Missions

April Mission Focus: Heifer International

Heifer International’s mission is to work with communities to end hunger and poverty and care for the earth. By giving families a hand-up, not just a hand-out, Heifer International empowers families to turn lives of hunger and poverty into self-reliance and hope. With gifts of livestock and training, Heifer International helps families improve their nutrition and generate income in sustainable ways. The animals – including cows, chickens, sheep, ducks, and honeybees, and more – are seen as “living loans” because in exchange for their livestock and training, families agree to give one of its animal’s offspring to another family in need. It’s called Passing on the Gift – a cornerstone of our mission that creates an ever-expanding network of hope and peace. Our mission focus for April will be focused on providing financial support to enable more families to benefits from these “living loans.” In addition, children in our Sunday School programs will be learning about Heifer International and how one’s actions can make a difference in the lives of others.

ChildServ Holiday Gift Project

ChildServ’s mission is accomplished by providing leadership and programming that will educate children, families, and communities to overcome the challenges encountered by underserved children, youth, and families.  It’s success stems from its capacity to deliver effective, innovative services.  We are proud to help an organization with a long term vision for children.  A special thanks to Roylene Gallas for championing this cause every year!

Rainbow Covenant

In addition to the part of apportionments that go to mission outreach, we as a church go the “second mile” of giving by choosing to support specific projects and missionaries from among the hundreds of ministries supported by the United Methodist Church. As recommended by our Conference, these projects fall into categories from international to local.The Missions Commission highlights a different mission each month, but Mission offering envelopes may be used at any time to make a donation to any of the Rainbow Covenant projects described in this brochure (please specify on the envelope).

United Methodist Women

United Methodist Women is a community of women of all ages whose purpose is to know God and experience freedom as whole persons through Jesus Christ; to develop a creative, supportive fellowship; and to expand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church. Fellowship and study opportunities are found in monthly circle meetings and unit gatherings. Fundraising goals to benefit women and children through various organizations are met through a Rummage Sale in springtime and a Craft Fair in autumn.

ASP - Appalachia Service Project

Youth and adults are invited to come together on this transformative work trip to Appalachia.  Participants engage in work projects ranging from hanging drywall and building porches to laying foundations and repairing floors.  In between the work, participants build relationships with one another, and the families they’re working for, that change them for a life time.  For more information about ASP, contact Pastor Will Green atw.green@fumcah.com or visit the ASP website at www.asphome.org.

Volunteers in Mission (VIM)

A hands-on ministry to persons in need anywhere in the world is available through our United Methodist Volunteers in Mission. Often this involves travel to another part of the country or world (e.g., Senegal Africa, Chile, North Dakota Indian reservation). Although volunteers are usually adults, older youth may join in some of these teams. Work assignments often involve light home repair, support for medical workers or teaching of children. Exploration of VIM opportunities can be with any pastor, or any member of our Missions Commission.

PADS – Public Action to Deliver Shelter

Monday (October–May), 7 p.m.–7 a.m., provides meals and shelter for up to 30 homeless people. Volunteers provide food, work at the shelter (3 shifts) and morning clean-up. www.padstohope.org

Feed My Starving Children

ALL Church Mission Adventure at Packing Depot for Feed My Starving Children, a global hunger ministry. Children as young as five are welcome when accompanied by a parent. Food packs include food staples, such as beans and rice.