PROGRAM OVERVIEW
To accomplish specific goals as related to the objectives and scope of work of the General Board of Global Ministries, the urban ministries desk is responsible for coordinating, equipping and empowering church laity and clergy, to become catalysts for urban congregational and community transformation; enabling national, jurisdictional and conference leaders to engage in strategic development and ministry within their metropolitan communities. Five resourcing areas have been prioritized to accomplish these objectives. They are as follows:
STRATEGIC PLANNING
Helps local congregations, jurisdictional urban networks and annual conferences develop strategic urban ministry plans; assists in organizing and mobilizing conference structures, faith-based community organizations and metropolitan ministry agencies implement and carry-out strategic ministry plans.
RESOURCING
Provides consultations, technical assistance, a national data base, and limited funding to resource urban congregations, jurisdictional networks and conference structures.
COMMUNICATING
Promotes and interprets the assets, needs, resources and strategies of congregational models in urban settings for the United Methodist urban agenda. Communications are designed to mobilize and provide resources for the development of viable and creative urban ministries.