The research shows :
• Seventy-two percent of those benefiting from programs housed in UMC churches are not members of those congregations . In effect , rural Methodist churches are de facto community centers , just as their sister churches in cities .
• UMC congregations make great economic contributions to their towns and counties , with an average annual contribution to the local economy valued at just over $ 735,000 per congregation .
• Congregations generate value because they spend locally and hire locally ; they host events that bring people to the community who spend money there ; they sacrificially share space in their buildings , at low cost or no cost ; and they provide needed resources and services to the community .
Franklinton United Methodist Church , Franklinton , NC
Trinity United Methodist Church , Louisburg , NC
The research findings also contradict some of the myths that surround rural churches . Too many people believe that rural America — and its churches — are in decline , but many of the congregations we studied are stable community anchors .
Another myth is that congregations are no longer as relevant to their communities as they once were , but we found that rural congregations do an excellent job of caring for the needs of community members , and are changing to reflect the assets and opportunities around them . Small churches can make a big impact because congregational size and economic impact are not always correlated . Franklinton United Methodist Church and Trinity United Methodist Church provide examples of this .
Franklinton United Methodist Church
• Has an active membership of 25 but an annual Halo impact of almost $ 1.2 million annually
• Hosts an early childhood education program serving over 40 families and supports a myriad of other programs that provide food and serve the youth of the area
Trinity United Methodist Church
• Congregation composed largely of older adults and retired individuals
• Generates 742 hours of volunteer time and $ 2,400 in donated goods to support a food program for low-income children
• Generates $ 20,000 each year through their food program
All these findings add up to a larger , remarkable – but little known – reality : UMC congregations , quietly and faithfully , constitute an important part of the fabric of rural communities . We cannot afford to take them for granted . And when they need our support , or a helping hand , we should be more open to giving it . Because they are Methodist churches , but they are also institutions for everyone .
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