“WHAT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR MORTALS IS POSSIBLE FOR GOD.”

Our building renovations are complete and your extraordinary generosity has made this possible. Your faithfulness has help pay for over 60% of the project cost. We are launching a capital funds campaign to help us manage our remaining financial obligation. The campaign is “Imagine the Possibilities.”

With our newly renovated and attractive facilities, MUMC now has:

  • Greater capacity to influence our community for Christ,
  • The capability to grow numerically as we attract young families with children,
  • The space to expand into new areas of ministry,
  • A large attractive welcoming and fellowship area,
  • Improved worship space for Ignite,
  • Classrooms with technology to aid in Sunday School and adult education.

IN MINISTRY FOR MORE THAN 200 YEARS

BIG MOMENTS OVER THE LAST TWO CENTURIES

Nearly three decades ago, there was the bold vision and decision to totally relocate our church campus, building new facilities to accommodate our growth needs and better serve our congregation and the surrounding community.

The congregation took another bold step just a few years ago to renovate existing facilities, as well as build new facilities. The result has made our buildings more accessible and welcoming.

RENOVATIONS COMPLETE

FACILITIES MORE INVITING & FUNCTIONAL

• Preschool & CDC areas are more welcoming & practical for kids as well as safer & more secure.
• Connection Center renovations have made the Ignite service more functional & exciting.
• Common areas, such as lobbies & Cafe, provide us room to gather with friends and guests.
• Sunday School rooms with added technology.
• New administrative offices have enhanced staff effectiveness & improved ability to collaborate.

$7.2M

Total Cost

60%

Project Paid

$13,500

Monthly Payment

$1.5M

Goal To Raise

Rev. Gary Gibson
Message from Head Pastor

I give thanks daily for your faithfulness and generosity. You, the people of MUMC, are committed to ministry in our community and because of you we are making a difference. MUMC is positioned for even greater days ahead. I hope you are beginning to imagine the possibilities that are before us as we seek to serve our community. Please be in prayer about your participation. Imagine the Possibilities isn’t about simply paying the debt. It is truly an investment in the lives of people.

Monty Boyd
Message from Campaign Chairperson

Sometimes during uncertain times, we lose perspective and it’s easy to become distracted from our true mission. As you walk through our amazing newly renovated church, you can sense and feel God’s presence and think of the possibilities it holds for future ministries. Our Building Committee did a wonderful job, but as with most projects, it cost more than initially planned. So, now we must remain faithful and finish God’s work and position our church financially to grow and bring the Love of Christ to our world.

Marilyn Lewis
Message from Campaign Coordinator

When we first started working with the architect on the renovation of our facilities many of us had difficulty envisioning the changes that would occur to our campus. As the construction progressed there was excitement as each new element of the renovation was completed and a new or existing ministry was able to utilize the space. Now that the dust has settled, literally, we have a beautiful, functional facility that offers us a world of opportunity to expand our ministries, service and outreach in sharing the love of Jesus Christ.

A Brief History in Time

2013
August

The Beginning

The Beginning

Church Facilities and Property Evaluation Team established to envision and define priorities and requirements for our future MUMC facilities.  

October

The Architects

The Architects

K Norman Berry Architects selected to develop preliminary plans and cost estimates for proposed Church renovation design options.

2014
October

The Approval

The Approval

Joshua Team and Church Conference approved preliminary architectural design and layout with an initial estimated cost of $5.7 million.

2015
May

The First Campaign

The First Campaign

“Forward in Faith” Capital Campaign received pledges for 99.6% of its $3.0 million goal for church renovation.

June

The Constructors

The Constructors

Wehr Constructors selected as Construction Manager to develop and manage construction schedules, project bidding and sub-contractor relations.

2016
December

The Phases

The Phases

Project construction plan divided into two phases for project feasibility and control which increased time schedule and construction costs.

2017
May

The First Phase

Phase I construction contract signed with Wehr Constructors with increased costs for $3.2M.

2018
February

The Second Phase

Phase II contract signed with Wehr Constructors for $2.9M. Estimated initial costs increased due to market conditions, material price increases and necessary project changes.

