Forty-two years ago, the Iowa Annual Conference began what has become a magnificent tradition - Ingathering. As October 2022 comes to a close, it’s time to get all the kits completed, counted, and boxed up. Make sure to label the outside with your church name and number and the contents, tape them closed, and ask your pastor to bless them in worship. Celebrate, and congratulate yourselves. What a difference you’re making right now!
On November 5, between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., volunteers will be waiting for you at
First United Methodist Church (UMC) in Cedar Falls,
St. Paul’s UMC in Cherokee,
Greenfield UMC in Greenfield,
First UMC in Mount Pleasant, and
Asbury UMC in Webster City. You can deliver to whichever site is most convenient for you. Assistance with unloading will be available; remember, we no longer repack your boxes, so be sure they’re sturdy and taped up. Keep your check and 2022 remittance form out of the boxes, ready to hand in (three copies of the form, please; you’ll get one back).
Answers to many of those last-minute questions, as well as a sample and the actual remittance form, are available at
www.iaumc.org/ingathering. Names of real people who will find answers and help you are also there. Don’t hesitate to call or text.
As you’re filling out the form, pay attention to Column A - your shipping amount is calculated there; Personal Dignity Kits need an additional $2 each. Your church may also want to add a financial gift for Iowa Hunger Grants, Heifer Project, Self-Help, Mobility Worldwide, Church World Service, Midwest Missions (beyond the shipping), or Ingathering itself to help with our expenses. All of these are passed on 100% and greatly appreciated. Your check to
Mission Ingathering should be the total of that column.
We’ve changed and grown from that blustery day in LeMars, Iowa, in 1980. Our purpose is still the same -
to show the love of Christ to the world’s people by ministering to their needs. It’s just amazing to realize the impact bars of soap and boxes of crayons can have!
Thank you all!
Alaire Willits, Ingathering Coordinator
712-212-5333
