Lay Leaders and Pastors:
One of the most effective ways we can support the mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world in and through our churches is with the Iowa United Methodist Builders. Twice a year, in the spring and fall, two selected churches receive financial support from Builders and supporting congregations all across Iowa for the building of new facilities, additions to existing facilities, major remodeling, new parsonages or land purchases.
The second Sunday in March is identified as “Builder’s Sunday”, but a congregation may choose to designate any Sunday that works best for them. It is a time to emphasize the continuing effectiveness of this ministry, and to enroll new members who support it. To help you tell the story, United Methodist Builders brochures/enrollment forms, bulletin inserts, videos of churches receiving “Builder’s Calls” and other resources can be found on the Conference web-site (www.iaumc.org à Resources à Builder’s Call).
Those who sign up to be a Builder will receive two “Builder’s Calls” letters each year, one in the spring and one in the fall, each for a particular church. Currently approximately 3,200 Builders representing 135+ local churches contribute $50, $75, $100 or some other amount to each call, raising $30,000-40,000 for each Builder’s Call local church.
We know that you will want to be part of this critical effort to support new and established churches in our Conference, reaching out to their communities. Take some time within your church to talk about United Methodist Builders. Distribute the resources. Urge members in your church to join. Suggest that you church may want to become a “Builder’s Church” by promoting “Builder’s Sunday”, and maybe receiving a special offering. Give your people an opportunity to give in this meaningful way.
Great things have happened through United Methodist Builders in the past 30 years and will in the years to come, but it all depends on you, your church, and your members. THANK YOU for your interest, partnership and support of our Iowa United Methodist churches, through the United Methodist Builders.
