“So the churches were strengthened in the faith and increased in numbers daily.” (Acts 16:5)
First United Methodist Church attendance in person in 2023 was up 17% over 2022. Our average grew from 175 to 204. Online worship remained about the same—199 compared to 204.
Among our 46 new members in 2023, 3 professed their faith in Christ for the first time, 18 reaffirmed their faith in Christ, 18
transferred their membership from other UMC churches, and 7 from non-UMC churches.
Why are we growing? People give three reasons: 1. Our people are friendly and welcoming. 2. Our music is wonderful and inspiring. 3. The sermons are great. (When they’re talking with the pastor, mentioning the sermon is only polite.)
I am grateful the Spirit of God is strengthening our faith in Christ and bringing more of us together.
Dr. Sam