June 2025 News

Bricks, Mortar, and Mission: A Faithful Guide to Capital Projects

Rev. Dr. David S. Bell

Inspiring Mission-Driven Design and Innovation

Managing a thriving church community involves more than spiritual leadership. It requires thoughtful planning and stewardship, especially when it comes to capital improvement projects. These infrastructure enhancements are significant investments in the church’s ministry impact. They tend to enhance both the worship experience and the long-term value of the property for the congregation and the broader community.

As stewards of God’s house, church leaders are called to care diligently for all that has been entrusted to them (I Corinthians 4:2). When approached prayerfully and wisely, capital improvements honor that call and ensure the church remains a beacon of hope, worship, and service for generations.

At the heart of any capital improvement project should be a vibrant, imaginative vision for mission and ministry that breathes life into the bricks and mortar. Rather than merely reacting to aging infrastructure or deferred maintenance, churches are called to proactively dream about how their physical spaces can best serve a changing world and a growing faith community. An innovative sense of purpose helps align facility upgrades with outreach, discipleship, and worship. Every renovation becomes a reflection of the church’s commitment to impact lives. When the mission leads, capital projects become more than construction. They become catalysts for spiritual growth, community transformation, and Gospel-centered innovation.

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Spotlight: Nicholas Bonsky, Scholarship Recipient

Practical Church Leadership (PCL)

Dakota Wesleyan University

The Foundation is committed to nurturing strong, community-focused leaders who are well prepared to lead their guide their congregations.

"The prospect of such growth excites me. I desire to be a pastor who is fluid with the times and does not become static. I imagine this course frustrating me, challenging what I already know, and reshaping me into a different person. Perhaps that is the most exciting part of this program, and the greatest challenge is the inability to see exactly what I will become through these courses." Rev. Nicholas Bonsky, Livonia: St. Matthew's UMC.

We are proud of our history of empowering leaders in their mission to strengthen our communities and build disciples for Jesus Christ.

United Methodist Foundation of Michigan Earns 2025 Platinum Seal of Transparency

The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Platinum Seal of Transparency by Candid – formerly known as GuideStar. This distinction represents the highest level of recognition for nonprofit transparency and accountability, placing the Foundation among the top tier of charitable organizations nationwide.

The Platinum Seal is awarded to nonprofits that go above and beyond in sharing comprehensive information with the public, including audited financials, programmatic impact, leadership structure, and long-term strategies. Fewer than 1% of U.S. nonprofits achieve this level of transparency.

"We are honored to receive the 2025 Platinum Seal from Candid," said Rev. Dr. David S. Bell, President & Executive Director of the Foundation. "This recognition affirms our deep commitment to financial integrity, donor confidence, and public accountability. Our entire team works diligently to ensure that every dollar entrusted to us is managed faithfully in support of vibrant ministries across Michigan and beyond."

The United Methodist Foundation of Michigan has a long-standing reputation for strengthening churches and faith-based organizations through investment management, stewardship education, and grantmaking. An investment with the Foundation not only secures a strong financial portfolio, but it also equips pastors and strengthens local churches through the Foundation’s continuum of ministry. Investments become instruments of service and catalysts for transformation in faith communities. The Foundation delivers financial and leadership training to hundreds of clergy and church leaders across the Michigan Conference.

Through its public Candid profile, the Foundation shares detailed outcomes, goals, and strategies that demonstrate how its resources create tangible transformation in local churches and communities. Whether funding a new church roof, supporting a seminary student, or teaching generosity as a spiritual discipline, the Foundation exists to empower faithful, impactful giving.

As a trusted partner in faith-based philanthropy for over a century, the United Methodist Foundation of Michigan continues to model best practices in governance, investment stewardship, and mission alignment. With the Platinum Seal now proudly displayed, UMF reinforces its role as a national leader in transparent, faith-driven financial ministry.

Spotlight: First UMC of Saginaw-

"Loving the Whole City;Loving the City Whole"

First United Methodist Church of Saginaw was honored with the Wayne C. Barrett Steward Leader Award by Rev. Gary Step, Sr. Director of Leadership Development.

The church was recognized its exemplary financial stewardship and generous spirit during a powerful worship service featuring a message from Rev. Amy Terhune on "widening the circle,"

The congregation, through a strong collaboration between clergy and nearly 50 lay leaders, the congregation raised over $297,000 in annual pledges and $336,000 in capital commitments, exceeding their goals.

This achievement reflects a culture of gratitude and abundance, grounded in the church’s mission: “Loving the Whole City; Loving the City Whole.” With ongoing outreach efforts like free meals, backpack programs, and local partnerships, as well as plans for further facility improvements, the church continues to serve as a vital spiritual and community hub.

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