With God As Our Anchor

Serving on the Leadership Board has been a gift to me. I have felt connected to our church in new ways and have found myself more involved in the “Ministry” we do here. I am in the first year of my term and invigorated by all we have accomplished since our first meeting in January. We have a great group really leaning into godly discernment to make sure we are truly listening and bringing God glory while also bringing joy and peace into all we do at Brecksville UMC.

Looking to the budget, we are still operating with a budget shortfall. Much of this has to do with what we are all experiencing at home, the costs in our post-COVID world are higher and a dollar doesn’t take us as far as it once did. But, because of your gifts, Brecksville UMC has been able to continue to be a beacon in our community. Giving is truly an act of worship that shows gratitude for God’s blessings and supports the church’s work. It’s also a way to trust that God will continue to provide for you. In last months’ Good Word we shared Close The Gap coupons and asked for help sponsoring items that are important to you. As I write this article, I am proud to say that you have already given $3500 to this effort! Keep sending them in. You are making a difference!

Printed coupons are on the table outside the church office or download them here.

I feel blessed that God brought Brecksville UMC across my path. My husband Max and I were at a place where we craved spiritual connection, but being LGBTQ it was not safe for us to visit just anywhere. I drove past the church in June of 2020 and saw the doors in our front yard. There are so many churches that say they are welcome to all, however in practice it’s not the case. Thankfully for us it has been here. What Pastor Heidi learned at Jurisdictional Conference recently was that when new folks come to church for the first time often it’s after they have already done their research and know what they’re getting into. This is the truest case for me. I attended many virtual church sessions for us before coming, and read just about every word on our website to feel safe enough to come in the door. God brought us to Brecksville UMC and for that I am forever grateful. We have made so many friendships and even welcomed our daughter Magnolia into the world with you all. Never doubt the light we have in us. God shows up through your actions and love. As we continue to live out God’s love it will bring more people into our church as well.

Early Methodists grew through the efforts of laity who led small groups, taught Bible study and provided outreach ministry. This is an important component of creating a church engaged in the work of making disciples. This remains true today as well. The Lord calls us to minister both within our walls and out. If you’re not already plugging into one of the many ministry teams we have here try it! It is your way to fellowship and to help make a difference. Invite a friend to our church, attend a meeting outside of Sunday morning or visit BUMCLINKS.com to find a way to minister. You are the difference our community needs. We are a beacon of light in our community, one of the rare few that are truly safe spaces open to ALL. I promise that is truly special. With God as our anchor, may God continue to bless our church, our community and all of you.

Many Blessings, Matt Gabor, Leadership Board Secretary