In preparing this, my first blog since beginning my role as president of the Florida United Methodist Foundation, I was torn as to what topic would be most fitting. Do I lead with a heartfelt elaboration on my excitement and gratefulness for the privilege of serving in this role? Or do I dive into the current financial atmosphere in our world, our communities and our homes? Perhaps it would be best to emphasize the offerings the Florida United Methodist Foundation provides, which can be of great value to churches, ministries and individuals? In looking at these topics that, on their own, could provide a wealth of useful information, I was struck by how they are so deeply connected.
We all have hopes and dreams for the future. Whether as a church, community ministry or household, we have all prayed for God’s wisdom and guidance to help us navigate the journey before us.
“My excitement and gratefulness to be serving as president of the foundation are rooted in my desire to … remain focused on supporting our partners in their efforts to expand the reach of their transformational work and build up the ministry of Jesus Christ.” — Rev. Ed New
Psalm 33 tells us, “The plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of His heart through all generations.” All of us need to be able to reconcile our hopes and dreams for the future with our discernment of the way the Holy Spirit is leading. Regardless of whether times are financially strong or fragile, the Florida United Methodist Foundation seeks to help make many of those hopes and dreams a reality by partnering with others to discern the right path forward.
Whether it is the foundation’s solid financial services, loans for facility renovation or construction, or stewardship education, our commitment is to offer practical, faithful and responsive service to our partners as they work to make the future brighter.
When I look at just a few of our ongoing projects — helping a ministry explore the construction of a solar panel power solution made possible through a Development Fund loan, guiding individuals during planned giving seminars, helping generous disciples establish charitable gift annuities, offering student scholarships — I cannot help but be motivated to ensure that more individuals become aware of the ways the foundation helps churches and members achieve grand visions and strengthen lives and ministries.
My excitement and gratefulness to be serving as president of the foundation are rooted in my desire to serve alongside an incredible staff and committed board of directors, remain focused on supporting our partners in their efforts to expand the reach of their transformational work, and build up the ministry of Jesus Christ.