Missouri United Methodist Foundation Supports Churches & Scholars
News
By Susan SneedThe United Methodist Foundation enables congregations to grow and explore new ministries, to be more excellent in worship and to assist people to reach educational goals. David Atkins, the executive director, highlighted the connection the Foundation has with many of the Conference’s other ministries.
“In our 47 years of ministries, nearly $50 million has been invested and nearly $40 million has gone out to ministry,” said Atkins. The Foundation is a dynamic engine sustaining and creating ministry across the state. “Over $1,091,350 has been awarded in scholarship in the last 10 years. Planned gifts is a division including trusts, endowments and a variety of special funds individuals and congregations can invest in to support a variety of ministries. The Foundation has a 24-year track record of investing that is one of stability for churches despite changes of personnel. Atkins, the staff and board are available for workshops and a variety of literature is always available to congregations.
One of the important functions of the Foundation is to provide funds for seminary students. Seminary scholars for 2014-2015 include 26 persons in over 10 seminaries. Dollars for Scholars is a matching scholarship program for churches that have students attending either Saint Paul School of Theology or Central Methodist University.
Atkins concluded by recognizing Allen Herndon, director of development. Mr. Herndon is leaving the Foundation to head the Kansas United Methodist Foundation.