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As conference leaders, we are very thankful for the churches of the Baltimore-Washington Conference and their work to make disciples for the transformation of the world. United Methodists are unique and blessed by our connectional system and the ability to accomplish more in ministry and mission together than we ever could alone. With our mission shares, given faithfully and in full, we celebrate and manifest God’s love in our churches, communities and the world.
As a sign of that connection and in recognition of our shared covenant as United Methodists, we look forward to celebrating the fulfilled financial commitments of local churches by publishing the list of the churches that fully pay their 2024 mission shares. It is anticipated that, after significant discernment and action by their leadership and congregations, many churches will meet this goal this year. They are a blessing.
With this list, we will return to the long-standing practice within the Conference of publishing the mission share status of all local churches twice a year, in July and January. This practice was curtailed during the pandemic, as many churches found themselves navigating new financial realities, and church leaders were simply asked to “do their best.” Today, increasing numbers of churches are finding the discipline, grace, and generosity to be more fully connectional.
Local churches have valued this practice in the past. It has historically provided congregations with a transparent view of the Baltimore-Washington connection and their church’s place within that connection. We also acknowledge that focusing on improving the mission share collection rate within our connection will provide even more support for reducing the individual mission shares from each congregation.
The United Methodist Church's special giving structure ensures that your generosity blesses as many people as possible in sustainable, strategic ways. Connectional giving is our response to the Great Commandment to love God and our neighbor. We give thanks for you and all you do to bring that love to life.
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