Global outreach

First Methodist has a long commitment to global mission. We believe that all followers of Jesus are to be grounded in the Word, alive in the Spirit, and sent on Mission. We live out our call to be sent on mission through five actions: Pray, Mobilize, Go, Send, and Welcome.

Oswald Chambers once wrote, “Prayer does not fit us for the greater work; prayer is the greater work.” Prayer is essential to the work of God throughout the world. Prayer is a true ministry, and our Faith Promise partners depend on the prayers of the believers to lift them before the throne.

Mobilizers stir other Christians to active concern for reaching the world. It takes all of us to spread God’s glory to the nations and it takes those of us willing to “light the fire” to encourage others to get involved.

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8 Some people are called to long-term service to go into all the world and spread the Gospel. Others may be called to go on short-term missions. Both are valid ways to “go.” There are many options for long-term and short-term missions.

“And how can they preach unless they are sent?” When you hear the word “sent,” you think of financially supporting missions.  Although financial support is part of sending, there are other ways to send that are important as well. The faithful care and encouragement from those sending the missionaries is a vital role.

The United States has been called the “melting pot of the world.” What better opportunity to welcome others into the body of Christ? We have many opportunities in our own community to welcome others.

Faith Promise giving is money that is given above and beyond a tithe, specifically for outreach. When we make a Faith Promise, we ask God to provide the funds, then we spend the next year praying, watching, and waiting for God to provide. Sometimes the provision comes in large and unexpected ways, like an unexpected check in the mail. Other times it comes through small conscious decisions to adjust our lifestyle at the urging of God, which help us fulfill our commitment.

Faith Promise money is used to support our global partners and ministry partnerships, allowing us to put resources into sharing the message of Christ in our own community and around the world. It is also utilized for Volunteer In Mission teams and missionary care throughout the year.