September

The Second Campaign

The Second Campaign

“Momentum” Capital Campaign received pledges for 95.0% of its $1.0 million goal for Phase II.

2019
June

The Completion

The Completion

Project completion and newly renovated MUMC facilities fully in use.

October

The Loan

The Loan

$2.88 million construction loan converted to 30-year mortgage at 5.625% interest and $18,077 monthly payment.

2020
August

The Property

The Property

Sold property on Old Shelbyville Road, refinanced and reduced 30-year mortgage to $2.36 million at 4.5% interest and $13,500 monthly payment.

September

The Possibilities

The Possibilities

“Imagine the Possibilities” Capital Campaign announced to financially position MUMC to fully utilized our new facilities and faithfully expand our future ministries.

Giving is for 3 years, over and above your regular giving.

This chart has been designed to illustrate the numbers of givers we need at each level to contribute in order to reach our goal of $1.5M. This initiative will need the generous giving of all and the extraordinary giving of a few. The only way we are going to reach our final goal is for some of those at the top of the chart to contribute.

Consider giving cash, stocks, bonds, real estate, life insurance policies or cash value of policy, antiques, works of art, jewelry, coin or stamp collections, income tax refunds, or assets in irrevocable or revocable trusts.

What is meant by the words, ‘Not equal giving but equal sacrifice’?

This simple phrase points to a significant spiritual lesson regarding generosity and giving and that is this: God does not ask us to give equally…that is, to give the same amount that others may give. Instead, God asks us to give in relation to our financial capacity. If we share anything equally, shouldn’t it be a similar degree of sacrifice associated with my gift? In other words, the amount any of us may give is measured in the eyes of God by what that gift personally cost me in terms of sacrifice. When discerning what he would give to God, King David once said, “I will not make a gift to God that cost me nothing” (2 Samuel 24:24). When discerning what you will give in this campaign, start by asking God what an equal sacrifice might be for you and your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the original vision being accomplished?

The building/renovation part of the vision was completed in June 2019, enabling the CDC and MUMP to move into their renovated space and enhance the quality of our ministry to children and families. The pastoral transition and the surprising COVID-19 delayed implementation of other parts of the vision. We are currently imagining the possibilities for ministry going forward, however, and developing plans for new ministry initiatives that will impact children, youth, median and senior adults.

Who made the decision to enter into a capital campaign?

The decision was made by the Church Council upon recommendation from the Finance Team.

Why are we doing a third capital campaign, especially during a pandemic?

Originally, we had planned to finance the entire building/renovation project through the Forward in Faith and Momentum campaigns, the sale of properties on Old Shelbyville Rd. and on Akin Rd. and, the financial support we receive from the CDC and MUMP. Further, we anticipated these two campaigns and the property sales would leave us with a manageable debt we had planned to service in our General Operating Fund – the church’s budget. However, the large property on Akin Rd. has not yet sold. Further, as with any renovation, there were cost overruns and unanticipated increases in the price of steel and building materials. These realities left us with a mortgage of $2.36 million and a monthly payment of $13,500. While we have funds enough on hand to make mortgage payments through November of this year, unless we have this third campaign, we will be forced to make drastic cuts in other ministry areas to service our debt.

Is the middle of a pandemic the best time to be doing a capital campaign?

Admittedly, it is not optimal, but it is necessary. Besides, our giving has remained strong in spite of the pandemic. Our experiences have also taught us that, in times of crisis, the generous members of MUMC have always met the challenge with boldness and faith in God. We believed when we started this, it was God’s will we do it. We still believe this. But we are attempting to be good stewards of our church’s resources and the generosity of our members.

Who is on the “Imagine the Possibilities” leadership team?

Chairperson: Monty Boyd
Coordinators: Marilyn Lewis & Beanie Geoghegan
Visitation Directors: Steve & Emily Rademaker
Church Life Events Directors: Brian & Cindy Wyatt & Doug & Sandra Dearen
Spiritual Awareness Director: Nancy Tinnell
Communications Director: Andy Stearman
Children & Youth Directors: Amy Bishop & Emily Allen

Are there tax advantages to contributing to the campaign?

