Gary United Methodist Church Kicks off its “All In God’s Next Big Thing” Campaign

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release
May 7, 2014

Wheaton, IL – With anticipation and excitement, Gary United Methodist Church officially kicked off its All In for God’s Next Big Thing Campaign in a joint service on Sunday. Nearly four hundred members and regular attendees enjoyed a day of uplifting worship, music, and testimonials followed by a luncheon. During the service, Pastor Jamie Geiger, Lead Pastor, shared an inspirational message on the vision of the church and where he sees God leading the congregation in its next steps of ministry. Testimonials from members, Lew Morgan and Ben Cary, expressed the impact and importance the church has had on their lives. I am excited about where our congregation senses God to be leading us as a church, to complete our past, stabilize the present, and launch us into the future. Our purpose is to change lives in our community and around the world. He invited the congregation to, join in on this journey to expand our witness, to change lives and the world,said Pastor Jamie Geiger.

The highlight of the morning was when the youth revealed to the congregation $926,550 has been pledged towards the future vision of the church and members erupted in cheers. The vision of the campaign is to eliminate the financial obligation of building debt, address current repairs, and fund new ministries of outreach and mission. I am so honored to be part of the vision and to walk the journey with them,said Mel Kalagian, Campaign Director.

Myra Burgess Micholetti and Bob Drake, Co-Chairs, spoke eloquently about the love of the church, the impact it has in their lives, and the joy they have experienced in the past few weeks visiting families of Gary. As we visit families we hear the stories and passion families have for Gary Church. This plan and campaign is necessary for our growth so that we can reach out to the community and share with them the joy we have experienced. So please join us as we visit families,said Myra Burgess Micholetti, Co-Chair.

For one hundred and sixty-one years, Gary United Methodist Church has been ministering to the community and world. Since 1853, when the Gary and Wheaton families migrated to Illinois, they founded the town, established the church and the rest is history. The future is shining bright for the 161 year old church. In 2004, Gary Church stepped forward in faith to update and expand its building to serve more people and today the church is utilized seven days a week in a vibrant ministry. Sunday services are held at 9am and 11am and offer many ministry opportunities to the community. From children to youth to adult ministries. In addition, they partner with local organizations like Habitat for Humanity, the People’s Resource Center, United Voices for Children and many more. For more information on Gary Church please go to their website: www.garychurch.org

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