For over 41 years, Suntree United Methodist Church has been a beacon of God’s unconditional love and grace, actively participating in God’s transforming work in the community and beyond. The church’s vision is clear: to be a community that “loves God, loves each other, and loves our neighbors in extraordinary ways,” and a place where “Everyone is welcome! Really. (Seriously!)” This vision is made possible by the extraordinary servants of Christ—lay, staff, and clergy—and by the church’s tremendous facilities, which serve as vital tools in fulfilling its mission.
Over the years, the Florida United Methodist Foundation has been a trusted ministry partner, playing a crucial role in making ministry possible. When Suntree UMC received a bequest and was ready to establish a Permanent Endowment Fund, the Foundation provided invaluable guidance in setting up the fund and the necessary administration documents. Today, a portion of the interest from the Endowment Fund supports new ministry initiatives and opportunities that might otherwise go unfunded.
Suntree UMC is also exceptional in its commitment to educating the congregation about the church’s Permanent Endowment Fund. Dr. Richard Turner, a member of the church, expressed this sentiment in a recent conversation with Foundation President & CEO, Rev. Ed New: “I feel that in addition to managing the church’s endowment, the Permanent Endowment Committee’s priority is educating the congregation. It is not as much fundraising as an act of education; when church members realize what our endowment does, it prompts their response at the right time.” Dr. Turner has been instrumental in helping the church craft unique weekly blurbs about the endowment, which are featured in the worship bulletin, the newsletter, and the quarterly contribution statements.
The Foundation has also assisted Suntree UMC in refinancing its mortgage, enabling the installation of a much-needed new air conditioning system. Suntree UMC considers the UM Foundation a knowledgeable and reliable ministry partner, helping to resource the church for vital and fruitful ministry.