The CARES Act changes the limitations on charitable giving to encourage individuals and corporations to make contributions to charities.

a. The CARES Act adds a new above-the-line deduction that allows a person who does not typically itemize to deduct up to $300 of cash contributions to MUMC. So, in other words, even if you do not itemize your deductions, you can still receive a reduction of taxable income by $300, in addition to the allowable standard deduction.
b. For individuals who do itemize, however, prior IRS rules limited the deduction to 60% of an individual’s AGI (adjusted gross income). Under the CARES Act, however, the deduction for cash contributions in 2020 is increased to 100% of an individual’s AGI (adjusted gross income). Further, if the contribution exceeds the limitation, an individual can still carry forward the excess amount over the following five years.
c. A similar benefit is offered to companies and corporations. Deductions for contributions from companies and corporations to charities were limited to 10% of taxable income. The CARES ACT, however, increases this limitation in 2020 to 25% of the taxable income. The company or corporation can also carry forward and utilize any access amount over the following five years.

These are remarkable and rare incentives the government initiated to inspire generosity to charities like our church. You are encouraged to explore with your accountant or financial planner how you might benefit yourself, and your family, as well as MUMC by making a generous gift to the capital campaign.

What are thte ways I (we) might give to the “Imagine” initiative?

There are many ways to give: cash gifts, by check, with a credit card or online through our church’s website. Non-cash gifts are welcome, too: securities, real estate, and/or personal property. Again, it would be wise to talk to your CPA or financial planner to find the best way to benefit you and your family and the church as well.

What if I (we) make a pledge but something happens and I’m laid off or, for some, reason, I am unable to fulfill my pledge?

Pledging is important as we plan for the future. However, we know there can be unforeseen financial setbacks and unanticipated situations that may arise. They have in our situation as described in Question #3. Should something happen, and you cannot fulfill your pledge, just call the church office (502-245-8839) and let Jenny Pepoon, our Church Business Manager, know.

How do I (we) decide what to pledge or give over the next three years?

Pray. Seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance. All gifts are important, no matter the size. We are not asking for equal gifts but equal sacrifices from each of our families. Everyone’s financial situation is different. A sacrificial gift for some might be $20/week but for others it could be $1,000/month. The important thing to remember is your gift, whatever the amount is appreciated, needed, and should be over and above your regular gifts to the General Operating Fund of our church.

“WHAT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR MORTALS IS POSSIBLE FOR GOD.”

Our building renovations are complete and your extraordinary generosity has made this possible. Your faithfulness has help pay for over 60% of the project cost. We are launching a capital funds campaign to help us manage our remaining financial obligation. The campaign is “Imagine the Possibilities.”

With our newly renovated and attractive facilities, MUMC now has:

  • Greater capacity to influence our community for Christ,
  • The capability to grow numerically as we attract young families with children,
  • The space to expand into new areas of ministry,
  • A large attractive welcoming and fellowship area,
  • Improved worship space for Ignite,
  • Classrooms with technology to aid in Sunday School and adult education.

IN MINISTRY FOR MORE THAN 200 YEARS

BIG MOMENTS OVER THE LAST TWO CENTURIES

Nearly three decades ago, there was the bold vision and decision to totally relocate our church campus, building new facilities to accommodate our growth needs and better serve our congregation and the surrounding community.

The congregation took another bold step just a few years ago to renovate existing facilities, as well as build new facilities. The result has made our buildings more accessible and welcoming.

RENOVATIONS COMPLETE

FACILITIES MORE INVITING & FUNCTIONAL

• Preschool & CDC areas are more welcoming & practical for kids as well as safer & more secure.
• Connection Center renovations have made the Ignite service more functional & exciting.
• Common areas, such as lobbies & Cafe, provide us room to gather with friends and guests.
• Sunday School rooms with added technology.
• New administrative offices have enhanced staff effectiveness & improved ability to collaborate.

$7.2M

Total Cost

60%

Project Paid

$13,500

Monthly Payment

$1.5M

Goal To Raise

Head Pastor

Gary Gibson

I give thanks daily for your faithfulness and generosity. You, the people of MUMC, are committed to ministry in our community and because of you we are making a difference. MUMC is positioned for even greater days ahead. I hope you are beginning to imagine the possibilities that are before us as we seek to serve our community. Please be in prayer about your participation. Imagine the Possibilities isn’t about simply paying the debt. It is truly an investment in the lives of people.

