From the Ground Up

United Methodists have been starting new churches in the Texas Conference for almost 60 years—spreading the good news of the Gospel. A goal set in 2006 to build 100 churches in 10 years is ongoing as we strive to build new churches in all districts and with many different mission fields. In the Houston area alone presents a huge challenge as 2,500 new people move into this area every week. Preparing, planning, and meeting the linguistic needs of the ever changing global, cosmopolitan society has heightened the need for a wide variety churches.

When you become a shareholder, your investment enables the good news of the Gospel to rain on those who have endured a spiritual drought, yielding future generations and fruits of faith in Jesus Christ.

Plant the Seed

For $100, you can purchase one share that will foster new churches from the ground up. Your "share" can also be divided into two $50 installments over the course of the year.

Funds generated from these shares will be invested in training and coaching new church leaders, providing salary support for new church pastors and beginning ministry in these new locations.

Each pastor of a new congregation will also attend the New Church Leadership Institute, which is an educational experience to provide the skills these pastors need to build healthy, growing churches.

For established congregations, the Texas Annual Conference has initiated Vibrant Congregations Initiative (VCI). VCI is a process designed to revitalize and renew churches. The focus is on providing resources, facilitation and strategies to pastors, staff, and laity. VCI strengthens pastoral effectiveness, improves clergy morale, deepens our connection and enhances skills for ministry.