Monday Morning in North Georgia
 
 

John Wesley believed in “connexion” for the purpose of communication and accountability within the churches. Therefore, Wesley created a system of classes, societies, and annual conferences. Our current church’s connection is based on that same model, and it’s a good model.
-Bishop Mike Watson


Our Connectional System at its Finest

A couple of weeks ago I was sitting in a trailer dealership with the intention of buying a trailer for The Nett Church. Since we are a church that will be meeting in a public school, we need an enclosed trailer to haul our things on a weekly basis. After looking for the right trailer and negotiating the right price, I found myself waiting while they filled out the title paperwork.  

Right before I gave them the check to pay for the trailer, I got a text from Phil Schroeder (NGUMC’s Director of Congregational Development) saying that Matthew Mitchell (Pastor of Sugarloaf UMC) was looking for me ... since Matthew had heard from Alex Stroud (Pastor of Dacula UMC) that I was looking for a trailer.

After a couple of minutes of sharing contacts and passing along each others’ numbers, I was able to get ahold of Matthew. He was trying to reach me to let me know that Sugarloaf was willing to donate to the Kingdom of God the exact same trailer that I was going to buy for over $3,500!  

So, I just walked out of that dealership (with the check in my hand) and eventually headed over to pick up the same trailer for free.

While visiting with Matthew Mitchell, it was so encouraging for both of us to talk about how the “past/history” of one church was literally going to help carry on the “future/vision” of a brand new church.  In the words of Matthew Mitchell: “You are not alone; we are in this together.”

Right after I got the trailer I was able to contact Blair Zant (Co-Pastor of Cannon UMC) and get permission to park the trailer on their campus during the week. It is also important to mention that in the trailer we have, among other things, four giant roller cases that were borrowed from Carter McInnis (Pastor of Church of the Way).

As you can see, we are a brand new church that seems to have nothing, yet God continues to provide for us! And part of that is because of the beauty of our United Methodist Connectional System.

Stay connected, y’all!  You never know when your story can help someone else to write their story.

Rev. Rodrigo Cruz is currently serving as the church planter and lead pastor of a brand new, multiethnic church in Gwinnett County called The Nett UMC. You may contact Rodrigo at rodrigo.cruz@ngumc.net.


Prayer Focus for the Week

Loving Lord, strengthen our churches’ connections, for your kingdom and your glory. In Christ's name, Amen 
-Bishop Watson