Campaign Chairperson

Monty Boyd

Sometimes during uncertain times, we lose perspective and it’s easy to become distracted from our true mission. As you walk through our amazing newly renovated church, you can sense and feel God’s presence and think of the possibilities it holds for future ministries. Our Building Committee did a wonderful job, but as with most projects, it cost more than initially planned. So, now we must remain faithful and finish God’s work and position our church financially to grow and bring the Love of Christ to our world.

Campaign Coordinator

Marilyn Lewis

When we first started working with the architect on the renovation of our facilities many of us had difficulty envisioning the changes that would occur to our campus.  As the construction progressed, there was excitement as each new element of the renovation was completed and a new or existing ministry was able to utilize the space.  Now that the dust has settled, literally, we have a beautiful, functional facility that offers us a world of opportunity to expand our ministries, service and outreach in sharing the love of Jesus Christ. 

A Brief History in Time

2013
Aug 01

The Beginning

The Beginning

Church Facilities and Property Evaluation Team established to envision and define priorities and requirements for our future MUMC facilities.  

Oct 01

The Architects

The Architects

K Norman Berry Architects selected to develop preliminary plans and cost estimates for proposed Church renovation design options.

2014
Oct 01

The Approval

The Approval

Joshua Team and Church Conference approved preliminary architectural design and layout with an initial estimated cost of $5.7 million.

2015
May 01

The First Campaign

The First Campaign

“Forward in Faith” Capital Campaign received pledges for 99.6% of its $3.0 million goal for church renovation.

Jun 01

The Constructors

The Constructors

Wehr Constructors selected as Construction Manager to develop and manage construction schedules, project bidding and sub-contractor relations.

2016
Dec 01

The Phases

The Phases

Project construction plan divided into two phases for project feasibility and control which increased time schedule and construction costs.

2017
May 01

The First Phase

Phase I construction contract signed with Wehr Constructors with increased costs for $3.2M.

2018
Feb 01

The Second Phase

Phase II contract signed with Wehr Constructors for $2.9M. Estimated initial costs increased due to market conditions, material price increases and necessary project changes.

Sep 01

The Second Campaign

The Second Campaign

“Momentum” Capital Campaign received pledges for 95.0% of its $1.0 million goal for Phase II.

2019
Jun 01

The Completion

The Completion

Project completion and newly renovated MUMC facilities fully in use.

Giving is for 3 years, over and above your regular giving.

This chart has been designed to illustrate the numbers of givers we need at each level to contribute in order to reach our goal of $1.5M. This initiative will need the generous giving of all and the extraordinary giving of a few. The only way we are going to reach our final goal is for some of those at the top of the chart to contribute.

Consider giving cash, stocks, bonds, real estate, life insurance policies or cash value of policy, antiques, works of art, jewelry, coin or stamp collections, income tax refunds, or assets in irrevocable or revocable trusts.

This simple phrase points to a significant spiritual lesson regarding generosity and giving and that is this: God does not ask us to give equally…that is, to give the same amount that others may give. Instead, God asks us to give in relation to our financial capacity. If we share anything equally, shouldn’t it be a similar degree of sacrifice associated with my gift? In other words, the amount any of us may give is measured in the eyes of God by what that gift personally cost me in terms of sacrifice. When discerning what he would give to God, King David once said, “I will not make a gift to God that cost me nothing” (2 Samuel 24:24). When discerning what you will give in this campaign, start by asking God what an equal sacrifice might be for you and your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

How is the original vision being accomplished?

The building/renovation part of the vision was completed in June 2019, enabling the CDC and MUMP to move into their renovated space and enhance the quality of our ministry to children and families. The pastoral transition and the surprising COVID-19 delayed implementation of other parts of the vision. We are currently imagining the possibilities for ministry going forward, however, and developing plans for new ministry initiatives that will impact children, youth, median and senior adults.

Who made the decision to enter into a capital campaign?

