Conclusion Over the last one hundred years a shift occurred within Methodism to out-source many ministries previously practiced by local churches . This is helpful to build efficiencies and manage resources . However , such a shift can also erode the identity and mission of local churches . Because of its deep roots in communities and wise philanthropic investments ( i . e . The Duke Endowment ), Methodism in North Carolina continues to practice early Methodist commitments to faith formation and advocacy for marginalized persons in communities by creating accessibility to healthcare , education , and economic development . While local churches mourn the passing of their influence and leadership in local communities , many also discern renewed and reclaimed means to participate in God ’ s grace through missional networks , literacy programs , local health care initiatives , and imaginative re-deployment of existing property 9 as well as collaborating to construct sustainable multi-use facilities . 10
Rev . Dr . Laceye Warner serves as the Royce and Jane Reynolds Associate Professor of the Practice of Evangelism and Methodist Studies and Associate Dean of Wesleyan Engagement and Hybrid Learning at Duke Divinity School . Kenneth Spencer serves as the Associate Director of Rural Church Engagement at Duke Divinity School .
Photo by Rev . Sharon T . Lee , Gethsemane UMC
9 Wesley Community Development https :// www . wnccumc . org / wesleycdc 10 Both the WNCC and NCC offices relocated in the last decade to occupy sustainable , solar powered , multi-use facilities .
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