North Georgia United Methodist - Multiplying Financial Resources for Mission and Ministry

It’s not often that a 155-year-old rural church, comprised of members who embrace a lifestyle of avoiding debt, takes on an ambitious building campaign. But that’s exactly what Hephzibah UMC did after consulting with Frank Craft, director of lending programs, and John Riley, director of fundraising services, at the Georgia United Methodist Foundation.

A shortage of space prompted Hephzibah’s long-range planning committee to develop a three-phase plan to construct a Family Life Center, refurbish the fellowship hall and expand the sanctuary. Thanks to generous contributions from its members and a $130,000 loan from the Foundation, Hephzibah recently completed the Maydean Wells Family Life Center.

The new addition houses administrative offices, a conference room, a kitchen, and a gymnasium that seats 240 people. From basketball games and homecoming celebrations to youth concerts and scout meetings, Hephzibah can now host events that benefit the church and community. The facility will also serve as an American Red Cross processing center in the event of an emergency evacuation.

“This project cost around $750,000, which is more than five times our annual budget. We received sound financial and fundraising advice, good interest rates, and have been allowed to pay our debts off early," said Cecil Miles, Hephzibah’s treasurer. “The Foundation has a mission, and it’s a wonderful one. What you translate to your customers is that you want to help–and you do!”

Frank adds, “The congregation responded enthusiastically to the idea of raising money. They were true stewards focused on building a Family Life Center for the glory of God and the betterment of their community. Hephzibah’s dream was made possible because of the generosity of other Methodists and entities who invest in the Development Fund. These investments allow us to offer low-interest loans to churches wishing to refinance debt or expand or renovate their facilities.”