island.  This team has met twice, most recently with the Rev. Bill Selby as a consultant.

We started meeting at the invitation of the pastors because we believe we can be better pastors – and each congregation can be more faithful to Christ – together.  This does not mean we must be one church; rather, it recognizes that we are already one United Methodist Church and three congregations in and for Grand Island. 

Some of What We’ve Learned Thus Far:

Already, we’ve learned a great deal together, all with the hope that we can more faithfully be witnesses of Christ and the kingdom of God.

• Our three churches face similar challenges in Christ’s ministry in a Grand Island that is quickly changing – and which has already changed much from the Grand Island of our memory.
• Where we are is where we need to be.
• The solution to our problems is within our midst.
• The God of the good ole days is the same as the God of the new day (today). 
• We need more people involved in UM4GI if the team is going to have any part in helping our three churches be more faithful.

 In this last learning, please hear an invitation: if you believe God has more work to do in Grand Island through the United Methodist Church, please consider being a part of UM4GI.  The next meeting of UM4GI is Sunday, July 25^th at First UMC from 5:30 to 7:30.  Please let your pastor know if you plan to attend so that we can plan to feed you.

Next Steps in the Conversation of UM4GI:

Three UM churches working together in this way is uncharted water for all of us.  We’re relying on the Spirit’s guidance and wisdom as we seek ways to grow, change, and be faithful in Christ.  These are a few of the next questions we hope to entertain:

• What change do we want to see in the United Methodist witness for Christ in Grand Island?
• How does UM4GI embody that change, and how do we lead our congregations?
• What are the mission and vision of UM4GI?

For those interested in participating in the conversation, please contact your pastor.  If you know someone you think is perfect for this ministry, please encourage him/her and direct your pastor to them.  And please, above all, pray for God to be at work through the process of UM4GI, that we might all grow in the faith, love, and knowledge of God.