News from us # The Rural Missouri Connection encourages and equips churches to engage with local resources in the development of outward ministries that reflect and address holistic opportunities in the community. We invite churches to consider what opportunities and assets are available to engage in ministry in each unique context.
Let’s chat!
In April, the RMC partnered with Pleasant Grove UMC in Hatton and NextGen Ministries to host an RMC Collab called Reaching the Next Generation in Rural Contexts. Attendees had a firsthand look at Kids for Jesus, an interactive program featuring Bible study through teaching, music and games. Discussions throughout the evening included program resources and management, recruiting volunteers and support based on skills and passions, simplifying meals, and the importance of presence and consistency. The RMC can support conversations like this and more. If you would like one in your area, please reach out mailto:[email protected] [email protected]
Featured Resource
Bivocational by Choice Podcast
Ben Connelly shares how bi-vocational ministry can enhance collaboration, deepen engagement with the mission field, and even promote the personal spiritual growth of those who practice bi-vocational ministry. [link removed] Listen here →
Other Resources
A Focus on Neighboring in September
[link removed] National Good Neighbor Day: September 28, 2023
[link removed] Missouri Good Neighbor Week: September 28-October 4, 2023
The RMC has [link removed] several resources available highlighting neighboring in its many forms. Neighboring is an opportunity to be the Church in our communities. We encourage you to highlight acts of neighboring you witness in your own community by posting on Facebook with the #GoodNeighborDay and #MOAC. If you’re interested in learning more about types of neighboring, MU Extension offers a series of learning events. [link removed] Find out more here→
Social Capital in Third Places
Third places, or the lack of them, directly impacts social capital. In turn, social capital affects everything from the local economy and loneliness to public school quality and trust in local government and other institutions. [link removed] Read more about the impact of third places→
Events and Opportunities
NextGen Listening Sessions
As Missouri Conference NextGen Ministries continues to dream on how best to support you and your local church, we’d love to hear from you. [link removed] See upcoming locations and dates here→
Dream Lab
August 25-26
What's next for you or your church's ministry? What unique opportunity might be presenting itself? Dream Lab is a 24-hour retreat where you and key volunteers or staff on your ministry team can explore where the Spirit may be leading. Facilitated by Michael Beck, take advantage of this set-aside time to step away from the day-to-day grind and on to the balcony and sketch the beginnings of a new ministry in your context! [link removed] Sign up to receive more information→
Sharefests
September 16- October 14
Sharefests are the opportunities in which we gather as communities for service, fellowship and sharing of the packs, kits and funds recognized in our booklet. [link removed] See all Sharefest locations→
Grants
GBGM Mustard Seed Grants
The General Board of Global Ministries is offering Grants up to $2,000 to United Methodist Churches to fund local projects that assist refugees and migrants. They are accepting applications for these [link removed] Mustard Seed Grants until October 1, 2023. This could be a great opportunity for existing health ministries who work with migrants or start-up funds for a needed mission in your community.

Cooperative Response Grant: Rolling Basis
Festival of Sharing has funding available to partner with churches and organizations in their efforts to cooperatively respond to community needs around poverty. Festival of Sharing recognizes that poverty is multidimensional and experienced in different ways. Responses may work to address concerns beyond economic resources, to include such things as physical, social, cultural or spiritual resources. Grants will be awarded up to $1,000. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. [link removed] Find out more and apply→
Share Your Story
Are you excited about how God is at work in your community?
Does your pastor have a random tidbit of knowledge or a secret talent completely unrelated to ministry? We want to hear!
Missouri Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church
3601 Amron Court, Columbia, MO 65202
573-441-1770 | www.moumethodist.org www.moumethodist.org


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