Two to Thrive!

This is traditionally the time we take vacations to rejuvenate our lives and enjoy new experiences.  PLEASE DO THAT!

Then, please schedule two days to hang out alone with God to plan what are the TWO most important tasks for the next six months to give attention to in your ministry.

Proverbs 4:26 says, “Mark out a straight path for your feet” (NLT). That’s just another way of saying, “Make a plan.” God tells us to plan because he doesn’t want us to walk in confusion. Each day of your ministry can have a part that is purposeful over a spiritually discerned need. Every ministry has one or two sticking points or areas of greatness that could use additional attention. What two are yours?

You and God can figure it out.

Take your two. Take your two anywhere that allows for quiet and listening to the Spirit. 

“Everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.” 1 Corinthians 14:40 (NIV)

On the adventure with you,

Supt. Ben 

From MissionInsite:

Summer Outreach, Hospitality & Discipleship Webinar Recording and Resources

A webinar was presented on May 16th by MissionInsite, alongside Dr. Phil Maynard from emc3 Coaching.

As mentioned during the webinar, Phil is offering a FREE download of his Hospitality planning guide. At his website for emc3 Coaching, you can also register for Phil's email blogs, and you will find many other free and low-cost resources to help make lasting connections with your summer guests.

The recording of the webinar is available now, as well, for those who want to share the content with other church leaders. Watch the replay here.

Financial Training and Grant Program for Ordained Pastors appointed to churches

The Free Methodist Church USA is pleased to announce the re-launch of our Financial Training and Grant program for pastors! Any fully credentialed Free Methodist Elder who is on staff and paid by a local Free Methodist Church (full- or part-time) can qualify for this training and grant opportunity. This is available on a first-come, first-served basis through the end of the year or until funding runs out.

Pastors may apply for this grant through our website by clicking on the Resources tab, or by following this direct link: Free Methodist Church – USA | Financial Health (naefinancialhealth.org)

Staff pastors may earn up to $1,000 and Lead pastors may earn up to $2,000 in total grant money! This program offers valuable training in personal finances, as well as a connection with a FM Financial Coach.

This grant program ends on December 31, 2024 or when funds run out.

Local Church Initiative Grant Letter of Intent Due September 1, 2024

To further the goals of the Free Methodist Church USA and Gateway Conference, you are invited to submit a proposal that advances the opportunity for local churches to begin new initiatives that support these goals. Specifically, the Conference desires to support initiatives that engage the local church in the life and lives of the community in which they serve.

GRANT CRITERIA AREAS OF SUPPORT:

Strengthen the Base – new church initiative helping to create 25 new churches by 2025

Busting Barriers – programs/initiatives that help to overcome hindrances to ministry

Ministry Incubation – an effort that results in new ministries that meet a unique conference need

GRANT ELIGIBILITY:

Any ministry of the Gateway Conference (NOTE: New ministries require a sponsoring Free Methodist Church)

Click here for more information

Prepare for Overtime Rule Changes July 1

Last month, the U.S. Department of Labor announced new minimum salary levels for exempt employees that could make millions of salaried workers—including some ministry workers—eligible for overtime pay. Effective July 1, 2024, the salary threshold for exempt employees will increase to $43,888 annually. Then, a second phase increase of $58,656 will be effective on January 1, 2025. It’s time to review all your employees to determine if any should be reclassified as non-exempt.



Click here to learn more