Dear GNJ Leaders and our congregations,
Fifty-three years ago this Friday, The United Methodist Church was created. The following are essential actions and information for this week. We encourage you to read this information carefully as it impacts your congregations and your communities. We are grateful for all that you do.
1. Grant Opportunities Available – All Clergy and Laity
Over the past few weeks there has been news of several new grant opportunities. We have outlined all these opportunities here, so please check them out to see which one(s) your church will qualify for.
- UMCOR is awarding Mustard Seed Migration Grants of up to $2,000 to 50 United Methodist churches in the United States to engage in new, one-time community-based service projects focused on refugees and migration.
- Pre-registration, which is required, will be open until April 29 for the NJ Economic Development Authority’s new phase of grants aimed at helping small businesses including childcare centers and nonprofits.
- FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-19 related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020. A webinar to discuss this funding is being hosted today at 1:00 p.m.
- Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) will accept applications until May 31.
2. Save the Date for Clergy Session on May 13 – All Clergy
In preparation for the upcoming 2021 Annual Conference on May 24-25, GNJ will host a Clergy Session from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Zoom. No registration is required, and please stay tuned for more details about this and all things related to Annual Conference here.
3. Tomorrow is Earth Day – All Clergy and Laity
Earth Day is an opportunity to reflect and act with a collective responsibility on the goodness of God’s creation to be good stewards through worship, education and action. Check out these messages from Global Ministries, which represent the more than 200 United Methodist missionaries in more than 70 countries around the world. Also, here are 10 tips to help your church go green from Discipleship Ministries.
4. Vaccine Distribution Open to All– All Clergy and Laity
Starting yesterday in New Jersey, all vaccine distribution restrictions were lifted for those 16 and older. For all the latest updates related to the vaccine, click here. Additional details in New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, including articles and studies exploring the efficacy and safety of the vaccine, are also available. Please also consider revisiting our Healthcare Disparity Kit to ensure we care for others with equity.
In Christ,
GNJ Leadership
Quick links to information in this email:
Grant Opportunities
Clergy Session for Annual Conference
Earth Day messages
10 tips to Go Green
Vaccination Updates