Boldly, joyfully, courageously

Dear Minooka UMC Found Family,

Last week in this space, I shared a glimpse into some of the work in which our church leaders are engaging.

As our leadership team plots plans and paths for 2026, it is helpful to remember (or, um, announce? I don’t remember if we shared this previously) that as a denomination, The United Methodist Church recently unveiled a new vision statement. The heart of that statement: Love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously.

As I reiterated here last week, every organization, leader, congregation, presenter I have ever encountered each define purpose, mission, and vision differently. So what about The UMC? I find this quick explainer actually helpful:

Let’s clarify the difference between mission, vision and the brand promise. These are key statements that clearly define who United Methodists are and who we strive to be. They work in conjunction with each other and unite us in shared ministry.
The Mission of the denomination is our driving purpose, our why: “The mission of the Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.”

The Vision tells us where we are going and how we will continue to live into and accomplish our mission: “The United Methodist Church forms disciples of Jesus Christ who, empowered by the Holy Spirit, love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously in local communities and worldwide connections.”

The Brand Promise reminds us of what everyone should expect to find in United Methodist congregations and organizations: “Open Hearts. Open Minds. Open Doors.” 

Every United Methodist around the world is called to embrace the Mission in their daily living, dream of the possibilities that God has placed before us through the Vision, and embody a consistent welcoming presence that is shared in our Brand Promise.

Confession time. I never knew “Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors” was called the brand promise. This is what I was trying to say in last week’s sermon, but in the moment, completely butchered. You’d think after something like 25 years of the brand promise’s existence, I’d know it without a second thought, but…clearly not! (Maybe we can petition to add Open Arms??)

Anyway, if you wish, you can read waaaaay more about the new vision statement by clicking here.

Plotting Goodness, 

Pastor Dave