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Dear Friends in Christ,
As we enter the month of June, we find ourselves in a sacred season of celebration, transition, and renewed commitment. The Spirit is moving among us, guiding our steps, deepening our faith, and calling us ever forward into God’s unfolding future. June invites us to witness not only the fruit of past labor but also the promise of what’s to come.
This month, we give thanks for the re-election of Rev. Elder Cecilia Eggleston as our Moderator, and for the continued faithful leadership of James Chavis and Rev. Marie Alford-Harkey, who were also re-elected to serve on the Governing Board. We warmly welcome newly elected members Charlotte West and Rev. Renae Phillips to this sacred work. Each of these leaders brings wisdom, faith, and a deep love for MCC that will bless our journey ahead.
We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Rev. Craig Cranston for offering himself in discernment and service through the Moderator nomination process. Your courage, clarity, and commitment have enriched our collective journey. Additionally, we give thanks for the dedicated service of the Governing Board Nominating Committee (GBNC) and the Moderator Nominating Committee (MNC), whose prayerful discernment and hard work made this process possible. May the Spirit continue to guide and bless all who lead and serve within our MCC family.
In this update, we celebrate the movement of the Holy Spirit within our global church and continue our preparations for General Conference 2025. With prayerful hearts and open hands, we remain committed to leading with integrity, transparency, and grace. Thank you for walking this journey with us, for your steadfast prayers, and for your unwavering commitment to the mission and vision of MCC.
Opening Reflection
In recent Governing Board meetings, opening prayers offered by Rev. Elder Rich Hendricks and staff member Tammy Rabon-Noyce centered the board in gratitude, care, and spiritual grounding. Rev. Elder Hendricks lifted up the personal and emotional weight of leadership, offering prayers for compassion, grace, and divine direction as the board carries out its mission. Tammy Rabon-Noyce expressed deep thanks to the General Conference volunteers and prayed for strength and patience for staff. She asked for guidance for those in the business sessions, for effective technology, and for the safety of all traveling, entrusting both seen and unseen aspects of the conference to Christ’s presence and care.
Complete Minutes from the April and May 2025 meetings are located here - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/16GF9cfzujAzEd3GaD78Y4vyRLlC9qFaB?usp=sharing
Moderator’s Update
In May and June, Rev. Elder Cecilia Eggleston focused on advancing preparations for General Conference 2025, working closely with staff, the Governing Board Executive, and the General Conference Core Team to ensure the success of the Business Forum, Business Meeting, and Transformational Weekend. She expressed gratitude for the translation and coordination teams, particularly in making the Moderator Candidate webinars accessible in four languages.
Despite challenges such as visa denials and safety concerns affecting in-person attendance, efforts are underway to create an inclusive and high-quality online experience. Rev. Elder Eggleston also contributed to strategic planning, including the integration of anti-racism and anti-oppression practices, as well as the addition of a new marketing objective. She collaborated on revitalizing church planting, celebrated MCC’s ecumenical connections in Scotland, and supported the MCC Doing Justice Team and the Council of Elders, including in processing new Emerging Church applications. She also helped develop and begin recruitment for a new part-time Resources Coordinator role to expand support for congregational leaders.
For a more detailed review of what the Moderator accomplished this month, click on the following link to access her full report: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1WlOIASaoqiOSnMVFsUE5ha19elIGcf2o?usp=drive_link
Church Statistics
We remain committed to transparency and engagement by sharing key church statistics. These insights help us understand our ministry’s reach and impact, supporting informed decision-making and strategic growth: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1IgY4Fq5wiJ1fNn-XrYGJJVW96N7pAc2r?usp=sharing
Governance and General Conference Planning
As we prayerfully continue preparations for General Conference 2025, the Governing Board’s focus has now turned to the upcoming Transformational Weekend in July, following the successful conclusion of the Business Meeting. As faithful stewards of MCC’s future, we are carefully addressing key logistical needs, including travel guidance and onsite coordination. Security planning is well underway to ensure a safe, welcoming, and smooth experience for all participants. These efforts are grounded in the broader context of strategic planning, as we remain attentive to God’s call on our movement and faithfully chart a path that honors both our rich legacy and our evolving mission.
Financials
We give thanks for God’s provision and the faithful stewardship of our MCC churches around the world. Our financial position remains steady, with income and expenses closely aligned to the annual budget. Recent months have brought encouraging signs of growth, with income slightly exceeding projections and expenses being carefully managed. The Finance Committee continues to closely monitor trends and ensure responsible oversight of all financial matters, including assessments and designated funds. We are especially grateful to the congregations that remain current on their assessments. Your ongoing support strengthens our shared mission and empowers ministries worldwide, making a tangible and spiritual impact in the lives of countless people. We are also profoundly grateful to the many individuals who are Partners in Hope and give a monthly financial gift to support the global ministry of MCC.
Link to financial snapshots here - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ACGKvXf_oBUSENSu6iSkYEoDNxU-X73c?usp=sharing
Links to all other financial documents here - https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/17-AOlqEikfXQtoOYwzWgy83Z_NZ7tTY8?usp=drive_link
Investment Strategy
The Finance Committee recommended a shift in MCC’s investment approach to enhance both security and growth. Allocated funds will now be placed in FDIC-insured Certificates of Deposit and High Yield Cash options. This strategy reflects a commitment to faithful stewardship and long-term financial sustainability, ensuring that MCC’s resources continue to support our mission with care and wisdom.
Membership Access for Churches Without Pastoral Leadership
The Governing Board approved a motion to allow greater flexibility for churches without settled pastors or Interim Pastoral Leaders to welcome new members. This provision ensures that congregations can continue to grow and remain connected, even in times of pastoral transition.
Closing Remarks
As we turn our hearts and minds toward the upcoming Transformational Weekend in Scottsdale, Arizona, we recognize this gathering as a sacred opportunity for MCC to unite in worship, connection, and collective discernment. Together, we continue shaping the future of our global movement.
We offer deep gratitude for the many hands and hearts working faithfully behind the scenes to bring this vision to life. As we prepare to meet, both in person and online, we create space for the Spirit to move among us. We trust that this moment will be one of deep renewal, meaningful growth, and lasting transformation.
May we come with open hearts, grounded in love, and ready to be changed.
In faith and fellowship...
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