The decision was made by the Church Council upon recommendation from the Finance Team.

Why are we doing a third capital campaign, especially during a pandemic?

Originally, we had planned to finance the entire building/renovation project through the Forward in Faith and Momentum campaigns, the sale of properties on Old Shelbyville Rd. and on Akin Rd. and, the financial support we receive from the CDC and MUMP. Further, we anticipated these two campaigns and the property sales would leave us with a manageable debt we had planned to service in our General Operating Fund – the church’s budget. However, the large property on Akin Rd. has not yet sold. Further, as with any renovation, there were cost overruns and unanticipated increases in the price of steel and building materials. These realities left us with a mortgage of $2.36 million and a monthly payment of $13,500. While we have funds enough on hand to make mortgage payments through November of this year, unless we have this third campaign, we will be forced to make drastic cuts in other ministry areas to service our debt.

Is the middle of a pandemic the best time to be doing a capital campaign?

Admittedly, it is not optimal, but it is necessary. Besides, our giving has remained strong in spite of the pandemic. Our experiences have also taught us that, in times of crisis, the generous members of MUMC have always met the challenge with boldness and faith in God. We believed when we started this, it was God’s will we do it. We still believe this. But we are attempting to be good stewards of our church’s resources and the generosity of our members.

Who is on the “Imagine the Possibilities” leadership team?

Chairperson: Monty Boyd
Coordinators: Marilyn Lewis & Beanie Geoghegan
Visitation Directors: Steve & Emily Rademaker
Church Life Events Directors: Brian & Cindy Wyatt & Doug & Sandra Dearen
Spiritual Awareness Director: Nancy Tinnell
Communications Director: Andy Stearman
Children & Youth Directors: Amy Bishop & Emily Allen

Are there tax advantages to contributing to the campaign?

The CARES Act changes the limitations on charitable giving to encourage individuals and corporations to make contributions to charities.

a. The CARES Act adds a new above-the-line deduction that allows a person who does not typically itemize to deduct up to $300 of cash contributions to MUMC. So, in other words, even if you do not itemize your deductions, you can still receive a reduction of taxable income by $300, in addition to the allowable standard deduction.
b. For individuals who do itemize, however, prior IRS rules limited the deduction to 60% of an individual’s AGI (adjusted gross income). Under the CARES Act, however, the deduction for cash contributions in 2020 is increased to 100% of an individual’s AGI (adjusted gross income). Further, if the contribution exceeds the limitation, an individual can still carry forward the excess amount over the following five years.
c. A similar benefit is offered to companies and corporations. Deductions for contributions from companies and corporations to charities were limited to 10% of taxable income. The CARES ACT, however, increases this limitation in 2020 to 25% of the taxable income. The company or corporation can also carry forward and utilize any access amount over the following five years.

These are remarkable and rare incentives the government initiated to inspire generosity to charities like our church. You are encouraged to explore with your accountant or financial planner how you might benefit yourself, and your family, as well as MUMC by making a generous gift to the capital campaign.

What are thte ways I (we) might give to the “Imagine” initiative?

There are many ways to give: cash gifts, by check, with a credit card or online through our church’s website. Non-cash gifts are welcome, too: securities, real estate, and/or personal property. Again, it would be wise to talk to your CPA or financial planner to find the best way to benefit you and your family and the church as well.

What if I (we) make a pledge but something happens and I’m laid off or, for some, reason, I am unable to fulfill my pledge?

Pledging is important as we plan for the future. However, we know there can be unforeseen financial setbacks and unanticipated situations that may arise. They have in our situation as described in Question #3. Should something happen, and you cannot fulfill your pledge, just call the church office (502-245-8839) and let Jenny Pepoon, our Church Business Manager, know.

How do I (we) decide what to pledge or give over the next three years?

Pray. Seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance. All gifts are important, no matter the size. We are not asking for equal gifts but equal sacrifices from each of our families. Everyone’s financial situation is different. A sacrificial gift for some might be $20/week but for others it could be $1,000/month. The important thing to remember is your gift, whatever the amount is appreciated, needed, and should be over and above your regular gifts to the General Operating Fund of our church.