North Georgia United Methodist - Multiplying Financial Resources for Mission and Ministry

On June 16, 2009 during Annual Conference at the Athens Classic Center, the Georgia United Methodist Foundation celebrated 25 years of ministry with a $10,000 gift to the Central Conference Pension Initiative.

After a brief video, the Rev. Chuck Savage, board chairman, thanked Bishop Joel McDavid and the clergy and laity who in 1984 had a vision for a shared ministry of finance and support to the Annual Conference.

The Rev. Bob Fletcher, foundation president, expressed his gratitude for the partnership and support of Methodists who made 25 years of ministry possible. In honor of Bishop Watson and the clergy of the North Georgia Conference, and in celebration of this milestone, Fletcher presented a $10,000 donation to the Central Conference Pension Initiative.

Mike Watson, Resident Bishop of the North Georgia Episcopal Area of the United Methodist Church, later said, “This wonderfully generous contribution, added to other gifts from throughout the North Georgia Conference, will make a significant and positive difference in the quality of retirement for our faithful United Methodist sisters and brothers who have spent their entire lives proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed in some of the most financially challenging places in the world. Thank you, North Georgia United Methodist Foundation.”

Dan O’Neill, managing director of the Central Conference Pensions of the General Board of Pension and Health Benefits, added, “Your contribution will give new hope to Christ’s servants who lead our Church in the central conferences. Thank you for your leadership and dedication to this effort that will make a difference in the lives of thousands. Your witness to God’s love is most appreciated.”