Dear KUMC Family Members:
As your representatives on Kirkwood United Methodist Church’s Leadership Council, we wanted to update you on some exciting developments, including the addition of a new member to the staff. We hope you have had the chance to read Pastor Katie’s reports on the exciting progress being made with KUMC’s new signature outreach program, LifeBridge, as well as the incredible results from our stewardship campaign. Who would have imagined a year ago we would be in such a position today to confidently move forward with our plans to start a new endeavor focused on helping our neighbors and transforming lives? This would not be possible without the committed membership of KUMC, and we give thanks to God for you and your continued support.
Mission does not happen without the personnel to nurture, guide and coordinate all of our efforts. Three years ago, KUMC did not replace our Business Administrator, and existing staff absorbed those responsibilities. They went above and beyond their job duties to keep the church open and operating during historically challenging circumstances particularly this last year. One element of the planning for LifeBridge is acknowledging the significant administrative undertaking that has been -- and will be -- involved in turning this vision into reality. We also need to ensure Pastor Katie can devote sufficient time and energy to her pastoral duties and worship planning.
With all of that in mind, the fiscal year 2021-22 budget prepared by church staff and approved by the Leadership Council designates funding to hire a three-quarters (3/4) time position of Executive Director with half of that individual’s time focused on making the vision of LifeBridge a reality, and the other half on general church business affairs. Throughout the process of developing the duties and responsibilities of this new position, we have identified an ideal candidate, and in hindsight, it seems like a prayer answered.
Many of you are aware that Kyle Butler, Pastor Katie’s husband and former Senior Pastor at Mt. Zion United Methodist, did not seek reappointment by the Missouri Annual Conference this year, stepping down after eight years in the pulpit. Kyle has significant experience with church administration, is skilled at working with complex finances, has a PhD in theology and is an ordained United Methodist pastor. In addition, he has expertise in building social outreach programs, including past work with the Parkway Food Pantry. These skills are perfect for the Executive Director position. With this background, and a history of demonstrated leadership, the
Leadership Council feels he would be a strong fit for our church staff. We are incredibly excited to have Kyle join our team in September and are confident that his unique qualifications will help KUMC continue to thrive administratively and continue to grow in mission and ministry as we build LifeBridge.
The Leadership Council has had several extended conversations about this opportunity. We take personnel decisions involving family members seriously, particularly those that involve our senior leadership, and have taken several steps to ensure this is done thoughtfully and appropriately.
Two members of the Council and Pastor Katie presented the idea of KUMC hiring Kyle to our District Superintendent, Reverend Robin Bell, who enthusiastically supported the idea. Efforts have also been made to consult members of the congregation for their input and advice, all of whom felt Kyle would be a strong addition to the KUMC team, though they also urged full transparency with the congregation.
With that feedback in mind, the Leadership Council is developing a process to conduct yearly evaluations of Kyle, including a process to seek input from other staff, so that this responsibility will not rest with Pastor Katie. And while we do not think it will be needed, we also are developing a process for staff to address personnel situations they do not feel comfortable taking to Pastor Katie or Kyle. We believe it is important for the church to have clear policies when there are members of the same family working at KUMC, as would any other well-managed organization.
With all that is happening, we know many of you may have questions about the Church, its direction, LifeBridge or other business before the Leadership Council. Moving forward, we plan to host regular Zoom meetings with representatives of the Council, to keep you informed about church business, to answer questions and to seek your input and ideas on the future direction of KUMC.
Thank you again for your continued support of Kirkwood United Methodist Church and its mission to be the hands and feet of Christ in our community.
With grace and peace,
The Kirkwood UMC Leadership Council
