After some time, Paul said to Barnabas, “Let’s go back and visit each city where we previously preached the word of the Lord, to see how the new believers are doing.” Barnabas agreed and wanted to take along John Mark. But Paul disagreed strongly since John Mark had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not continued with them in their work. Their disagreement was so sharp that they separated. Barnabas took John Mark with him and sailed for Cyprus.

Acts 15:36-39

Though a surprise to no one, it was still tough to see the Clergy and Church disaffiliation process outlined in black and white on the Conference website. I’ve been a Methodist for over 30 years. Somehow, I thought we might rediscover the power of unity, without uniformity. But the older I get; the more Ecclesiastes 3 rings true. There really are seasons in life. And like the seasons, things change. 

I’ve been the CEO of UMF since 2014. But prior to 2014, I practiced law. And that was my profession for nearly 30 years. But somewhere in 2013, I had the nagging feeling that my “season” of lawyering was coming to an end. It was all quite confusing as I’d dedicated my work-life to this messy profession. I had thousands of clients through the years that I’d helped navigate tough situations. It was satisfying to reflect on the day as I went to sleep at night.

Looking back now, I can see that God was moving me in a new direction – recalibrating my course. And through a series of events that concluded quickly, I retired my law practice and stepped into the role of CEO at the Foundation. And though the change was monumental, it felt right.

So, what shall we say about the current situation of the United Methodist Church? I expect that many are fretting, many are angry, and nearly everyone is weary. For me, I’ve finally stepped beyond the emotions and now look forward to the new thing God will do. Just like the new thing he did with me in 2014.

Though I’ve said this in many churches across the Conference, it’s important for everyone to know that UMF is a stand-alone corporation. Regardless of what happens at the denominational level, UMF will still be standing when the dust settles. Several years ago, in anticipation of change, we amended our Bylaws and corporate structure to allow UMF to do business with any church, regardless of its denominational affiliation. So, whether your church stays or leaves, we can continue our valuable relationship.

UMF has given fee rebates for the last two years to our unit holders. Something that had never occurred before in UMF’s 68-year existence. UMF continues to promote and teach stewardship through the Consecration Sunday program. We’ve taught faithful people how to lead churches in their stewardship programs. And we’ve launched a much-needed Clergy Loan Program. This program is designed to provide low-cost loans to help clergy get out of debt. All of this while Helping God’s People Pay It Forward.

There’s no escaping change. Nor should there be. In change, God shapes each of us to be more like his Son and our Savior, Jesus Christ. As I’ve told my daughter since she was a little girl, “attitude is everything.” And you can choose your attitude. So, I choose to believe there are new and exciting things just around the corner. I choose to believe that God is with us, and He will never leave or forsake us. And I believe that UMF’s mission of Helping God’s People Pay It Forward is just beginning.

This article is written by Rich Bowlin, CEO of the United Methodist Foundation, Inc. If you would like more information regarding UMF, you can contact Rich at [email protected].