LAKELAND — First United Methodist Church, Gainesville, and Port
Charlotte United Methodist Church have been certified Welcoming
Congregations by the national Igniting Ministry office.
St. Andrew’s United Methodist Church, Brandon, received
re-certification status for the second year.
The certification means the churches have cultivated hospitality
skills to not only attract visitors to the church, but to help them
become active members of the church family.
The two received the certification earlier this month. They are the
16th and 17th churches in the conference to be
awarded the status.
Igniting Ministry is the denomination’s four-year media campaign,
now in its third year. It provides tools for churches to improve their
visibility in their communities and strengthen their hospitality and
disciple making ministries. Television spots featuring The United
Methodist Church air three times each year of the campaign.
