In our Mission Statement at FUMCOG, we speak of ourselves as a “diverse, urban community of faith...working together, taking risks for social justice and peace in our community, our city, our nation and our world.” From this shared mission, FUMCOGers have started and maintained multiple service organizations and social action groups over the years, with many continuing today. Take a look in the hallway between Pilling Hall and the parking lot at the display commemorating the many efforts during Ted Loder’s leadership. You’ll see that our After School Program for Germantown High School students continues today as one of those. Even while we read of the appalling graduation rates in urban schools, FUMCOG continues to support and encourage some of those at GHS to continue to strive toward graduation and beyond. We continue to participate in the Interfaith Hospitality Network, hosting twice yearly in our church buildings families who are struggling with homelessness. As witness against the death penalty, bells ring out in mourning for those executed in Pennsylvania. There are too many missions to list!
So with all these good works and all the continuing need, how can we focus a fundraising campaign on our own buildings? It’s simple. We must. All of our guests—in the Hospitality Network, art programs for the handicapped, Miss Marty’s Day Care and others—need a safe place. Our staff needs to be on hand, accessible to the many activities and groups we support and with whom we share our space. Our bell tower must be maintained for safe calling out to our neighbors, and our world cries out for conservation of our resources. Our mission has been clear from the beginning and we must maintain our home to continue it. Now more than ever.